Leaves are slowly turning to autumn colors and blowing off the trees. The evenings and mornings are cool and beautiful. October has finally arrived after the miserably hot summer. These changes mean fall festivals are beginning.

The Kiowa (Kansas) Chamber of Commerce plans their Fall Fest the Sunday afternoon of Oct. 30. A highlight of the event is the Meat Cooking Contest. This is a call to all the men and women who pride themselves on grilling the best ribs, briskets, roasts, chicken, pork and more. The meat doesn't have to be cooked on a grill or smoker. Those who enter their favorite can c...