Food as energy. Food as a social event. Food as a fundraiser. No matter which way you look at it, the Orange Beach Fire & Rescue folks have it covered Saturday, June 11.

The preparation of 4,500 pounds of melt-in-your mouth Boston butt will begin Friday morning. These seasoned veterans of the grill know that the slow-cooking process takes a full day, and they will be ready for the first customers by the opening time of 11:00 Saturday morning.

Now comes the time for your big decision: Do you purchase a plate with nearly a pound of pulled pork plus bread, baked beans, slaw and a pickle, or do you opt for two piled-high sandwiches and a pickle? Either way, it’s a mere $8 per plate.

But that’s not your only decision to make during Cookout on the Coast. Desserts prepared by the Ladies Auxiliary will be sold indoors. Good luck choosing just one! Also available, beginning at noon, are bulk quantities of whole butts and bulk pork.

You are encouraged to share your mealtime with your neighbors at the Orange Beach Community Center at 27235 Canal Road, across from Fire Station #2. If you prefer, you may request carry out or even use the drive-thru service—but keep in mind that desserts will not be available at the drive-thru. And please let us suggest that you don’t wait until the closing time of 3:00 to pick up your meals. We’d hate for you to arrive after the supply is gobbled up!

So get a great meal on Saturday and support the ongoing community outreach programs presented by the Orange Beach Fire & Rescue Department. The free CPR classes, fire prevention presentations and public school education programs are vital to the safety of our community. Funding from the cookout also assists with training programs and equipment for our emergency personnel. For more details, call 251-981-6166.

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