Community Service
Community is a word is often tossed around but is rarely understood. Too many see it as a tool for personal gain—a way to leverage the collective to amplify their own success. But true community isn’t something to be exploited; it’s something you actively contribute to. It thrives when everyone plays a part, when support is mutual, and when success is shared.
The spirit of community was on full display at the grand opening of King’s Meat BBQ Supply in Upland, California, just outside of Los Angeles. The shop’s owners—Eduardo, Willie, and Jeremiah—have been deeply embedded in the U.S. BBQ scene for years. So much so that when they decided to open a one-of-a-kind BBQ supply store. And for the grand opening, the community they’ve poured into over the years showed up in full force to give back.
(Left to Right) Owners Jeremiah, Willie and Eduardo.
People traveled from across the country to celebrate, bringing with them the unmistakable energy of BBQ culture—food and fellowship.
And a LOT of liquor.
Pitmasters, industry pros, and BBQ Showdown alumni from the hit Netflix show came together to mark the occasion. It wasn’t just about the opening of a store; it was about honoring the relationships built over years of shared passion and dedication. It was a celebration of a great achievement from two men integral to the barbecue community.
The event was more than a party—it was a testament to what happens when individuals invest in the community first, before ever asking for anything from it. The crowd wasn’t just there to congratulate the owners; they were there to support a new hub for the BBQ world, a place where knowledge, resources, and tradition will continue to be passed down.
This was more than a grand opening; it was the start of something bigger, something built on the foundation of shared experience and collective growth. In a world where “community” is often used as a buzzword, King’s Meat BBQ Supply’s grand opening showed what real community looks like—people showing up for each other, celebrating each other’s wins, and ensuring that success is something that’s shared, not just earned alone.