QUINCY (WGEM) – What could have been a major set back on day one of 2026 for Platt Daddy BBQ, became an opportunity for a local pitmaster to lend a helping hand and show what community looks like in the Gem City.
Platt Daddy BBQ owner Jeremy Platt said the backbone of his restaurant and catering business suffered a major mechanical failure on New Year’s Day. The rotisserie snapped its chain and rack support rods, which in most cases would have shut down the business temporarily.
“Without that smoker, we can’t operate as a business,” Platt said.
Instead of closing down until further notice, Platt went searching for solutions locally.
Platt began making calls, looking to find the different pieces of needed equipment to repair their smoker.
He called Quincy Tractor LLC for a replacement chain, Michelmann Steel Construction to fabricate the brackets for the support rods, but the biggest call of them all went out to Andre Nixon, owner of Ray Ray’s BBQ & Catering.
Nixon said he didn’t hesitate on the opportunity to give back to the Platts for all the help and guidance they have shared with him throughout his catering journey. He dropped what he was doing, loaded his smoker onto a trailer and arrived in Quincy shortly after.
Nixon said the decision was simple.
“We’re neighbors, that’s what communities are all about. We’re all grinding to be successful, it’s not about competition,” said Nixon.
The loaner smoker turned out to be the exact same model the Platts were using, allowing for the restaurant to pick back up without another hitch, continuing to serve the community during the repairs.
Nixon said although the two businesses cook similar style of food, there is more than enough Texas Sweet Heat and Missouri Tang and Spice for those looking to enjoy, while still spreading support to all businesses.
Platt said moments like these are what makes creating a community special, building relationships.
Nixon, who is still growing in his own business, said helping another local business and friend was simply the right thing to do.
“You can’t think about what you may lose out on, just have to have faith and keep pushing forward,” Nixon said.
Both owners hope the experience serves as a reminder that lending a helping hand, especially during tough moments, can make a difference.
As Platt Daddy BBQ waits for repairs to be completed, the smoker continues to fire up daily, fueled by more than heat and wood, but a shared sense of community.
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