Annual Rib Cook-Off Supports Men and Women in Blue

The Marco Police Foundation sponsored their annual Police Foundation’s Annual Rib Cook-Off on Saturday, April 19 from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at the Marco Island Brewery. It was there that approximately 250 friends and supporters of the department gathered together for an afternoon of fun and good food to support the department and their fellow officers. 

As soon as attendees exited their vehicles at the Marco Island Brewery, their senses were flooded with the wonderful aroma of ribs being cooked by three teams, their grills spread across the parking lot. 

“The community gets to come out and help to support our efforts to stand behind our officers and at the same time enjoy a great event for the community,” said Mike Hook, President of the local Police Foundation. He, and the many volunteer members of the Foundation were spread throughout the event mixing with over 250 rib-loving guests who came to show their support for the many women and men who serve the community here on Marco Island. 

Residents and visitors came to support the event and mingle with officers and their families. “We are very thankful for the support of the community and especially that of the Marco Island Brewery family for sponsoring the event,” said John DeRosa, a longtime member of the Foundation and one of the competing contestants.

The proceeds for Saturday’s event will help support the foundation’s scholarship and assistance fund. That fund is utilized to help with tuition costs for not only the children of officers but also officers who seek to further their education. One of the other areas lies in assisting officers in case of illness or injury to an officer or a member of their family. 

This year, the Foundation made a slight change in the judging, turning it over to a true professional and longtime resident, Chef Laura Owen - long-time General Manager at CJ's on the Bay, a graduate of the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, owner of LBeeO's Hospitality Services and current Coastal Breeze News columnist (Chef Laura’s Kitchen).

This year there were three competitors going for the top spot: The Smokin’ Water Buffalo Team with head pitmaster Josh Skinner; Knights of Columbus represented by John DeRosa; and the Marco Island Police Department represented by Officer Joe Belardo.

All three were cooking on their own grills with slabs of baby back ribs provided by the Brewery so there would be no question as to the meat quality itself.

Various other prizes and raffles were held besides the coveted title of Top Grill Master, which went to The Smokin’ Water Buffalo and pitmaster Josh Skinner.

“We really appreciate the wonderful turnout who came out to once again show their support to the wonderful men and women of this department and their families who serve this great community, showing their commitment to being there for them if the need should ever arise,” said Hook.