The 53rd annual Bakersfield College Barbecue took place Sept. 13 and was held at Stramler Park. The barbecue featured most of BC’s fall athletes as well as introduced the coaches for the teams.
BC Alumni Hall of Fame inductee and past Alumni president Rob Parsons explained the main idea of the barbecue.
“The purpose of the BC Barbecue is to start out the year and raise enthusiasm of others associated with the college and raise money to fund scholarships and student body awards,” Parsons said.
Parsons also explained that proceeds from the function help to raise money for special student activities and fund different athletic programs.
The barbecue had many different BC athletic teams present, including the football team, women’s and men’s basketball teams, the women’s and men’s cross country teams, volleyball team, women’s soccer team, and a performance by the BC cheer team.
There were also various venders at the barbecue, which included Crusty’s gourmet ice and Coldstone Creamery.
Dinner was served at 6:30 p.m. and included a choice of chicken or steak, complete with chili beans, salad and a bread roll. Bakersfield’s Toyota car dealership also took part by exhibiting their new car and sport utility vehicle models.
Parsons explained that the barbecue usually has a good turnout. “In recent years, we have had 800-1,000 people in various capacity attending the barbecue. I’ve been a strong regular,” said Parsons as he sold drinks, ice cream and beer tickets to visitors.
The BC barbecue seemed to be a success as visitors laughed, socialized and danced to the live music of the Tony Ernst Band, a local Bakersfield band comprised of BC Alumni.
Dinner tickets were $20 and all proceeds benefited the BC Alumni Association and athletic programs.