BobbyRitz

Fantastic account, Nino. I'd expect nothing less.

I agree with all that say BBQ means slow and low. Many things can be cooked this way:

Welcome from the rolling hills of NE MD.

Difficult to say. '01 No. 2's are smoking very well right now. I haven't had a Mag 46 from the same year, but the '02 46's I have are quite good. At the end, I'd have to give the nod to the No. 2's. Can't speak for recent production.

Unfortunately, the MD smoking ban has a stranglehold on Baltimore. There are a few cigar-friendly establishments, most noteworthy is the Havana Club (www.havanaclub-baltimore.com). It's above a Ruth's Chris (same owner) and has a Latin theme with nicely appointed seating areas. Otherwise, you'll have to smoke at Cross Street Tobacco (www.crossstreettobacco.com) or Max's (www.maxs.com), which happens to be in Fells Point. Enjoy your time in Baltimore and FWIW, Omar likes Cohibas.

Quite a fitting tribute, Rob. I'll hunt down something skinny to smoke in Chuck's honor. He was a BOTL and, in my book, this means he was a Brother to us all.

I never had the opportunity to meet Chuck, but had read many of his postings and interacted with him online in the past. My sincere condolences are extended to his HCF and FOH brothers and his many friends and family. RIP Chuck.

Welcome to FOH from MD.

Congrats Wilkey. You've worked hard and sacrificed a great deal in the few years I've known you. Now kick up your feet and smoke your best. Best regards, Rob

How could I have forgotten the VSG's! Also a very good cigar with a little age.

The reality is smoke what you like. While 95%+ of my cigars are Cuban, I have to admit everything comes in cycles. I completely enjoy Cuban cigars, but a time comes where I need a good NC, such as a well-aged Opus X, to hit the spot. I've personally gone through many changes. I will admit that I typically do not appreciate most NCs, but I have a fondness for aged Opus X, Padron and Tatuaje (my personal NC favorite). If you stick to the premium NC sticks, I think they are a pleasant change of pace from Cuban cigars. Of course I say that and quickly remember the Joyo de Nicaragua Antano Gran Consul is a great cigar with a little age (thanks Anthony!). So the answer is...smoke what you like.

Not quite midnight here in the States, but Happy Birthday, Nino. You bring such a refreshing look into our hobby/lifestyle. Thank you for your many contributions. Best, Rob

Fantastic trip, Rob. Certain sections of the Amazon have hardly been fished and they get quite large!!! I look forward to your updates...and pics! Best, Rob

Colts 24, Saints 17 Unfortunately...no smoke for game.

I'm gonna have to handle this in shifts.....