Morris “Big Mo” Hampton of Blowing Rock, N.C. sets up racks in his smoker Thursday, June 7 as he prepares for the 19th Blue Ridge Barbecue and Music Festival, to be held Friday, June 8 and Saturday, June 9 at Harmon Field in Tryon. His team, Big Mo from AHO, will make its seventh appearance at the festival, competing against approximately 80 other teams in the N.C. State Barbecue Championship. In addition to lots of barbecue and fixin’s, the festival also offers a craft fair, live music on two stages and rides for kids. Gates are open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, with free admission on Friday from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. For more information, see the special barbecue festival insert in today’s issue. Also see page 3 for another photo of the preparations. (photo by Samantha Hurst)