Rock'n Rib Fest Draws Big Crowd

Thousands flocked to historic downtown Lawrenceville Saturday for good food, music and fun. The fourth annual Rock'n Rib Fest was held on the square. It featured something for everyone. Two stages provided live music from up-and-coming local talent as well as guest bands like "Red Zepplin", a Led Zeppelin tribute band. A family friendly zone provided fun for the kids, including a bouncy castles, crafts and face painting.

The event began with the third annual Rock'n Rib Run for Breast Cancer 5K, presented by Tutus for Tatas. Last year the run raised about $6,000. Organizers hope this year will do the same. 

Companies from all over metro-Atlanta set up tents and booths to sell their wares. Nana Long, from African By Design in Lithonia brought her colorful one-of-a-kind dresses and jewelry to sell. "It's my first time participating in the event," Long said. "I'm really enjoying it." Of course, the main attraction was the food. Participants stood in long lines to taste ribs from twelve barbecue vendors set up around the square. "It's a challenge, but it's good for business and bragging rights," said Dicky Parks of Dicky Doo's Diner in Lawrenceville, which hosted some of the longest lines. Last year, Dicky's took home first place for the best ribs. This year, that title went to of Lawrenceville. "It feels fantastic," said executive chef Scott Smith. "This is what we do everyday. We cook the best food everyday, not just today." Smith says the secret to a good rib is a lot of love.

The theme of this year's Rock'n Rib Fest was Celebrating and the school's relationship with the community.  Mayor, Judy Jordan Johnson, praised the college during her welcome speech just after 5pm on the main stage on Clayton street. She presented GGC president, Dr. Daniel J. Kaufman with a clock to display at the school. GGC students participated in a burger eating contest. Afterwards came the big suprise, a flash mob broke out in the middle of Clayton street. Students, faculty and even Mayor Johnson danced to the song "Party Rock Anthem"  by LMFAO. GGC freshman, Michael Bukley Moore was one of the students picked to do a freestyle dance solo during the flash mob. "It was fun learning the dance moves," said Moore. "We practiced a lot."

Ef Rios and Peeka Trone drove in from Buckhead to attend the event. "The Atlanta BBQ Festival was a ten dollar cover, so I'd rather come here and eat and drink my 10 dollars," said Rios. Trone appreciated the small town feel of Lawrenceville. "I love it here. The people are friendly. I'll be back to shop for sure." Chet Brown of Wiz Bar-B-Que in Douglasville could hardly get the ribs off the grill before they were gone in seconds. He says the long hours on his feet were well worth it. "It’s been fantastic," said Brown. "I definitely want to come and do it again next year."