This is a thread generated automatically by the Cigar Pass system to discuss the Cigar Pass named 'Happy Newbie Year Pass!'.
Use this link to return back to the Cigar Pass. (http://www.cigargeeks.com/index.php?action=cigpass;area=gen;boxpass_id=154)
It's a New Year, so what better time to give our newer members a chance to gain some experience and respect. This Pass is for members who have been in two (2) or less passes and have a "Regular" status or more. I will be happy to assist anyone with questions on value, puts, takes, etc. as the Pass moves along. This Pass is to help everyone get their feet wet!
The cigars in this pass will have a 3.5 star (or better) rating and have strength of medium, medium-full or full. No mild cigars or dog-rockets welcome here! Value of cigars will be between $3 and $18 dollars.
Rating: An average of 3.5 stars or better AND reviewed by at least 2 members (this eliminates reviews of 5 stars on one person's personal taste.) Caveat: If the cigar is unrated but its sister cigar of the same blend but different size has average 3.5 stars or better, its fair game. There may be other unforeseen exceptions, and all questions on ratings should be made to the moderator for final determination.
There will be a SURPRISE twist at the end of this pass upon its successful return home.
As always, please respect value in your puts and takes, and follow Cigar Pass Etiquette (link found here:
http://www.cigargeeks.com/index.php?action=articles;sa=view;article=37)
Most of all have fun, and Happy Newbie Year!
Thanks for the invite Bruce. I'm in!
Thanks for the invite. Count me in
dang and it looks like fun too!
i was talking with Steph, my great wifey, about a pass and she came up with something that i'm going to twist a little for my first pass. i'll throw it out there after the holidays. this has got a pass jones going in me.
Thanks Bruce, I'm in. This will be my first pass and it sounds right up my alley.
I would LOVE to play, in a virtual kind of way since I'm overseas and all.
Thanks for the invite... I'm in.
So what's the surprise twist, Bruce? I promise not to tell anybody! :biggrin:
Thanks for the invite Bruce, count me in
A lot of good new BOTLs have signed on already. One more who wants to join that just has to make a few more posts to get to Regular status and then he's in as well.
I will seed the Pass next weekend and hope to send it out on Jan 2.
Any other newer members that fit the criteria interested in joining?
I'll play, thanks for the invite Bruce! Merry Christmas everyone!
Newb here. What's "regular" status? Thanks!
QuoteSleevePlz - 12/25/2012 3:02 PM
Newb here. What's "regular" status? Thanks!
"Regular" member status is 50 posts and more than 30 days on the site. (You can find the ranks over in the Member's List on the left hand side of this page.)
I'm not going to put the Pass out until Jan 2, so you should be able to hit that before then, and then send me a "join" request and I can add you to the Pass.
I am almost there...
QuoteOtter - 12/25/2012 5:30 PM I am almost there...
You can do it!!!
Quotebmac7754 - 12/25/2012 5:01 PM
QuoteOtter - 12/25/2012 5:30 PM I am almost there...
You can do it!!!
:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:
All night long!
QuoteBrlesq - 12/25/2012 3:16 PM
QuoteSleevePlz - 12/25/2012 3:02 PM
Newb here. What's "regular" status? Thanks!
"Regular" member status is 50 posts and more than 30 days on the site. (You can find the ranks over in the Member's List on the left hand side of this page.)
I'm not going to put the Pass out until Jan 2, so you should be able to hit that before then, and then send me a "join" request and I can add you to the Pass.
Thanks for the info.
Lets go Sleeve. You can make it
Quotetvolball - 12/25/2012 7:26 PM
Lets go Sleeve. You can make it
Lol, we'll see. No real pressure. You guys seem to do a few passes around here. I'm sure I'll jump on one eventually. Thanks for the encouragement, though!
Quote87North - 12/25/2012 6:06 PM
Quotebmac7754 - 12/25/2012 5:01 PM
QuoteOtter - 12/25/2012 5:30 PM I am almost there...
You can do it!!!
:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:
:lmao:
Quotebilly82 - 12/25/2012 8:50 PM
Quote87North - 12/25/2012 6:06 PM
Quotebmac7754 - 12/25/2012 5:01 PM
QuoteOtter - 12/25/2012 5:30 PM I am almost there...
You can do it!!!
:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:
:lmao:
(http://www.desismileys.com/smileys/desismileys_3360.gif) (http://www.desismileys.com/)
Look forward to the pass!
QuoteOtter - 12/25/2012 6:35 PM
All night long!
:lmao: :lmao: :lmao:
QuoteBXgreenhorn - 12/25/2012 9:48 PM
Quotebilly82 - 12/25/2012 8:50 PM
Quote87North - 12/25/2012 6:06 PM
Quotebmac7754 - 12/25/2012 5:01 PM
QuoteOtter - 12/25/2012 5:30 PM I am almost there...
You can do it!!!
:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:
:lmao:
(http://www.desismileys.com/smileys/desismileys_3360.gif) (http://www.desismileys.com/)
And he made it. Otter is in! You were busy!
Way to go otter.
Thanks! This will be my first ever, hopefully I don't blow it! (thats not what she said)...
Thanks for having me in this pass
I would love to get in if you will have me. This would be my 3rd pass.
Quotechief791 - 12/27/2012 7:44 PM
I would love to get in if you will have me. This would be my 3rd pass.
Kenny, we would love to have you join us!
QuoteBrlesq - 12/27/2012 8:40 PM Quotechief791 - 12/27/2012 7:44 PM I would love to get in if you will have me. This would be my 3rd pass.
Kenny, we would love to have you join us!
Thanks Bruce. I'm looking forward to it.
this is going to be fun :?: :cheer:
Excited about the pass...when are we starting?
If I can hit 50, I would love to be in
Quotecibolodave - 12/30/2012 4:04 AM
If I can hit 50, I would love to be in
While we would love to have you, the criteria for "Regular" status is 50 posts + 30 days, but these Newbie passes pop up 3-4 times a year, so put in your time as an active member and get in on the next one.
Quotecigarzinn - 12/29/2012 10:54 PM
Excited about the pass...when are we starting?
I closed the Pass on Friday and will be seeding the cigar list today.
Looks like we have a great group here! I will be setting the order of the Pass up this weekend. If there anyone that anticipates being unavailable during January or February, let me know by PM so I can try to put you in a Pass order that misses your problem week/time. (I can always adjust the order of the Pass later on as well if unanticipated needs arise while we are mid-pass. . . just let me know.)
My goal is to get this started on January 2.
Gentlemen, the Pass has begun! The cigar inventory has been seeded and the order of the Pass set. I have transitioned it to Smurf. You can monitor all of these details by clicking on the link at the Pass at the beginning of this thread.
Remember, the cigars in this pass will have a 3.5 star (or better) rating and have strength of medium, medium-full or full. No mild cigars or dog-rockets welcome here! Value of cigars will be between $3 and $18 dollars. Rating: An average of 3.5 stars or better AND reviewed by at least 2 members (this eliminates reviews of 5 stars on one person's personal taste.) Caveat: If the cigar is unrated but its sister cigar of the same blend but different size has average 3.5 stars or better, its fair game. There may be other unforeseen exceptions, and all questions on ratings should be made to the moderator for final determination.
In addition to the Pass Etiquette Article (found here: http://www.cigargeeks.com/index.php?action=articles;sa=view;article=37), here are some additional guidelines:
The value of a cigar is not what you stole it for on CBid or another super sale. Try to get all the values from a single source (like CI or Famous.) Value is typically determined by single, 5 pack or box price. Try to be consistent. (single price vs. single price, box price vs. box price, etc.) If you are unsure about the value of your puts and takes, there is no shame in sending a PM the moderator or another FOG. It's a Newbie Pass, many of you are here to learn the ropes. Better to err on the side of caution.
When you are ready to transition the pass, please check with the next guy in line if he is ready to receive. This is usually done in the forum so that everyone knows the status. It's better to hold the pass a few extra days than to speed it off and have it sit on somebody's porch for a week. Or, if the delay looks like it might be too long, let me know and I can change the pass order on the spot.
There is a water pillow in the pass to help with humidity. Please keep the cigars in plastic bags and separated from the pillow (these have been known to freeze, leak, etc. in the past and have damaged cigars in the process.) The humidity will be fine if it is in the box by itself.
And Happy Newbie Year to all!!
Woo-Hoo!!! Thanks Bruce for putting this together. I'm excited to see how this goes. Time to start figuring out what I can let go of from my humidor.
Takes and puts are done will get this out in the mail Wednesday ( if the post office is open) if not 1st thing Thursday morning!
Thanks for having me as well, Can not wait to get it and see what is in it
Woohoo! Some nice sticks in there!
Yes there is!
Bruce, you've done a good deed here! I love to see the new people having fun! Almost like a big basket of puppies! :biggrin:
QuoteAlphairon - 1/2/2013 4:37 PM
Bruce, you've done a good deed here! I love to see the new people having fun! Almost like a big basket of puppies! :biggrin:
tail wagging and tongue hanging out here
QuoteAlphairon - 1/2/2013 4:37 PM
Bruce, you've done a good deed here! I love to see the new people having fun! Almost like a big basket of puppies! :biggrin:
As long as none of them have an accident and tinkle in the basket holding the Box Pass! :biggrin:
Sorry to see Sleeveplz (Tony) didn't make it. He has excellent taste in cigars.......
