From left, Susie McCaw, Sandy Ville, Kathy Kolt and Bob Plummer join Mayor Phillip Burch as he declares June 23-25 at Smokin’ on the Pecos State BBQ Championship Days in Artesia. The annual festival of food, fun and music kicked off Friday evening at the Eddy County Fairgrounds with, the proclamation states, “teams vying for bragging rights and top prizes as they showcase their BBQ skills and highlight the barbeque traditions of our great state.” The event, which continues through Sunday, also features an arts and crafts show, cowboy mounted shooting, bull riding, live music and more. For a schedule of events, visit www.smokinonthepecos.com.
