Erica Fish, Marketing Communications Specialist
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The Sunshine State Steak Cook-Off (SSSCO) returned to the Ave Maria Town Center for its fifteenth year, and what a remarkable turnout it was. As the largest steak competition east of the Mississippi, more than 1,800 steak dinners were prepared by 20 teams.
For Barron Collier Companies divisions, Ave Maria Development (AMD) and Ave Maria Utility Company (AMUC), it’s a legacy to be part of this annual fundraising day. Now, AMD is honored to be the Prime Sponsor of the SSSCO.
“We’re always proud to support the event’s efforts in raising funds for local youth charities. But what truly warms us is seeing the community come together on cook-off day — it’s a reminder of what Ave Maria stands for… Valuing one another and truly knowing your neighbors,” said Cee Cee Marinelli, Barron Collier Companies VP of commercial real estate.
As town developer of Ave Maria, Florida, AMD hosts the cook-off in the Town Center, providing a space for event organizer, Knights of Columbus – Council 14697, to rally their grilling troops and event volunteers.
“The cook-off is a true reflection of what makes Ave Maria such a vibrant community… Family-friendly fun and welcoming to everyone,” said Tom DiFlorio, who oversees the Sunshine State Steak Cook-Off. “But the day is not just about food. There’s a commitment from people who just want to raise money.”
While the grillers vie for a title and bragging rights, the Knights of Columbus work long hours to bring this big event to Southwest Florida, and local charities benefit from the money raised.
“For 2024, $40,000 was raised for feeding 1,300 people steaks, and with more beef and people from this year, more than $50,000 has gone back to organizations like the Guadalupe Center and Donahue Academy.”
Not only is AMD actively involved in supporting the event, but their sister division, AMUC — competition name Smoke Mafia — made unbeatable sizzles. The team took home the title of 3rd Runner Up consecutively for 2024 and 2025.
Crew lead for AMUC’s utility tech maintenance, Leonard “Lenny” Maldonado, was the team’s chef whose culinary craftsmanship was evaluated by a select group of judges. The panel voted on the steak cooking process, plating appearance, meat temperature, choice of seasoning and smoke flavor execution.
“We applied last year’s judging critiques to this year’s competition taking months to perfect our secret dry rub,” said Tim Schlief, AMUC maintenance and construction manager, called “Da Boss” by the cooking team. “We couldn’t be prouder of our achievement. Expect us to strengthen our craft even more to take the grand champion title next January!”
155 steaks were served by Maldonado, Schlief and the rest of their crew: Garret Sculles, Jim McLeod, Omar Crespin, Juan Gallegos, Matthew Campbell, George Shepard and Jans “Lucas” Antela Almaral.
“Within 15 minutes, we ran out of our rib eyes,” proudly shared Maldonado. “Between our music, people witnessing us blessing the meats before fire and having the American flag displayed above our smoker, everyone felt invited to come talk to us and sample our food. Tasters seemed nothing but impressed!”
Those also dazzled were Smoke Mafia’s family and friends who joined them behind the grills for a personal barbecuing shindig. Cooking assistants Matt and Jim made stuffed jalapeño poppers, Lenny prepared pounds of marinated chicken and Tim made another secret recipe which comes from the AMUC vault… Their version of Mexican street corn dip.
“Our plates were loaded and people passing by were curious what else the team was making, and we told them they could help themselves! There was plenty to go around,” said Tim’s wife, Amanda. “The event was a perfect way for our AMUC families to come together, share a meal and make new memories with each other. I’m so glad I brought my camera with me!”
For the steak teams, Ave Maria’s locals and visitors alike, the Sunshine State Steak Cook-Off is more than just a competition; it’s a rallying of giving back to the community while bonding over good flavors and company.
“With Barron Collier Companies and Ave Maria Development’s ongoing support, and AMUC remaining as a remarkable team, the Knights are confident that the 2026 competition will be another for the books!” DiFlorio said.
For more information about the event, sponsorship opportunities or to get involved, visit sssco.org.