QuoteBrlesq - 1/2/2013 4:58 PM
QuoteAlphairon - 1/2/2013 4:37 PM
Bruce, you've done a good deed here! I love to see the new people having fun! Almost like a big basket of puppies! :biggrin:
As long as none of them have an accident and tinkle in the basket holding the Box Pass! :biggrin:
Whack them with the newspaper...better yet, just let them do their tinkling on the newspaper if it's the New York Slimes. :biggrin:
heads up Bruce package is on it's way back to you!
Are we supposed to send it back to bruce after each individual? :?: :confused:
QuoteGreenfairypipe - 1/3/2013 11:41 PM
Are we supposed to send it back to bruce after each individual? :?: :confused:
NOooo!! I would go broke on postage! :rolleyes: You will transition and send the Pass to the next guy in line. But good question!
What you see happening is that Smurf and Mpurtle01 are both outside of the US, so they are playing the Pass 'virtually', which means they don't actually receive the box. (I put Smurf at the front and Mpurtle01 at the end.) Virtual players post their puts and takes on-line and then send me their puts. Once I receive their puts (+$5 for return postage), I add their puts to the Pass, mail them their takes and then mail the entire box pass to the next person in line. Smurf sent his cigars from Canada, so once I receive them I will put them in the Pass and mail it off to Cigarzinn, and he will send it to the next player in line. I will be the only one that has to worry about handling the 'virtual' puts and takes.
Once Eric's cigars arrive here this thing will start rolling along.
Thanks for the clarification. :shamebag: :shamebag: :shamebag:
Excellent question. I was wondering why they went to you and not cigarzinn myself. All makes sense now. Roll on.
QuoteGreenfairypipe - 1/4/2013 1:32 PM
Thanks for the clarification. :shamebag: :shamebag: :shamebag:
No shamebags for that, Mike. It was a good question!
Newbie Passes are all about learning, so questions are encouraged, either in the forum or in a PM. Assuming that you know an answer and then making mistakes is highly
discouraged.
I await eagerly for the pass when it gets to me!
Quotecigarzinn - 1/4/2013 2:19 PM
I await eagerly for the pass when it gets to me!
When I am up next in a Pass and before it gets to me, I usually start looking through the cigars listed in the Pass and deciding on which ones I might Take. Then I price them and look through my personal stash to see what cigars I might want to Put (and make sure these comply with the Pass rules) and price those as well. It takes a bit of research sometimes, but that is part of the fun. That way I don't hold up the Pass too long once it gets to me.
Of course, once I open the actual box, I change my mind on one or two because they are just calling out to me. :rolleyes: But at least the majority of my research is done.
Ah home work! i like this kind of "work" LOL
QuoteBrlesq - 1/4/2013 3:18 PM
Quotecigarzinn - 1/4/2013 2:19 PM
I await eagerly for the pass when it gets to me!
When I am up next in a Pass and before it gets to me, I usually start looking through the cigars listed in the Pass and deciding on which ones I might Take. Then I price them and look through my personal stash to see what cigars I might want to Put (and make sure these comply with the Pass rules) and price those as well. It takes a bit of research sometimes, but that is part of the fun. That way I don't hold up the Pass too long once it gets to me.
Of course, once I open the actual box, I change my mind on one or two because they are just calling out to me. :rolleyes: But at least the majority of my research is done.
I already have some in mind :biggrin: but will probably change my mind :shy:
Is there a common way to designate cigars that are a tip for the pass organizer versus free-game for the other pass participants?
Quoteewu - 1/4/2013 6:31 PM
Is there a common way to designate cigars that are a tip for the pass organizer versus free-game for the other pass participants?
If its a special cigar that you only want the moderator to have, then folks put it into its own ziploc or finger bag and put the mod's name on it. This doesn't count as a Put for the Pass, but should be listed as an additional Put with a note like "
Name of Cigar (for Moderator)" so that we know its there and so that it doesn't disappear along the way.
Others just add a tip by adding an extra qualifying cigar to their Puts. These, of course, become up for grabs, but the Mod still ends up with more cigars then he sent out.
Which reminds me to mention a cardinal rule of any Pass: When you get the Pass, the
first thing you do is take an inventory against the cigar list. OK, maybe you gawk and drool a little first, do a happy dance, but THEN you count them and compare the names against the inventory. Look for damaged cigars. If there is a discrepency or damaged cigars, report it to the Mod via PM as soon as possible, and
don't do your Puts and Takes. Sometimes the last guy forget to put all the cigars back in the box, other times a newb has misidentified a cigar. These problems can usually be fixed via PMs or in the forum if necessary. But on the rare occasion there is a thief, if you fail to take an inventory on your turn, then you will be suspect of the crime when missing/misidentified cigars are discovered by the next guy in line. It's your own reputation that you are protecting by taking the time to do the inventory. :thumbsup:
Eric's puts arrived today (along with a surprise bomb). Good takes and puts, Eric, and thanks for getting the pass rolling so quickly as the first player.
Christian - I can mail this out Monday. Are you ready to receive?
I hope they survived that cold weather up in Canada :)
Bruce, I am actually heading out of town from Wed to Sat. I am ready if the pass arrives before tuesday. if not, Can you push me down a spot?
Quotecigarzinn - 1/6/2013 4:29 PM
Bruce, I am actually heading out of town from Wed to Sat. I am ready if the pass arrives before tuesday. if not, Can you push me down a spot?
No problem. This is exactly why we should always ask before sending.
I sent a PM to Brian (bmac7754) to see if he is ready to take this.
Cool. I will be ready after that. Thanks!
QuoteOtter - 1/5/2013 7:36 PM
I hope they survived that cold weather up in Canada :)
oh yea had them packed in special Canadain ice!! LOL :biggrin:
QuoteBrlesq - 1/5/2013 7:30 PM
Eric's puts arrived today (along with a surprise bomb). Good takes and puts, Eric, and thanks for getting the pass rolling so quickly as the first player.
Christian - I can mail this out Monday. Are you ready to receive?
my pleasure thanks for organizing this pass. :smoker:
QuoteSmurf - 1/6/2013 7:59 PM
oh yea had them packed in special Canadain ice!! LOL :biggrin:
I am sure Bruce will have no problems getting them to catch on fire one by one :smoker2:
QuoteBrlesq - 1/6/2013 5:24 PM Quotecigarzinn - 1/6/2013 4:29 PM Bruce, I am actually heading out of town from Wed to Sat. I am ready if the pass arrives before tuesday. if not, Can you push me down a spot?
No problem. This is exactly why we should always ask before sending. I sent a PM to Brian (bmac7754) to see if he is ready to take this.
Thanks Bruce got the PM. No problem, sending to me is perfect. I'm ready, got my eye on a few sticks, and will shoot off to Cigarzinn when finished.
QuoteBrlesq - 1/4/2013 8:11 AM QuoteGreenfairypipe - 1/3/2013 11:41 PM Are we supposed to send it back to bruce after each individual? :?: :confused:
NOooo!! I would go broke on postage! :rolleyes: You will transition and send the Pass to the next guy in line. But good question! What you see happening is that Smurf and Mpurtle01 are both outside of the US, so they are playing the Pass 'virtually', which means they don't actually receive the box. (I put Smurf at the front and Mpurtle01 at the end.) Virtual players post their puts and takes on-line and then send me their puts. Once I receive their puts (+$5 for return postage), I add their puts to the Pass, mail them their takes and then mail the entire box pass to the next person in line. Smurf sent his cigars from Canada, so once I receive them I will put them in the Pass and mail it off to Cigarzinn, and he will send it to the next player in line. I will be the only one that has to worry about handling the 'virtual' puts and takes. Once Eric's cigars arrive here this thing will start rolling along.
x2 -- Damn good question, and solid moderation. Lead on Bruce !!
Took the Pass to the Post Office at lunch today. On its way to you, Brian!
QuoteBrlesq - 1/7/2013 1:36 PM Took the Pass to the Post Office at lunch today. On its way to you, Brian!
Cool, looks like delivery on Wed. I'll make sure I get to the post office before they close.
Got the box today, did puts and takes. Packed back up and will Drop off at the Post office this Friday, as cigarzinn will be returning this weekend to receive.
Great. Thanks! Look forward to getting it.
Quotebmac7754 - 1/8/2013 7:01 PM
Got the box today, did puts and takes. Packed back up and will Drop off at the Post office this Friday, as cigarzinn will be returning this weekend to receive.
Great Puts and Takes, Brian. Thanks for checking with Christian up front and accomodating his schedule.
So, in anticipation of getting the pass I tried pricing out my takes and puts but am having issues finding prices for some of them. I don't want to be "that guy" that dilutes a pass. What is the best way to price the cigars as singles? Box price divided by number of cigars? 5 pack price divided by 5? Another way I can't think of?
Quotecigarzinn - 1/10/2013 9:24 PM
So, in anticipation of getting the pass I tried pricing out my takes and puts but am having issues finding prices for some of them. I don't want to be "that guy" that dilutes a pass. What is the best way to price the cigars as singles? Box price divided by number of cigars? 5 pack price divided by 5? Another way I can't think of?
Don't over think it. If you bought your sticks in a box price it that way. If in doubt, PM the moderator to be sure. :thumbsup:
Dropped off at the post office
Just got home and there was a nice box waiting for me. I'll open it up tonight and keep the pass moving.
Just did the inventory and everything looks good. I'll do my puts and takes and get to the post office Monday.
Pas on its way!
this is moving along nicely!
