COOKS FROM THROUGHOUT MISSOURI TO COMPETE IN SHOW ME BARBECUE

KENNETT -- Professional outdoor cooks, talented amateurs and prize-winning enthusiasts from several states will gather in Kennett this weekend for the Show Me State Championship Barbecue Cook-Off.

J.R. Blackburn of the Kennett Jaycees said friends often compete as teams and the event draws large crowds.

"Several friends get together and pool their talents in barbecuing and entertaining," he said. "That way they produce a fine showing. Large crowds are always there."

The 10th annual competition is officially sanctioned by the Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Contest. It is sponsored by the Kennett Jaycees, Bull's Eye Barbecue Sauce, Bradley Distributing Co., The Coca-Cola Bottling Co., and McDaniel Firestone.

The winners will be entered in the Memphis in May contest, and cash and prizes totaling over $3,500 will be awarded. Final-round winners will receive $500 cash, a 13-inch color television set and a grand championship trophy.

Three categories of barbecue will be whole hog, pork shoulder and ribs.

There is an entry fee of $50.

For more information contact Blackburn at (314) 888-4571.