I guess in my gut I know that you are right about this being strictly a chemical reaction. Amazing what one's imagination can manifest. But after seeing that ring on a pretty regular basis in that other brief life of pellet grilling, I think I do want to have a little fun with a lump of charcoal, while I do some babybacks in my AmeriQue. I've also heard about that tenderquick you've mentioned, and that is something I feel nervous about trying...can't explain my rational as it's just a feeling. I also know in my gut that whether that ring appears or not, which ribs are going to be the BEST ribs I've made in years. I can't explain how excited I am about its pending arrival.