Tatuaje Saints & Sinners club

[muhren]

Just got an e-mail from Tatuaje's Saints & Sinners Club this afternoon.

Concept (simplified and described by me): Join for a certain amount of $ and get access to discounts on LE cigars & swag that others cannot.

Who is going to be joining/passing?

Thoughts on Pete's concept for the club?

M

[Mutombo]

I got the email too, I've been excited for this. I'll be joining and think it's a good idea for those who really love Pete's stuff.

[Eleven]

Sorry, I'll take Tats whenever I can get them, but creating a new 'class' of cigar smoker goes against everything a BOTL should stand for.

[neoflex]

I got the e-mail but your really not getting much for the $150 fee to play. So you pay $150 to get discounts/access to some LEs, you get to watch videos of Pete and have access to his message board. I like Pete's cigars but that is kind of pricey for what you get in return. It's nice that a percentage goes to charity but for that price I would want more in return. Hell throw me a T-shirt or two and maybe some other BS swag but you don't even get that. Hey if you pay me $150 I will give you access to buy more of my stuff just isn't working for me in this case.

[NCRadioMan]

$150 for a few discounts? :lr

[elderboy02]

I will be joining. On another forum, he said you get a nice sampler when you join the club.

[muhren]

I will be joining. On another forum, he said you get a nice sampler when you join the club.

Could be! I don't know. It wasn't mentioned in the e-mail.

M

[wayner123]

I wonder if retailers can buy in and then pass those savings onto buyers? That would be a way to work around the no discounting Tatuaje products for merchants.

[Darrell]

Pass.

[stearns]

I will be joining. On another forum, he said you get a nice sampler when you join the club.

im contemplating joining as well, but some bs swag thrown around would help me make a decision

stearns

[T.G]

Pass.

You? Pass? OMFG! What is the world coming to?

http://crazygonutz.com/covey/homeAlone.jpg

Pete was saving the membership card with ID #000001 just for you D.

[muhren]

Someone questioned if the discount was on actual cigars on another board. Thoughts? Lines read this:
"Exclusive, one-off products available only to members (select products may not be available for purchase through the S&S webstore)"
&
"First looks at new cigar blends, swag, as well as insider info on Tatuaje and other Pete Johnson brands"

No mention of actual discount on cigars. Just 'first looks'?

Mind you, I'm not any more familiar with it than anyone else...I just posted to see what the interest in something like this club is.

M

[KidRock]

Sorry, I'll take Tats whenever I can get them, but creating a new 'class' of cigar smoker goes against everything a BOTL should stand for.

100 Percent Agreed!

[muhren]

So, those of us who join a fan club of sorts, makes us better than all other cigar smokers? :confused: :sh

Interesting...

Maybe the 'members only' mentality is what they're talking about? :sh

Kind of country club-ish? :sh

I have no opinion on the matter one way or another at this point, I'm just seeing which way the wind is blowing on this new concept.

M

[nofeardiver]

I never got the email :-( but does sound steep, for a early inside look at whats coming out, and maybe get a few LEs, but i do like how you guys said part goes to charity, but what charity and if you really wanted to why not just donate the $150 yourself straight to the charity...

[pnoon]

Being a BOTL has nothing to do with it.
Pete is a businessman and wants your $$$. Pure and simple. He is perpetuating, thru creative marketing, an exclusivity that many want to be a part of. He is very successful at it.
Posted via Mobile Device

[shilala]

Now I can get my Johnson's club and my Thompson's club all at one low, low price.
How very convenient.
Somehow I sense a John Thomas joke on the horizon. I will now set the official clock.

[Brutus2600]

I was really interested when he talked about this on some video, about getting a nice sampler of unreleased products, having access to single farm puros...cool stuff like that. The email they sent out this afternoon didn't sound like it was much more than access, discounts, and maybe a few freebies thrown my way. Not sure it's worth $150, but I'll keep watching to see what else might be included with membership. I can't imagine it's as dinky as it sounds.

Also, since the $150 is going to charity...is it tax deductable? :p

[muhren]

Being a BOTL has nothing to do with it.
Pete is a businessman and wants your $$$. Pure and simple. He is perpetuating, thru creative marketing, an exclusivity that many want to be a part of. He is very successful at it.
Posted via Mobile Device

Pete - your personal thoughts? (Not what you think others will/should do...just your own ideas)

membership = Good idea?
membership = Bad idea?

M

[muhren]

Also, since the $150 is going to charity...is it tax deductable? :p

I believe it's just part of the fee:
"The knowledge that a portion of your annual membership fee will go to an eclectic mix of charities"

M

[Emjaysmash]

When do I get a decoder ring?

[T.G]

When do I get a decoder ring?

Can't tell you that until you pass through the initiation rites.

[nofeardiver]

well it says a portion, that could be $5 of that $150 for all you know...i found my email, was in the trash folder must have deleted it on my phone on accident...

"6. The knowledge that a portion of your annual membership fee will go to an eclectic mix of charities that Pete choses for their commitment to their particular cause."

[muhren]

Can't tell you that until you pass through the initiation rites.

TG - Are all your posts going to be :rolleyes:

I need to know because sometimes you're ridiculously valuable in your posts (see: http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=38663&highlight=Privada) and sometimes you're just pissin' around.

Should I be reading your comments or is this a joke one for ya? (I don't care either way...I'm just curious for the sake of my own reading time)

M

[bvilchez]

Also, since the $150 is going to charity...is it tax deductable?

That's a good point because many would see it that way but techinically it's not YOUR name giving it to charity. I know you were probably being sarcastic about it but in reality Tatuaje is the one who gets the credit for the charitable donation.

[Brooks W]

There is no way people are going to pay $150 for a CHANCE to buy some cigars...

There will be cigars included, mark my words :)

~brooks

[muhren]

Another thought I had before I head out for a run...

IF you can afford to smoke Tatuaje (or any other high-$ sticks for that matter) is the $150 that steep of a price tag?

M

[replicant_argent]

One of the charities is/probably should be titled "The Pete Johnson Sucker Memorial Retirement Fund."
While I dig his cigars, his marketing isn't my cup of tea, and I pass on this type of hucksterism, either First Party or third party.

This Way to the Egress!

[NCRadioMan]

I need to know because sometimes you're ridiculously valuable in your posts (see: http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=38663&highlight=Privada) and sometimes you're just pissin' around.

M

That describes a ton of the people in the Asylum. :r


I love Tat's but there is a point when marketing turns into masturbation.
:2

[replicant_argent]

there is a point when marketing turns into masturbation.
:2

You should never include children in it, though, because it is wrong.

[T.G]

TG - Are all your posts going to be :rolleyes:

I need to know because sometimes you're ridiculously valuable in your posts (see: http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=38663&highlight=Privada) and sometimes you're just pissin' around.

Should I be reading your comments or is this a joke one for ya? (I don't care either way...I'm just curious for the sake of my own reading time)

M

This is about Tatuaje dammit! Don't you get it? You shouldn't just be reading it, you should be memorizing it!

[muhren]

This is about Tatuaje dammit! Don't you get it? You shouldn't just be reading it, you should be memorizing it!

Gotcha! ;)

M

[massphatness]

Can someone post the email itself?

[ajacobs]

We apologize for the delay, but we are finally here to unveil the details of the Saints & Sinners club.

The Saints & Sinners Club is an exclusive members only club and for an annual registration fee of $150, each member will receive:

1. Exclusive, one-off products available only to members (select products may not be available for purchase through the S&S webstore).
2. Everyday Tatuaje branded merchandise at the Saints & Sinners club rate.
3. Access to members-only forums, where you can discuss the finer points of cigars, smoking accessories, spirits, and anything else associated with the Saints & Sinners lifestyle
4. Access to the Pete Johnson video blog. Here, Pete will update members on everything PJHC. Watch Pete as he travels around the world, visiting his production facility in Nicaragua, engages fans on cigar tours, and dishes on anything else he feels his Saints & Sinners family should know about.
5. First looks at new cigar blends, swag, as well as insider info on Tatuaje and other Pete Johnson brands.
6. The knowledge that a portion of your annual membership fee will go to an eclectic mix of charities that Pete choses for their commitment to their particular cause.

Visit the site and become one of the first granted entrance to this distinguished organization.

With the extremely limited nature of the products we are producing for each membership kit, we need to get an idea of how many people plan on joining the club so we can begin producing the qtys necessary to begin shipping shortly after launching the club.

To opt in, please click HERE and you will be directed to a new sign up page!

If you no longer wish to receive information leading up to the launch of the club please unsubscribe by clicking the button below.

[ajacobs]

It was mentioned previously that it includes 15 cigars. Part of the reason for the delay was setting up a Florida corporation where there is no tobacco tax for shipping those cigars. Admittedly, the email is vague.

[srduggins]

Somebody beat me to it.

[massphatness]

It was mentioned previously that it includes 15 cigars. Part of the reason for the delay was setting up a Florida corporation where there is no tobacco tax for shipping those cigars. Admittedly, the email is vague.

Thanks for posting the info, Aaron.

If nothing else, 15 Tatuaje-ish cigars could be worth $150- if you enjoy their line up.

[muhren]

ajacobs & srduggins - How dare you?!

Both banned from the club before it even officially begins for sharing information! :D

M

[replicant_argent]

It was mentioned previously that it includes 15 cigars. Part of the reason for the delay was setting up a Florida corporation where there is no tobacco tax for shipping those cigars. Admittedly, the email is vague.

I don't see in post #34 where it mentions 15 cigars, is it somewhere else you could link?

[neoflex]

Another thought I had before I head out for a run...

IF you can afford to smoke Tatuaje (or any other high-$ sticks for that matter) is the $150 that steep of a price tag?

M

If there is no more included in it than discounts and access to LEs and the other items mentioned in the e-mail than $150 is steep in my opinion. If the membership includes some swag and maybe an exclusive sampler of sticks than no it's not too off the wall but if I am going to pay $150 I would like to get more in return than the promise of be able to buy more of Petes stuff even if it's discounted. The way the e-mail went out it makes it almost sound like the Sams Club or Costco of Tatuaje. I was kind of excited to see what the Saints and Sinners would be but after this mornings e-mail I was quickly disappointed from how it initially sounded in the rumblings in the past months. Initially I had heard if you were a member you would be sent test blends, samples of up and coming sticks, swag etc.

[Bunker]

I got the email, but I am not joining if all you get is a discount and some swag, if there is a sampler involved maybe.

[neoflex]

Thanks for posting the info, Aaron.

If nothing else, 15 Tatuaje-ish cigars could be worth $150- if you enjoy their line up.

:tpd: I agree totally and would probably pull the trigger if this were the case. The e-mail doesn't mention anything of the sort though other than more or less donating your money.

[T.G]

In all seriousness...

The first time I heard about this was back in November directly from Pete (apparently I was the only person there who had never heard of this project) and Pete said he was doing it for the people who like these kinds of things. Apparently, Pete is as much a collector as he is a smoker and he said he loves going after the HTF and exclusive **** and he knows that there are other people like this too, so he wanted to cater to them a bit.

He did say there will be some exclusive stuff and even some older stuff.

Is he going to make money on it? Sure. It is his job after all. But through that, Pete is just a regular guy who loves cigars like the rest of us, he just happens to make them also.

Does he plan on bilking people or taking advantage of them? It didn't sound that way. Really sounded like a membership fee to get access to cigars that won't see general release, but the sale prices will be in line with his other MSRPs.

[Brooks W]

If there is no more included in it than discounts and access to LEs and the other items mentioned in the e-mail than $150 is steep in my opinion. If the membership includes some swag and maybe an exclusive sampler of sticks than no it's not too off the wall but if I am going to pay $150 I would like to get more in return than the promise of be able to buy more of Petes stuff even if it's discounted. The way the e-mail went out it makes it almost sound like the Sams Club or Costco of Tatuaje. I was kind of excited to see what the Saints and Sinners would be but after this mornings e-mail I was quickly disappointed from how it initially sounded in the rumblings in the past months. Initially I had heard if you were a member you would be sent test blends, samples of up and coming sticks, swag etc.

