More than 30 barbeque teams are planning to attend the Grillin' for Life Barbeque Cook-off on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 1 & 2, 2008. These teams will come from Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Tennessee and Arkansas. Among the teams is the prestigious Southern Living Magazine BBQ on Tour featuring Troy Black, Paw-Paw's Backyard BBQ from Lucedale, the Magnificent Red Eyed Smokers, Hog Wild and Pig Crazy, Double Trouble BBQ, The Pork Jesters, Christmas Village and BigBriq.com.

Knights of Columbus Councils with BBQ teams include Batesville Council 13502, Brandon Council 10216, Jackson Council 848, Madison Council 9543 and Starkville Council 6765.

The purpose of Grillin' for Life is to raise money and awareness for the dignity of human life. Its goal is to provide financial and public support to other non-profit organzations that assist women who are facing unplanned pregnancies and help them choose life for their unborn children. The Knights of Columbus created the Grillin' for Life annual barbeque cook-off to raise funds in a family-friendly environment and to give an opportunity for local and statewide agencies to promote their activities.

The event has helped agencies create a home for unwed mothers, befriend women facing the stresses of unplanned pregnancies, provide material support in the form of baby and maternity items, and work with women to address whatever needs may keep them from choosing life for their children. This is the start of creating healthy families.

The Knights of Columbus are Catholic men who are committed to making their community a better place while supporting their church. Knights are involved with their community, supporting their local Catholic Church and enhancing their own faith, and protecting and enhancing family life. Social and intellectual fellowship is promoted among members and families through educational, charitable, religious, and social activities.