Dear editor, The Times,

I read with dismay the letter written to you and published by The Demopolis Times on Dec. 12 from Catherine Dennis, of Cumming, Georgia titled “COTR Barbecue not a wise investment.”

It has been the practice for the last five years of this contest that anyone who felt like they didn’t get their money’s worth would have their money refunded – no questions asked. I personally stood at the gate from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. and no one complained about the charge.

I also want to address this person’s allegations that “each tent was marked – private party.” That is a total falsehood. There were 42 cook teams at our event. Five teams requested a private party sign. These teams paid anywhere from $150 to $450 each just to bring their equipment and entertain customers and friends.

If Catherine Dennis had come to the gate and asked who was in charge, I would have gladly directed her to go see the following teams: Buttmasters, Dr. Judy Travis, Naheola Cook Team of Georgia Pacific, Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood, Kickin’ Butt BBQ, Chuck Wagon and RockTenn just to name a few.

I am also refunding $14 to Catherine Dennis, no questions asked, for her dissatisfaction with out State Barbecue Championship event. I would also suggest if she comes back to COTR that she should be more cognizant of our event and relate the facts, not fiction, of what takes place.

Jack Cooley

COTR Chairman BBQ Contest Organizer