If you're having a barbecue event and you want to trumpet some legitimacy, try this: the 2nd Annual Best Backyard BBQ Chef Competition, taking place Friday and Saturday at New London's Waterfront Park, is now recognized as THE state cookoff of the Kansas City Barbecue Society.

Kansas City = stunningly good barbecue - and the winner of the event will be eligible to compete in the American Royal World Series of Barbecue in KC next fall. That's the Big Time.

Area competitors - experts and weekend fun-havers are all welcome - compete in four categories: chicken, pork ribs, pork and beef brisket.

To go with the barbecue, anticipate beer, music from Special 20, cooking demonstrations, raffles and more.

- RICK KOSTER

Best Backyard BBQ Chef Competition, 6-11 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, New London Waterfront Park, New London; free; (860) 443-3786, neffproductions.com.