ALS Fundraiser

Smoke Justis is stepping up to the plate once again to support those impacted by ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) with its 2nd Annual Que 4 Care fundraiser, formerly known as “Q4A Cure.” From May 27 to June 2, this week-long community event will bring together barbecue lovers, baseball fans and bourbon connoisseurs to raise vital funds for ALS care, equipment and advocacy.

This year’s festivities will also benefit Always Lifting Spirits, Chair Force 1 Foundation and Operation Ramp It Up—three local organizations providing mobility support and emotional encouragement for ALS patients and caregivers.

Named after a local baseball urban legend, Walter “Smoke” Justis, Smoke Justis features smoked meat and smooth bourbon. So, it seemed to be a natural fit to build this event around three very important B’s: Baseball, BBQ and bourbon. Hosted the week leading up to MLB’s Lou Gehrig Day on Monday, June 2, the goal of Que 4 Care is to bring people together to raise awareness of the disease and vital funds to purchase equipment and mobility modifications. Que 4 Care also hopes to provide essential resources that empower ALS patients and their families.

Smoke Justis owner Richard Dickmann’s personal connection to ALS was the driving force behind this event.

“In 2005, I lost a good friend after a seven-year battle with ALS, and another close friend is currently fighting it,” said Dickmann. “Over the years, I’ve met many customers and community members whose lives have been touched by this disease. That’s why we launched our fundraiser—to honor their stories and provide help where insurance coverage falls short. I knew we had to step up to the plate and make a difference.”

Honoring the spirit of MLB’s Lou Gehrig Day on June 2, Que 4 Care swings for the fences with daily themed events and a grand finale walk to Great American Ball Park. Highlights include:

Sippin’ 4 Lou Happy Hour in the Bourbon Lounge

Tuesday, May 27 – Friday, May 30 | 4-7 p.m.

Each evening in the Bourbon Lounge, guests are invited to “lift one to Joe,” a beloved Smoke Justis patron battling ALS. A limited-edition Que 4 Care Old Forester barrel pick will be available exclusively at Smoke Justis beginning Tuesday, May 27th for the Kickoff party from 4-7 p.m. While supplies last. Additionally, each evening, a partnering ALS organization will be spotlighted.

• Wednesday: Proceeds benefit Always Lifting Spirits
• Thursday: Donations support Chair Force 1 Foundation
• Friday: Toast to Operation Ramp It Up

Que 4 Care BBQ Street Party

Saturday, May 31 | 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Get your mitts on mouthwatering smoked pork BBQ and classic Southern sides, all served family picnic style with checkered tables lining the street. Please make reservations online.

• Suggested donation: $25/adult, $12/child
• Enjoy live music all day long
• Participate in Ice Bucket Challenges at 1, 3, 5, and 7 p.m.
• Take in the view of the Roebling Bridge and the Cincinnati skyline while supporting a meaningful cause.

Walk4ALS & Lou Gehrig Day at Great American Ball Park

Monday, June 2 | Check in at Smoke Justis begins at 3:00 p.m. | Pre-game party at 4:00 p.m. | First pitch: 7:10 p.m.

To cap off the Que 4 Care week, ALS families, friends and supporters will unite for a powerful Walk4ALS from Smoke Justis to Great American Ball Park, in celebration of MLB’s Lou Gehrig Day. Participants are encouraged to arrive early at Smoke Justis to decorate signs and prepare for the journey.

Once at the stadium, ALS ticketholders will be welcomed with early entry through the Hall of Fame Breezeway Entrance at 4:00 p.m., followed by an exclusive pregame celebration with a special appearance by John Driskell Hopkins, founding member of the Zac Brown Band and ALS advocate who has courageously faced ALS since 2021.

• Additional Details:
  • Specially priced Reds Game tickets are available through Smoke Justis for $30.
  • Decorate commemorative signs to honor the name of the ALS patient you’re walking for.
  • Please be advised that the entire walk from Court Street to the Great American Ballpark is handicap-accessible, so everyone can participate!
  • Cheer on Brent Suter, the Reds’ nominee for the Lou Gehrig Award

Whether you’re coming to enjoy a smooth bourbon, share a meal in memory of a loved one or plan to walk in solidarity, Que 4 Care has something for everyone. For more information about Que 4 Care and to purchase tickets, please visit www.smokejustis.com.