Stogie Guys Friday Sampler CXLIX

As we’ve done since July 2006, each Friday we’ll post a mixed bag of quick cigar news and other items of interest. We call ‘em Friday Samplers. Enjoy.

1) St. Louis politicians and anti-tobacco advocates are clamoring for a citywide smoking ban for bars and restaurants. The current incarnation of the proposed law would exempt patios and outdoor areas, but some, including the American Cancer Society, hope to close such “loopholes.” Referring to what she calls the “ever-increasing momentum across the country,” one city alderman says the ban is “just something I think we need to get done.”

2) With mounting taxes, bans, and regulations, tobacconists have it tough enough these days. They shouldn’t have to worry about robbers literally breaking through their walls. But that’s exactly what happened to Gaspar’s Cigar Shoppe in Tampa on Friday night. Thieves apparently broke into an adjacent office, busted through the B&M’s drywall, and stole $15,000 worth of cigars, booze, and a plasma TV. Police have one suspect in custody and are searching for another.

3) Inside the Industry: Illusione is teaming up with Drew Estate to make a new release called “Nosotros,” set to debut at the IPCPR Trade Show in August. It will sell for $8-12 apiece and feature a Nicaraguan corojo ’99 wrapper, a Nicaraguan filler, and a Connecticut habano binder.

4) Around the Blogs: Stogie Review smokes a Nestor Miranda 20 Aniversario Habano Oscuro Danno. Keepers of the Flame lights up a Pinar del Rio Habano Sun Grown. Cohiba Club checks out the “Red Dot” Cohiba Robusto. Cigar Inspector reviews a Por Larrañaga Petit Corona.

5) Deal of the Week: Robustos are the most popular size in all of cigardom, and this “World Class Robusto Sampler” includes of ten them for just $45 (free shipping). Included are the Cohiba Robusto, Rocky Patel Vintage ’90, Don Pepin Cuban Classic 1979, Toraño 1916 Cameroon, CAO Gold, Gran Habano 3 Siglos, Padilla Hybrid, Fonseca, and others. Grab yours here.

–The Stogie Guys

photo credit: Flickr