As we have 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) Michael Jordan drew the ire of San Francisco bureaucrats on Tuesday when photos emerged of him smoking a cigar. The former Chicago Bulls star, who is an honorary assistant for the U.S. at the Presidents Cup, was playing a practice round at Harding Park Golf Course. City officials subsequently asked the PGA Tour to remind Jordan of their ban on smoking on public courses.

2) Cuba’s government is reportedly slashing the amount of land on the island devoted to growing tobacco by 30%. The move comes in response to global economic woes, which have reduced sales of Cuban cigars by a whopping 15% in 2009. “Cuba is communist but depends heavily on luxury goods: tourism and tobacco,” said a Brookings Institution scholar. “The fortunes of the world’s wealthy set the fortune of Cuba.”

3) Inside the Industry: Tatuaje has released “Drac”—a $13 torpedo (6.75 x 52)—as part of its annual Halloween release. According to reports, the FDA is sending agents into cigar shops to explore the possible regulation of flavored cigars. The four sizes of the Davidoff Cubano Claro limited release are set to hit stores soon.

4) Around the Blogs: Stogie Review checks out the new Illusione Nototros. Keepers of the Flame smokes a Cuchillos Cubanos. Cigar Inspector fires up a Cruzado. Cigar  Spy tourches up a Room 101. Tampa Cigar Examiner examines the Don José Correa.

5) Deal of the Week: We can’t emphasize enough what a bargain these deals are from Cuban Crafters: a box of 25 La Carolinas for just $59 and a box of 25 Cupido Criollos for just $55. Both blends have received 4.5 ratings, which is amazing considering you can get them for under $2.50 a stick. Get yours here.

-The Stogie Guys

photo credit: Los Angeles Times