I'm from upstate NY. Started smoking about 10 years ago with a Sausage Maker unit (sausage & jerky). I got an electric Masterbuilt 3 years ago and have expanded my smoking endeavors (roasts, briskets, etc. along with sausages & jerky). I really enjoy smoking meats and eating them. I learned that keeping a journal helps me go back and see how I did something an if I should alter my approach with future smokes.