I was there, as per, to take pictures of all the guys smoking their MAXX cigars (the featured brand for the event), but I also decided that this time I was going to sit down and enjoy a cigar with everyone else, which I rarely get to do.

I found a seat in the back corner of the store and had a great conversation with several gentlemen. I answered their questions about wrappers, blends, etc., and even turned them on to some new cigars. The whole experience dovetailed with the copy I had written in a weekend email sale in which I noted how much I enjoy recommending new cigars.

Suffice it to say, that smoking a cigar within the confines of my four office walls just doesn't compare to smoking a cigar with a group of other cigar smokers. As I sit here writing this, I'm smoking a Rocky Patel American Market Selection cigar. It's a new cigar that just arrived, and it's excellent. But after last Saturday's experience, I think it would be even better if I were smoking it with a friend or two.

With the number of places to smoke in public dwindling day-by-day, all I can add is, as much as you might enjoy a fine cigar in the solitude of your in-home smoking space, patio, or porch, get out and socialize while you still can.

~ Gary Korb