Nice P/T's, Christian!
Ready to receive... I'll starting planning my P/Ts :)
this is moving faster than i thought :dancing:
Hot damn I am after Otter!
QuoteBrlesq - 1/14/2013 4:56 PM
Nice P/T's, Christian!
Thanks for your help! :biggrin:
Pass received and inventoried, all looks great. I planned ahead and have already updated my P/Ts. I plan to get it mailed out to Troy tomorrow. I left that Oliva Serie V Torpedo in there for you Troy, I see you have one on your wish list...
The Pass is moving along nicely, gentlemen. :thumbsup:
Jay, please check with Troy to insure that he is ready to receive it before you send it out.
Send it on I'm ready....and thanks,I've eyeballing that one
Just looking over the selection. So many good sticks in there, it's gonna be hard pick.
ah... I forgot to do that but its good to know he's ready. I will mail it out tomorrow and hit the transition button. I am not sure you can see my P/Ts until I do can you?
QuoteOtter - 1/16/2013 9:30 PM ah... I forgot to do that but its good to know he's ready. I will mail it out tomorrow and hit the transition button. I am not sure you can see my P/Ts until I do can you?
Jay, your puts and takes are visible, you are all set.
And this is flying (http://www.cigargeeks.com/../images/emoticons/HappyDance2.gif)
I see them and they look very nice!!!! I just hope Troy doesn't make it too difficult for me to decide what I want.........
There are so many that I like. Anything in particular you want Brad? I'm sure I can work around it because there is a great selection to choose from.
Take what you wish! There seems to be plenty to choose from and I am sure you will add something else I want anyway....
Wow, this pass is flying right along. A lot of nice sticks going back and forth too, can't wait to see what's available when it comes around to me :-)
It's on its way Troy...
Yeah looks like I will get it Saturday. I've already figured my puts and takes and will get it out Monday if Brad will be ready. I guess as close as we are you will get it Tuesday.
I will look it over this weekend and plan my puts & takes. Thanks for checking!
Looks like the Yankee Swap Pass is going to be here tomorrow. What timing!
QuoteVroomp - 1/17/2013 5:25 PM
I will look it over this weekend and plan my puts & takes. Thanks for checking!
Looks like the Yankee Swap Pass is going to be here tomorrow. What timing!
Word of advice: Do not have both pass boxes open at the same time. You'll get all excited seeing all the new cigars, confusion will occur and the passes will both get messed up. :biggrin:
QuoteOtter - 1/17/2013 11:27 AM
It's on its way Troy...
Solid P/T's there, Jay. Thanks for moving this along so quickly.
Thanks! This was fun...
Ok takes and puts done. I'll drop it off Monday at post office. I'll add the tracking number Monday Brad.
Thanks Troy!
Changed my puts and takes
Changed my puts and takes
Troy, So that you don't waste time or gas, just a reminder that Monday is a federal holiday so the post office will be closed...
True, forgot about that. I will get it there Tuesday
It's on the way. Just dropped it off. Thanks for the invite. It was fun.
Quotetvolball - 1/22/2013 10:59 AM
It's on the way. Just dropped it off. Thanks for the invite. It was fun.
Nice T/P's Troy. Thanks for joining us on this one!
Looks like I will get the box tomorrow and I have already changed my mind on what I want.
Takes:
601 Serie Green La Punta Habano Oscuro
Ashton VSG Eclipse Tubo
Joya de Nicaragua Antaño 1970 Alisado Toro
Man O' War Puro Authentico
Puts:
My Father Special "S"
Graycliff Profesional Blue Label Presidente
La Aroma de Cuba Edicion Especial #2
Bucanero Z Toro
And I will add these:
RP Vudu Robusto valued at $4.80
5 Vegas Gold Robusto valued at $3.20
and a special cigar for our most gracious host :biggrin:
I hope everyone will be happy with these choices. If so, I can turn this around quick and send it on it's way Friday morning.
Brad, while you're enthusiasm and generosity is greatly appreciated, however the Pass parameters is that cigars must have a 3.5 star (or better) rating and have strength of medium, medium-full or full. (Rating: An average of 3.5 stars or better AND reviewed by at least 2 members. This eliminates reviews of 5 stars on one person's personal taste.)
The 5 Vegas Gold Robusto is mild-medium so it doesn't fit the bill. You are already being generous with your Puts so just leave that one out.
The Bucanero looks interesting, but unfortunately it has only been reviewed by one person. However, because its such an uncommon cigar, we can always make an exception so long as nobody in the Pass objects. We should also put a value on it now so we all agree. What I find is $6. Is that right?
That is correct for the Bucanero. I will throw in a Tatuaje Cazadore Unico in place of the 5 Vegas Gold................
I'm ready to receive, fire when ready Brad!
The box has arrived in good shape. I shall do my takes and puts but, I will not mail it til tomorrow when I can drop it at the main post office downtown by my work. This gets them out of town the same day. My local PO is full of slugs.............Thanks for having me Bruce and enjoy the Opus X!
I tossed in a couple extra six finger bags as well.
Excellent P/T's, Brad. Thank you for adding those bags for others to use down the line. :thumbsup:
Gentlemen - I've added Nkowal (Nick) to the Pass. He was qualified to join when it started, but the holiday rush caused him to miss out. He's been a member in good standing here at CG for almost a year, so he is a welcomed addition to our Pass.
I've worked him in between Steve Honea and Longhorn because that makes the most geographic sense. So Steve, you will be passing now to Nick. OK?
Enjoy it Nick!
Man prepping for the box's arrival tomorrow feels like prepping for finals in college!
Here's what I'm thinking:
Takes:
Tatuaje Cazadores Unico
Ortega Serie D
La Aroma de Cuba EE
Puts:
Le Bijou 1922 Toro
My Uzi 6x60
601 Blue Torpedo
Plus:
La Reloba Seleccion Sumatra
Undercrown Corona Doble
and a little gift for Bruce that doesn't qualify for the pass because nobody has reviewed it.
Does this look good to everyone? I should be able to turn it quickly if you're ready Mike (greenfairypipe)?
Eric, if these end up being your final P/Ts, they are terrific. However, many a man has opened that treasue box and changed his mind. :rolleyes:
And yes, the first couple of passes can feel like an exam and have some anxiety. That's normal. We've all been there.
Hey, I heard this is where all the cool newbs hangout...
Quotemike.casey - 1/27/2013 9:33 PM
Hey, I heard this is where all the cool newbs hangout...
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shhh! everybody remain still and keep quiet. don't respond. he'll lose interest and wander away after a while. . . . :biggrin:
QuoteBrlesq - 1/27/2013 9:14 PM
Quotemike.casey - 1/27/2013 9:33 PM
Hey, I heard this is where all the cool newbs hangout...
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shhh! everybody remain still and keep quiet. don't respond. he'll lose interest and wander away after a while. . . .
:biggrin:
(http://rlv.zcache.com/distracted_face_easily_distracted_by_shiny_things_postcard-p239613266511474755en8sh_325.jpg) (http://www.zazzle.com/distracted_face_easily_distracted_by_shiny_things_postcard-239613266511474755)
Everything arrived here in good shape, and I'm ready to transition. Just sent Mike a PM to be sure he's ready to receive the box.
Oh, I'm ready. I'm chomping at the bit
Awesome, I'll ship it tomorrow morning!
OK, box is on its way to Mike in CA. The note should have read: "Bagged and labeled Bruce's gift sticks separately." Thanks for having me Bruce!
Awesome P/T's, Eric! :thumbsup: Thank you for making sure that Mike was ready to receive before you sent it out.
:bigthumbs: this pass is running great, good job fellow newbie's :smoker:
Hey Eric, I may have accidentally put in a LAdC EE #5 instead of a #2. You may want to look at the head and measure it! #5 is like a belicoso or torpedo and is 5.5. #2 is only 5 inches and Robusto shaped.
QuoteVroomp - 1/30/2013 7:46 PM Hey Eric, I may have accidentally put in a LAdC EE #5 instead of a #2. You may want to look at the head and measure it! #5 is like a belicoso or torpedo and is 5.5. #2 is only 5 inches and Robusto shaped.
You're right, it's a torpedo. Thanks for the heads up!
Tracking says that it should be here Saturday. If Steve will be ready for it, I'll send it out Monday. How bout it Steve. Let's do this. I'm too excited :dancing: :dancing:
This is almost as bad as counting down to a vacation!
UHOH, he's hooked!
Hey Steve, are you ready for me to send this out on Monday, or do you need me to hold onto it for a couple of days?
Good morning, gents! Where are we at on the transition to Steve?
I was supposed to send it out yesterday, but practice ran late. By the time I got to the post office, it was closed. Today we are just in the weight room, so it will be going out today.
I'm after Steve,and heading out of town next weekend (not this upcoming) so I will still be on track.
The box is on its way. I kept missing the post office closing time by a couple of minutes.
waiting for it, i will be back on line Friday, if it hits the house before then, the wife will secure it for us. let you know when i get it
QuoteGreenfairypipe - 2/6/2013 11:01 PM
The box is on its way. I kept missing the post office closing time by a couple of minutes.
Nice T/Ps, Mike. Thanks for playing!
Quite a nice list of cigars in there now! looking good.
Man this is really moving fast
QuoteSmurf - 2/7/2013 8:06 PM Quite a nice list of cigars in there now! looking good.
X2. Thats a great selection rolling around.
