HOUSTON —The Glenda Jean Mostyn and Joe E. Moreno Foundation (Mostyn Moreno Foundation) is celebrating its second year collaborating with the Ritch’s Raiders BBQ tent and “Ritch’s Little Raiders” at the 2014 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Cook Off.
The cook off traditionally marks the beginning of the rodeo season in Houston. Hundreds of teams from around the world compete in various barbecue categories, such as Best Brisket, Best Chicken, and Best Ribs. This year was yet another success for Ritch’s Raiders BBQ Team with the team finishing in the top 20 percent of all competitors.
“This year was the largest in the team’s 29 year history,” said Monte Osburn, the executive director of the Mostyn Moreno Foundation, a non-profit partnered with Ritch’s Raiders. “Cook off is a special time for everyone in Houston. It’s when we get to share something really special as a community.”
The Mostyn Moreno Foundation invited children with special needs to the cook off for a special day of barbecue and rodeo fun. The program, known as “Ritch’s Little Raiders,” was especially busy this year with members of the Houston Police Department and the Houston Fire Department in attendance. HPD brought Smash the Police horse, S.W.A.T. team members, and a helicopter while the HFD let people get a bird’s-eye-view of the grounds from their ladder truck.
“Bringing the Little Raiders to the cook off is definitely my favorite part of the rodeo season,” Osburn said. “They really love the performances and atmosphere. Of course, amazing barbecue doesn’t hurt but we’re just glad they have a great time.”
Ritch’s Raiders was especially busy this year with the team serving thousands of people. During the “Ritch’s Little Raiders” day at the tent, everyone from celebrities to community leaders came to show their support. Members of the Houston Texans cheerleaders and offensive guard Brandon Brooks enjoyed brisket while meeting kids in the program. Orbit the Astros Mascot, Wade Phillips, and Vice President of Coca-Cola Hector Amaya.
This year might have been the biggest in Ritch’s Raiders history but the real highlight was providing a fun day with great food for 750 Texas children with special needs.
Original Story: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2014/03/prweb11673097.htm