What makes Darren Clark  with the 2nd Annual Rib Cookoff a good neighbor?

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, communities across Western North Carolina and East Tennessee have been grappling with unprecedented devastation. Among the hardest hit was the Elks Mill Poga Fish Springs Volunteer Fire Department, which lost their entire station, equipment, and a 3,500-gallon tanker when the Elk River surged beyond its banks. The tanker, found half a mile downstream, was reduced to nothing more than a frame and wheels – a sobering testament to the storm's destructive power.

In response to this catastrophic loss, volunteer firefighter Darren Clark is organizing the Second Annual First Responder Rib Cook-Off. This event isn't just about rebuilding a fire station; it represents the resilient spirit of a community determined to emerge stronger from disaster. As Darren poignantly observed during our conversation, "It's kind of like a blessing in disguise. It's kind of like 9/11 reunited everybody, and this storm did the same thing. Everybody came together to help one another, and we're coming back bigger and stronger than we were before."

The fundraiser, scheduled for August 30th (Labor Day weekend), promises to be much larger than last year's inaugural event. While the first cook-off attracted approximately 400 attendees at a remote recreation park, this year's festivities will take place along the highway with an expected turnout of 2,500 people. The event will feature 19 competing teams from various first responder agencies – including sheriff's departments, 911 centers, fire departments, and constables – all engaged in friendly rivalry to prepare the best ribs. Beyond the competition, visitors can enjoy diverse food offerings, performances by four bands (including three Nashville recording artists), and browse goods from 73 vendors.

For those looking to support the cause, there are multiple avenues to get involved. Monetary donations are always welcome, as are contributions of items for the silent auction and raffles. The department has even set up an Amazon registry with barbecue-themed items ranging from $10 to $500. Businesses can participate as vendors, securing a 10x10 space for just $40 or a 10x20 space for $60. Additionally, sponsors contributing $100 or more receive free vendor space as a token of appreciation. Time is another valuable donation, with volunteers needed to sell armbands, direct parking, and supervise games.

What makes this story particularly compelling is Darren's personal journey. Originally from Florida, he moved to the mountains of Tennessee approximately four and a half years ago, ironically to escape hurricanes. "I'm 2,100 feet above sea level. I'll never have to deal with that again," he recalled thinking. Yet despite the cruel irony of losing everything to a hurricane in the mountains, his commitment to his adopted community never wavered. "I don't want to just live in a community," Darren explained, "I want to be part of it."

This sentiment encapsulates the essence of true community spirit – the willingness to stand together in the face of adversity and emerge stronger on the other side. The Second Annual First Responder Rib Cook-Off isn't just about barbecue or fundraising; it's a powerful demonstration of how shared challenges can unite neighbors and transform tragedy into opportunity. As Western North Carolina and East Tennessee continue their recovery efforts, events like this serve as beacons of hope and reminders of our collective resilience when we choose to support one another.

To learn more about 2nd Annual Rib Cookoff go to:

First Responder Rib Cookoff Facebook Page 

2nd Annual Rib Cookoff

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