Hey Jim, and Stogie,
Thanks. I have been working hard all summer trying to find the right combination. Funny thing, I thought my brisket was tender but dry, and my neighbor (who took 1st in Brisket) thought his brisket was juicy but tough. We laughed about combining our entry some way and we would take it all. Neither of us figured we would do much in the brisket category, go figure!!
As Stogie said, this was a fun cookoff. Right on the banks of the Ohio River, weather was beautiful, and the neighbors were--fun and unusual. I'll post a picture of one neighbor's cooker later--let's just say that it might be a proto-type for a next generation WSM. Weber Dave--keep your eyes open for this one.
Overall, our team came in 13th out of 28 teams--very happy with the results-but still got to figure out what makes for good pork--I love what I make but the judges see differently. Oh well, on to Nelsonville, I guess.
Stogie, thanks for the good eats and great conversation. Having you nearby made it all feel like home.
Dale