Quotebmac7754 - 2/7/2013 11:20 PM
QuoteSmurf - 2/7/2013 8:06 PM Quite a nice list of cigars in there now! looking good.
X2. Thats a great selection rolling around.
next time I will go last! :biggrin:
QuoteSteve Honea - 2/7/2013 2:21 AM
waiting for it, i will be back on line Friday, if it hits the house before then, the wife will secure it for us. let you know when i get it
No pressure Steve, but I need to either get this by Friday the 15th or get skipped.
Nick,
Box is on the way to you.
USPS
9405510200793571581677
Great looking T/P's, Steve! Can you please fill in the additional info on the sizes of the Graycliff Platinum Edicion and Roman Bueso Genesis "The Project"? Then please enter the delivery method, tracking number, hit "Transition" to Nick and confirm "OK" on the next screen. That will officially transition the pass to Nick.
Thanks for turning this around in time for Nick as well. Great job!
QuoteBrlesq - 2/10/2013 9:22 AM Great looking T/P's, Steve! Can you please fill in the additional info on the sizes of the Graycliff Platinum Edicion and Roman Bueso Genesis "The Project"? Then please enter the delivery method, tracking number, hit "Transition" to Nick and confirm "OK" on the next screen. That will officially transition the pass to Nick. Thanks for turning this around in time for Nick as well. Great job!
I entered it again, hope it takes, seems like it has a delay.
Thanks again for allowing me in guys
Wow this is flying. Showed up today, I'll be doing my P/Ts tonight.
QuoteSmurf - 2/8/2013 12:48 PM Quotebmac7754 - 2/7/2013 11:20 PM QuoteSmurf - 2/7/2013 8:06 PM Quite a nice list of cigars in there now! looking good.
X2. Thats a great selection rolling around.
next time I will go last! :biggrin:
LOl, Going second isnt the best either. Alot of great sticks in that box that I would be picking thru. Great job guys
We're flyng now! Great job on moving this along, guys! :thumbsup:
Oh wow, this has moved fast, only 2 ahead of me now. I guess it's time I really start looking at my puts/takes. Hmm...so many choices...
Put in my puts and takes, this will go out tomorrow to you Brad!
Will be on the lookout - thanks, Nick.
Quotenkowal - 2/12/2013 9:06 PM
Put in my puts and takes, this will go out tomorrow to you Brad!
Terrific T/P's, Nick. :thumbsup: Thanks for playing!
Pretty good looking sticks rolling around
Quotetvolball - 2/13/2013 10:34 AM
Pretty good looking sticks rolling around
:word:
Puts and takes complete - when the box arrives, I'll turn it around very quickly and get it on its way to Darrel.
Bruce, thanks for having me!
Takes:
A.J. Fernandez Pinerlo Toro (2/13/2013 4:39:16 PM)
La Herencia Cubana CORE Belicoso (2/13/2013 4:39:16 PM)
Ramon Bueso Genesis The Project Muy Bueso (6.5 x 60) (2/13/2013 4:39:16 PM)
San Cristobal Clasico (2/13/2013 4:39:16 PM)
Puts:
Illusione MJ12 (The Majestic 12) (6 x 54, NIC) (2/13/2013 4:39:16 PM)
La Flor Dominicana Double Ligero Chisel, DR (2/13/2013 4:39:16 PM)
Montecristo 75th Anniversary Blend No. 4, DR (2/13/2013 4:39:16 PM)
Padron 1964 Anniversary Imperial Maduro (6 x 54, NIC) (2/13/2013 4:39:16 PM)
Punch Grand Cru No. II Pyramid, HON (6.12 x 54, HON) (2/13/2013 4:39:16 PM)
I've never seen anybody complete their P/T's before getting the box! How do you know you won't be tempted by something else? :?:
In any event, please take an inventory of the box before you do your P/T's just as a matter of good pass practice. You might find that somebody forgot to put something in, or that a stick is misidentified. It happens more often than you think. Thanks!
QuoteBrlesq - 2/13/2013 8:59 PM
I've never seen anybody complete their P/T's before getting the box! How do you know you won't be tempted by something else? :?:
In any event, please take an inventory of the box before you do your P/T's just as a matter of good pass practice. You might find that somebody forgot to put something in, or that a stick is misidentified. It happens more often than you think. Thanks!
These were the ones on the list I really want to try! :dancing:
I'll do a thorough check before turning it around including condition of the humi-paks, box, etc. Thanks for the reminder. :-)
Brad, before you even have to ask, I am ready to receive. Once your've made sure everything's good, fire when ready. Just give me a heads up if you can when you do send it. Thanks.
Wow, my post office was apparently taking its sweet time. Take a look at that tracking:
https://tools.usps.com/go/TrackConfirmAction_input?strOrigTrackNum=9405503699300318781713
I dropped it off on the 13th and it's just now departing the Sort facility???
Well, at least we still know where it is...
Box arrived this afternoon.
Cigars are in order with one caution. The Padilla Serie '68 Lancero appears to be in pretty bad shape - the wrapper is beginning to pull away from the binder and I don't think it will take too much more traveling around. I'll leave it in the pass - perhaps someone can find a way to salvage it. I'll add a Montecristo 75th Anniversary Blend Lancero as an extra put.
This will go out on Tuesday due to the holiday. Box will be replaced and water pillow has been refreshed.
Hook'em! :cigarman:
QuoteLonghorn - 2/16/2013 6:17 PM Box arrived this afternoon. Cigars are in order with one caution. The Padilla Serie '68 Lancero appears to be in pretty bad shape - the wrapper is beginning to pull away from the binder and I don't think it will take too much more traveling around. I'll leave it in the pass - perhaps someone can find a way to salvage it. I'll add a Montecristo 75th Anniversary Blend Lancero as an extra put. This will go out on Tuesday due to the holiday. Box will be replaced and water pillow has been refreshed. Hook'em! :cigarman:
We got a pass execution, (http://www.cigargeeks.com/../images/emoticons/beatup.gif)
Thanks, Brad. Would you please put that Padilla in its own ziploc, and roll it up and tape it so the wrapper doesn't take any more damage? Thank you for your help!
QuoteBrlesq - 2/16/2013 7:19 PM
Thanks, Brad. Would you please put that Padilla in its own ziploc, and roll it up and tape it so the wrapper doesn't take any more damage? Thank you for your help!
Done.
That padilla was my put. It seemed fine at the time I put it in, but I did notice that humidor had a low humidity. I can mail another stick to someone further in the pass to add in as a replacement if you guys want.
QuoteGreenfairypipe - 2/16/2013 10:57 PM
That padilla was my put. It seemed fine at the time I put it in, but I did notice that humidor had a low humidity. I can mail another stick to someone further in the pass to add in as a replacement if you guys want.
Mike, I appreciate the offer, but you don't need to do that. It happens sometimes.
Let's all just chalk this one up as a good lesson on how cigars-in-motion (passes, trades, bombs) need to have a cello on them or be put into a plastic sleeve to avoid damage when fumbled and jarred around by the Post Office.
I take all of my cigars out of the cellos. What would be the best way for me to put cigars into a pass? Should I keep some cellos and put cigars back into them before puting into a pass? :confused:
This brings up another question... Where do we get the plastic bags that have the dividers built like the ones I saw in the pass? I think with those we should be safe for sticks without cello.
QuoteOtter - 2/17/2013 11:26 PM This brings up another question... Where do we get the plastic bags that have the dividers built like the ones I saw in the pass? I think with those we should be safe for sticks without cello.
Jay, www.bagsofbags.com
I got some from them, the 5 finger are $10 per 100 and shipping was around $5. I was told they are out of stock on the 3 finger but it does not tell you that. These are the ones I have shipped to you in, and in the smell good pass, I had a few extra on the bottom in case anyone needed them. There is only 1 player after you, so go ahead and take those if you want. Oh and that site takes Paypal.
QuoteGreenfairypipe - 2/17/2013 11:20 PM
I take all of my cigars out of the cellos. What would be the best way for me to put cigars into a pass? Should I keep some cellos and put cigars back into them before puting into a pass? :confused:
If you don't have any of the "finger" bags mentioned above, I'd start keeping a few cellos for passes.
Quotenwb - 2/18/2013 7:57 AM
QuoteGreenfairypipe - 2/17/2013 11:20 PM
I take all of my cigars out of the cellos. What would be the best way for me to put cigars into a pass? Should I keep some cellos and put cigars back into them before puting into a pass? :confused:
If you don't have any of the "finger" bags mentioned above, I'd start keeping a few cellos for passes.
Yeah, and you might even need a cello or two if you're grabbing a cigar to take with you to smoke later. A shirt pocket can even tear up a wrapper.
In a pinch, a piece of Saran wrap will work or even a piece of wax paper taped.
Brian, thanks for the link and the offer. The pass should get to me tomorrow.
If anyone else is interested, I just ordered some 5 finger bags, they were $10.00 per 100 as Brian stated and they did not charge for shipping.
Update... they do charge for shipping, I got a separate invoice from Paypal for $6.00 to cover shipping. Still I am fine at .16 cents a bag.
QuoteOtter - 2/18/2013 6:35 PM
Update... they do charge for shipping, I got a separate invoice from Paypal for $6.00 to cover shipping. Still I am fine at .16 cents a bag.
