Page 7 - FEB 2021 Digial Edition

Chuck Averwater, Pres. Smackers BBQ, LLC
I met Mike in 2004 at the NBBQA convention in Atlanta, GA. Within minutes of meeting Mike we were telling stories at one of his fa- vorite places to chat, around a BBQ pit. He was always willing to share his wealth of knowl- edge about BBQ and I’m truly blessed to call this great man a friend. Long Live The Legend
Love Ya Cuz,
Tommy Houston.
A Legend.
A Champion. A Gentleman. A Mentor.
A Teacher.
Be Like Mike.
As I sit here reflecting on the legend, Mike Mills, I can’t help but wonder what the BBQ industry would be like without him. Mike gave his undivided time to anyone that asked for it. He cared about us all. He was selfless. God bless you Mike, may we always display your humbleness.
Doug Bauer
Mr. Mills would always take the time to talk barbecue with someone, whether you were a world champion or a newbie to the scene. When I was contemplating going from competition bbq to opening Wheelan’s Barbecue Shack, he gave me the best advice I ever got. He said Jeff, “ if you’re gonna be a Bar- becue Shack, be a Barbecue Shack.” On several other occa- sions, I would call him with a question, and we would end up being on the phone with him for 60 minutes. It was such an honor to know him, and I will never forget his kindness.
Jeff Wheelan
FEBRUARY 2021
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