PLEASE READ - Important Throwdown Announcement - PLEASE READ

bigabyte · 11-23-2010, 08:21 PM

I wanted to clear the air of any possible misconceptions about my visions of the BBQ Brethren Throwdowns.

I have always viewed these "Throwdowns" as a friendly backyard Brethren Bash, with a bunch of friends gathered together having fun chatting and cooking food. The only difference is that they are all cooking items based on a similar theme, and at the end of the bash one of the dishes will be declared the best.

I highlighted the items I feel are most important. I feel these are the most important because it represents what the BBQ Brethren is all about. Without this site, these Throwdowns would not be here, the people would not be here, none of this would be possible.

To me, the most important aspect of the BBQ Brethren (in my opinion) is that people interested in a common theme (BBQ) gather together from varying levels of experience, from someone completely new to BBQ all the way to seasoned restaurant owners and champions of dang near any BBQ contest or organization you can imagine!

But it's more than just that. Maybe it's because of the word "Brethren" in the name, but there is a friendly spirit here. The experienced help out the new people. Anyone and everyone, at any level can learn a thing or two here, and they won't feel intimidated or picked on because they do not know something. We are ALL here too learn things. Countless times I have seen the most experienced people on these forums make a comment like "I've never seen that before", and "I learned something new". So in my opinion a HUGE reason for this sites success is the approachability of this site to anyone, from any background, at any level of experience.

With that said, that is how I expect the "BBQ Brethren" Throwdowns to be, the same way the BBQ Brethren as a whole operates. Anyone and everyone, from any background or level of experience is welcome, and encouraged to participate. Nobody should be criticized for their cooking skills here any more than any other part of this site. Instead, our collective knowledge and friendly demeanor should freely give advice on how someone can improve their dish. Likewise, nobody should be criticized for not having good photography skills. Instead offer some advice to them, help them learn to take better pictures. Isn't that the Brethren Spirit I know and love? I think so. Don't you think so too?

I recently got a PM from a newer member to put up a Throwdown for the newer people, or for those who don't think they are able to compete at the same level as some of our regulars. When I first got this PM, in my reply to that person I said that I knew that not a single one of our regulars would ever want anyone to feel that they can not enter. They want people to enter, and to learn, and to get better. That's where most of them started as well.

A lot of the people posting good looking dishes and pictures now did not start off with such good looking stuff. I myself am probably a poster child for this. In fact, the only reason I took over the Throwdowns when JD McGee wanted to step away from them was so they would keep going so I could improve my skills at making good looking Throwdown entries. I received advice from people like Rick's Tropical Delight, cmcadams, Gore and thirdeye about how to improve my pictures, or how to better set up the scene. Without that advice my pictures would still suck. Had I not entered though, and not practiced, and not had friendly "mentors" like them around to help me, I never would have improved my pictures to the level of quality they are now (still nto the best, but vastly improved).

So to all of our newer members, or to those who question if they shoudl enter a Throwdown, please do enter, and enter as often as you can. It helps to bring this site alive. It brings all of us in these things together. We become friends. That should be good enough reason for many people to want to enter. On top of that however, we improve our cooking and photography skills. There are many reasons people should want to enter the Throwdowns.

To all of our senior members and regulars in the Throwdowns, especially to those who are practically "revered" by many members for their cooking and photography skills (seriously, some of you have some major reputation), please use your knowledge to make this place even better. Encourage participation, help out those who you think you have some excellent advice for.

Something I personally ask of all of you though, no matter who you are, be thoughtful of the other members. Please don't turn the Throwdowns into a competition that it is not. Nobody is really winning anything here other than bragging rights and a virtual sheet of paper that you can print at your own expense, and the option to pick the next category. That's it. So please do not make it seem like the "pros" are first and foremost out to win and roll over everyone else. That is not what I see as "in the spirit of the BBQ Brethren Throwdowns".

