Get ready to light your charcoals as the return of the Grill Master competition has been announced for the Strawberry Festival.

The April 27 festival last year featured about 50 grill teams in a fundraising effort for The Link of Cullman County, a faith-based organization that provides mentoring, job preparation and food for about 3,000 people across the area.

Last year’s winning Grill Master team — Cullman Rotary Club — is returning in defense of its title, said Dawn Owens, director of the The Link.

The rules are simple: Cook pork, chicken, or other. Other translates to brisket, kabobs or burgers.

Grill Master teams simply have to register, not pay a fee. Those who want to enter as a team may register at linkingcullman.org beginning today.

Teams must also be capable of providing 200 samples of food during the event. The fun begins at 8 a.m., with biscuits available. Lunch from the grills starts around 10 a.m.

The fundraising mechanism is for festival-goers to purchase tickets for $15 to try samples of all or some of the food, Owens said.

“Last year was a success and I know the teams as well as those who tried the different foods were having a great time,” Owens said. “It’s a great a way to help The Link continue to offer services for more people in our area. We’ve been able to see some good things in people’s lives turning around.”

The Link is also looking for additional corporate sponsors to support expanding services at The Link. The organization’s website shows current sponsors and has information available. Anyone seeking additional information may also call The Link at 256-775-0028.

David Palmer may be contacted at 256-734-2131, ext. 116.