Trust me, it will take you many years to go through a hundred bags, unless you are sending over a hundred bombs a year, in which case the cost of the bags is the least of your expenses. :biggrin:
QuoteBrlesq - 2/18/2013 7:11 PM
QuoteOtter - 2/18/2013 6:35 PM
Update... they do charge for shipping, I got a separate invoice from Paypal for $6.00 to cover shipping. Still I am fine at .16 cents a bag.
Trust me, it will take you many years to go through a hundred bags, unless you are sending over a hundred bombs a year, in which case the cost of the bags is the least of your expenses. :biggrin:
Its nice to have them handy to send the occasional care package to my fellow geeks! :-)
Looking at the tracking info the box should be at my house today, woo-hoo!!! I've pretty much already decided my takes/puts so I'll do a quick inventory, make sure everything's straight and try to get the box out if not tomorrow, then definitely saturday. Kenny, are you ready for me to send it on your way?
Got home and the pass was sitting there waiting for me. I've already done a preliminary check and everything looks good. Will do a more thorough check later tonight and try to get this puppy on the road again.
I'm just catching up here. Thank you, Longhorn, for the awesome Puts! :bow:
QuoteBrlesq - 2/21/2013 6:22 PM
I'm just catching up here. Thank you, Longhorn, for the awesome Puts! :bow:
Thanks for having me.
Dropped the box off at the post office today, it's on its way to you Kenny. The tracking number isn't registering yet, but I'll keep an eye on it. Thanks for having me Bruce, it was a good first pass for me. I hope my puts/takes were ok.
I will keep an eye out for it.
QuoteDarrel_h - 2/22/2013 5:40 PM
Dropped the box off at the post office today, it's on its way to you Kenny. The tracking number isn't registering yet, but I'll keep an eye on it. Thanks for having me Bruce, it was a good first pass for me. I hope my puts/takes were ok.
They were great P/T's Darrel. Thanks for playing!
We're doing lightspeed now, gentlemen! :thumbsup:
Just a reminder: Kenny will transition and send the Pass to me next. Matt is playing virtually and will communicate to me his P/T's after Kenny is locked and loaded.
And I said at the beginning of this pass that there would be a surprise twist upon its successful return to me. Stay tuned! :?:
I love a good surprise!
Uh surprises! Looking forward to it!
Pass is supposed to get here today. I will keep you guys updated.
I received the pass and will get bit turned around in the next day or two.
Box is on it's way home Bruce. Thanks for having me.
Quotechief791 - 2/26/2013 6:35 PM
Box is on it's way home Bruce. Thanks for having me.
Kenny, PM sent.
Homeward bound, yah. I probably said it already, but thanks for having me in this pass Bruce. Great job done by all.
So what's the big twist? :?: :confused:
QuoteSmurf - 2/27/2013 7:54 PM So what's the big twist? :?: :confused:
Guess we find out soon, Due to be delivered 02/28/13. Eric, I think it is the 2nd and 3rd pass members get the split the loot. (http://www.cigargeeks.com/../images/emoticons/Shades2.gif)
Thanks Bruce! It was a great 1st pass for me. I really enjoyed it.
QuoteSmurf - 2/27/2013 7:54 PM
So what's the big twist? :?: :confused:
Patience, grasshopper. The Pass still has to arrive here and then we have one more player to take a virtual turn from Germany.
Sit back, light up a cigar or two, and RELAX.
Quotebmac7754 - 2/27/2013 11:58 PM
QuoteSmurf - 2/27/2013 7:54 PM So what's the big twist? :?: :confused:
Guess we find out soon, Due to be delivered 02/28/13. Eric, I think it is the 2nd and 3rd pass members get the split the loot. (http://www.cigargeeks.com/../images/emoticons/Shades2.gif)
I have no problems with that :biggrin:
QuoteBrlesq - 2/28/2013 7:14 AM
QuoteSmurf - 2/27/2013 7:54 PM
So what's the big twist? :?: :confused:
Patience, grasshopper. The Pass still has to arrive here and then we have one more player to take a virtual turn from Germany.
Sit back, light up a cigar or two, and RELAX.
:martini: :smoker: ahhhh much better!
I've been following this pass thread a bit because I'm curious to know what the twist is, plus I like to see the puts/takes.
The last puts/takes got my attention.
Quotelowpro75 - 2/28/2013 3:01 PM I've been following this pass thread a bit because I'm curious to know what the twist is, plus I like to see the puts/takes. The last puts/takes got my attention.
I noticed that too, assumed that was topic of Bruce's PM
QuoteBrlesq - 2/28/2013 7:14 AM QuoteSmurf - 2/27/2013 7:54 PM So what's the big twist? :?: :confused:
Patience, grasshopper. The Pass still has to arrive here and then we have one more player to take a virtual turn from Germany. Sit back, light up a cigar or two, and RELAX.
Bruce, I got a stupid question but being new to the pass's, could you explain the virtual pass. I am assuming he picks the ones he wants and tells you what he is sending. Is this so you two just send a few sticks and low shipping weights. And would you do this for Canada members too? Just trying to get a grasp on this for future pass's I might moderate.
Quotebmac7754 - 2/28/2013 11:30 PM
QuoteBrlesq - 2/28/2013 7:14 AM QuoteSmurf - 2/27/2013 7:54 PM So what's the big twist? :?: :confused:
Patience, grasshopper. The Pass still has to arrive here and then we have one more player to take a virtual turn from Germany. Sit back, light up a cigar or two, and RELAX.
Bruce, I got a stupid question but being new to the pass's, could you explain the virtual pass. I am assuming he picks the ones he wants and tells you what he is sending. Is this so you two just send a few sticks and low shipping weights. And would you do this for Canada members too? Just trying to get a grasp on this for future pass's I might moderate.
That is exactly right. The virtual player send his Puts + $5 to cover the moderators return postage (it probably costs more, but that's what I asked for in my pass.) But that is still the same cost or less to the player than what it costs to ship a whole pass And I had Smurf in this pass from Canada, and the additional benefit to him is avoiding all the customs duties he would get straddled with if a bunch of cigars come across the border.
QuoteBrlesq - 3/1/2013 6:35 AM
Quotebmac7754 - 2/28/2013 11:30 PM
QuoteBrlesq - 2/28/2013 7:14 AM QuoteSmurf - 2/27/2013 7:54 PM So what's the big twist? :?: :confused:
Patience, grasshopper. The Pass still has to arrive here and then we have one more player to take a virtual turn from Germany. Sit back, light up a cigar or two, and RELAX.
Bruce, I got a stupid question but being new to the pass's, could you explain the virtual pass. I am assuming he picks the ones he wants and tells you what he is sending. Is this so you two just send a few sticks and low shipping weights. And would you do this for Canada members too? Just trying to get a grasp on this for future pass's I might moderate.
That is exactly right. The virtual player send his Puts + $5 to cover the moderators return postage (it probably costs more, but that's what I asked for in my pass.) But that is still the same cost or less to the player than what it costs to ship a whole pass And I had Smurf in this pass from Canada, and the additional benefit to him is avoiding all the customs duties he would get straddled with if a bunch of cigars come across the border.
I just want to point out that I invented the virtual pass. :biggrin:
Matt, i know your up now. Just wanted to let you know That the Opus X Double Corona will be back on the list if you want it. I also sent Bruce a La Herencia De Cubana Core Toro to add to my puts. Sorry for my screw up guys. Sticks are in the mail today and he should have them Monday or Tuesday. USPS Priority 9405 5036 9930 0338 1093 44
(http://preview.images.memegenerator.net/Instance/Preview?imageID=2485&generatorTypeID=&panels=&text0=I%20DON%27T%20ALWAYS%20POKE%20MY%20NOSE%20IN%20OTHER%20PEOPLES%20BUSINESS&text1=BUT%20WHEN%20I%20DO,%20I%20SPELL%20BUESO%20WRONG&text2=&text3=)
Good for you for attempting to correct your mistake.
I apologize for poking my nose into your private Internet business conducted for all to see on a website. My spelling mistake also makes me look incredibly stupid, everyone knows that the standards for spelling and grammar are impossibly high on the web.
I concede your superiority in spelling, if you concede your weakness in math. Two cigars in your takes were worth more than the total of your puts. An offense big enough to be pointed out by an observer. If you feel bad about it, you should. I'm sure you learned from it and hope that Bruce is satisfied with the resolution.
I think your math is as bad as your spelling. Since you were not in the pass i am sure that this is a huge problem for you. I made a mistake and have tried to correct it. Now i know that your "Extreme Guru" status gives you the right to judge all transactions. I will run all i do on this site by you first from now on.
601 La Bomba Nuclear - 5 bucks
Aging Room M356 6x60 - 8 bucks Famous
Genesis the Project by Ramone Bueso Robusto - 3 bucks CI
Jaime Garcia Reserva Especial Toro 7 at CI, C-bid regular at 24 to 26 for a 5 pack. I'll give you the 7.
My Uzi Weighs A Ton Baitfish 5 bucks - Famous
Oliva Series G Robusto 5.50 CI
Padron 4000 Toro 5 bucks
Total is $38.50
All the cigars above are in stock and easy to get.
Liga #9 is 13 bucks, the Opus is 15 bucks at Famous. That is 2 cigars that are 28 bucks. That is very generous price for the Opus X. Famous sells it for 15 but good luck getting it in stock. Cigars Direct sells it for 34 and they have it. My local B&M sells it for 21 which was my reference price.
Better deals could probably be had on any of the cigars you put in. While my math may not be exact I stand by it.