Thank you for reading. If you think I am completely off my rocker, then you obviously know me all too well. But hopefully what I have said resonates within you somewhere, otherwise I may simply be the one who does not understand this site.

landarc · 11-23-2010, 08:37 PM

Thanks for the message Chris, and thanks for all the work you do to keep these things going. I think the Throwdowns are where some of the most interesting and innovative ideas are brought forward. I would hate to see them go away, as I believe it really does encourage us to try new ideas out. I would hope nobody thinks they should not enter because they are intimidated by Gore, BBQ Grail of DeGuerre.

I think new people have probably dominated this year's TD's and many of the items they have posted have really impressed and educated this old kitchen dude.

BBQ Grail · 11-23-2010, 08:45 PM

Chris! You rock!

Ron_L · 11-23-2010, 08:47 PM

Well written, Chris!

I hope that everyone feels comfortable entering the throwdowns. While we do vote for a winner, no one is going to judge your entry and criticize you, your food or your photography. I do hope, however, that folks feel comfortable enough to offer constructive criticism if they have expertise in a particular cuisine, or are more advanced in food photography.

Because of the throwdowns I have tried many things that I may not have otherwise. Why else would I dissect a McRib and make AMcRTs except a throwdown!?! But, I don't have the creativity of some of our members, so i learn from them each week. I also don't have the photography skills of some of our members, but I learn from them, too. To me, that is the best part of the throwdowns.

Kevin · 11-23-2010, 08:47 PM

Thanks Chris.

bluetang · 11-23-2010, 09:24 PM

Thanks, indeed. We (me and my girl) were scared sh*tless when we entered for the first time. We were made welcome by the brethren which was so comforting though. It has been such a great learning experience for us. The interpretations of the TD themes are so insanely good as well, what a great chance for all of us to benefit and to push ourselves. We're all winners.

---k--- · 11-23-2010, 10:53 PM

I new to BBQ and am still developing my abilities. I totally feel outclassed by many of the regular entrants. But, I really enjoy seeing their entrants. They are inspiring. I feel very welcomed around this site. And am sure anyone here would help me with my entry if I asked.

I've enjoyed my first two throwdowns. I'm actually really impressed with my apple entry. I'm going to continue entering them. But, I'm glad Chris posted this, it was good to say.

landarc · 11-23-2010, 10:56 PM

___k___ you had a good apple entry. Just so you know, if you end up with a 0, there is no shame, there is a special club though. You have to earn a 0 first.

---k--- · 11-23-2010, 11:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by landarc

___k___ you had a good apple entry. Just so you know, if you end up with a 0, there is no shame, there is a special club though. You have to earn a 0 first.

I've heard it is a distinguished group. I'll be honoured to join.

SmokinAussie · 11-23-2010, 11:20 PM

I was intimidated too when I started. But I made it a fun thing and a family thing, and through humor and maybe the odd "not too bad" shot, made friends and got some nice comments... and trust me... truly learning low and slow from scratch. Larry in particular scared me stupid... and now we're great friends wisecracking each other... (Oh, wait... where did that IGNORE notification come from???)

Now, when I get the camera going and set the fire, the kids are always involved... "Are we doing another throwdown Dad? .... Yep, We are! YAY!

I have now entered (I think) 19TD's and never expected to win. It's just all about participation, learning and FUN! ... And it really is fun. I've made most of my friends here through TD friendly banter... we all "sell the Sizzle" cause that's what makes it fun.

Please enter and please have fun .... then we all learn more...

deguerre · 11-24-2010, 08:12 AM

Yeppers to all of the above comments! Thanks for posting this Chris. I always enjoy each and every week's throwdown whether I enter or not as I find the ideas that are presented in these really stretch my imagination sometimes and get me thinking in different directions. Some playful, some provocative, but always leaving me with that sense of "hmmmmmmm..what if...". I never enter with the hopes of "winning" and was surprised when I actually did win one...for me, just receiving even one vote justifies the entry as that means I reached someone, somewhere, in some way. So, again, thanks Chris, and thanks to ALL who enjoy these TDs as much as I do!

Redhot · 11-24-2010, 09:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ---k---

I new to BBQ and am still developing my abilities. I totally feel outclassed by many of the regular entrants. But, I really enjoy seeing their entrants. They are inspiring. I feel very welcomed around this site. And am sure anyone here would help me with my entry if I asked.

