Cranston, RI, September 14th—It was a day of camaraderie, smoky goodness, and fierce competition as nearly 400 barbecue enthusiasts gathered at Millers Crossing for a sizzling fundraiser. With over $25,000 raised for the “Friends of Jake Foundation”, the annual barbecue competition not only brought together some of the finest pitmasters in the region but also supported an important cause, making it a day to remember for everyone involved.
The aroma of slow-cooked meats wafted through the air, drawing crowds to the grand buffet, which showcased the best that competitive barbecue has to offer. From smoked chicken to tender ribs and succulent pork, the event was a carnivore’s dream come true, while the friendly, competitive atmosphere kept the energy high throughout the day.
A Fundraiser with a Purpose
The Friends of Jake Foundation, a local charity focused on supporting families in need of medical assistance, has long been a pillar of the Cranston community. This year’s Millers Crossing BBQ fundraiser marked a significant boost for the foundation, which has been steadily expanding its reach thanks to events like this.
With a combination of ticket sales, donations, and silent auctions, the event exceeded all expectations, raising more than $25,000—a record amount for the Millers Crossing BBQ fundraiser. Attendees enjoyed not only the mouth-watering food but also games for kids, and an overall community feel that made the day memorable for all ages.
The Winners: A Sizzling Showdown in Four Categories
The heart of the event, of course, was the barbecue competition itself, where pitmasters from across the region battled it out for top honors in four major categories: Chicken, Pork, Ribs, and the Ancillary category. Judging was tough, with each bite scrutinized for tenderness, flavor, and presentation.
In the Chicken category, Barnyard Rebel BBQ clinched the coveted first-place trophy with their perfectly smoked and seasoned chicken, while Da BBQ Ninja, a fan favorite, earned a well-deserved second place. The competition was fierce, but Barnyard Rebel’s mastery of technique and flavor profile secured their win.
Over in the Pork category, the judges faced an equally tough decision. When the smoke cleared, it was Scallywags who took home the top prize, impressing the panel with a tender and flavorful pork dish that stood out from the pack. Da BBQ Ninja wasn’t far behind, securing second place with a dish that balanced bold seasoning with an expertly smoked texture.
Perhaps the most hotly contested category of the day was Ribs, where the judges had the unenviable task of deciding between two exceptional contenders. Rollin Coals, known for their consistent excellence in barbecue competitions, claimed first place with ribs that were fall-off-the-bone tender and bursting with smoky flavor. Not to be outdone, Barnyard Rebel BBQ took second place in the category, proving once again why they’re a force to be reckoned with in competitive barbecue.
The Ancillary category, which allows pitmasters to show off their versatility with any dish that doesn’t fit into the traditional barbecue categories, was another highlight of the day. Smoked to Death took first place with a creative and delicious dish that left the judges raving, while Liberty BBQ snagged second place, adding to the overall excitement and variety of the competition.
Liberty Lumber, widely recognized for their side venture Liberty Barbecue, went above and beyond at this year’s Millers Crossing BBQ competition. In addition to crafting all of the event’s unique trophies by hand, they also created a stunning, one-of-a-kind coffee table, which they generously donated to the raffle. Their craftsmanship was on full display, adding an extra layer of artistry to the event and giving lucky raffle participants a chance to take home a piece of their renowned work.
Looking Ahead
As the sun set on Millers Crossing and the pitmasters packed up their gear, there was a palpable sense of accomplishment in the air. The day had been a roaring success, not only for the competitors but for the community as a whole. Over $25,000 had been raised for the Friends of Jake Foundation, ensuring that many local families would receive the support they need.
For the competitors, the thrill of the win was just the beginning. Many of them are already looking forward to next year, where they’ll have a chance to defend their titles or claim new victories. Barnyard Rebel BBQ, Da BBQ Ninja, Rollin Coals, and the other top competitors will no doubt be back, ready to fire up their smokers and take on the next challenge.
“We love doing this,” said Bill Marshall of Rollin Coals. “It’s not just about winning, though that’s great—it’s about the people, the cause, and the love of barbecue. We can’t wait for next year.”
As the Millers Crossing BBQ fundraiser continues to grow in both size and impact, it has firmly cemented itself as a must-attend event for barbecue lovers and community supporters alike. With each passing year, the competition gets tougher, the food gets better, and the community spirit only grows stronger.
