Please don't judge me for writing about Ribfest again
An inside look at the excruciating thought that goes into the making of this column:
So, a few weeks ago, one of our marketing people asked if I could serve as a judge at Naperville's Ribfest.
I hadn't done this for a few years, so, I said, sure. In the back of my mind, I'm also thinking: An insider's look at judging the quality of the barbecued ribs, that'd be great fodder for a column, too.
Yes, I wrote about that four years ago, I thought, but who'd remember? So I begin to plot my column-writing strategy.
Hey, how about instead of my usual column logo, I dress up in my official Ribfest 2012 judge's polo? Check.
Next, need a lead. How about something along the lines of: While you're sipping your morning coffee, having some breakfast, perhaps, I'll be snarfing down some ribs? That would be way amusing. Check.
Taking a break Friday from reading the day's stories, planning coverage for the Fourth of July weekend, and other editor's tasks, I begin to write that killer lead. Wait, better check that 2012 column just to be sure you're not being too duplicative.
Oh, my.
Here's what I saw:
"As you read this, perhaps you're on your second cup of coffee, contemplating some pancakes, maybe bacon and eggs. I'll be snarfing down some barbecue ribs."
The logo photo from 2012? Oh, just me in that same Ribfest judge's polo. I had forgotten, obviously, I'd been given the shirt ahead of the judging.
No kidding. Both times I thought the quintessentially correct word was "snarfing."
Turns out, not much has changed since I wrote about being a rib judge four years ago. Ribfest organizers have invited 27 judges (mostly sponsors) and 10 kids to taste the ribs supplied by 12 "ribbers."
In a blind taste test, this august group will determine the best ribs and sauce, and the announcement is made later in the day.
As has been the case for several years, the mayor will read the rib judging proclamation, which calls on us judges not to talk amongst ourselves as we judge.
Or give off any telltale body language. Further, we're not to "stifle the senses of others or my own by consuming alcohol, wearing perfume/cologne or smoking the morning of the judging."
One big change, though, since Ribfest Column of 2012. It was George Pradel, mayor for 20 years, who long administered the rib judges' oath.
He retired from office, but wanted to keep his hand in, as Naperville's best-known and most spirited ambassador. So, the new mayor, Steve Chirico, created the position of mayor emeritus.
In that role, Pradel will continue to serve as a Ribfest judge.
In fact, organizers tell me, George has been declared a permanent Ribfest judge.
jdavis@dailyherald.com