Straight from Pete (and the person working with Pete on the project):

"The pack has changed slightly over the last few weeks but will still include the same quantity that was originally mentioned." (i.e. 15 cigars)...

When someone asked "Im hoping it was the regular production stuff that was x-ed and the exclusive stuff stayed"

Pete said:

"I just changed a few sizes. The mix of reg and exclusive is still the same. "

Hope that helps!

~brooks

[poker]

Another thought I had before I head out for a run...

IF you can afford to smoke Tatuaje (or any other high-$ sticks for that matter) is the $150 that steep of a price tag?

M


I'm fairly certain I can afford smoking only high end cigars out there, but that dont mean I'll just fork over $150.00 for belly button lint.

[neoflex]

Straight from Pete (and the person working with Pete on the project):

"The pack has changed slightly over the last few weeks but will still include the same quantity that was originally mentioned." (i.e. 15 cigars)...

When someone asked "Im hoping it was the regular production stuff that was x-ed and the exclusive stuff stayed"

Pete said:

"I just changed a few sizes. The mix of reg and exclusive is still the same. "

Hope that helps!

~brooks

Thanks!
Unless it is actually stated on the initial sign up page on the 1st than I will take a pass on it as if it's not in writing than technically they don't need to send chit. I'm hoping what you posted does end up coming to fruition as I would probably jump on it. Even if I never take advantage of the discounts at least at the end of the day I will feel like I actually paid for something.

[Kreth]

This just confirms my opinion of Pete as the Scotty Cameron of cigar retailers. I wouldn't be surprised to see something like a limited edition Tatuaje headcov--um, cutter for $400 and available exclusively to club members.
Posted via Mobile Device

[Bunker]

If there are 10 cigars for my $150 I will be in (I pretty much just did that for a box of La Verite anyway).

[OLS]

Sorry, I'll take Tats whenever I can get them, but creating a new 'class' of cigar goes against everything a BOTL should stand for.Fixed that.........and that's exactly why I don't shop in Australia.

[pnoon]

Pete - your personal thoughts? (Not what you think others will/should do...just your own ideas)

membership = Good idea?
membership = Bad idea?

M


For me, bad idea. For you, only you can aswer that?

Now if Pete's cigars had that "sweet spot" that Sam Leccia/Nub claims to have, you might get me thinking. :rolleyes:
Posted via Mobile Device

[Stephen]

I'm fairly certain I can afford smoking only high end cigars out there, but that dont mean I'll just fork over $150.00 for belly button lint.
Not even Pete Johnson belly button lint?

[chippewastud79]

Sounds a lot like joining a band fan site to have the first option of buying concert tickets. Pay your money, find out that the 'exclusive deals' are just a week early and you can buy them for a cheaper price if you waited. It looks like marketing hype to me, $150 to buy stuff that is 'exclusive' to the club and get a nice free sampler. Sign me up so I can buy an exclusive Tatuaje hat that you can also get by: ordering online, going to an event, buying a sampler or a full box. But if you are in the club, you get first crack at buying the hat. :rolleyes: Paying money to be the first to pay more money. :2

[klipsch]

I heard for initiation, you have to smoke an entire box of Viaje regular production sticks. If you don't upchuck your lower intestine, you get to move onto the next phase which includes the secret decoder ring, that you'll need to decipher the clues to determine how many Tat LE's will be released between May 1st and Dec 31st. It's all very Secret Squirrel...

[Bill86]

For me, bad idea. For you, only you can aswer that?

Now if Pete's cigars had that "sweet spot" that Sam Leccia/Nub claims to have, you might get me thinking. :rolleyes:
Posted via Mobile Device

:r

This is hilarious, his latest attempt to be an even bigger filthy money grubbing whore. Gene Simmons watch out, Pete's trying to take your title! Get the new Tatuaje MONSTER UNDERWEAR!


1. Exclusive, one-off products available only to members (select products may not be available for purchase through the S&S webstore). MORE LIMITEDS?!??! So now what is it 10-12 limiteds a week?
2. Everyday Tatuaje branded merchandise at the Saints & Sinners club rate. A little vague isn't it? We talking swag or smokes? What is the rate?
3. Access to members-only forums, where you can discuss the finer points of cigars, smoking accessories, spirits, and anything else associated with the Saints & Sinners lifestyle YAY I want to be in the cool kids club "members only access" (where's the jerkit smiley?). Tatuaje fans have different lifestyles? (again jerkit smiley please
4. Access to the Pete Johnson video blog. Here, Pete will update members on everything PJHC. Watch Pete as he travels around the world, visiting his production facility in Nicaragua, engages fans on cigar tours, and dishes on anything else he feels his Saints & Sinners family should know about. Sounds like twitter.
5. First looks at new cigar blends, swag, as well as insider info on Tatuaje and other Pete Johnson brands. Big deal, news travels fast on the net...I'm sure by the time you check your email everyone will know already.
6. The knowledge that a portion of your annual membership fee will go to an eclectic mix of charities that Pete choses for their commitment to their particular cause. How much 2%? What charities? More vagueness.

Maybe I'm just in a particularly bad mood but this all sounds like a huge load of $hit.

[Bill86]

Not even Pete Johnson LIMITED EDITION belly button lint?

Eh Eh, bet you would buy it now!

[Dunkel]

Yawn! Typical PT.

[pektel]

SO glad I'm not a Tat whore.

[loki]

this guy is a marking genius

[rizzle]

While it's probably not for me, as it relates to people chasing his limited releases and such, I can see a similarity to the music industry and fan clubs. Used to be if you wanted a good seat to a show, you simply got to the front of the line. Now, some bands presell tickets, and block off the good seats, to their fan clubs before they are released to the general public. So, if it's your thing, there could be some value to it, if indeed that is the way it works.

Or I could just be a moran.

[KidRock]

Sounds a lot like joining a band fan site to have the first option of buying concert tickets. Pay your money, find out that the 'exclusive deals' are just a week early and you can buy them for a cheaper price if you waited. It looks like marketing hype to me, $150 to buy stuff that is 'exclusive' to the club and get a nice free sampler. Sign me up so I can buy an exclusive Tatuaje hat that you can also get by: ordering online, going to an event, buying a sampler or a full box. But if you are in the club, you get first crack at buying the hat. :rolleyes: Paying money to be the first to pay more money. :2

Agreed. I love Tatuaje cigars but between the marketing and massive releases of limited cigars it is running its course with me. What happened it to being just about the cigar?

[awsmith4]

this guy is a marking genius

This

[E.J.]

This just confirms my opinion of Pete as the Scotty Cameron of cigar retailers.

I roll the ball with a Teryllium Newport II....:tu

[mariogolbee]

In all seriousness...

The first time I heard about this was back in November directly from Pete (apparently I was the only person there who had never heard of this project) and Pete said he was doing it for the people who like these kinds of things. Apparently, Pete is as much a collector as he is a smoker and he said he loves going after the HTF and exclusive **** and he knows that there are other people like this too, so he wanted to cater to them a bit.

He did say there will be some exclusive stuff and even some older stuff.

Is he going to make money on it? Sure. It is his job after all. But through that, Pete is just a regular guy who loves cigars like the rest of us, he just happens to make them also.

Does he plan on bilking people or taking advantage of them? It didn't sound that way. Really sounded like a membership fee to get access to cigars that won't see general release, but the sale prices will be in line with his other MSRPs.

Thanks for a different POV, Adam. This is the approximate point I was thinking of making. I, and many of you, have met Pete in person. I don't think everything he does is great, or that he's some rock star, but he's a pretty cool guy and not a douche as some make him out to be. I've watched a few videos of him, spoke to him once in person, and I can honestly say that I believe he does this kind of stuff mostly out of enjoyment. I'm sure there will be a nice little package given out for signing up. I, for one, will likely be doing so.

It's kind of unnerving to see some of the animosity around here that goes on around here towards Pete Johnson and some others in the cigar industry. If somebody doesn't like a product or idea, it makes sense to discuss it. Do we really need to attack the character of the person?:sh

[themoneycollector]

Originally signed up, but never got the e-mail.

I may pass on this though. Sounds like a way for Patel Johnson to pad his bottom line and push whatever tobacco he wants to get rid of or whatever trademark name he needs released.

[68TriShield]

Paying money first to be the first to pay more money. :2
Fixed for accuracy :)

Not a Pete Johnson hater but there are plenty of botl's that can't afford his cigars as it is.
I'd think he should make his fan club inclusive rather than exclusive.
But that's just my worthless opinion.

[Brutus2600]

Thanks for a different POV, Adam. This is the approximate point I was thinking of making. I, and many of you, have met Pete in person. I don't think everything he does is great, or that he's some rock star, but he's a pretty cool guy and not a douche as some make him out to be. I've watched a few videos of him, spoke to him once in person, and I can honestly say that I believe he does this kind of stuff mostly out of enjoyment. I'm sure there will be a nice little package given out for signing up. I, for one, will likely be doing so.

It's kind of unnerving to see some of the animosity around here that goes on around here towards Pete Johnson and some others in the cigar industry. If somebody doesn't like a product or idea, it makes sense to discuss it. Do we really need to attack the character of the person?:sh

I'm with you Mario...while I am actually kind of burned out on chasing the LE's that he releases, having met him and chatted for awhile, in no way do I think he needs insulted for the what he's doing with his product.

So I get it if you're burned out on chasing LE's, and if it's not your thing, why waste energy posting insults? :sh It seems that every Tat thread goes from a couple of interested Tat-Whores posting a few messages then it deteriorates into a PJ insult thread.

[Brutus2600]

Fixed for accuracy :)

Not a Pete Johnson hater but there are plenty of botl's that can't afford his cigars as it is.
I'd think he should make his fan club inclusive rather than exclusive.
But that's just my worthless opinion.

See Dave...that's actually a good post that has a constructive opinion :tu While I might not agree, I can still respect it! -(P

[Blueface]

More secrecy from my brother in law Pete.
Man I am pissed to be the last to know.

(Some of you will get it.)
(Some of you won't.)
(One of you for sure won't even be able to read this.)

[icehog3]

More secrecy from my brother in law Pete.
Man I am pissed to be the last to know.

(Some of you will get it.)
(Some of you won't.)
(One of you for sure won't even be able to read this.)

Pete is your BIL? You lucky son of a beech!

[replicant_argent]

Pete is your BIL? You lucky son of a beech!

And can you believe Carlos still chooses to either smoke Padrons or tent pegs?
Is there no sanity in this world??!

[Negncic]

Pass. Do you know much Kool-aid I can buy with $150.00? :r

Probably not as much as Pete serves.

[Stick]

I'm not sure he's that much of a genius. In fact it sounds a lot like the marketing done by some high end craft breweries like The Bruery's Reserve Society or the quandom Lost Abby Saints & Sinners Club (sound familiar?)

[elderboy02]

Wow.... Lots of hostility. Pete isn't making anyone join.

[michael799a]

thanks for post

[marge796]

I'm in!!!


:noon


Chris.....

[Dunkel]

It's funny how when Tats are brought up you have some folks that jump at any chance to get any swag or LE's that comes out. On the other side of the coin are people who are tired of the endless gimmicks. Those that jump always say those that are tired of the endless gimmicks are hostile or hateful. I have enjoyed a few Tats that I've smoked and a few have disappointed. What it really comes down to is Pete doesn't make any cigars, Don Pepin Garcia makes them. When the cigar is great (Pork Tenderloin, Barclay Rex etc.) Pete is the hot cheerleader the fans of the game are glad to see. When the cigars are pretty bad (Drac, The Face etc.) Pete is the beer swillin' fat guy who cheers for his team no matter how bad they are doing.

