Charley West BBQ Fest returned for its 8th year with: live music, $10 for 10 tasting tickets, cold drinks, and of course ALL the BBQ. I was fortunate to judge and test out my new Kansas City Barbeque Society Certified Judge training. There was both competition and backyard divisions. Competition Division included Gettin’ Piggy with it 304, Dakota Farmer, & Stills n Squeals BBQ. Backyard Division included Brad Schmalzer, Notorious P.I.G., Blue Creek BBQ, DKays, Curry's Backyard BBQ, Barry Wood BBQ & Midnight Smoker. Each competitor provided ribs, pulled pork, sauce and a wild card. I will say that I think the backyard division is fun because they stray little bit further outside the box. And that's also why wildcard is my favorite category because you never know what you're going to get. Some options this year included a smoked cheddar sausage, a berry salsa poundcake, Brisket and shrimp, and even a bacon wrapped Oreo. If you didn't check it out this year, be sure to mark your calendar for next year!