I've enjoyed my first two throwdowns. I'm actually really impressed with my apple entry. I'm going to continue entering them. But, I'm glad Chris posted this, it was good to say.

---k---, I don't think you're outclassed at all and I hope that you will soon feel as comfortable and accepted as I do here! The people on this forum are awesome and have really made me feel at home.

KnucklHed BBQ · 11-24-2010, 11:55 AM

There have been many TD's that I wanted to enter, but time (aka laziness) often prohibits me from putting something together...

Quote:

Originally Posted by deguerre

...for me, just receiving even one vote justifies the entry as that means I reached someone, somewhere, in some way.

Nahh, that's jus' me makin sure you don't take home too many Zeee-rohs!

Quote:

Originally Posted by Redhot

---k---, I don't think you're outclassed at all and I hope that you will soon feel as comfortable and accepted as I do here! The people on this forum are awesome and have really made me feel at home.

That's cuz yer purdier than Guerry...

deguerre · 11-24-2010, 12:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KnucklHed BBQ

That's cuz yer purdier than Guerry...

You haven't seen me with painted toenails in my Kilt...yet.

landarc · 11-24-2010, 12:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by deguerre

You haven't seen me with painted toenails in my Kilt...yet.

Fark! I don't need to see that, we are trying to keep the new members enthused here.

11-23-2010, 08:21 PM	#1
bigabyte somebody shut me the fark up. Join Date: 05-10-06 Location: Overland Fark, KS	PLEASE READ - Important Throwdown Announcement - PLEASE READ I wanted to clear the air of any possible misconceptions about my visions of the BBQ Brethren Throwdowns. I have always viewed these "Throwdowns" as a friendly backyard Brethren Bash, with a bunch of friends gathered together having fun chatting and cooking food. The only difference is that they are all cooking items based on a similar theme, and at the end of the bash one of the dishes will be declared the best. I highlighted the items I feel are most important. I feel these are the most important because it represents what the BBQ Brethren is all about. Without this site, these Throwdowns would not be here, the people would not be here, none of this would be possible. To me, the most important aspect of the BBQ Brethren (in my opinion) is that people interested in a common theme (BBQ) gather together from varying levels of experience, from someone completely new to BBQ all the way to seasoned restaurant owners and champions of dang near any BBQ contest or organization you can imagine! But it's more than just that. Maybe it's because of the word "Brethren" in the name, but there is a friendly spirit here. The experienced help out the new people. Anyone and everyone, at any level can learn a thing or two here, and they won't feel intimidated or picked on because they do not know something. We are ALL here too learn things. Countless times I have seen the most experienced people on these forums make a comment like "I've never seen that before", and "I learned something new". So in my opinion a HUGE reason for this sites success is the approachability of this site to anyone, from any background, at any level of experience. With that said, that is how I expect the "BBQ Brethren" Throwdowns to be, the same way the BBQ Brethren as a whole operates. Anyone and everyone, from any background or level of experience is welcome, and encouraged to participate. Nobody should be criticized for their cooking skills here any more than any other part of this site. Instead, our collective knowledge and friendly demeanor should freely give advice on how someone can improve their dish. Likewise, nobody should be criticized for not having good photography skills. Instead offer some advice to them, help them learn to take better pictures. Isn't that the Brethren Spirit I know and love? I think so. Don't you think so too? I recently got a PM from a newer member to put up a Throwdown for the newer people, or for those who don't think they are able to compete at the same level as some of our regulars. When I first got this PM, in my reply to that person I said that I knew that not a single one of our regulars would ever want anyone to feel that they can not enter. They want people to enter, and to learn, and to get better. That's where most of them started as well. A lot of the people posting good looking dishes and pictures now did not start off with such good looking stuff. I myself am probably a poster child for this. In fact, the only reason I took over the Throwdowns when JD McGee wanted to step away from them was so they would keep going so I could improve my skills at making good looking Throwdown entries. I received advice from people like Rick's Tropical Delight, cmcadams, Gore and thirdeye about how to improve my pictures, or how to better set up the scene. Without that advice my pictures would still suck. Had I not entered though, and not practiced, and not had friendly "mentors" like them around to help me, I never would have improved my pictures to the level of quality they are now (still nto the best, but vastly improved). So to all of our newer members, or to those who question if they shoudl enter a Throwdown, please do enter, and enter as often as you can. It helps to bring this site alive. It brings all of us in these things together. We become friends. That should be good enough reason for many people to want to enter. On top of that however, we improve our cooking and photography skills. There are many reasons people should want to enter the Throwdowns. To all of our senior members and regulars in the Throwdowns, especially to those who are practically "revered" by many members for their cooking and photography skills (seriously, some of you have some major reputation), please use your knowledge to make this place even better. Encourage participation, help out those who you think you have some excellent advice for. Something I personally ask of all of you though, no matter who you are, be thoughtful of the other members. Please don't turn the Throwdowns into a competition that it is not. Nobody is really winning anything here other than bragging rights and a virtual sheet of paper that you can print at your own expense, and the option to pick the next category. That's it. So please do not make it seem like the "pros" are first and foremost out to win and roll over everyone else. That is not what I see as "in the spirit of the BBQ Brethren Throwdowns". Thank you for reading. If you think I am completely off my rocker, then you obviously know me all too well. But hopefully what I have said resonates within you somewhere, otherwise I may simply be the one who does not understand this site. __________________ Asshattatron Farkanaut, CGCFO Chief Galactic Crockpot Foil Officer *Certified MOINK Baller & IMBAS Certified MOINK Ball Judge #0003 - Are you MOINK Certified?* *Sole recipient of the Silverfinger and fingerlickin Awards!* Don't forget about the Throwdown Thingies! The Secret Squirrel Society doesn't exist - Zero Club Duh.