[Bunker]

I'm not sure he's that much of a genius. In fact it sounds a lot like the marketing done by some high end craft breweries like The Bruery's Reserve Society or the quandom Lost Abby Saints & Sinners Club (sound familiar?)


Well, no one said he made these things up. The La Verite futures project was taken from the wine industry, that is said right up front.

He is just good at taking these things and applying them in this market with success.

I haven't smoked all of his LE's, and some of those I did smoke were dissappointing.

But others are so good I almost don't want to smoke the few I have as I know I can't get any more.

Luckily my favorite is still the original Brown label.

And yes, Pepin is the real maker behind Pete. But short of maybe the My Father Le B, there isn't a Pepin stick available that I enjoy as much as the Tats I smoke.

[RevSmoke]

Wow, what a spectrum of thoughts, attitudes, and moods in this thread. It made me laugh just to read the diversity and the dramatic shifts of them.

I have liked a few Tats. I haven't been able to try a few I'd like to try because I don't have the coin when the are available, and when I do have some extra capital, they aren't accessible anymore. Some were great, some OK, a couple were seriously disappointing. Oh well. I do know that I certainly don't have $150 to toss at this membership.

I also know the boat I'd like to have for fishing, sweet rig, but $18K I don't have. So, I putter around in my $600 boat, glad to have that, and enjoy time with my boys (and some friends) fishing.

Could some of the vitriol sent Pete's way be anger about the fact that someone cannot get or afford another cigar he's made? Or that they feel they "have to have" something new that he's produced? Could be!

In the end, all I have to say is... More power to Pete to be able to do this - I hope it flies.

Will I be joining? Not until my tomato plants starts producing $50 bills on a regular basis. Untill then, I'm going to use the money I could spend on this for gas money to take my sons out in the boat - that $150 will get us fishing almost through the season. Oh, and I have a few cigars to take with me. I don't know how many will be Pete's, but I'll enjoy every single one of them in the company of whoever is in the boat with me. And if we're lucky, the fish will bite - making that day complete.

Peace of the Lord be with you.

[OLS]

I have to say as a totally external player here, that this thread is most useful as a in or out thread.
I take pride in this forum for what it is, and that is better than every other single forum I have ever
looked at much less joined. I understand that there are opinons on all sides of the spectrum,
but I can't see bashing a person for being a good businessman who also makes good products.
If this industry was filled with Rocky Patels, there'd be something to holler about. Rocky started
out so pure and then became the CLASSIC case of Cigar Ahole. 50 different useless cigar blends, all of them
suffering from too much $hi+ to control syndrome. The industry needs Pete and Orlando and Pepin and Drew.
They TRY. Again, I will try after this to stay out of it, because I was sitting down with Croatan and Beagleone
in Dallas and they started talking about Pete Johnson and I said "Who?" and they both laughed and told me
he was the Tatuaje guy, and I said "Tatoowhat?" Actually the second part I knew. I made that up just now.
But I think we are better than this as a group. I understand all of the opinions, but on the whole again, I think
he is much better for the industry than most, and for as many idiot's hands as he has to shake a year, he still
manages to get out there and rub elbows with the roundheads and keep a smile on his face. I don't hate Bill
Gates for being a billionaire. I respect him for inventing $hit+ that allows me to make a living in my pajamas if
I want to.

[landhoney]

Funny, breweries have been doing this for some time.

Lost Abbey Brewery's exclusive club(s) are even called "Sinners and Saints" (since 2006) :r

Just addressing the "genius" comments, he's doing a good job obviously, but copying what others are doing years later is not genius to me. Just very smart.

All that to say, I have no problem with this. :tu

If you like his products and want access to exclusive stuff it's the only way. Same with the breweries, they make small batch stuff for their clubs and no one else can get it (except second hand). Those interested participate, and are usually happy (at least in the beer world). Those not interested do not participate.

[hscmit]

I have to say as a totally external player here, that this thread is most useful as a in or out thread.
I take pride in this forum for what it is, and that is better than every other single forum I have ever
looked at much less joined. I understand that there are opinons on all sides of the spectrum,
but I can't see bashing a person for being a good businessman who also makes good products.
If this industry was filled with Rocky Patels, there'd be something to holler about. Rocky started
out so pure and then became the CLASSIC case of Cigar Ahole. 50 different useless cigar blends, all of them
suffering from too much $hi+ to control syndrome. The industry needs Pete and Orlando and Pepin and Drew.
They TRY. Again, I will try after this to stay out of it, because I was sitting down with Croatan and Beagleone
in Dallas and they started talking about Pete Johnson and I said "Who?" and they both laughed and told me
he was the Tatuaje guy, and I said "Tatoowhat?" Actually the second part I knew. I made that up just now.
But I think we are better than this as a group. I understand all of the opinions, but on the whole again, I think
he is much better for the industry than most, and for as many idiot's hands as he has to shake a year, he still
manages to get out there and rub elbows with the roundheads and keep a smile on his face. I don't hate Bill
Gates for being a billionaire. I respect him for inventing $hit+ that allows me to make a living in my pajamas if
I want to.

well said

[rizzle]

Funny, breweries have been doing this for some time.

Lost Abbey Brewery's exclusive club(s) are even called "Sinners and Saints" (since 2006) :r

Just addressing the "genius" comments, he's doing a good job obviously, but copying what others are doing years later is not genius to me. Just very smart.

All that to say, I have no problem with this. :tu

If you like his products and want access to exclusive stuff it's the only way. Same with the breweries, they make small batch stuff for their clubs and no one else can get it (except second hand). Those interested participate, and are usually happy (at least in the beer world). Those not interested do not participate.
It's really just about that simple. Good post, Seth.

[twenty5]

I personally think its a great deal, the 150$ will get you the previously mentioned access to info that every tat whore looks for, a 15 cigar sampler (5 regular production, 5 prototype blends and 5 Saints and Sinners exclusives) plus a hat and shirt.. Cant beat that IMHO.

Why bash Pete for introducing something to keep the cigar world exciting?

[neoflex]

Sinners exclusives) plus a hat and shirt.. Cant beat that IMHO. Why bash Pete for introducing something to keep the cigar world exciting?

Do you have a link with the sampler mentioned as being fact? I think a portion of us myself included were just disappointed buy the e-mail that was released that didn't mention anything about receiving any kind of hard goods in return for joining. The only thing mentioned was the access to discounts, exclusive releases etc. If the sampler is in fact going to be sent in return I have no problems forking over the $150 to join but if it's just what was mentioned in the e-mail released yesterday than I myself will take a pass and I think that is where some of the groups displeasure came from IMHO. A few guys have mentioned a sampler being sent with membership but it was not mentioned in the slightest in the e-mail regarding the membership.

[twenty5]

As Brooks already mentioned in this thread, sizes or blends may have changed since these pictures were taken but these were the original S&S samplers:
9243
9244
9245

[marge796]

I love it, this is why Tatuaje, Pete Johnson are freaking marketing geniuses. His company sends out one little email yesterday to those who showed interest in the S&S club and wham-o all this chatter on this board, and others I'm sure. I say top notch to Pete & Tatuaje cigars, keep up the great marketing and outstanding cigars IMO. That is all......


:tu :tu


Chris.....

[OLS]

All that said in my previous entry, I DO remember the Honeycomb Hideout only required two box tops and a
dollar to join. My, how times have changed. Of course there was no smoking in the Honeycomb Hideout.

[Brutus2600]

As Brooks already mentioned in this thread, sizes or blends may have changed since these pictures were taken but these were the original S&S samplers:
9243
9244
9245

This has piqued my interest...

[loki]

Just addressing the "genius" comments, he's doing a good job obviously, but copying what others are doing years later is not genius to me. Just very smart.

All that to say, I have no problem with this. :tu



guy makes an average product and markets it to where people are falling over themselves to get it, i'll call that genius all day. it's the cartman principle, i've got it you can't have it...wait i need to make money, ok only x amount of people can have it.

[maninblack]

The man's a genius and I tip my hat to him. Gotta make a living, and he's great at what he does.

[ajacobs]

Do you have a link with the sampler mentioned as being fact? I think a portion of us myself included were just disappointed buy the e-mail that was released that didn't mention anything about receiving any kind of hard goods in return for joining. The only thing mentioned was the access to discounts, exclusive releases etc. If the sampler is in fact going to be sent in return I have no problems forking over the $150 to join but if it's just what was mentioned in the e-mail released yesterday than I myself will take a pass and I think that is where some of the groups displeasure came from IMHO. A few guys have mentioned a sampler being sent with membership but it was not mentioned in the slightest in the e-mail regarding the membership.

The email also didn't mention it was $150 dollars.

I agree that the email was a blunder, it appears it was done hastily in order to gauge interest for manufacturing amounts.

I am sure everything will be disclosed in full detail before anyone is expected to fork over any cash.

At that time I will make a decision if it is worth it.

For me, I am not really interested in chasing down prototypes and the like, not interested in following Pete's exploits on video (or anyone's) and I don't wear logo t-shirts. On the other hand I enjoy tats so who knows.

I am sure it is a win win for Pete:
Cultivate a dedicated fan base and loyalty to his product
Concentrate his marketing efforts
Since he is moving away from limited releases, have a venue to get limited product out there.
Since the profit from the program is being donated there is the tax break
Get feedback on products before broader release
etc.
1. He cultivates a

[Powers]

If you indeed receive 15 sticks, including 10 prototypes and LEs, and some swag I'd say its worth it.

Either way I agree with the folks who recognize that DPG is the crucial factor, Pete is the face of the brand and a smart business man. Anything to hype up interest in cigars and the cigar community is good in my book

As an aside, I assume there will be an open website to join or can you only join through the email?

[ajacobs]

You can't even join yet. It was an email to people who previously expressed interest to find out if they are still interested. As many people who want to will be able to join.

They wanted to gauge interest to see how much merchandise they should make (cigars and swag)

[thecatch83]

Seems like this would pay for itself, after getting a free sampler and a couple discounted boxes of Tat LE's that always seem to either A: Sell out very quickly, or B: Can only be found/purchased well above retail. Interesting......

[neoflex]

The email also didn't mention it was $150 dollars.

I agree that the email was a blunder, it appears it was done hastily in order to gauge interest for manufacturing amounts.

I am sure everything will be disclosed in full detail before anyone is expected to fork over any cash.

At that time I will make a decision if it is worth it.

For me, I am not really interested in chasing down prototypes and the like, not interested in following Pete's exploits on video (or anyone's) and I don't wear logo t-shirts. On the other hand I enjoy tats so who knows.

I am sure it is a win win for Pete:
Cultivate a dedicated fan base and loyalty to his product
Concentrate his marketing efforts
Since he is moving away from limited releases, have a venue to get limited product out there.
Since the profit from the program is being donated there is the tax break
Get feedback on products before broader release
etc.
1. He cultivates a

Just an FYI, the e-mail did state the price. Below is the copy and pasted e-mail verbatim.
We apologize for the delay, but we are finally here to unveil the details of the Saints & Sinners club.

The Saints & Sinners Club is an exclusive members only club and for an annual registration fee of $150, each member will receive:

1. Exclusive, one-off products available only to members (select products may not be available for purchase through the S&S webstore).
2. Everyday Tatuaje branded merchandise at the Saints & Sinners club rate.
3. Access to members-only forums, where you can discuss the finer points of cigars, smoking accessories, spirits, and anything else associated with the Saints & Sinners lifestyle
4. Access to the Pete Johnson video blog. Here, Pete will update members on everything PJHC. Watch Pete as he travels around the world, visiting his production facility in Nicaragua, engages fans on cigar tours, and dishes on anything else he feels his Saints & Sinners family should know about.
5. First looks at new cigar blends, swag, as well as insider info on Tatuaje and other Pete Johnson brands.
6. The knowledge that a portion of your annual membership fee will go to an eclectic mix of charities that Pete choses for their commitment to their particular cause.

[neoflex]

As mentioned previous if that sampler is part of the fee to join I'm in for the sticks alone.

