Stogie Guys Friday Sampler CXCVII

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) The Congressional Cigar Association (CCA), an organization of about 200 Congressional staff members who share a passion for premium cigars, recently celebrated its first anniversary. The event featured heightened outreach to Congressional offices, led by the International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers Association (IPCPR). “The two days of intensive meetings and all the work that went into their planning, organizing, execution and follow-up were part of the IPCPR’s ongoing efforts to generate increased understanding of the premium cigar industry among federal legislators, regulators, and their staffs,” read an IPCPR press release dated July 6.

2) Smoking Ban Alerts: New York already criminalizes smoking in bars, restaurants, and other places of employment, but now Mayor Michael Bloomberg may extend the regulation to the city’s parks and beaches. Michigan’s smoking ban would be extended under a new bill that repeals an exemption for casinos. Long Beach is preparing to ban smoking in the city’s small parks.

3) Inside the Industry: Toraño has tapped the expertise of long time roller Felipe Sosa for a new cigar called “Master” that will be presented in four sizes: robusto, torpedo, Churchill, and a thick toro. Gurkha is introducing a new cigar called SEALs, named after the special forces group, which comes in a sealed briefcase complete with a combat knife.

4) Around the Blogs: Smoking Stogie smokes a Vegas Robaina Famosos. Stogie Review reviews the Illusione MJ12. Cigar Inspector inspects a Montecristo Petit Tubo. Nice Tight Ash checks out the La Flor Dominicana Air Bender. A Cigar Smoker lights up a Fonseca Especial.

5) Deal of the Week: With full-bodied spice and Cuban-like depth, Nicaraguan smokes are increasing in popularity, and this Nicaraguan Blends Sampler demonstrates why. Included are two each from Padilla Habano, Man O’ War, Rocky Patel Fusion, and Gurkha Park Avenue, all for under $30. Grab yours here.

–The Stogie Guys

photo credit: IPCPR