Fire It Up! Events, along with the Kansas City Barbeque Society, is offering the official KCBS Certified BBQ judging class. After just a few hours of instruction, participants can learn how to grade chicken, pork shoulder, ribs and beef brisket — and taste them during the process.

The session is Oct. 6, 5-9 p.m. at the Eastern Oregon Trade and Event Center, 1705 E. Airport Road, Hermiston. The $99 registration fee is due by Sept. 30.

And class participants will be certified just in time to be eligible to judge the Hermiston Fall Festival BBQ Championship on Oct. 8, also at EOTEC.

This class will cover primary judging elements, including presentation, taste and tenderness. Those active or interested in competitive barbecue may also consider taking the class as it teaches participants what judges look for in contests.

To register for the class, visit bit.ly/EOTEC-CBJ-Class. For more information, email Ben Lobenstein at ben@fireitupevents.com or call 541-289-9800.