Stogie Guys Friday Sampler IC

In our ongoing effort to make StogieGuys.com as entertaining and reader-friendly as possible, each Friday we’ll post a selection of quick cigar news and stogie-related snippets. We call ‘em Friday Samplers . Enjoy.

1) Citing faulty “science ” about the deadliness of secondhand smoke, New Hampshire lawmakers inexplicably smothered an exemption for cigar bars from the state’s smoking ban. Gubernatorial hopeful Rep. Joseph Kenney quipped, “New Hampshire government would eliminate small business in the northern part of the state.”

2) In related news, it was reported yesterday that over 100 pubs in Northern Ireland have gone out of business since the government imposed a smoking ban last year. Around seven percent more are expected to close in the next two years.

3) A “substantial number” of boxes of counterfeit Cohibas, Montecristos, H. Upmanns, and Romeo y Julietas were recently confiscated in Key West. This is a good reminder to read up on how to spot a fake if you’re planning to purchase Cubans.

4) Inside the Industry : Camacho is increasing distribution of its limited edition Scorpion and Diploma vitolas. Altadis sold 3.16 billion cigars last year. Newman Cigars is adding a toro-sized maduro to its La Unica line.

5) Around the Blogs : Cigar Jack checks out a Perdomo Habano Corojo Maduro while Velvet Cigar smokes a Perdomo Habano. Stogie Review lights up a Romeo y Julieta Habana Reserve. Stogie Baby reviews a León Jimenes.

6) Deal of the Week : Haven’t tried the four and 1/2 stogie-rated CAO America yet? This CAO America Sampler is a great way to get to know the hot new blend. With six cigars, three sizes, and free shipping, it’s good deal. Get yours here .

–The Stogie Guys

photo credit: Stogie Guys