You would probably do yourself a favor if you ran everything by me first.
Wow now you are using C-bid numbers. But thanks for doing all this research. I know your a busy guy and am so thankful you took the time to look up all these cigars. Your so good with numbers i was wondering if you could do my taxes. Opus was returned and i also sent an LHC Core. Let me save you some of your precious time from your busy schedule. It goes for $10 on CI. If i wait long enough i'm sure i can get a better deal on C-bid though. I don't really give a crap what you say about a pass you were not even involved in. Thanks for proving your statement that 2 of my takes were worth more than all my puts was wrong though. Always good to hear the opinions of a "Guru" like yourself though.
My P/Ts updated, will add tracking when I ship. Thanks Bruce for having me!
Quotechief791 - 3/2/2013 11:43 AM
Wow now you are using C-bid numbers. But thanks for doing all this research. I know your a busy guy and am so thankful you took the time to look up all these cigars. Your so good with numbers i was wondering if you could do my taxes. Opus was returned and i also sent an LHC Core. Let me save you some of your precious time from your busy schedule. It goes for $10 on CI. If i wait long enough i'm sure i can get a better deal on C-bid though. I don't really give a crap what you say about a pass you were not even involved in. Thanks for proving your statement that 2 of my takes were worth more that all my puts was wrong though. Always good to hear the opinions of a "Guru" like yourself though.
I'm not that busy, plus I'm enjoying our conversation. If you were doing any research we probably wouldn't even be having this conversation. C-bid pricing can be relevant when cigars are always available on c-bid for a lower price than on the CI website. If you like 5 Vegas and other CI exclusives are available on C-Bid, often at Quickbuy prices that are well under the CI website price. Currently you can do a Quickbuy for the LHC Core Belicoso for 6 bucks a stick, call it seven with shipping. You don't even have to wait, here's the link:
http://www.cigarbid.com/Auction/Lot/1444805/La-Herencia-Cubana-CORE-Belicoso/
I don't care if you care if I give a crap. Everyone should give a crap, we police ourselves around here. If people aren't being honest and fair someone has to call them out on it. It just happens to be me this time.
If you had read the pass article you could see that you are still in violation of the spirit of the pass even with your effort to fix it.
"Value for Value. Members should put back at least the same value as they are taking. If you take 3, then put back 3. Don't take a high end Opus and replace it with a Blunt."
Just because you replaced one 13 dollar cigar with a "ten" dollar cigar doesn't make it an even trade.
I'm glad you enjoy hearing my opinions because you'll likely keep hearing them until you say, "I guess I screwed up. Thanks for calling me out on it, you are the best friend a guy could have, one who is honest and isn't afraid to call me out when I unintentionally try to screw another BOTL."
I already apologized to the the people that matter. The members of the pass. I will thank you for nothing. So if you want this to go on, it is not a problem. I will play your game all day long. Yes i do love hearing your opinion. It is really pretty funny. Your turn now.
Regardless of if a member of Geeks is in the pass or not, we all have an interest in seeing passes go smoothly and making sure people follow pass etiquette. That's the reason we have an article on it. This is a community that monitors itself, and to see another member get taken advantage of (whether intentional or not) is unacceptable for most if not all of us.
When I saw Bruce's post that he was sending a PM, I checked out the takes/puts by every member and immediately saw the problem. Putting aside the aggregate value of all Puts versus Takes, taking a high end, rare, or very expensive cigar and replacing it with something common or less expensive is diluting the pass. There are no steadfast rules, but IMHO, if someone takes a Liga or Opus, they should replace it with something equally valued and hard to find, such as a CC or other limited edition smoke. And if all else fails, every member has the opportunity to PM the moderator to make sure they are ok with the puts/takes. After 10+ passes, I still do this from time to time.
This is a pass for newbies, and as such, should be a learning experience. There is no reason for people to become defensive - if you mess up, that's ok. We can all make mistakes (except Rich, he's perfect). Just work it out with the moderator, take the little bit of ribbing that gets dished out (all in good fun), and use the experience to become a better pass member.
Quotechief791 - 3/2/2013 12:10 PM
I apologize. I thank you. Yes i do love hearing your opinion. Your turn now.
Your welcome.
Quotelowpro75 - 3/2/2013 12:19 PM
Quotechief791 - 3/2/2013 12:10 PM
I apologize. I thank you. Yes i do love hearing your opinion. Your turn now.
Your welcome.
:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:
:hypno: :kickyou: :confused:
Quotechief791 - 3/2/2013 11:10 AM
I already apologized to the the people that matter. The members of the pass. I will thank you for nothing. So if you want this to go on, it is not a problem. I will play your game all day long. Yes i do love hearing your opinion. It is really pretty funny. Your turn now.
I have also been following this thread since I saw Bruce's "PM sent" post. Both lowpro and nwb make very good points about what a member of this forum should/shouldn't do when participating in a pass. The biggest mistake that is made in passes is dilution. You have to make sure, stick for stick, that the cigar you are putting is at least as valuable as the cigar that you are taking. And value is defined by: 1) CC/NC, 2) Cost, 3) Current availability, 4) Rating. So I did that analysis on the turn chief791 took; IMO, only 2 of his takes were covered stick for stick by his puts. I’m pretty sure that’s why Bruce sent the PM. That and the fact that there was no put that came close to covering the $20 Opus X. Now, to the other issue: chief791, I don’t understand what you are so pissed off about? nwb’s statement of: “This is a community that monitors itself, and to see another member get taken advantage of (whether intentional or not) is unacceptable…” is 100% correct. There are no appointed Moderators on CG, this community self-moderates. Which means that any member can speak up when they see something going on that in their opinion is not right. So, when you tell lowpro that he is sticking his nose in your business, you are wrong: it is every Cigar Geek’s business how well passes are executed. lowpro was simply doing his due diligence by saying that the takes to puts were not square. And chief791, when you say: “I already apologized to the people that matter. The members of the pass.”, you are 100% in the wrong. Every Geek matters, the entire community matters, because how things went yesterday, and how they go today tends to steer this forum in the direction that things will go tomorrow and in the future. This is the exact point that a certain member that lost a pass of Jeff’s did not “get”; each member’s behavior needs to be square (more or less) to the community.
chief791, to the best of my recollection, you and I have not PM’ed, or traded, etc. You do have 8 positive feedback, so I’ll assume you’re a decent guy. I do hope that your posts in this thread just represent the fact that you are having a bad stretch of late, and don’t intend to be giving the finger to the entire CG community (i.e., the last 4 posts of yours in this thread are very strong in tone and short on decorum).
nwb is right, a newbie pass is for learning, so square things up with Bruce and then continue to enjoy yourself around here. CG needs all the good, standup members it can get.
I agree with wescat and nwb :bigthumbs:
OK, I guess its time to weigh in on this since the ultimate disposition of this matter is mine to decide. This issue has taken a heavy toll on my thoughts over the last week, and has troubled me a great deal to make the correct decision. I have asked some FOGs here for their opinions on the matter as well to help me with that decision. I love this community, and have made many friends for life here. The well-being and integrity of the community as a whole concerns me much more than a couple of cigars in a pass. Frankly, I could care less about the cigars. As other senior colleagues pointed out above "This is a community that monitors itself, and to see another member get taken advantage of (whether intentional or not) is unacceptable..." That is one of the reasons I left this Pass open for all to see. And I only started the Pass to help the Newbies gain experience and build street cred here, and not to gain cigars (as you will learn later.)
Kenny and I exchanged a lot of PMs over this matter, and all of them (from both of us) were polite and cordial. He has apologized in every one of them, and I told him that I believed him. He didn't read the Pass Etiquette, even though I asked everyone to do that as part of the Pass and even provided a link. So Kenny's mistake was that he thought he could swap a total value of Puts for a total value of Takes, not a stick-for-stick swap. I explained to him how it was supposed to work, and even provided guidance on pricing in most of my PMs to him. Any swaps and values have to be 'apples-to-apples'. You can't compare a single price on one site or local B&M to a box–per-stick price on another. My preference is to use box–per-stick prices because they are less inflated and more consistent from site to site. I also prefer to take most/all prices from the same site (like CI, Atlantic or Famous) if you can. Again, consistency is the key. Most of the other pass members PM'd me on their P/T's, and hopefully I was helpful to them in providing this very same advice.
