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Outdoor BBQing - A Great American Pastime

CHICAGO (May 10, 2012) – Outdoor barbecuing is an American tradition. Who doesn't have fond memories of summer evenings spent outdoor grilling burgers in the backyard or roasting a hot d og over a campfire on a wire coat hanger. May is unofficially National BBQ Month, and according to Hearth, Patio and Barbeque Association's (HPBA) biennial survey of consumer grilling preferences, three top reasons we love our fire-roasted food are: affordability, convenience, and family-friendly.

BMO Harris would like to "beef up" those survey results by also suggesting:

It's Affordable
Consider this, the average price of a 16 ounce ribeye steak and baked potato at a moderately priced restaurant runs about $25. When grilled at home, you could spend that same amount of money and serve at least two people. This price differential can really add up when you are part of a large group. Less expensive cuts of meat taste great on the grill when marinated. Thousands of recipes, rubs, and marinades are just a mouse click away by entering "outdoor grilling recipes". Tip: You can really save big when you look for meat sales at the grocery store. Take time to review the weekly ads and stock up.

It's Convenient
With the warm temperatures of the summer, the last thing you want to do is add to the temperature of your home by turning on the oven. Grilling allows you to keep that extra heat outside where it belongs; which can also help keep down your utility costs. You can cook most of the meal on the grill. Many side dishes, like corn, tomatoes, peaches, and asparagus, taste especially good cooked over an open flame. Clean-up is easier too.

It's a Great Way to Spend Time with Family and Friends
Let's face it, barbecuing is a social event. It gives us the opportunity to kick back with friends and family and prepare a meal at our own pace. A barbecue can be an outdoor potluck; it's a fun way for everyone to share in the cost of a meal by each person contributing one food item for the group.

Don't forget that Father's Day is just around the corner. A new grill is a great gift that would make any dad happy. Look for them to be on sale as the weather warms.

Whether your choice is burgers, shrimp, or zucchini; gas, electric, or charcoal, firing up the old grill is a great way to take advantage of one of America's favorite pastimes.

About BMO Financial Group
Based in Chicago, BMO Harris Bank N.A. provides a broad range of personal banking products and solutions through over 650 branches and approximately 1,350 ATMs in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, Minnesota, Nevada, Arizona and Florida. BMO Harris Bank's commercial banking team provides a combination of sector expertise, local knowledge and mid-market focus throughout the U.S. Deposit and loan products and services provided by BMO Harris Bank N.A. Member FDIC. BMO Harris BankSM is a trade name used by BMO Harris Bank N.A. BMO Harris Bank is part of BMO Financial Group, a North American financial organization with 1,600 branches, and a retail deposit base of approximately $180 billion.