Rhythm & Ribs 2024 winners

In a first for the event, the top prize ended in a tie by judges

By DONALD WILBURN

donaldfwilburn@gmail.com

Rhythm & Ribs 2024, held at the Eugene Woods Civic Center, was a resounding success drawing in crowds of all ages to enjoy free live music, mouthwatering BBQ, and family- friendly fun. Despite an ominously threatening cloudy sky throughout the day, the rain held off just long enough for the winners to be announced.

Fifteen talented BBQ teams battled it out for bragging rights and cash prizes. The competition was fierce, with teams showcasing their culinary skills in categories such as Chicken Wings and Ribs. After careful judging, the winners were announced as follows: Best Booth: Kenneth Hightower/Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Chicken Wings:

■ ■ 1st Place: Verna Bailey/ Verna B’s

■ ■ 2nd Place: Kaleb Green/Ruthless Hogs BBQ

■ ■ 3rd Place: Phelan Murry/ PJ Murry Ribs:

■ ■ 1st Place Tied: William

See EVENT, page A2

We are big fans of Big Gunz BBQ!

Photos by Don Wilburn

Verna Bailey (left) won 1st Place for her wings with Kaleb Green (center) and William grant (right) splitting 1st place in the ribs category.

Credit: Jim Jackson

They are not just ribs, they are AWARD WINNING ribs!

From page A1

Grant & Kaleb Green/ Ruthless Hogs BBQ

■ ■ 3rd Place: Kenneth Hightower/Omega Psi Phi Fraternity

■ ■ 4th Place: Verna Bailey/ Verna B’s

■ ■ 5th Place: Phelan Murry/PJ Murry The event organizers were thrilled with the turnout and the positive feedback from attendees. “We’re so grateful for the community’s support,” said Jim Jackson. “Rhythm & Ribs was a fantastic way to bring people together and showcase the amazing talent we have right here in West Memphis.”

In addition to the BBQ competition, the festival featured live music performances by local bands, children’s activities, and a variety of food and craft vendors.

In a first, this year’s first place ended in a tie between William Grant and Kaleb Green who split the first and second place prize money between them.

“I plan to pay bills” said Grant of what he intends to do with the prize money, “The rest I will out towards a food truck. Cooking is my passion and has been for a long time. My dream is to put West Memphis barbecue on the map.”

15 teams competed for the coveted 1st Place Trophy.

Photo by Don Wilburn