[thecatch83]

If there are charitable donations made with portions of your registration fee, there could be tax breaks involved or write offs. Another bonus in my book..........count me in.

[weak_link]

For those who are into this kind of thing I'm sure it's pretty cool. It's not for me but I don't begrudge those who are.

What I want to know is, do you get a free jacket?

http://l.yimg.com/a/feeds/us/shine/wisteria/MembersOnlyFull.jpg

[themoneycollector]

If there are charitable donations made with portions of your registration fee, there could be tax breaks involved or write offs. Another bonus in my book..........count me in.

The likelihood of being able to take a charitable tax deduction is very low.

1. You are not making a charitable donation, the company is. And because a portion of the annual fee is getting donated does not entitle you to take a charitable tax deduction for your full annual fee to this program.
2. Usually foreign charities are not allowed to be deducted (it has been said that the funds will likely go to Nicaraguan kids).
3. Most important, the charity usually must be a legitimate 501(3)(c). I doubt this will be one.
4. To even take credit for a charitable tax donation, you have to file 1040 and itemize instead of the taking the standard deduction. If you take the standard deduction, then this is counter-productive.

:(

[Brutus2600]

Yeah, I was totally joking about that being a tax deduction...so I apologize for bringing even more confusion into an already confusing discussion ;s

[themoneycollector]

Just wanted to get it clear and not mislead people into thinking there's potential for tax deductions here.

[hscmit]

Just wanted to get it clear and not mislead people into thinking there's potential for tax deductions here.

you are also getting something in return, which voids the deduction to begin with :2

[jesseboston81]

I love Tats and I enjoy my LE Tats as much as anyone, but I'd prefer to spend my $150/year on cigars of my choosing and keep up with Tat news through the already-existing channels. I won't be signing on to this.

. . .

Your username is highly pertinent to this discussion.

[Cornrow_Wallis]

So I guess you get a different sampler for every year you renew the membership as well?

[thecatch83]

Just wanted to get it clear and not mislead people into thinking there's potential for tax deductions here.

I was being facetious.........

[Apoco]

you are also getting something in return, which voids the deduction to begin with :2

Actually, it only voids the deduction up to the market value of the good/service received. IE - if you buy a $2,000 car (market value determined from Kelly's blue book in this scenario) for $90,000 at a Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Awareness event, you could deduct $88,000 as a Charitable Contribution (assuming SGKBCA is a 401(c)(3) corporation).

Of course, in this scenario with Tatuaje, I can assure you the Market Value of the sampler + swag that is being tossed around would be accepted as more than $150

But back on topic - I doubt I'll pick this up. I like the Tat LEs if I can find them, but I gave up actively pursuing them a while ago. Now I have to see them in the WTS section or in my local B&M to care :)
Posted via Mobile Device

[OLS]

Internet Explorer???

[DoctaJ]

Is there any way to get signed up if you didn't get the e-mail? I just went to Tat's homepage and put my email address in, but I kind of want to get in with the first crack if possible :noon

[tx_tuff]

Is there any way to get signed up if you didn't get the e-mail? I just went to Tat's homepage and put my email address in, but I kind of want to get in with the first crack if possible :noon

The link to sign up

http://thesnsclub.com/sns/sns.php

[tx_tuff]

When I first got the email I was concerned with the price tag and the email not really saying what you are getting as far as cigars and swag. I went to the forum that Pete posts on reg and searched the Saints & Sinners thread there to see what all was said. Pete say's in the open forum that included in the price is 15 cigars, a mix of reg line, exclusive, and prototype cigars. Also have read including in this thread guys that have talked to Pete and also included is swag. Everything from hat and shirt to a hoodie?

If you like Tatuaje cigars then it is prob worth the money to join and get the cigars alone with the other perks. If your not a fan then of course it is not worth it to you. And if Pete says in a open forum that 15 cigars are included then I take his word on that. You can pay yet anyway at this time. The whole purpose of signing up now is so they will have an idea of how many cigars they will need on hand to send out to members.

[DoctaJ]

The link to sign up

http://thesnsclub.com/sns/sns.php

:banger

[shilala]

I signed up so I can bask in the glory that is the Saints and Sinners lifestyle. I feel sexy. :noon

[xxx_busa]

This thread, I just dont get it, Must be time for the Lunch stogie :)

[Stephen]

So does enrolling in this club give you automatic access to the ***** & lovers club or the child & mothers club? If so, Meredith Brooks is in.;s

[chippewastud79]

The link to sign up

http://thesnsclub.com/sns/sns.php

Did anyone else read that kind of like the promises and premises of the owner of a random cigar forum to remain nameless? :hm

Obviously there will be plenty of people who buy into the 'Saint and Sinner Lifestyle', but spending money to be a member of an exclusive cult errrr club won't be for most. :2

[thecatch83]

Did anyone else read that kind of like the promises and premises of the owner of a random cigar forum to remain nameless? :hm

Obviously there will be plenty of people who buy into the 'Saint and Sinner Lifestyle', but spending money to be a member of an exclusive cult errrr club won't be for most. :2

Precisely why I'm interested........what's the impetus behind joining an exclusive club with no exclusivity :sh

[chippewastud79]

[/U]

Precisely why I'm interested........what's the impetus behind joining an exclusive club with no exclusivity :sh

I read it as being a lot less exclusive than people are making it out to be. 5% off Tatuaje hats, Pete youtube videos and being able to buy samplers the week before everyone else is hardly worth it to me. I highly doubt that he will be rolling exclusive blends for the 'club' or having people weighing in on the next cigars to blend. If it gives you the impression of being closer to the man and that you are in the inner circle, then I guess the 'exclusivity' is yours. :2

[shilala]

Anyone that wants to join my inner circle can enter any time you want. Just stop over and we'll have a cup of coffee and you can smoke any of my exclusive cigars you like. There's a very good chance I'll send you away with a new member fiver, too.
If you like, you can watch my youtube videos and join my facebook. You can even have dinner with us. If I have something you truly need, I'll be happy to give you 100% off on it, and you won't ever have to renew your membership.
If you're coming through and need somewhere to stay, we'll make room for you.
We'll have a real good time, and you won't have to have signed up in advance.
I mean that from the bottom of my heart, and I'd venture to guess that a very large portion, if not all the botl's here express the same sentiment.

I think that's why this whole "exclusive saints and sinners lifestyle" thing tends to rub the wrong way. In my book, as brothers, we are all equal, and are to love each other to the very best of our ability every day. We see it happening here every day.
If anyone wonders "why the animosity?", there ya have it.
I hope to think no one is truly upset, and I don't think anyone is, it's just a departure from the brotherly aspect of what we do, and that can't be denied.
It's probably a bit "cookie-jar-ish". When has someone taken enough from the community that he's overstepped some heartfelt line?
I think Pete, albeit a good natured, nice and decent guy, stepped right over that line with this one. I'm guessing a lot of the brothers feel exactly the same way. It's upsetting, and it's disappointing.
I personally feel he's gone from BOTL to Thompson's Cigars with this move, which is okay if that's what he wants, but I somehow feel both alienated and less than worthy of his presence.
And I don't like it.
Despite that, I wish him the best, and I wish him all I'd want for myself and my family, plus a whole lot more. :tu

[hscmit]

Anyone that wants to join my inner circle can enter any time you want. Just stop over and we'll have a cup of coffee and you can smoke any of my exclusive cigars you like. There's a very good chance I'll send you away with a new member fiver, too.
If you like, you can watch my youtube videos and join my facebook. You can even have dinner with us. If I have something you truly need, I'll be happy to give you 100% off on it, and you won't ever have to renew your membership.
If you're coming through and need somewhere to stay, we'll make room for you.
We'll have a real good time, and you won't have to have signed up in advance.
I mean that from the bottom of my heart, and I'd venture to guess that a very large portion, if not all the botl's here express the same sentiment.

I think that's why this whole "exclusive saints and sinners lifestyle" thing tends to rub the wrong way. In my book, as brothers, we are all equal, and are to love each other to the very best of our ability every day. We see it happening here every day.
If anyone wonders "why the animosity?", there ya have it.
I hope to think no one is truly upset, and I don't think anyone is, it's just a departure from the brotherly aspect of what we do, and that can't be denied.
It's probably a bit "cookie-jar-ish". When has someone taken enough from the community that he's overstepped some heartfelt line?
I think Pete, albeit a good natured, nice and decent guy, stepped right over that line with this one. I'm guessing a lot of the brothers feel exactly the same way. It's upsetting, and it's disappointing.
I personally feel he's gone from BOTL to Thompson's Cigars with this move, which is okay if that's what he wants, but I somehow feel both alienated and less than worthy of his presence.
And I don't like it.
Despite that, I wish him the best, and I wish him all I'd want for myself and my family, plus a whole lot more. :tu



great post scott
100% agree
:tu

[twenty5]

I think a lot of people are reading too far into this.

Think of it like buying a 15ct box of cigars at an event, so swag is included. This "club" is open to everyone and there is no limit to the amount of people that can join. Renew next year if you want the new 15ct sampler.

Some people just like to suck the fun out of everything..

[mariogolbee]

I think a lot of people are reading too far into this.

Think of it like buying a 15ct box of cigars at an event, so swag is included. This "club" is open to everyone and there is no limit to the amount of people that can join. Renew next year if you want the new 15ct sampler.

Some people just like to suck the fun out of everything..
:tpd: I like to try different cigars everyday if possible. I find most, not all, LE sticks I smoke to be different and most of the time better than most of the regular production sticks I've smoked. Part of the problem for me with buying any cigar online is the cost of shipping. It makes no sense to buy just one cigar for $10 and get s/h charges for $5 on top of that. I see this as an opportunity to get a nice 15 count sampler of different sticks that will likely all be very good.

As far as "all the animosity" goes, Scott, your post was not full of it. IMO, you posted very worthwhile comments which are your own thoughts and feelings. I do tire of seeing the ol' "ad homenim." Your post was not full of that. If I'm ever remotely in your neck of the woods I'd love to take you up on your offer. This "club" thing has nothing to do with that whatsoever, though.

[shilala]

:tpd: I like to try different cigars everyday if possible. I find most, not all, LE sticks I smoke to be different and most of the time better than most of the regular production sticks I've smoked. Part of the problem for me with buying any cigar online is the cost of shipping. It makes no sense to buy just one cigar for $10 and get s/h charges for $5 on top of that. I see this as an opportunity to get a nice 15 count sampler of different sticks that will likely all be very good.

As far as "all the animosity" goes, Scott, your post was not full of it. IMO, you posted very worthwhile comments which are your own thoughts and feelings. I do tire of seeing the ol' "ad homenim." Your post was not full of that. If I'm ever remotely in your neck of the woods I'd love to take you up on your offer. This "club" thing has nothing to do with that whatsoever, though.
You're certainly welcome to come see us, Mario. :)
You're right about that club being none of that. All politics aside, it's not a bad deal if you like Tat's to get 15 smokes for that money. Period. Especially an opportunity to try some blends that didn't make the cut. If you're a real Tat fan, that's good stuff right there.

I just cringe every time I see the division in the brotherhood that everything Pete Johnson brings. There's gotta be a reason for that. My reasoning could be completely off the beam, but after watching it go on for so long, it's the best I could offer.
Personally, I'd just like to see it all go away. It sure doesn't need to be like this, and even Gurkha and Rocky Patel don't raise the negative emotion that Pete does.
Weird, right?

[T.G]

I just cringe every time I see the division in the brotherhood that everything Pete Johnson brings. There's gotta be a reason for that. My reasoning could be completely off the beam, but after watching it go on for so long, it's the best I could offer.
Personally, I'd just like to see it all go away. It sure doesn't need to be like this, and even Gurkha and Rocky Patel don't raise the negative emotion that Pete does.
Weird, right?

Some people just aren't happy without someone to hate.

[OHRD]

Pass.