To show Kenny that even his "total value" concept didn't measure up, I provided him the following prices and appropriate links:
Total Take Value = $54.36:
Don Pepin Garcia My Father #4 - $9.39 (http://www.cigarsinternational.com/prodDisp.asp?item=CS-MFB&cat=3)
Drew Estate Liga Privada #9 Parejo (Toro) - $11.88 (http://www.cigarsinternational.com/prodDisp.asp?item=CS-LPB&cat=3)
La Flor Dominicana Double Ligero Chisel, DR - $6.69 (http://www.cigarsinternational.com/prodDisp.asp?item=CS-FWA&cat=3)
Opus X Double Corona - $19.95 (http://pipesandcigars.com/opxdoco.html)
Rocky Patel Olde World Reserve Robusto Corojo - $6.45 (http://www.cigarsinternational.com/prodDisp.asp?item=CS-O0A&cat=3 )
Total Put Value = $38.72:
601 La Bomba Nuclear - $5 (http://www.cigarsinternational.com/prodDisp.asp?item=CS-YOG&cat=3 )
Aging Room M356 6x60 - $7.65 (http://www.famous-smoke.com/aging+room+small+batch+m356+major+cigars/item+36143 )
Genesis the Project by Ramone Bueso Robusto - $4 (http://www.cigarsinternational.com/proddisp.asp?item=CS-RBP&stext=bueso )
Jaime Garcia Reserva Especial Toro - $6.35 (http://www.cigarsinternational.com/prodDisp.asp?item=CS-JG1&cat=3 )
My Uzi Weighs A Ton Baitfish - $5 (http://www.cigarsinternational.com/proddisp.asp?item=CS-J2F&stext=baitfish )
Oliva Series G Robusto - $5.32 (http://www.cigarsinternational.com/prodDisp.asp?item=CS-FBA&cat=3 )
Padron 4000 Toro - $5.40 (http://www.cigarsinternational.com/prodDisp.asp?item=CS-K9A&cat=3 )
When Kenny asked me what he could do to make this right, I told him "Send me back the OpusX and LP#9, we'll chalk it up to experience and we don't need to discuss it in the forum." His response was "I will send back the OpusX. I don't think it fair to send back the LP#9 though so I will keep that cigar. If I over stepped my boundaries on the pass you have my apologies once again." He has now said he is sending back the OpusX and a La Herencia Core Toro, which he values at $10 (box–per-stick price is $8.75) (http://www.cigarsinternational.com/prodDisp.asp?item=CS-LHF&cat=3)
So what it really comes down to is this: Actions speak louder than words. Asking me how to make it right, and then telling me you won't do that but you're sorry again, really just tells me that you're sorry you got called out on it, but not sorry that you did it. And throwing in the Core, but still not using an apples-to-apples comparison, tells me that my help to you fell of deaf ears. So I've taken emotion out of the equation, discussed this off-forum with other senior Geeks, and my decision is to leave "Neutral" feedback for Kenny on this transaction, because in the end he didn't follow the Pass Etiquette and didn't satisfactorily correct the problem when given the opportunity multiple times. He played the Pass by his own rules, not the community's rules.
And believe me, this has never been about the cigars. The surprise twist to my Pass is that I am going to be giving half of them away in a drawing to a couple of lucky Pass members (details later). So in the end I will end up with the same number or less than the cigars I originally seeded the Pass with. (Of course, I will be keeping all those special 'tips' that some of you sent for myself . . . thanks for those!) And I have no animosity or bad feelings towards Kenny, and he will be eligible to win in this drawing. Hopefully Kenny will take this experience to heart and remain an active member of our community.
Bruce,
I think that solution is more than fair. I think that it is important to remember that when we do passes, we dealing with what are essentially strangers. It involves a lot of trust and it is important to follow the rules. I think there is a good lesson to be learned here.
Also, and I think that this is one of the most important things, if anyone out there is paying $10 for a LHC CORE please, please, please let me know. No one should be paying more than 7 dollars a cigar for this cigar. It is always available on C-bid and MMAO.
Ok guys, this is the absolute last post i will make on this subject so feel free to fire away with out a responce from me. I will only use the numbers for the cigars that you guys have provided. Bruce said my takes were $54.36. I sent back the Opus witch i know you don't believe but i have posted the tracking number. $54.36-$19.95=$34.41. My puts were $38.72. I also sent a LHC Core that you say goes for $8.75. $38.72+$8.75=$47.47. So my takes now after the correction is $34.41. Puts after correction are $47.47. My puts are now $13.06 higher than my takes. Sorry guys, i do think that is fair.
I'd be interested in learning more about how best to set a price for the cigars. is there a trusted set of e-commerce sites we can use as reference in a pass? I've seen CI, Famous, cigar.com, C-Bid and others referenced in this thread and elsewhere... :?:
Bruce, first of all thanks for putting this together. I know it's meant for fun and I really enjoyed it. Everyone likes to get some different cigars they don't have and that's just what I did. Just to let everyone know, Bruce PM'ed me after my puts. I was also a little off to. I was using 5 pack pricing vs box pricing. After I made and adjustment to my takes I did ok. The first one was a learning process. It made me really look hard when I did my second pass with Jeff. I hope this can all be put behind us and we can move on and Kenny can still be apart of this community. To me this community is more about sharing what we have then getting what others have. I've made some great online friends here and hope to meet you in person some day. Again, thanks Bruce!
:hitme: :banghead:
Quotelowpro75 - 3/3/2013 5:21 PM
:hitme: :banghead:
Help me out here, brother...
Is there a group of "go to" sites that are reliable for benchmarking prices? To be honest, I've never used C-Bid and would not have ventured there for pricing my P/T's.
QuoteLonghorn - 3/3/2013 9:04 PM
Quotelowpro75 - 3/3/2013 5:21 PM
:hitme: :banghead:
Help me out here, brother...
Is there a group of "go to" sites that are reliable for benchmarking prices? To be honest, I've never used C-Bid and would not have ventured there for pricing my P/T's.
CI and Famous cover 90% of it. There are certain CI exclusives that are always available at a discount on C bid. Never buy any of the 5 Vegas line at full price on CI. Get them on the jam or on cbid for at least 20% off the everyday price.
Quotechief791 - 3/3/2013 4:09 PM
Ok guys, this is the absolute last post i will make on this subject so feel free to fire away with out a responce from me. I will only use the numbers for the cigars that you guys have provided. Bruce said my takes were $54.36. I sent back the Opus witch i know you don't believe but i have posted the tracking number. $54.36-$19.95=$34.41. My puts were $38.72. I also sent a LHC Core that you say goes for $8.75. $38.72+$8.75=$47.47. So my takes now after the correction is $34.41. Puts after correction are $47.47. My puts are now $13.06 higher than my takes. Sorry guys, i do think that is fair.
"Sorry guys, i do think that is fair." That last statement just about sums it all up, and validates the decision I made to give you neutral feedback. For you, it has never been about respecting the rules of the Pass or this site, or really listening to the advice by many senior members of the forum above. It's only been about what Kenny thought the rules should be, tailored to suit Kenny. You just don't get it. :-(
You told me that you would probably not participate in another pass, and I think that is probably your best decision yet.
QuoteBrlesq - 3/4/2013 7:47 AM
"Sorry guys, i do think that is fair." That last statement just about sums it all up, and validates the decision I made to give you neutral feedback. For you, it has never been about respecting the rules of the Pass or this site, or really listening to the advice by many senior members of the forum above. It's only been about what Kenny thought the rules should be, tailored to suit Kenny. You just don't get it. :-(
You told me that you would probably not participate in another pass, and I think that is probably your best decision yet.
:word:
If we used the logic of total value of takes/puts being the only factor, then one could make the argument of taking two impossible to find, expensive cigars, say with a value of $30, and putting back this:
http://www.cigarsinternational.com/prodDisp.asp?item=DS-PHA&cat=79&h1=1
I know that is an extreme example, but it proves the point.
What I find incredible about the situation is, regardless of if you agree with the puts/takes being fair, that one cigar is worth your possibly losing an opportunity to participate in future passes, trades, etc. :confused: Especially when you consider many of the vets on the site noticed and agreed with the diluting of the pass.
QuoteBrlesq - 3/3/2013 12:31 PM The surprise twist to my Pass is that I am going to be giving half of them away in a drawing to a couple of lucky Pass members (details later). So in the end I will end up with the same number or less than the cigars I originally seeded the Pass with. (Of course, I will be keeping all those special ‘tips’ that some of you sent for myself . . . thanks for those!)
Soooo.....how 'bout that weather......:whistle:
At least we have a glimpse into the surprise ending now :dancing:
QuoteDarrel_h - 3/4/2013 11:45 AM
QuoteBrlesq - 3/3/2013 12:31 PM The surprise twist to my Pass is that I am going to be giving half of them away in a drawing to a couple of lucky Pass members (details later). So in the end I will end up with the same number or less than the cigars I originally seeded the Pass with. (Of course, I will be keeping all those special 'tips' that some of you sent for myself . . . thanks for those!)
Soooo.....how 'bout that weather......:whistle:
At least we have a glimpse into the surprise ending now :dancing:
:lmao: We've still got a member in play, brother! Matt (in Germany) is waiting on a cigar he ordered to fill his Puts out, and I agreed to the delay because its a stick off of my Wishlist. So when his Puts arrive here we will have successful completion of the Pass, and then I'll pass out cigars in celebration! :smoker:
Quotenwb - 3/4/2013 10:28 AM
QuoteBrlesq - 3/4/2013 7:47 AM
"Sorry guys, i do think that is fair." That last statement just about sums it all up, and validates the decision I made to give you neutral feedback. For you, it has never been about respecting the rules of the Pass or this site, or really listening to the advice by many senior members of the forum above. It's only been about what Kenny thought the rules should be, tailored to suit Kenny. You just don't get it. :-(
You told me that you would probably not participate in another pass, and I think that is probably your best decision yet.
:word:
If we used the logic of total value of takes/puts being the only factor, then one could make the argument of taking two impossible to find, expensive cigars, say with a value of $30, and putting back this:
http://www.cigarsinternational.com/prodDisp.asp?item=DS-PHA&cat=79&h1=1
I know that is an extreme example, but it proves the point.
What I find incredible about the situation is, regardless of if you agree with the puts/takes being fair, that one cigar is worth your possibly losing an opportunity to participate in future passes, trades, etc. :confused: Especially when you consider many of the vets on the site noticed and agreed with the diluting of the pass.
