Dogpatch Q

08/04/2026

Getting my first call at .

South Carolina Festival of Discovery

08/04/2026

A special Thank You to Eden Tool Company, the Smoke on the Rail BBQ Festival, and everyone who felt me worthy of receiving the Bigger Than BBQ Award.
​There are no losers in this group of nominees—every single person nominated does incredible work, and I’m truly honored to be in your company. Thank you all for the support! 🏆🔥

Presented annually at the Smoke on the Rail BBQ Festival in honor of Ercole Chila, the Bigger Than BBQ Award recognizes an individual within the BBQ community whose impact reaches far beyond competition results, trophies, or titles. Created through a partnership between Smoke on the Rail and Eden Tool, this award honors those who embody generosity, mentorship, friendship, service, compassion, and dedication to the BBQ family. The recipient is someone whose purpose burns brighter than trophies and titles — someone who feeds more than mouths and lifts more than lids. Because what they do, and who they are, is truly…Bigger than BBQ



Finalist #1 - Alan Nichols

Finalist #2 - Brian Oatway

Finalist #3 - Dan Hixon

Finalist #4 - Frank Smolka

Alan Nichols
A Vietnam veteran and Purple Heart recipient, he has dedicated his life to serving others—both in uniform and through the BBQ community. Through his work with Dogpatch Q and Operation BBQ Relief, he has provided comfort and meals to disaster victims across the country while mentoring volunteers and encouraging others to give back. Known for his humility, generosity, and willingness to help others, his impact extends far beyond the competition circuit. Whether serving communities in crisis, supporting fellow pitmasters, or lending a hand at contests and events, Alan Nichols demonstrates the compassion and selflessness that make him truly Bigger Than BBQ.

07/24/2026

Just people to help people. No equipment or food needed.
Download Operation BBQ Relief App.
Click top right to sign in or to make an account.
Scroll and click on West Virginia event.
Scroll to the bottom to select days and hours. Thank you.
See you there.

Operation BBQ Relief is deploying to West Virginia in response to the devastating floods. We will be on the ground serving hot meals and hope to families and first responders – and you can help.

Here’s how:
1️⃣ Know of urgent feeding needs?
Please contact us at [email protected] so we can respond where we’re needed most.

2️⃣ We need volunteers!
If you want to help, register through the OBR Volunteers smartphone app or visit:
🔗 https://operationbbqrelief.org/volunteer/new-volunteers/

3️⃣ Can’t volunteer? You can still make an impact.
Your donation helps fuel our mission to feed communities after disasters and enrich heroes' lives every day. 💛

06/12/2026

05/09/2026

Once again, Dogpatch Q, made this list of top teams on the country using Heath Riles BBQ rubs and sauces.

04/28/2026

The 350 Club made some noise this weekend. Brock's BBQ and Dogpatch Q matched at the top with 354.2744. Dawgs BBQ adds another strong showing to their run. Backyard teams continue to raise the bar.

04/27/2026

OBR Hiring!

Our talented team is growing, and we are searching for a mission-driven individual to fill a Kansas City-based Administrative Specialist position.

If you meet the qualifications and have a passion for helping those in need, we want to hear from you! Visit our career center to learn more and apply: https://operationbbqrelief.org/careers/

03/09/2026

I heard you Lynn.

Getting ready to burn some! Delivery couldn't have arrived at a better time!