WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP | Nick Beluncin was honest when he was asked why he entered Saturday's 4-H Barbecue Contest at the Porter County Fair.

"I like food," said the 16-year-old from Valparaiso.

Beluncin grilled tilapia marinated in olive oil, lemon juice and syrup along with yellow squash as his entry in the contest.

He was one of 21 youth who fired up their charcoal grills in the Park Place Pavilion. They barbecued everything from burgers and brats to breakfast, fish and fruit.

The project was resurrected last year after a 15-year hiatus, Co-Superintendent Jeff Weitzel said. Weitzel participated in the event in 1992. There were only two contestants that year.

"I came in second," he said.

This year the project was promoted as the 4-H project of the year. It is a way for the youngsters to have fun and to win anything from a potholder to an apron to a 4-H logo emblazoned set of grill tools.

Kellie Marine, 16, of Valparaiso, earned A honors last year with her burgers. This year she wanted to do something different and prepared ham, eggs and toast on her grill. The ham, she said, came from last year's 4-H swine project.

Sixteen-year-old Kevin Amm, of Morgan Township, grilled marinated salmon.

"I like cooking," he said. "It's fun, and we always like to grill. I like cooking fish, and it is really good for you."

Even the judges were having fun.

"I think it is a ball because you can see the creativity and it tests their knowledge of food safety," said Joanne Miller, a fair food vendor and former 4-H member.

The youngsters were judged on starting and controlling their fire, equipment, barbecuing skill, food appearance, taste, overall finished product, timing and the contestant's appearance and cleanliness.

John Baird was the overall grand champion, and Aris Ringas was the reserve champion. They also captured the level three top spots. Ashley Ford was the level two grand champion, and Tyler Haman was the reserve champion.