Meet the Judges

Paul Maier has been in the food business for over 60 years. Growing up, he was surrounded by culinary traditions as the grandson of a German sausage maker, Augustus Claus, and the son of the owner of Claus’s Delicatessen in Roslindale. While other kids were watching cartoons, Paul was glued to cooking shows.

In high school and college, Paul worked his way up in Greek and German restaurants, starting as a sous-chef and becoming a lead chef. His culinary journey took him around the world, where he kept sharpening his skills and earned a reputation for his expertise.

Bill Minahan is a renowned pitmaster and team captain who is widely regarded as a leading authority and expert in the field of barbecuing. His unwavering commitment to quality and consistency has earned him numerous accolades and recognition, and his passion for barbecuing has inspired countless individuals to pursue their own passions in the sport. Bill’s influence extends far beyond the competition circuit, and he is known for his innovative techniques and unique approach to the craft.

Jeff Hills, owner of Healthy Appetites Natural Foods of Plymouth (voted New England’s best health food store) has a passion for good food and giving back to the community. Jeff joins us this year as a Marshfield Community Rib Cook-off Judge.

Meet MCRCO Judge Richard Greer who has been grilling for 30+ years and enjoys experimenting with making rubs and sauces. Richard has judged a variety of food competitions over the years, ranging from Chili to Baking and BBQ.

Meet Dan Boisvert, Marshfield Community Rib Cook-off Judge and two-time participant in the American Royal BBQ Competition, the 2nd largest BBQ competition in the United States.

Ken Brown is a long-time resident of Marshfield , an ’86 MHS grad and backyard pit master joining our panel of esteemed judges for this year’s competition

2024 Marshfield Community Rib Cook-Off MCRCO JUDGE John Cataldi is head Chef and owner of Solstice Restaurant and A3 Pizza in Kingston, MA and brings an affinity for BBQ to

Kathy Trainor is affectionately known as “BBQ MOM” and Co-Founder of the nonprofit Inclusive BBQ Events. MCRCO is thrilled to have her join this year’s panel of judges.

For as long as she can remember, Anne-Marie Robicheau has had a passion for culinary arts. As a judge at the MCRCO Rib Cook Off on September 7th, Anne-Marie brings her appreciation for good food and community spirit. She’s excited to be part of an event that celebrates delicious meals and brings joy to everyone involved.

Kevin Convey has been smoking and barbecuing for two decades, and has trained in numerous cooking and baking classes and bootcamps at the Culinary Institute of America and the King Arthur Flour Baking School. He has also co-run a catering business, and now works as a part-time cook for The Foodsmith in South Duxbury. In a prior life, Kevin served as editor in chief of the Boston Herald and editor in chief of the Daily News in New York.