11-23-2010, 08:37 PM	#2
landarc somebody shut me the fark up. Join Date: 06-26-09 Location: sAn leAnDRo, CA	Thanks for the message Chris, and thanks for all the work you do to keep these things going. I think the Throwdowns are where some of the most interesting and innovative ideas are brought forward. I would hate to see them go away, as I believe it really does encourage us to try new ideas out. I would hope nobody thinks they should not enter because they are intimidated by Gore, BBQ Grail of DeGuerre. I think new people have probably dominated this year's TD's and many of the items they have posted have really impressed and educated this old kitchen dude. __________________ [COLOR=DarkGreen][COLOR=DarkRed][SIZE=1]me: I don't drink anymore Yelonutz: me either, but, then again, I don't drink any less [/SIZE][/COLOR][/COLOR][SIZE=1][COLOR=DarkRed] [COLOR=Pink]SSS[/COLOR] [/COLOR][/SIZE]

11-23-2010, 08:45 PM	#3
BBQ Grail somebody shut me the fark up. Join Date: 08-11-03 Location: Rocklin, CA	Chris! You rock! __________________ Larry Soon to be a Texafornian. For a limited time I will be issuing Moink Ball Certificates. I'm working on a special COVID 19 Verson. Email me for details.

11-23-2010, 08:47 PM	#4
Ron_L Moderator Join Date: 12-09-04 Location: Wandering, but not lost Name/Nickname : Captain Ron	Well written, Chris! I hope that everyone feels comfortable entering the throwdowns. While we do vote for a winner, no one is going to judge your entry and criticize you, your food or your photography. I do hope, however, that folks feel comfortable enough to offer constructive criticism if they have expertise in a particular cuisine, or are more advanced in food photography. Because of the throwdowns I have tried many things that I may not have otherwise. Why else would I dissect a McRib and make AMcRTs except a throwdown!?! But, I don't have the creativity of some of our members, so i learn from them each week. I also don't have the photography skills of some of our members, but I learn from them, too. To me, that is the best part of the throwdowns. __________________ "Ron Rico, Boss. You can call me Captain Ron..." Naked Fatties Rock! PKGo X 2/PK360/Weber Q1000/Blackstone Camping Griddle/Pit Boss Pro Series 850

11-23-2010, 08:47 PM	#5
Kevin Quintessential Chatty Farker Join Date: 02-06-05 Location: Southern Minnesota	Thanks Chris. __________________ Kevin