:tpd:

[awsmith4]

I would join if I had the coin, I see it as a chance for true Tat fans to get some goodies. If Habanos SA created a club I'd join in a heartbeat. Like Stick and Landhoney pointed out craft brewers have been doing it for a while. If he sets it up the same way, it gives loyal customers access to product that is too expensive or scarce to constantly produce for the general market. It will reward folks for buying his product which will hopefully help him sustain a healthy business and loyal following. The object of business is to make money and if this helps then by all means...

[Brooks W]

I just cringe every time I see the division in the brotherhood that everything Pete Johnson brings. There's gotta be a reason for that. My reasoning could be completely off the beam, but after watching it go on for so long, it's the best I could offer.
Personally, I'd just like to see it all go away. It sure doesn't need to be like this, and even Gurkha and Rocky Patel don't raise the negative emotion that Pete does.
Weird, right?

I cringe every time someone decides to pass judgement on Pete, when all he is doing is what people ASK him to do, release (mostly great) cigars. Someone on another board was *****ing because Pete said he was going to give some of the money to charity...REALLY? I understand if you don't want to support Pete if he is giving money to a Charity you don't like, but do you really have to deride him for that?

I was there when the idea of the "Fan Club" was discussed, some of the people I was with actually kinda talked Pete into it (or at least gave him some reasons why he should do it)...It made perfect sense at the time, a membership with exclusive stuff that anyone who WANTS to can join, and those that don't can choose NOT to join.

Would people prefer he not release ANY new stuff? Or only on a specific schedule? One new cigar every 6 months? Or is that still "too many"?

PETE is not the one causing the division, it is the "BOTL" who ***** and moan about EVERY NEW RELEASE, as if it has not been said Ad nauseam.

Pete is in the business to A. Release cigars and B. Make money releasing cigars. If you have a problem with either, don't BUY the cigars (or related products he is selling).

Is it really that hard to understand?

[pgagnon]

Cigars smoker society is not different from society itself. Different products for different people. We are all equal as BOLT but heh, cigars dont have equals value. There lies the difference I do think.

[whodeeni]

I cringe every time someone decides to pass judgement on Pete, when all he is doing is what people ASK him to do, release (mostly great) cigars. Someone on another board was *****ing because Pete said he was going to give some of the money to charity...REALLY? I understand if you don't want to support Pete if he is giving money to a Charity you don't like, but do you really have to deride him for that?

I was there when the idea of the "Fan Club" was discussed, some of the people I was with actually kinda talked Pete into it (or at least gave him some reasons why he should do it)...It made perfect sense at the time, a membership with exclusive stuff that anyone who WANTS to can join, and those that don't can choose NOT to join.

Would people prefer he not release ANY new stuff? Or only on a specific schedule? One new cigar every 6 months? Or is that still "too many"?

PETE is not the one causing the division, it is the "BOTL" who ***** and moan about EVERY NEW RELEASE, as if it has not been said Ad nauseam.

Pete is in the business to A. Release cigars and B. Make money releasing cigars. If you have a problem with either, don't BUY the cigars (or related products he is selling).

Is it really that hard to understand?

Well said Brooks! Get off Pete's Nuts and live your own life!:tu Cigars are for the most part a "Man thing"... Some of these guys need to realize that and start acting as such.... or they need to give up cigars start smoking cigarettes and/or blunts and join a F'n pole dancing class! I believe "P. Diddy" said it best! NO *****ASSNESS!!! We really need to adopt this theme and take it to heart in the cigar community!

[Bill86]

I don't think the "BOTL" are the reason he releases a new cigar every day....I'm sorry I think it's because he's a whore and just wants to pad his wallet with money from cigars that all taste the same. Along with some dumb@$$ trendy name, band or packaging. He's the Justin Bieber of the cigar world. A joke. In my book his good cigars are about 2/10 so he's shooting 20% IMO.

I've stated this before he's laughing in your faces......Tatuaje - Tattoo....are you kidding me?!?! Tattoo Tattoo......that's just so creative, notice how he's putting the same bands on his cigars now? Not even changing the bands! Just the words on them! I feel like I'm preaching on deaf ears though.

I want to see a post where someone says "PETE PLEASE RELEASE 400+ CIGARS A YEAR!" Then I want to see say..... 10,000 people that agree. You won't find that anywhere.....it doesn't exist. No one is forcing him to release 400+ cigars a year.

The only people that defend Pete are the few that can afford to keep buying all these LE cigars. So of course if you have the coin you're going to say RELEASE MOAR!!!!! If you, like most people cannot afford 400 boxes a year.... you are probably sick and tired of this pathetic charade.

Come to the dark side, we have cookies.

:2 :2 :2 :2 My 8 cents.

[mariogolbee]

I don't think the "BOTL" are the reason he releases a new cigar every day....I'm sorry I think it's because he's a whore and just wants to pad his wallet with money from cigars that all taste the same. Along with some dumb@$$ trendy name, band or packaging. He's the Justin Bieber of the cigar world. A joke. In my book his good cigars are about 2/10 so he's shooting 20% IMO.

I've stated this before he's laughing in your faces......Tatuaje - Tattoo....are you kidding me?!?! Tattoo Tattoo......that's just so creative, notice how he's putting the same bands on his cigars now? Not even changing the bands! Just the words on them! I feel like I'm preaching on deaf ears though.

I want to see a post where someone says "PETE PLEASE RELEASE 400+ CIGARS A YEAR!" Then I want to see say..... 10,000 people that agree. You won't find that anywhere.....it doesn't exist. No one is forcing him to release 400+ cigars a year.

The only people that defend Pete are the few that can afford to keep buying all these LE cigars. So of course if you have the coin you're going to say RELEASE MOAR!!!!! If you, like most people cannot afford 400 boxes a year.... you are probably sick and tired of this pathetic charade.

Come to the dark side, we have cookies.

:2 :2 :2 :2 My 8 cents.

This comment was completely unnecessary. Let's all try and not attack people directly please. In this post there are attacks on Pete Johnson AND those who buy his cigars. I am not a mindless idiot and I am not "one of the only people..." but that's what I hear you saying in this post. "Smoke what you like." THAT is what a BOTL would say.

In a polite debate one does not attack a person and that is what is being done in this thread.

[Brooks W]

I don't think the "BOTL" are the reason he releases a new cigar every day....I'm sorry I think it's because he's a whore and just wants to pad his wallet with money from cigars that all taste the same. Along with some dumb@$$ trendy name, band or packaging. He's the Justin Bieber of the cigar world. A joke. In my book his good cigars are about 2/10 so he's shooting 20% IMO.

I've stated this before he's laughing in your faces......Tatuaje - Tattoo....are you kidding me?!?! Tattoo Tattoo......that's just so creative, notice how he's putting the same bands on his cigars now? Not even changing the bands! Just the words on them! I feel like I'm preaching on deaf ears though.

I want to see a post where someone says "PETE PLEASE RELEASE 400+ CIGARS A YEAR!" Then I want to see say..... 10,000 people that agree. You won't find that anywhere.....it doesn't exist. No one is forcing him to release 400+ cigars a year.

The only people that defend Pete are the few that can afford to keep buying all these LE cigars. So of course if you have the coin you're going to say RELEASE MOAR!!!!! If you, like most people cannot afford 400 boxes a year.... you are probably sick and tired of this pathetic charade.

Come to the dark side, we have cookies.

:2 :2 :2 :2 My 8 cents.

Dude, you should stop talking out of your ass if you don't know what you are talking about.

Pete released the "Tattoo" cigar so that he could back up his Trademark of the term "Tattoo" in court, NOT because he got lazy and just made up a name.

There does not HAVE to be a post with people asking him to release 400 new cigars...The reason we know people WANT him to release new cigars is that EVERY ONE of his LEs sell out.

If there is a market for his continued LEs (and other cigars) and people keep buying them, then he will (and SHOULD) keep making them. That is called Capitalism, pure and simple.

If don't want to buy the cigars, then don't. If you want to believe that everyone who buys them is a Sheeple, then you can. But saying that Pete should stop selling different cigars just because YOU can't afford to buy all of them is just asinine.

[whodeeni]

In my book his good cigars are about 2/10 so he's shooting 20% IMO.


Come to the dark side, we have cookies.

My 8 cents.

I don't see you making the same comments about Andre Bill and I buy his LE stuff too! Now on the flip side if you want to talk about money, I'd have to really readjust some things if I wanted to start buying boxes of some of the Cuban LE's i've seen! Hell when the partagas black/brown jar was released, it was 575! There are LGC Jars going for 1000, Behikes going for 350-400 (for the 52's!) I don't see you *itching about those!

I'll come to the dark side when/if i'm good and ready....

As far as your 20% comment... I say MORE FOR ME BROTHA!:tu

[mariogolbee]

[QUOTE=Brooks W;1239975If don't want to buy the cigars, then don't. If you want to believe that everyone who buys them is a Sheeple, then you can. But saying that Pete should stop selling different cigars just because YOU can't afford to buy all of them is just asinine.[/QUOTE]

I know, right? I don't buy all of the LE's he or others make because I can't. I also can't buy all of the LE/regional/etc. cigars that Habanos SA puts out. That doesn't mean I'm ranting and raving for them to stop making them. Hell, I can't even buy them here! I think it's great that some of my BOTL can enjoy those sticks. Why should I hate?

[Ranger_B]

Wow all this over cigars. Seriously they are just tobacco with a band wrapped around it. If you dont like the band find a different. Each band is still a company after all and companies want to make money. I saw this just as a new marketing idea that was different. So are all the CC lovers going to start griping over all the REs and LEs they make next.

[landhoney]

Cancelled. Haters gonna' hate. :)

[T.G]

Cancelled. Haters gonna' hate. :)

Yeah, saw that earlier, I was going to post something, but I wanted to see if Pete was going to pull a second "GOTCHA SUCKA!"

[Zeuceone]

Sign me up.

[Dukeuni]

So, is this comment from Pete on Facebook a joke or what? Most likely a joke, but heck, who knows with Pete:

"Truthfully everyone. My new contract with Davidoff will not allow the S&S club but they do have plans to keep the Monster Series next year."

[elderboy02]

Pretty sure Pete is joking. As another BOTL told me, he set up a company in FL so we wouldn't have to pay taxes.

[xlc12rf]

Pete is a marketig genius. He really is. I think his twitter profile says it all:
"lifestyle brand designer"

I like his cigars, but I do t chase any LEs down. I'm too early in my career, with too many other financial concerns to worry about. He'll, I can't afford smoke at all right now, so I don't partake.

Guys, it's just a plant. Be glad you have the money to enjoy the hobby. Relax, and smoke em if you got em. Whatever 'em' are.

[maninblack]

This post was totally unnecessary. Hope the mods delete it. I don't think the "BOTL" are the reason he releases a new cigar every day....I'm sorry I think it's because he's a whore and just wants to pad his wallet with money from cigars that all taste the same. Along with some dumb@$$ trendy name, band or packaging. He's the Justin Bieber of the cigar world. A joke. In my book his good cigars are about 2/10 so he's shooting 20% IMO.

I've stated this before he's laughing in your faces......Tatuaje - Tattoo....are you kidding me?!?! Tattoo Tattoo......that's just so creative, notice how he's putting the same bands on his cigars now? Not even changing the bands! Just the words on them! I feel like I'm preaching on deaf ears though.

I want to see a post where someone says "PETE PLEASE RELEASE 400+ CIGARS A YEAR!" Then I want to see say..... 10,000 people that agree. You won't find that anywhere.....it doesn't exist. No one is forcing him to release 400+ cigars a year.

The only people that defend Pete are the few that can afford to keep buying all these LE cigars. So of course if you have the coin you're going to say RELEASE MOAR!!!!! If you, like most people cannot afford 400 boxes a year.... you are probably sick and tired of this pathetic charade.

Come to the dark side, we have cookies.

