Smoke Off Fires Up Competition

The 6th Annual Riverside Smoke Off brought 22 teams and 145 participants to compete in 11 categories, plus eight kids in the Kid’s Cook contest. Despite the pressure, teams kept the event lively. Turning Point, a group of church members blending Texas barbecue with Mexican flavors, won the Chef’s Choice award after offering samples on prep day. Let It Burn won Best Decorated Site and Best Brisket. Sweet Meat Cookers took first in Chicken and Ribs. City officials confirmed the event will return next March.