Meat the competition

Steaks are high at the National Beef Cook-off, where 20 national finalists will compete for more than $100,000. Last year’s winner, Grilled Steaks Balsamico, combines marinated beef, creamy cheese, pepper, balsamic vinegar and figs for a unique flavor. If your favorite beef recipe wins raves at the dinner table, enter the contest by March 31. For complete rules and to enter, visit www.beefcookoff.org.

Nosh notes

Whether you’re a hard-core planner or so lazy you can barely write your name, Knock Knock has the grocery list for you. These handy refrigerator pads help you lay out a week’s worth of menus or check off the items that your pantry lacks. They each cost $4.99 and are available online at Target’s Red Hot Shop. Visit www.target.com, click on “Red Hot Shop” and follow the links to the archive.

Magic party

Break out the beads for Magic Hat Brewing Co.’s Mardi Gras weekend, Feb. 25-27, in Burlington, Vt. With tunes by the New Birth Brass Band, giveaways from jetBlue Airways, a wild parade and fabulous foods, good times are sure to roll. For information, or to win a Mardi Gras weekend getaway, visit www.magichat.net.

Tidbits is hungry for news about local food products and events. Send your Tidbits by mail to: Bangor Daily News, attn: Kristen Andresen, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor 04402-1329; by fax to 941-9476; or by e-mail to kandresen@bangordailynews.net.