:2 :2 :2 :2 My 8 cents.

[xlc12rf]

Pete is a marketig genius. He really is. I think his twitter profile says it all:
"lifestyle brand designer"

I like his cigars, but I do t chase any LEs down. I'm too early in my career, with too many other financial concerns to worry about. He'll, I can't afford smoke at all right now, so I don't partake.

Guys, it's just a plant. Be glad you have the money to enjoy the hobby. Relax, and smoke em if you got em. Whatever 'em' are.

OT. Sorry for the typos. Mobile phone.

[thecatch83]

I don't think the "BOTL" are the reason he releases a new cigar every day....I'm sorry I think it's because he's a whore and just wants to pad his wallet with money from cigars that all taste the same. Along with some dumb@$$ trendy name, band or packaging. He's the Justin Bieber of the cigar world. A joke. In my book his good cigars are about 2/10 so he's shooting 20% IMO.

I've stated this before he's laughing in your faces......Tatuaje - Tattoo....are you kidding me?!?! Tattoo Tattoo......that's just so creative, notice how he's putting the same bands on his cigars now? Not even changing the bands! Just the words on them! I feel like I'm preaching on deaf ears though.

I want to see a post where someone says "PETE PLEASE RELEASE 400+ CIGARS A YEAR!" Then I want to see say..... 10,000 people that agree. You won't find that anywhere.....it doesn't exist. No one is forcing him to release 400+ cigars a year.

The only people that defend Pete are the few that can afford to keep buying all these LE cigars. So of course if you have the coin you're going to say RELEASE MOAR!!!!! If you, like most people cannot afford 400 boxes a year.... you are probably sick and tired of this pathetic charade.

Come to the dark side, we have cookies.

:2 :2 :2 :2 My 8 cents.

If smoking CC's and joining the "darkside" exclusively, means acting like an incredulous d-bag, count me out! This was quite possibly the most inane and inappropriate post I have read in here.........you sir are fail :td

[weak_link]

This post was totally unnecessary. Hope the mods delete it.

I actually hope they leave it up. I get a better idea of who our fellow cellmates are and how they think. The way I look at Internet forums is that they are like towns or cities. You don't want to be buddies with everyone in your town for whatever reason, same thing is true online. If posts like that are removed you lose a lot of insight as to who is behind the avatar.

To each their own, chase what you like, smoke what you like. If you want to mow down 'Free Cuba's' all day long then go for it, just don't expect me to smoke 'em and don't be dissapointed that I won't.

[T.G]

Cancelled. Haters gonna' hate. :)

Yeah, saw that earlier, I was going to post something, but I wanted to see if Pete was going to pull a second "GOTCHA SUCKA!"

Looks like Pete's cancellation tweet was a practical joke after all.


@TatuajeCigars
Pete Johnson
Okay everyone. Yesterday was all in good fun. I really didn't think people were going to freak out so much. Everything is normal at Tatuaje.
1 hour ago via TweetDeck

[neoflex]

Wow this thread went downhill fast.
I am waiting to see if they officially confirm the sampler. If they do than I will more than likely pay the price to play. 15 sticks for $150 (for Tats) is not too bad so if I end up never using any of the discounts it's no big deal. I will look at it the same as if I bought a sampler here from another BOTL. I think all around Pete is getting beat up on this S&S thing which is why your seeing some of the posts on Facebook regarding S&S and people being pissy. My only issue was the e-mail that was released was rather vague and did not mention getting any solid goods in return for your membership fee like mentioned in previous posts. The actual idea of the club itself does not bother me just the fact that before the released e-mail Pete mentioned getting sticks and swag in return for joining where as the e-mail basically said it will be $150 for a lot of fluff and never mentioned the hard goods.

[rizzle]

Wow this thread went downhill fast.
...
You've been around long enough to know better than that. If it's about Tat and Pete is mentioned, it's guaranteed to go downhill in, oh, about 3 posts. But hey, it's all about the brotherhood, right. -(P

[BryanB]

Back to the original question. I will be joining. :D

[Seasick Sailor]

Back to the original question. I will be joining. :D

As will I.

[pektel]

Well, you know what they say... "When people you don't even know hate you, then you know you've made it."

Or something like that.

[neoflex]

Did I still make it if the people who know me hate me?:r:noon

[pnoon]

Let's keep the thread on topic and discuss the points being made.
If it degenerates into name calling and insults toward members, it will be closed faster than you can say Caputo.
:2

[gnukfu]

I'm excited because I found that drop down menu in the lower left where I can change the theme for the forum. I think I like the Blue theme the best.

As far as the S&S I think I will go for it. I like his smokes so 15 cigars for $150 isn't bad. Shoot I spent a lot more than that for a membership to a local lounge where I get a keycard so I can smoke there after hours....and I don't even use it because I can smoke in my house....at least I will get something for the cash here. Everyone has different means and likes different cigars. I think it's nice that we all have the time and means to enjoy cigars and post messages here...even though I don't post much...but I sure smoke a lot of cigars.

Peace.

[pektel]

You have a key card to use a smoke lounge whenever? That's AWESOME.
Posted via Mobile Device

[enlightenedcigar]

100 Percent Agreed!

+1

[nofeardiver]

Wonder if they would do a group join option?

[muhren]

So, did the May 1st come and go without this club actually starting? Or, did my secondary e-mail pass through to my spam folder?

Anyone have any info?

M

[Brutus2600]

There was a tweet about some video he was trying to get posted but was running into technical difficulties. So I guess the 1st was the plan, but it's delayed a little bit while they work some kinks out.

[TheStatsGuy]

He's looking at May 15th now. We shall see.

[Brooks W]

It does not matter when it opens up... FWIW, Pete has said it will not be limited (either by numbers or time) and that he will not have the swag he is including until around the end of may (at last update)...

In other words, even if you sign up 20 seconds after it is opened, you (most likely) won't get anything until the same time as someone who signs up on May 25th etc...

~brooks

[Louistogies]

Sounds interesting.

[marge796]

Back to the original question. I will be joining. :D


Me too!!!


:noon


Chris.....

[DoctaJ]

Anyone know what is in store for Maryland residents with the club now? I was looking forward to joining the club but now I wonder if that is even a possibility now :sad

[smokepuff]

$150 for a few discounts? :lr

Amen

[alfredo_buscatti]

We could buy a good box of cigars for $150.00.

[Duke9192]

Still making up my mind. It is a lot of cash for what seems to be very little up front return.

[jayro75]

We could buy a good box of cigars for $150.00.

Or you could give Pete money to support his first growth bordeaux habit.

[thecatch83]

And we're off and running with the trolls and hatorade.......we know, we get it, you're not interested!

[loki]

And we're off and running with the trolls and hatorade.......we know, we get it, you're not interested!

:rolleyes:

[elderboy02]

Well, it is the 16th, and still I got nothing....

[pnoon]

And we're off and running with the trolls and hatorade.......we know, we get it, you're not interested!
I'm glad you know. I'm glad you get it. And, no, I'm not interested.

Please report any trolls to the admins.

[thecatch83]

Or you could give Pete money to support his first growth bordeaux habit.

His 2nd post in two years.......insert troll definition

I'm glad you know. I'm glad you get it. And, no, I'm not interested.

Please report any trolls to the admins.

Consider yourself informed!

[pnoon]

Consider yourself informed!
Sorry. That's not what I meant nor how things work here. PM an admin or, preferably, use the Report Post feature.
Posted via Mobile Device

[jayro75]

His 2nd post in two years.......insert troll definition


Actually it's a few more than 2, but my intro here was just done on Friday. Sorry that I've been active on other boards for the past 3 years.

My post isn't a troll attempt just my honest view of this club and all the N/C LE's of late.

I also find it amusing that a guy who was banned from another forum for trolling is lecturing anyone.

[elderboy02]

Now Pete said it should be coming out sometime this week....

[pnoon]

Actually it's a few more than 2, but my intro here was just done on Friday. Sorry that I've been active on other boards for the past 3 years.

My post isn't a troll attempt just my honest view of this club and all the N/C LE's of late.

I also find it amusing that a guy who was banned from another forum for trolling is lecturing anyone.
Let's not air any dirty laundry here. PM me details if you think it appropriate or pertinent.
Posted via Mobile Device

[jayro75]

Let's not air any dirty laundry here. PM me details if you think it appropriate or pertinent.
Posted via Mobile Device

My bad!:)

[Dukeuni]

http://gotocigar.com/sns/shop/body.php?module=signup&id=1

Looks like it has started!

[Superbad]

Now that I see what is on offer. I am passing. No mention of cigars with membership.

[thecatch83]

Got the email, joined, signed, can't wait to smoke kick ass LE cigars that disgruntled naysayers aren't privy to.

[NCRadioMan]

Got the email, joined, signed, can't wait to smoke kick ass LE cigars that disgruntled naysayers don't give two squirts about.

Fixed it for ya. :tu

[neoflex]

Now that I see what is on offer. I am passing. No mention of cigars with membership.

But than you won't get the playing cards, non-torch lighter and your commemorative coin. Being it's a cigar club they could have at least offered a torch rather than a soft flame lighter. I wish I knew what all was included in the smokers kit box. Are there any smokes smokes in it? Still no mention of cigars so I am passing too. Sorry but all the other marketing things included added up to maybe $30-$0 tops so the way I see it, there is very little return for my investment. Other than the T and hat the rest would be thrown in a box in the corner of my office.

[Aero95]

But than you won't get the playing cards, non-torch lighter and your commemorative coin. Being it's a cigar club they could have at least offered a torch rather than a soft flame lighter. I wish I knew what all was included in the smokers kit box. Are there any smokes smokes in it? Still no mention of cigars so I am passing too. Sorry but all the other marketing things included added up to maybe $30-$0 tops so the way I see it, there is very little return for my investment. Other than the T and hat the rest would be thrown in a box in the corner of my office.

A few different sites are saying 15 cigars are included in the membership.

http://www.stogiereview.com/2010/11/21/tatuaje-update-monsters-sinners-saints/

[neoflex]

I've seen that too but if the site where I am giving my credit card info to doesn't than it's just hearsay and their not obligated to give me any cigars if it's not in black and white. I think they should mention on the page if smokes are included or not otherwise the price of entrance is not worth it. I love Pete's cigars but I think I am just about done feeding into the hype machine.

[thecatch83]

Fixed it for ya. :tu

http://www.failfunnies.com/images/1/gifs/kick-fail.gif

[Brutus2600]

But than you won't get the playing cards, non-torch lighter and your commemorative coin. Being it's a cigar club they could have at least offered a torch rather than a soft flame lighter. I wish I knew what all was included in the smokers kit box. Are there any smokes smokes in it? Still no mention of cigars so I am passing too. Sorry but all the other marketing things included added up to maybe $30-$0 tops so the way I see it, there is very little return for my investment. Other than the T and hat the rest would be thrown in a box in the corner of my office.

I agree...the stuff is sorta cool, but it's what I would expect as free swag with a special box purchase. So...I will treat this as a box purchase and not buy it until I know what cigars are included. I'm not tired of the hype (even though I understand if you are), but I'm also not going to go blindly into this without knowing if I think those smokes are worth my money (which could be spent on other cigars if I don't think they are, lol).

[marge796]

I just joined up, I'll see what Pete has up his sleeve this time. I haven't been disappointed thus far.


:noon


Chris.....

[NCRadioMan]

I've seen that too but if the site where I am giving my credit card info to doesn't than it's just hearsay and their not obligated to give me any cigars if it's not in black and white. I think they should mention on the page if smokes are included or not otherwise the price of entrance is not worth it. I love Pete's cigars but I think I am just about done feeding into the hype machine.

But John, they are kick ass LE cigars that anybody and everybody that joins gets to smoke.

Oh wait, that's not so LE is it? :r

[xlc12rf]

I love his cigars, and he may be great at marketing, but I'm not paying for a 'lifestyle'. And I'm a tatwhore, too.

