Cook-off for charity brings out the best in barbecue and community spirit

The only things better than the weather at the International Showmen’s Association in Riverview, Fla., on March 28 were the camaraderie, the cause – helping injured veterans – and the cooking.

On all counts, the 2015 BBQ Cook-Off for Charity was a spectacular success. Under a brilliant blue sky with a cool breeze, a stretch of palm tree-lined riverfront played host to dozens of tents where grills sizzled and steamed and with hearty aromas and happy conversations. The annual event brings TECO team members together with members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and other volunteers from the community to support a different charity each year.

This year’s charity, the Red Hills Wounded Warrior Group, helps disabled veterans. For Tom Jordan, supervisor of Distribution Design, enthusiasm among participants for this year’s cook-off represents not just the family-like spirit at TECO but also support for veterans in need.

“Red Hills does great, unique work to help disabled veterans and their families feel a little more normal, and anyone who’s been at TECO for any amount of time knows this is a concept that’s important to who we are,” Jordan said. “What’s so exciting about the cook-off is that it’s hard to think of a more enjoyable way for participants and attendees alike to do something good. Each year, we hear nothing but great feedback about the event.”

In addition to bucket truck rides, music and vendors from throughout the community, the event provided an opportunity for Tampa Electric’s Energy Management Services team to promote a range of company programs including Energy Planner, Zap Cap Systems, free Home Energy Audits and more.

As the event neared its conclusion, anticipation rose. Who would walk away with trophies this year?

“People love getting the prizes, but the best thing about the contest is that everybody who comes to the cook-off gets to judge for themselves,” said Scarlett Smith, lead admin specialist and coordinator of this year’s event alongside Jordan. “This is something that comes from the hearts and hard work of TECO team members themselves. People are here – cooking, eating, enjoying themselves – because they love it.”

Jordan is hopeful that TECO team members will come together next year for another great cook-off in support of another great cause.

“Next year, we hope to  have more team members at the event so we can enhance and share our community involvement and  every can have  an incredible time,” he said. “Leave space on your calendar. And lots of room in your stomach!”

Here are the first-place winners of the BBQ Cook-Off for Charity by category:

Sauce: Smoke with Me
Chicken: Smoke with Me
Beef Brisket: Smoke with Me
Boston Butt: Holla Atcha Boyz
Ribs: Smokin’ Ain’t Easy
Dessert: Suzanne Flowers
People’s Choice: Smokin’ Ain’t Easy
Grand Champion (based on total points awarded in four meat categories only): Smoke With Me