Smoky will be offering his talents, techniques and secrets discovered over the last 150 years, or so. He will be to the point, pull no punches and if you suffer through the process, you will become a much better outdoor cook, turning out masterpiece meals for friends and family alike.

In this column, Smoky will offer several ways to cook your turkey and one way that should be avoided! . . . . . . take notes!

So, with no further adieu, we turn the mike to Smoky. You're on Smoky . . . . .

SMOKE-COOKED TURKEY OUTDOOR COOKING WITH SMOKY HALE

Long before that funny thing happened to Columbus on his way to India and long before that motley crew of malcontents gathered around the Plymouth rock, the turkey was held in high esteem among Native Americans. In addition to appreciating his tasty presence, his intelligence and wile, we respected him for saving fire.

Long, long ago a great storm came and wind blew and rain poured for many days. The campfires were drowned out all across the land. It was the beginning of Winter and our people were cold.

We called on our friends for help to find any fire remaining. The birds held a council and offered their help. The eagles and the ospreys circled high with sharp eyes intent. The kites and hawks spread out across the land and gave shrill cries and hovered in likely places.

One by one they returned - without success. And the earth grew colder and the sky became darker. And the people were afraid.

Then a small brown sparrow found one faint, small coal flickering dimly in a half burned stump. The people rushed to find fuel to keep the coal from dying. But all the wood was wet.

Then the turkey stepped forward and began to fan the coal with his wing. The coal glowed and grew larger and larger. Finally it burst into flame. All the feathers were singed from the turkeys head and red blisters raised up. Because he saved fire for the world, his descendants have borne red blisters instead of feathers on their heads in memory of his deed. To honor his bravery and service, we use a turkey wing to fan the camp fire.

Continued on Page 2

Smoky's 5th basic position for really great barbecue'n.

'According to Smoky' is © by C. Clark Hale
who is solely responsible for its content. Comments
should be addresses to cchale@bellsouth.net