[neoflex]

I dropped a post on Petes Facebook page asking what the deal was with smokes and the club. If they put it in plain and simple type on the page it would clear up all the confusion. Part of me thinks that it may be their way of getting around giving people any specific smokes so if they run out, they can swap out one for another maybe not so "Special"stick so they can add as many members that are willing to pay even if it exceeds the so called sticks alloted for this exclusive club. Or maybe there are no smokes included. Your guess is as good as mine. I guess if you really want to join you just got to trust the guy. Me, I'm not so trusting especially when I don't know the man personally and I'm dropping hard earned money on the table. The other crap looks like lower end stuff of what he hands out at events already. So where's the exclusivity of it? I will wait to hear from Pete's mouth directly although by his Facebook page it looks like he may be out of town and off the grid for a bit.

[thecatch83]

I cringe every time someone decides to pass judgement on Pete, when all he is doing is what people ASK him to do, release (mostly great) cigars. Someone on another board was *****ing because Pete said he was going to give some of the money to charity...REALLY? I understand if you don't want to support Pete if he is giving money to a Charity you don't like, but do you really have to deride him for that?

I was there when the idea of the "Fan Club" was discussed, some of the people I was with actually kinda talked Pete into it (or at least gave him some reasons why he should do it)...It made perfect sense at the time, a membership with exclusive stuff that anyone who WANTS to can join, and those that don't can choose NOT to join.

Would people prefer he not release ANY new stuff? Or only on a specific schedule? One new cigar every 6 months? Or is that still "too many"?

PETE is not the one causing the division, it is the "BOTL" who ***** and moan about EVERY NEW RELEASE, as if it has not been said Ad nauseam.

Pete is in the business to A. Release cigars and B. Make money releasing cigars. If you have a problem with either, don't BUY the cigars (or related products he is selling).

Is it really that hard to understand?

bump

[Bunker]

I dropped a post on Petes Facebook page asking what the deal was with smokes and the club. If they put it in plain and simple type on the page it would clear up all the confusion. Part of me thinks that it may be their way of getting around giving people any specific smokes so if they run out, they can swap out one for another maybe not so "Special"stick so they can add as many members that are willing to pay even if it exceeds the so called sticks alloted for this exclusive club. Or maybe there are no smokes included. Your guess is as good as mine. I guess if you really want to join you just got to trust the guy. Me, I'm not so trusting especially when I don't know the man personally and I'm dropping hard earned money on the table. The other crap looks like lower end stuff of what he hands out at events already. So where's the exclusivity of it? I will wait to hear from Pete's mouth directly although by his Facebook page it looks like he may be out of town and off the grid for a bit.

I'm with you, give me a list of smokes and I am in. I could give a **** about any swag or access to swag.

If not I'll just wait and see what other's get and out my $150 towards my next box of Tat Brown :sh

[marge796]

I'm with you, give me a list of smokes and I am in. I could give a **** about any swag or access to swag.

If not I'll just wait and see what other's get and out my $150 towards my next box of Tat Brown :sh

That's the genius behind Pete, he's not going to tell you anymore than he already has. But, for those of us who are big fans of his cigars know he won't let anyone down, IMO.


You've got to pay to play.


Chris.....

[elderboy02]

I am in :banger

[pnoon]

Some folks think this "club" is great. Others think it's BS. There are even some on the fence.

One thing is certain. No matter what your position, there will be tolerance for opposing points of view. For those that can't read between the lines, be civil or move on.
Posted via Mobile Device

[Trent0341]

That SS smoke kit looks suspiciously like a box of cigars... I know I've knocked the large numbers of LE releases in the past but I find it tempting (and hard to believe that PJ would charge $150 for just some swag).

[mariogolbee]

That SS smoke kit looks suspiciously like a box of cigars...
:tpd: Looks a lot like the Face 10 count box. The Face is a VERY BIG cigar. Imagine what they can put in one of those "Smoke kits." I would join, but i have to check the finances first. As far as the "lifestyle" goes, I'm not in it for that.

[Brooks W]

That SS smoke kit looks suspiciously like a box of cigars... I know I've knocked the large numbers of LE releases in the past but I find it tempting (and hard to believe that PJ would charge $150 for just some swag).

It is a cigar box, it is actually the same box the "Outlaw" Tats came in...

http://thesmokingstogie.squarespace.com/storage/Tatuaje_Outlaw_%201%20of%2010.jpg?__SQUARESPACE_CA CHEVERSION=1280859556771

~brooks

[mcmoyer]

I am in :banger

Yup....-(P

[jovenhut]

It is a cigar box, it is actually the same box the "Outlaw" Tats came in...

http://thesmokingstogie.squarespace.com/storage/Tatuaje_Outlaw_%201%20of%2010.jpg?__SQUARESPACE_CA CHEVERSION=1280859556771

~brooks

:banger

[Trent0341]

It is a cigar box, it is actually the same box the "Outlaw" Tats came in...


~brooks
Thanks for the pic... I've rolled the dice on this one. I'm willing to bet PJ comes through.

[jovenhut]

As Brooks already mentioned in this thread, sizes or blends may have changed since these pictures were taken but these were the original S&S samplers:
9243
9244
9245

:banger

[Seasick Sailor]

Your membership does include cigars. Pete confirms it on the site, and from the sound of it, the people who told you that it would be a mix of regular production, limited edition, and prototypes got it right.

At the end of the day, you have to decide if it's worth it to you. For me it was. YMMV. What I don't understand is why people feel the need to bash those who find value in it or Pete for giving his fans what many of them asked for.

[LostAbbott]

Your membership does include cigars. Pete confirms it on the site, and from the sound of it, the people who told you that it would be a mix of regular production, limited edition, and prototypes got it right.

At the end of the day, you have to decide if it's worth it to you. For me it was. YMMV. What I don't understand is why people feel the need to bash those who find value in it or Pete for giving his fans what many of them asked for.

I think the people who are bashing this club are those who have chases NC LE's in the past and are feeling burned out on it with this club. I think it happens with every new le release, but more so with this as the benefits of the club are so vague.
Posted via Mobile Device

[mariogolbee]

What I don't understand is why people feel the need to bash those who find value in it or Pete for giving his fans what many of them asked for.
Cognitive dissonance.:2

[thecatch83]

Your membership does include cigars. Pete confirms it on the site, and from the sound of it, the people who told you that it would be a mix of regular production, limited edition, and prototypes got it right.

At the end of the day, you have to decide if it's worth it to you. For me it was. YMMV. What I don't understand is why people feel the need to bash those who find value in it or Pete for giving his fans what many of them asked for.

^ :tu

I think the people who are bashing this club are those who have chases NC LE's in the past and are feeling burned out on it with this club. I think it happens with every new le release, but more so with this as the benefits of the club are so vague.
Posted via Mobile Device

And with S&S, there is no chasing.......kind of ironical

[Loon]

And now we can all bow our heads with great respect and
genuflect genuflect genuflect.

:=:

[mariogolbee]

And now we can all bow our heads with great respect and
genuflect genuflect genuflect.

:=:
:tf

[muhren]

After much back & forth (with myself) I came to a very sound decision based on one thing - You only live once.

I'm now #152.

For those doing the math - with me signed up at 152 (x$150) that is $22,800 made in a couple days for Pete! (minus his costs of course)

would it be fun to see a running income total on this or not?? - :confused:

M

[Trent0341]

After much back & forth (with myself) I came to a very sound decision based on one thing - You only live once.

I'm now #152.

For those doing the math - with me signed up at 152 (x$150) that is $22,800 made in a couple days for Pete! (minus his costs of course)

would it be fun to see a running income total on this or not?? - :confused:

M

I can't imagine that after expenses and whatever donation he's making to charity that this affects his bottom line much. I am curious as to how many people this will draw?

[srduggins]

I'm on the fence. Normally, I'd be all over this, but I have plenty to smoke and not smoking as many NCs these days. Plus I'd hate to smoke one stick, love it, and not have any more, or any other chance of getting more.

[chippewastud79]

I'm on the fence. Normally, I'd be all over this, but I have plenty to smoke and not smoking as many NCs these days. Plus I'd hate to smoke one stick, love it, and not have any more, or any other chance of getting more.

I'm guessing that all the sticks in the sampler are readily available either before or after said sampler is sent out. He can't make money if people love cigars he doesn't even sell. It will make a lot more money for him in the long run for all the people who buy into the 'limited and test' thought. :2

[muhren]

I can't imagine that after expenses and whatever donation he's making to charity that this affects his bottom line much. I am curious as to how many people this will draw?

You're thinking he's not generating income from the sign-up fee?

I'm basing this on a fellow (manufacturer) I spoke on the phone with who let slip that they sell to retailers at about 50% of what's charged. This was on a particular stick, but still, I would think around 11K of that is profit.

But, he would have to pay for web programming as well. Shipping, etc. So, maybe less...I guess he's not making half profit, but he (or anyone for that matter) is not in business to break even.

M

[mariogolbee]

I'm number 166 since you want to keep track, M. I shifted some funds around so I could sign up. I'm sure the sticks will be worth it. I had the option of a XXXL tee, and swag tees are usually XXL at best. The hat is kinda nifty. The rest of the swag aint bad neither.

Yes, $150 could buy a box of... something. They would all be the same something, and it would likely not be the same opportunity.

As for the donation thing, PJ has already done two years of the Verite thing as charity, and has a lot of respect for the Fuentes which donate a lot to charity. I'm sure it will be a worthwhile cut to charity.

Another thing I noticed when signing up is that they ask for your country, mention international shipping through USPS int. flat rate, and the shipping is free. IDK if this will hold up for my international BOTL here, but $150 USD is a steal for some Tats shipped free over seas considering that shipping is pricey across the pond, and I think it's more difficult and expensive to get NCs over there anyway. IDK how all that works, but it's a thought.

[maninblack]

I'm still debating about signing up but its very tempting, no matter what the haters say.

[boom]

Still a toss up for me at this point.

[neoflex]

I posted on Petes wall and he did confirm that it includes 15 sticks. Trying to shift some funds around as 15 Tats is worth the coin plus I look at the other stuff to be a bonus although the only thing it the pack besides the cigars that I would probably like having is the tee and hat as I am a cigar tee ho.

[themoneycollector]

I'm guessing that all the sticks in the sampler are readily available either before or after said sampler is sent out. He can't make money if people love cigars he doesn't even sell. It will make a lot more money for him in the long run for all the people who buy into the 'limited and test' thought. :2

Great point. I think I'm going to hold out. If you're wrong, then oh well, I lost out on trying some 1 off sticks that I could never get again. If you're right, then you saved me $150 from buying into the club now.

[burnem]

I am grateful for sinners and saints. It is at this point that I can say that I am through chasing hard to finds. There are too many normal production Tats to enjoy if the quality doesn't start to slip because all the extra effort being put into the blending and production of these HTFs. There are just too many Pepin blends, Cubans, and other cigars to enjoy.

[poriggity]

I weighed the options, and for me, it wasn't worth it. Then again, I am not a huge Tat fan. I like Tat's, but IMHO, Studio Tobac smokes are better. If ST had a similar club, I'd be there in a heartbeat, and spend the $$. I guess it's all about what cigar brand you like, and if it's worth it for you.

[stearns]

197 :ss

stearns

[marge796]

Number 58


:noon :noon :noon :noon


Chris.....

[Trent0341]

You're thinking he's not generating income from the sign-up fee?

I'm basing this on a fellow (manufacturer) I spoke on the phone with who let slip that they sell to retailers at about 50% of what's charged. This was on a particular stick, but still, I would think around 11K of that is profit.

But, he would have to pay for web programming as well. Shipping, etc. So, maybe less...I guess he's not making half profit, but he (or anyone for that matter) is not in business to break even.

