Well, we're pretty small time and not only did Timmy and I do a double take when the MMA finished his presentation, so did our other table companions, including 2 BOD candidates that did not win.
I don't fault MMA. They take their lead from the BOD. Everyone knows that there are different levels of competition - Dr. BBQ, Byron C, the Triggs, Mike Davis and a few others operate in a different world than we weekenders with meat bought at Sam's Club and a 12 pack in the cooler. Maybe those guys will walk away from the banquet with a big check next year, and if they do, bravo! There probably isn't a one of us that doesn't own one of their books (thanks Dr. BBQ!) and have benefitted from their expertise. BBQ2? We'll walk away with a belly full of mediocre food and God willing, some free contest entries. My greatest fear is not the commercialization of KCBS, it's that the costs for competing will become so prohibitive that we won't be able to play anymore.
With a two-person team and 2 full time jobs we have no illusions of being TOY. We'd kill ourselves and go broke trying to do 20 contests. Right now we're proud and happy to do 8-10 and maybe -- maybe, get a chance to win a Grand championship and compete in the Royal Invitational. Hell, since we're the last team to roll in in every single contest we do, we're pleased as heck to get the calls we've gotten.
I hope that people will keep an open mind about the work MMA is doing. I too have an ad agency background and I am sure they are doing exactly what the KCBS Board has asked them to do. But I also hope that those on the Board will make sure that the flavor, history and spirit of KCBS remains and that competition BBQ remains FUN and accessible to the thousands of teams it attracts. Check egos and "delusions" of granduer at the door and make sure there's room for everyone - that's all we ask.