MADISON COUNTY, Ky. (LEX 18) — A Richmond barbecue restaurant is back in business after receiving crucial support to recover from winter storm damage that threatened to shut down operations permanently.

Smitty's Southern Style BBQ on East Irvine Street has been serving the community for more than a decade, filling the area with the aroma of smoked ribs and pulled pork. What started as a food truck in 2010 quickly grew into a beloved restaurant built on family recipes and the legacy of founder Fred Smith.

"Fred Smith, he was a great guy. Some people liked him, some people loved him. There was no in between. He was a great guy. Funny guy. Down to earth," said Jeffery Robinson, the restaurant's current owner.

After Smith passed away, his stepson Robinson and mother stepped in to continue t

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