United Way of Nevada County announces BBQ battle winners

United Way of Nevada County held its 7th Annual BBQ Battle in downtown Grass Valley on Thursday, August 22. More than 200 people showed up to taste grilled delicacies and vote for their favorite team.

The winner of the People’s Choice award, for their tasty ribs, was “Uptown Barber-Q-ers.” The Uptown Salon team was headed up by team captain Gary Evans.

Honorable mention was given to the Gold Country Community Services’ (GCCS) team “GCCS Grill Meisters,” with team captain David Caddy.

There was also a Critic’s Choice (ribs only) category, judged by five experienced judges. They sampled all of the team’s food and closely analyzed it. During the blind-tasting, they judged the entries on texture, taste, tenderness and appearance. The first place winner of the Critic’s Choice Award was “Uptown Barber-Q-ers”.

The second place winner of the Critic’s Choice Award was Ethan Hunter’s team “Get Sum! BBQ,” and the third place winner was “Byers Smokin’ Squirrels”, with team captain Jeff Fierstein of Byers Leaf Guard. The voting was very close and all of the teams served up delicious food.

This year, there was a new category of a United Way Spirit Award. It was given to the team that embodied positive energy and creativity; “Uptown Barber-Q-ers” won in this category as well.

If you missed this fun event, you missed out on some delicious barbecue and the cool sounds of the rock band Sols. The attendees enjoyed the great music while the BBQ teams cooked over hot coals and gas grills, creating delectable tastings.

A trip to Oahu was won, as well as a complete wine bar and a BBQ prize package. This was the 7th year of the United Way BBQ Battle. All of the proceeds went to the United Way of Nevada County Community Impact Fund, which will go towards making an impact in the areas of education, income and health.