Ruckersville barbecue cook-off to support free programs for Greene County kids
Stonewall Harley-Davidson’s second annual competition will feature four barbecue categories, rescued reptiles and a bounce house.
GREENE COUNTY, Va. (WVIR) - The first barbecue tastings start Saturday morning in Ruckersville. Some of the cooks plan to get to work around midnight.
About a dozen cooks had signed up as of Friday for Stonewall Harley-Davidson’s second annual barbecue cook-off, according to owner and general manager Evan Bache. They’ll compete in four categories: pulled pork, brisket, ribs and chicken.
“Some guys will start showing up here around midnight to start cooking all night long,” Bache said.
All proceeds will benefit the Youth Development Council of Greene County. It’s the council’s first year partnering with the competition.
What the cook-off helps pay for
The Youth Development Council of Greene County is a nonprofit that runs free after-school programs in the spring and fall for elementary and middle school students. It also offers two weeks of free summer camp for each age group.
The council says it typically has two or three students per adult, giving staff and volunteers time to build relationships with the children. Its annual budget is about $100,000 across its programs, and it relies on a small paid staff and volunteers.
“The only way that we can keep the program free and serving all these children in elementary and middle schools is to have help from the community,” a council representative said.
What families can expect
Between tastings, families can stop by Allen Manor Reptiles. Owner Erik Allen expects to bring about 15 to 20 reptiles, including tortoises, snakes and lizards. Most were rescued, he said. Some are pets he brings to educational programs.
One of the rescue’s animal ambassadors is Mei Li, a Taiwan beauty snake that Allen says came into his care about four or five years ago.
Akers Feather Farm will bring rabbits and chickens. The event will also have music and a bounce house.
When and where
- When — Saturday, November 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Where — Stonewall Harley-Davidson, 51 Buck Drive in Ruckersville
- Tasting wristbands — $10 for adults and $5 for children
- Competition entry — $25
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