M
Mike,
I agree with what you're saying. I just don't think that $20-30k is going to make much difference on his bottom line. I know some people say he's doing this for the money and like you said he isn't in business to break even but I don't think this is going to make or break him. All the best, Dan

[KidRock]

Mike,
I agree with what you're saying. I just don't think that $20-30k is going to make much difference on his bottom line. I know some people say he's doing this for the money and like you said he isn't in business to break even but I don't think this is going to make or break him. All the best, Dan

agreed, excellent post!

[muhren]

Mike,
I agree with what you're saying. I just don't think that $20-30k is going to make much difference on his bottom line. I know some people say he's doing this for the money and like you said he isn't in business to break even but I don't think this is going to make or break him. All the best, Dan

D,

True dat! Even if it's a loss leader it gets a captive audience ready to buy whatever is new....ya know. IF he makes money...plus for him!

Side note for everyone else...

IF you sign up (I know some of you have) stop in the new member section and say hey (I'm the same screen name)...so I know who to add to my friend list! :tu

M

[muhren]

FWIW - I was inspired by the group and made a piece to show my enjoyment thus far!

It can be found HERE (http://mikeuhren.com/sands.htm)

M

[xlc12rf]

On ym drive to work today, I was thinking this:

for those of you who did not 'invest' in the club, how did it affect your tat buying?

I'll preface this with saying I am an occasional cigar smoker. Maybe 4-5 a month. I am a total tat whore, with probably 85% of what I smoke being tat. However, since I can't justify a membership to the club, i now feel slighted, even though I am a regular customer. As such, I'd have to say that I have been buying more Fuentes lately, swinging the tat percentage to more like 15%. Any others notice the same thing?

[muhren]

On ym drive to work today, I was thinking this:

for those of you who did not 'invest' in the club, how did it affect your tat buying?

I'll preface this with saying I am an occasional cigar smoker. Maybe 4-5 a month. I am a total tat whore, with probably 85% of what I smoke being tat. However, since I can't justify a membership to the club, i now feel slighted, even though I am a regular customer. As such, I'd have to say that I have been buying more Fuentes lately, swinging the tat percentage to more like 15%. Any others notice the same thing?

A good question! I wonder if the 80/20 rule still applies, or if the club has changed that.

The rule of thumb being (quote from wikipedia):
"80% of your sales come from 20% of your clients"

There are only 200 (ish) members. I doubt that is 20% of the buyers.

Thoughts?

M

[NCRadioMan]

On ym drive to work today, I was thinking this:

for those of you who did not 'invest' in the club, how did it affect your tat buying?

I'll preface this with saying I am an occasional cigar smoker. Maybe 4-5 a month. I am a total tat whore, with probably 85% of what I smoke being tat. However, since I can't justify a membership to the club, i now feel slighted, even though I am a regular customer. As such, I'd have to say that I have been buying more Fuentes lately, swinging the tat percentage to more like 15%. Any others notice the same thing?

I'll buy the original Brown label line all day long. I did the special release thing with Tats in the beginning. Then I smoked them and realized I liked the Brown's much better than anything else produced, especially the limited release stuff. Plus, since they are made in the ERdLH factory, the quality is unlikely to change.

[xlc12rf]

I'll buy the original Brown label line all day long. I did the special release thing with Tats in the beginning. Then I smoked them and realized I liked the Brown's much better than anything else produced, especially the limited release stuff. Plus, since they are made in the ERdLH factory, the quality is unlikely to change.

Yeah, the existence of the club doesn't change my enjoyment of the J21 brown label, or the black tubos. I'm not going to say I don't buy Tat anymore, but I kinda feel, I don't know how to explain it, unimportant?

[NCRadioMan]

You shouldn't feel unimportant. There are many, many cigars from many companies that most of us can't get their hands on.

C'est la vie!

Here is something to always remember:
http://www.correctcraftfan.com/forum/uploads/4319/stuart-smalley1.jpg

:r

[Ranger_B]

I dont see any issues with it. His cigars have not changed. If I only smoked 4-5 smokes a month then I would not look into the club either. However I really enjoy Tats and smoke probably 5-7 of those a week. That being said I like finding out where and when to get the new releases so that I have a leg up on the people who are not in the club. No it does not mean I am more important that any of the non club members. It just means that having the opportunity to possibly be first in line is worth the price of membership. Well that and whatever is in the sampler that comes with it. Kinda like CRA many people smoke but do not join CRA. It does not mean that they dont care about smoking legislation it is just not worth the price of membership in there mind.

[elderboy02]

I am enjoying my membership. :) Pete is giving us a heads up on what is coming down the pike, new cigars, etc.

[xlc12rf]

Yeah, its no big deal. Just something I realized this morning. The cigars don't all of a sudden suck, so I'll continue to smoke what I want.

I never chased the limiteds anyway, so no big deal. I just want more black label!

[NCRadioMan]

I am enjoying my membership. :) Pete is giving us a heads up on what is coming down the pike, new cigars, etc.

Yeah, there are alot of them scheduled for this year.

http://thecigarfeed.com/2011CigarReleases

[elderboy02]

Yeah, there are alot of them scheduled for this year.

http://thecigarfeed.com/2011CigarReleases

Yep. There sure are a lot of them coming out. I love it :banger

[Ranger_B]

Nice thing is it seems most of whats coming out is not a very limited release. Should get some people off his back for a little while.

[replicant_argent]

:r:r



no.




wait
.....






:r:r:r



Must...



refrain...



Just curious, who lives with the 14 year old girl?




But I digress....



I do love them smokes, when I can afford them.


I better check my fridge to see if I can catch it.

[bvilchez]

FWIW - I was inspired by the group and made a piece to show my enjoyment thus far!

It can be found HERE (http://mikeuhren.com/sands.htm)

M

Mike just a heads up...

http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/announcement.php?f=5

[Kreth]

I never chased the limiteds anyway...
:tpd: I'd much rather find solid smokes that I'll be able to get my hands on a year from now.
Posted via Mobile Device

[chippewastud79]

I am enjoying my membership. :) Pete is giving us a heads up on what is coming down the pike, new cigars, etc.

Yeah, there are alot of them scheduled for this year.

http://thecigarfeed.com/2011CigarReleases

Yep. There sure are a lot of them coming out. I love it :banger

Man, I am glad I spent $150 to find out about new releases that are posted on public websites. :rolleyes:

[elderboy02]

Man, I am glad I spent $150 to find out about new releases that are posted on public websites. :rolleyes:

Yeah, I am sure those websites know about the ones Pete just mentioned on S&S :rolleyes:

[muhren]

Next food for thought on this club...analogy style!

To take it into the golf world...

Is this like a country club mentality type thing?

Meaning...those that joined feel great while they're there (get hard to find cigars), and others want to play (who doesn't want to try a nice HTF cigar?) but can't afford it, OR chose that it's not worth the money to join when a nice public course is available just up the street (regular production smokes). But, if someone invited them onto the course (in this case shared HTF cigars) they certainly wouldn't say no to them.

A buddy of mine was courted to join a country club, and he was telling me some numbers...CRAZY out of my league, but he's a CFO...so, not out of his. But, if he joined and asked me to play. I'm in!

Long thought shortened - If I was invited to a country club to play the course, darn right I'm playing! So, in this S&S case...if offered some of the elusive 15, who would turn them down?

Anyway...thoughts on the comparison? While we're at it...any country club members wanna chime in with why it's better than public course play?

M

[jayro75]

Next food for thought on this club...analogy style!

To take it into the golf world...

Is this like a country club mentality type thing?

Meaning...those that joined feel great while they're there (get hard to fund cigars), and others want to play (who doesn't want to try a nice cigar) but can't afford it, OR chose that it's worth the money to join when a nice public course is available just up the street (regular production smokes). But, if someone invited them onto the course (in this case shared HTF cigars) they certainly wouldn't say no to them.

Long thought shortened - If I was invited to a country club to play the course, darn right I'm playing! So, in this S&S case...if offered some of the elusive 15, who would turn them down?

I'm just curious if this is at all the same. A buddy of mine was courted to join a country club, and he was telling me some numbers...CRAZY out of my league, but he's a CFO...so, not out of his.

Anyway...thoughts on the comparison?

M

The reason it's not is that $150 to join S&S isn't alot of money (to me at least) but joining a Tat fan club, getting the 15 sticks and inside info from Pete isn't worth it ( to me at least).

Then again maybe it is because if you can afford the country club but don't play golf it's not worth joining either.

Hmmmmmmm

[replicant_argent]

I worked at a country club for a while as a young buck. My views wouldn't probably align. Other than that, I will tactfully refrain.

[icehog3]

Yeah, I am sure those websites know about the ones Pete just mentioned on S&S :rolleyes:

Maybe S&S members cut and paste them on public sites as soon as Pete posts on S&S?

[bobarian]

Maybe S&S members cut and paste them on public sites as soon as Pete posts on S&S?

What? You mean some might post the list publicly to say "Look at Me and what I know!" Pshaw! You silly hog! :tf

[xlc12rf]

Next food for thought on this club...analogy style!

To take it into the golf world...

Is this like a country club mentality type thing?

Meaning...those that joined feel great while they're there (get hard to find cigars), and others want to play (who doesn't want to try a nice HTF cigar?) but can't afford it, OR chose that it's not worth the money to join when a nice public course is available just up the street (regular production smokes). But, if someone invited them onto the course (in this case shared HTF cigars) they certainly wouldn't say no to them.

A buddy of mine was courted to join a country club, and he was telling me some numbers...CRAZY out of my league, but he's a CFO...so, not out of his. But, if he joined and asked me to play. I'm in!

Long thought shortened - If I was invited to a country club to play the course, darn right I'm playing! So, in this S&S case...if offered some of the elusive 15, who would turn them down?

Anyway...thoughts on the comparison? While we're at it...any country club members wanna chime in with why it's better than public course play?

M

This is actually the exact comparison I was thinking about.

I guess I just don't play enough golf.

[chippewastud79]

Maybe S&S members cut and paste them on public sites as soon as Pete posts on S&S?

No, they are ultra exclusive. The public shall never know and any of Pete's minions who are found to be sharing the super secret information, club hand shake or any of the 'hard to find/test blend' cigars, will be swiftly extradicted to a remote planet and forced to smoke Cremosas and Cohibos for the rest of their days. :rolleyes:

[bonjing]

Next food for thought on this club...analogy style!

To take it into the golf world...

Is this like a country club mentality type thing?

Meaning...those that joined feel great while they're there (get hard to find cigars), and others want to play (who doesn't want to try a nice HTF cigar?) but can't afford it, OR chose that it's not worth the money to join when a nice public course is available just up the street (regular production smokes). But, if someone invited them onto the course (in this case shared HTF cigars) they certainly wouldn't say no to them.

A buddy of mine was courted to join a country club, and he was telling me some numbers...CRAZY out of my league, but he's a CFO...so, not out of his. But, if he joined and asked me to play. I'm in!

Long thought shortened - If I was invited to a country club to play the course, darn right I'm playing! So, in this S&S case...if offered some of the elusive 15, who would turn them down?

Anyway...thoughts on the comparison? While we're at it...any country club members wanna chime in with why it's better than public course play?

M


Let me preface by saying that I did join the S&S club will I renew who know but most likely I will :tu.

From what you're saying we get to "pop our collars" because were in a club? :rolleyes:. Please understand no disrespect to you or the S&S club and members. The way I see the club, it's just something that's there. Hell I am sure all of us would make donations to CA if and when the time comes. And that's all I see it as, a donation to a website to something that I enjoy!

Are we as members getting something extra out of the deal, sure but it's really nothing more than what's really offered at other websites. There are some onetime deals out there but just like the WTB section out of any forum it's a fist come first serve. It's not like their offering the HTF to strictly members (I may be wrong) or members get the first shot at them, but regardless it's still a first come first served.

Again no disrespect meant to Pete Johnson, S&S club and it's members but that's just how I feel.

I don't know it's early and my eyes aren't focusing right so I hope I made sense and didn't offend any one:D