As a newbie for only a few weeks on the BN forum, I though it might help other newbies to have a thread and eventually a Sticky on Newbie FAQ. I did not see one anywhere in the forum, so let me know if I am missing it.
The BN community always gives a good welcome, but no one really shows you around, gives you some history to help you quickly feel part of the group and get most of the inside jokes. Hence this thread...
Here is my initial input:
Recommended reading for all BN forum Newbies (click the links):
The Brewers Code
http://www.thebrewingnetwork.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=930
Donate to support the BN and enlist in the BN Army, if you are listening to archives and the live shows, then you are getting some of the best brewing advice available. Justin did a great thing creating the BN, we all enjoy it, so show your support. Compared to the cost of a few brewing books or brewing DVDs, a BN donation is a bargain. Translation - "Don't be a cheap bastard" unless you are a poor college student or unemployed, then you have an good excuse until you graduate or get a new job, then it's time to pay.
http://www.thebrewingnetwork.com/donate.php
Support the BN sponsors and your local homebrew shop, spead around the love.
http://www.thebrewingnetwork.com/links.php
If you are not an AHA member, join now!, the AHA supports this hobby with great information, conferences, competitions, legislation lobbying, etc. Join through the BN store, it supports the BN, and gives some credibility to BN to balance out the "he said, she said" jokes.
http://www.thebrewingnetwork.com/store/
Same goes for ordering a Brew Your Own magazine subscription:
http://www.thebrewingnetwork.com/links.php
Support your fellow BN Forum member's businesses. Or add your own to this thread:
http://www.thebrewingnetwork.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=5746
Listen to a live show and join the Chat. The Sunday Session has a great online chat. It is a virtual keg party with your friends. Hit the chat link on the left side of the BN site, then just enter your forum name, no password needed. If you have a question for the show, click on the RED Chat Moderator name and private message the moderator, they will pass it to Justin to ask the guest.
Read all the "Sticky" topics in the forum, they all have great information.
Newbie Questions
All newbies should know that BN forum brewers love to answer questions, not matter how newbie or stupid you think your question will be.
Here are my newbie questions, some I already now from listening to archives, but they should help everyone. I am sure there are other newbie questions, so send them in...
What is the history of the rainbow and the unicorn image and references?
What is with the orange hats on everyone's avatars?
Who are the common brewcasters and groupies on the BN shows and some info on each of them?
Who are the forum regulars and any key info to know about them? Jobs, brewing specialties, etc.
Newbies Tip: The forum Memberlist will show you the most frequent posters and their websites
http://www.thebrewingnetwork.com/phpBB2/memberlist.php
Who named the "Rat Pad"? And why is that thread so popular??
Is Justin 100% supported by the BN now, or is he still waiting tables?
How many times has Doc been injured at BN related events?
What is the history of the BN? What gave Justin the idea to start the show?
As well as somethings you may just need to dig the dirt on yourself, this may help you to better appreciate them....RAT PAD!