I don't know guys, maybe somebody will come up with a "Quality for Quantity Pass", "Shyt for Tats", "Water-Down Pass", "Make Your Own Shyt Up Pass", "WWKD (What Would Kenny Do) Pass" or some other pass that he can participate in. The possiblities are endless really.
Quotelowpro75 - 3/4/2013 1:10 PM
I don't know guys, maybe somebody will come up with a "Quality for Quantity Pass", "Shyt for Tats", "Water-Down Pass", "Make Your Own Shyt Up Pass", "WWKD (What Would Kenny Do) Pass" or some other pass that he can participate in. The possiblities are endless really.
You are doing your best to get him to respond, aren't you?
:biggrin:
Quotenwb - 3/4/2013 2:25 PM
Quotelowpro75 - 3/4/2013 1:10 PM
I don't know guys, maybe somebody will come up with a "Quality for Quantity Pass", "Shyt for Tats", "Water-Down Pass", "Make Your Own Shyt Up Pass", "WWKD (What Would Kenny Do) Pass" or some other pass that he can participate in. The possiblities are endless really.
You are doing your best to get him to respond, aren't you?
:biggrin:
Rich has a way with words ad you have to love him for it! I am an innocent bystander in this one, and there has been a lot of input from our senior Geeks :bow: This situation has come up a couple of times and participants need to remember the moderator is the one that runs the pass. If you are unsure of a particular take/put, ask the moderator.
If I have ever short changed someone, I do apologize. In addition as a matter of courtesy, I have always thrown in extra's. just me. Just my $.02. Enjoy the rest of your pass
We heard you the first time, Don. A too few many mojitos?
Quotenwb - 3/4/2013 3:14 PM
We heard you the first time, Don. A too few many mojitos?
:lmao: :lmao:
QuoteBrlesq - 3/4/2013 3:19 PM
Quotenwb - 3/4/2013 3:14 PM
We heard you the first time, Don. A too few many mojitos?
:lmao: :lmao:
Not yet but it is still early in the day $mart a$$ :biggrin: I didn't see the double post and fixed it. This LADC Churchill is good for at least 3 :biggrin:
Quotenwb - 3/4/2013 2:25 PM
Quotelowpro75 - 3/4/2013 1:10 PM
I don't know guys, maybe somebody will come up with a "Quality for Quantity Pass", "Shyt for Tats", "Water-Down Pass", "Make Your Own Shyt Up Pass", "WWKD (What Would Kenny Do) Pass" or some other pass that he can participate in. The possiblities are endless really.
You are doing your best to get him to respond, aren't you?
:biggrin:
Are you implying that I'm being deliberately antagonistic in order to provoke a response?
That doesn't sound like something I would do at all and frankly I'm insulted by the accusation.
OK, everyone, I have left you all feedback on your profiles for your participation in the Pass (Matt will get this once I receive his Puts). (If I missed anyone, let me know!)
The purpose of this pass was to give you all a chance to learn the mechanics on how these work, and learn what is acceptable (and what is not.) It was also a chance to build up your 'street cred' here. Most of you did very well and I am very proud of this group.
If you feel like leaving feedback on my profile (use 'pass member') for how I ran the Pass, help I gave you, or things I should have done differently, etc., please feel free to do so. It is appreciated.
Once Matt's Puts get here, I'll give away some of these cigars to celebrate your well earned new stripes! :thumbsup:
I had a great time and you did an awesome job!
Quotelowpro75 - 3/4/2013 5:17 PM
Quotenwb - 3/4/2013 2:25 PM
Quotelowpro75 - 3/4/2013 1:10 PM
I don't know guys, maybe somebody will come up with a "Quality for Quantity Pass", "Shyt for Tats", "Water-Down Pass", "Make Your Own Shyt Up Pass", "WWKD (What Would Kenny Do) Pass" or some other pass that he can participate in. The possiblities are endless really.
You are doing your best to get him to respond, aren't you?
:biggrin:
Are you implying that I'm being deliberately antagonistic in order to provoke a response?
That doesn't sound like something I would do at all and frankly I'm insulted by the accusation.
Sorry for insinuation. I forgot you are the Guru of Sensitivity.
Thanks Bruce, I have left you feedback as well. Thanks for all your hard work in keeping this running smoothly. Also, for those that are still reading this forum, thanks for your participation too, lots of great puts/takes from all.
Feedback left Bruce, Thanks again.
Boy, I missed some Draaaaaama!
the moderator is the only one who should have any say in the puts/takes. it's up to the geek to submit a pm to the moderator if he has any questions to said puts/takes. isn't that proper pass etiquette?
:?: :angel:
Very quite in here. Bruce did you get the last puts yet?
Quotebmac7754 - 3/14/2013 10:53 PM
Very quite in here. Bruce did you get the last puts yet?
Still waiting on a package from Germany. Sometimes these APO packages take weeks. Sent one to Les (HotStuffX) one time that took 8 weeks. I'm not worried yet.
Tim sent me a tracking number a while back for the Angels... Still waiting on them. 9405503699300338925081
Kinda not sure where they are cause the USPS site doesn't tell me much. Just waiting.
QuoteBrlesq - 3/15/2013 6:41 AM Quotebmac7754 - 3/14/2013 10:53 PM Very quite in here. Bruce did you get the last puts yet?
Still waiting on a package from Germany. Sometimes these APO packages take weeks. Sent one to Les (HotStuffX) one time that took 8 weeks. I'm not worried yet.
Cool, was just wondering. 8 weeks wow, good thing it wasnt a care package of food.
QuoteBrlesq - 3/15/2013 6:41 AM
Quotebmac7754 - 3/14/2013 10:53 PM
Very quite in here. Bruce did you get the last puts yet?
Still waiting on a package from Germany. Sometimes these APO packages take weeks. Sent one to Les (HotStuffX) one time that took 8 weeks. I'm not worried yet.
:snoring: :snoring: :snoring:
Buler?
Quotecigarzinn - 3/31/2013 10:54 AM
Buler?
:lmao: :lmao:
Quotempurtle01 - 3/15/2013 7:53 AM
Tim sent me a tracking number a while back for the Angels... Still waiting on them. 9405503699300338925081
Kinda not sure where they are cause the USPS site doesn't tell me much. Just waiting.
Odd. The tracking info doesn't indicate the parcel is even moving. Shouldn't there be interim scans to indicate the parcel was dispatched from the USPS International Service Center?
My son is in the Middle East right now with the Air Force. We have sent things to him that took 11/2 weeks and sent him things that took over a month. The post office said we are at mercy of the overseas guys once it leaves the US.
QuoteLonghorn - 4/2/2013 4:33 AM
Quotempurtle01 - 3/15/2013 7:53 AM
Tim sent me a tracking number a while back for the Angels... Still waiting on them. 9405503699300338925081
Kinda not sure where they are cause the USPS site doesn't tell me much. Just waiting.
Odd. The tracking info doesn't indicate the parcel is even moving. Shouldn't there be interim scans to indicate the parcel was dispatched from the USPS International Service Center?
Yes, it should. I let Tim know and he's trying to figure out what's up with it.
I spoke with Matt and he has been gracious enough to let us proceed with the raffle even though the last P/T hasn't been concluded. I'll have to devise some method of a random raffle to give a dozen of these away. I'm thinking of doing 2 winners, 6 pack each.
I'm pretty busy the next couple of days, but will try to put something together. Stay tuned
Goodie!!!
Sounds great to me...
:cool: :smoker:
(http://www.cigargeeks.com/../images/emoticons/HappyDance2.gif)Woo-hoo!!!
Awesome!
Once again, I am sorry for the delay the end of this Pass has caused, but its certainly not Matt's fault, and THANK GOODNESS he is playing virtually and the Pass wasn't lost on the way to Germany! So its time to give some of these cigars away to reward your success in participating in the Newbie pass. Since Matt still gets to complete his turn, I've pulled his Puts/Takes out of the Pass. I've also pulled out the gifted cigars (thank you guys!) which leaves 24 cigars, so I'll be giving half of these away to 2 random winners as a 6 pack prize.
I used the Random.org number generator to pick the winners. The number assigned to each of you was your number in the Pass order (Staring with Smurf = 2, and ending with mpurtle01 = 15)
And the winners are: Ewu (#8) and Otter (#5)! Congrats, guys, I'll get these out to you next week. And thank you all for participating in this Pass!
Wow, very cool. Thanks for a great pass Bruce!
Wow... thanks!!
Congratulations Guys!
Congrats guys! What a great Pass! Hope you get the virtual puts soon.
Congrats guys
Congrats Ewu and Otter, enjoy the extra sticks. Thanks for making this a great first pass for me everyone :-)
Congrats guys. Nice pass Bruce
Congrats guys!
I got my prize pack today, thanks Bruce!!
(http://www.geekcoefficient.com/images/newbie.jpg)
:bigthumbs:
so...kinda jealous I didn't win the random draw ;-)
Got mine today too! (http://www.cigargeeks.com/../images/emoticons/HappyDance2.gif)
Thanks again Bruce!
(http://i.imgur.com/lCPhqdE.png) (http://imgur.com/lCPhqdE)
Glad these both arrived. Congrats again, guys!
QuoteBrlesq - 4/11/2013 8:07 AM
Glad these both arrived. Congrats again, guys!
:bigthumbs:
Just got my portion in from Bruce, plus a couple extra stragglers.... Brother, you're too much. Love me some DPG Blues, and excited to try this Fernando Leon... It smells amazing!