11-23-2010, 09:24 PM	#6
bluetang somebody shut me the fark up. Join Date: 08-06-10 Location: Stuart, Fl Name/Nickname : Mike	Thanks, indeed. We (me and my girl) were scared sh*tless when we entered for the first time. We were made welcome by the brethren which was so comforting though. It has been such a great learning experience for us. The interpretations of the TD themes are so insanely good as well, what a great chance for all of us to benefit and to push ourselves. We're all winners. __________________ Homey, the Homegrown frier, 22" WSM, 18.5" Elderly(but not retired) WSM,Homegrown Electric, Weber gasserrrr,Weber Performer, Gravity feed smoker, Blackstone, Indisputably Fastest [COLOR=purple]Purple[/COLOR] Thermapen, SAI Satay Grill Avatar by landarc, thanky!

11-23-2010, 10:53 PM	#7
---k--- is Blowin Smoke! Join Date: 09-07-10 Location: Chicago, IL - West burbs	I new to BBQ and am still developing my abilities. I totally feel outclassed by many of the regular entrants. But, I really enjoy seeing their entrants. They are inspiring. I feel very welcomed around this site. And am sure anyone here would help me with my entry if I asked. I've enjoyed my first two throwdowns. I'm actually really impressed with my apple entry. I'm going to continue entering them. But, I'm glad Chris posted this, it was good to say. __________________ -Ryan Proudly Smoking on a UDS, PBC & Accidental Winner of the 2012 "Saucy" Throwdown.

11-23-2010, 10:56 PM	#8
landarc somebody shut me the fark up. Join Date: 06-26-09 Location: sAn leAnDRo, CA	___k___ you had a good apple entry. Just so you know, if you end up with a 0, there is no shame, there is a special club though. You have to earn a 0 first. __________________ [COLOR=DarkGreen][COLOR=DarkRed][SIZE=1]me: I don't drink anymore Yelonutz: me either, but, then again, I don't drink any less [/SIZE][/COLOR][/COLOR][SIZE=1][COLOR=DarkRed] [COLOR=Pink]SSS[/COLOR] [/COLOR][/SIZE]

11-23-2010, 11:20 PM	#10
SmokinAussie somebody shut me the fark up. Join Date: 10-19-09 Location: Gold Coast, Queensland! (Finally Escaped Melbourne) Name/Nickname : Bill	I was intimidated too when I started. But I made it a fun thing and a family thing, and through humor and maybe the odd "not too bad" shot, made friends and got some nice comments... and trust me... truly learning low and slow from scratch. Larry in particular scared me stupid... and now we're great friends wisecracking each other... (Oh, wait... where did that IGNORE notification come from???) Now, when I get the camera going and set the fire, the kids are always involved... "Are we doing another throwdown Dad? .... Yep, We are! YAY! I have now entered (I think) 19TD's and never expected to win. It's just all about participation, learning and FUN! ... And it really is fun. I've made most of my friends here through TD friendly banter... we all "sell the Sizzle" cause that's what makes it fun. Please enter and please have fun .... then we all learn more... __________________ A butterflies wings. About to bring down everything...

11-24-2010, 08:12 AM	#11
deguerre somebody shut me the fark up. Join Date: 07-15-09 Location: Memphis, TN...Formerly of Decatur, AL	Yeppers to all of the above comments! Thanks for posting this Chris. I always enjoy each and every week's throwdown whether I enter or not as I find the ideas that are presented in these really stretch my imagination sometimes and get me thinking in different directions. Some playful, some provocative, but always leaving me with that sense of "hmmmmmmm..what if...". I never enter with the hopes of "winning" and was surprised when I actually did win one...for me, just receiving even one vote justifies the entry as that means I reached someone, somewhere, in some way. So, again, thanks Chris, and thanks to ALL who enjoy these TDs as much as I do! __________________ Guerry [FONT=Book Antiqua]Pit Beeatch for Team Munchkin[/FONT] [FONT=Book Antiqua][B]Avatar by Northwest BBQ [/B][/FONT]"...In nature, there are predators. I believe the common denominator of the universe is not harmony, but chaos, hostility and murder..." Werner Herzog

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