The aroma of barbecue takes over Crescent today as the Wharton County Youth Fair kicks off its annual cook-off. About 50 teams are firing up their pits for a shot at top brisket honors, and this year the stakes are higher than ever. Now certified by the International Barbecue Cookers Association, the contest is a state-level event – meaning the overall champ, local or not, earns a spot in Kansas City’s American Royal World Series of Barbecue. Gates open at 5 p.m. under clear skies and warm temps, with awards set for Saturday afternoon.