Hello everyone, I'm Doug from IL. I have not smoked a single thing yet. I did take the 5 day course and learned a lot. I don't even know anyone who uses a smoker. I have learned a lot just "lurking" the past few days. I have the Cabelas 48" stainless steel vertical smoker and have not even seasoned it yet. Now that I'm registered I'm sure I will be able to get plenty of help with my first timer questions.