EVANS CITY — In the EDCO Park Chicken Barbecue’s decade in existence, Herb Brittner has seasoned and smoked the 800 half-chickens sold to raise funds for the park and pool.

Since Brittner has decided that the Aug. 22 barbecue will be his last, fans of his chicken are being urged by organizers to buy a ticket in advance.

“It’s the best darn chicken this side of the Mason-Dixon Line, and if you love it, this is going to be your last year to get it,” said Cindy Caldwell, EDCO Park Authority board member.

The annual event will be from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. that day at EDCO Park. Caldwell said the $10 tickets are available in advance between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. at the EDCO Park pool.

Caldwell said because Brittner can only provide 400 half chickens this year, 100 smoked pulled pork dinners will be added as an option.

The dinners come with a baked potato and corn on the cob. Baked goods also are sold.

Regarding the $3,000 the barbecue usually raises for the authority, the event is neck-and-neck with the popular wintertime Chili Open in funds raised. Caldwell said.

Proceeds will benefit the authority, which is raising money for a feasibility study on the pool. The study will allow the authority board members to apply for grants to pay for upgrades.