CigarLuxe Magazine Fall 2012

25 CIGARS WE LOVE CIGAR LOUNGES: NETWORKING IN LUXURY

GOLF DIVAS NFL PREVIEW FALL 2012

$5.95

DISPLAY UNTIL NOV. 12, 2012

DR. CARLTON YOUNG Hero for the Homeless

速

YOU DECIDE WHICH ONE MAKES THE CUT.

Go to caocigars.com

© 2012 General Cigar Co., Inc.

The soul of a city in a

cigar.

This limited edition cigar is sold exclusively at:

Scottish Tobacco

2625 Piedmont Rd, NE #52A Atlanta, GA 30324 404.237.0525 scottishtobacco.com

SCOTTISH TOBACCO

Publishers' Letter

Great Expectations

We've had a blast this summer and it's all gone by so fast. We do know it sounds like a clichĂŠ, but time does go by really fast when you are having fun. Do not fret, as we move forward into fall, there are more exciting times ahead. We hold great expectations for the magazine and the CigarLuxe brand. We are continually building our team and creating powerful partnerships in order to bring you a topnotch magazine, intriguing entertainment and spectacular events. To help us in our goals, we are proud to introduce you to our new Marketing Director, Mr. Enzo Mastroianni.

Mr. Mastroianni is native New Yorker who came to Atlanta after graduating from Norwich University.

Once here, he took the city by storm, exploring all it had to offer. He soon began working in promotions and pursuing a passion for photography, documenting Atlanta's nightlife.

When not working, he loves discovering new restaurants, networking with other young professionals, and snapping photos of the city's sites.

The opportunity to work for the magazine happened by chance. As an avid connoisseur of cigars since college and 4

CIGARLUXE MAGAZINE | fall 2012

a background in promotions, he was offered the marketing director position. Using proven techniques, through social media and events, he strives to gain a larger, diverse readership base and continued exposure for the brand. We welcome him with open arms into our cigar family.

Both feature photo shoots were fabulous. We had an amazing shoot with two very talented and beautiful young women, Ms. Jakoyah Clark and ???? at the North Fulton Golf Course using the talents of Steffano Morte. Our staff photographer, John Sands rocked as always with the cover shoot of Dr. Young. To go along with this sports infused issue, we have a full NFL preview to see who looks like they'll snag that coveted Lombardi trophy at the end of the season. Enjoy.

As always, hold your cigars high and enjoy the good life.

Akbar Alam Sean Clinkscales Curtis Kaufman

contents june 2012

frontline 8 CIGAR HISTORY 10 POUR 11 DINE 12 GOLF 13 CIGARS 14 TECH 15 TICK 16 TORQUE 18 PLACES 19 FUN

20

features cover

20 DR. CARLTON YOUNG

A two tour Vietnam Vet, this self-made man rose from the ashes of homelessness and now looks to help thousands do the same through a mentorship like no other.

sports special golf

26

26 CIGAR DIVAS

Jaykoah and Tanya take on North Fulton Golf Course with their top-notch clubs, cultivated cigars and fierce figures.

golf

34 HIT LONG & STRAIGHT

How you can you recover from a sand trap should your golf ball miss your intended target, and help you salvage your par.

football

37 NFL PREVIEW

CigarLuxe magazine takes a look at the 32 teams looking to win that coveted Lombardi trophy. We give you our predictions base on the players they are assembling to go into battle each week.

34 37 fall 2012 | www.cigarluxemag.com

5

travel

44 YOUR MANSION AWAITS

Tropical tranquility found at the Anse Chastanet.

This St. Lucia resort is romance personified.

cigars cigars

56 IPCPR 2012

CigarLuxe photos from one of the biggest cigar events of the year. The 80th Annual International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers Convention & International Tradeshow

44 NETWORK

CIGAR LO

BY: ORTENZIO MASTROIAN

cigars

60 CIGAR SCENE

cigars

63 CIGARS & NETWORKING

Photos from events and our readers as they enjoy the CigarLuxe life and their cigars.

Have you ever entered a room and everyo you with a handshake and a hello? Time KPIVOML IVL Q\¼[ PIZL \W ÅVL [WUMWVM \W LWWZ NWZ aW] TM\ ITWVM [Ia PMTTW 1 ÅVL Q\ ing to know that this seemingly forgotten can still be found in a cigar lounge. Whet know everyone or are entering the lounge ÅZ[\ \QUM 1¼^M NW]VL \PI\ aW] _QTT JM _MTK invited to join any conversation. I have fo ness men and professionals milling arou unemployed and millionaires alike. The outside exhibits the same eclectic mix of bikes, and old classics. Whatever your st ÅVL I XTIKM WN IKKMX\IVKM ZMTI`I\QWV IV atmosphere.

Cigars have been around for years, but till the 1990’s when lounges became popu

56

Looking at cigar lounges to network to grow your business or brand.

cigars

68 WE LOVE CIGARS

A look at 25 cigars that tickle our fancy.

63

that time smoking bans began to appear ple to snub out their precious cigar befor CIGARLUXE MAGAZINE welcomes comments from our readers. Address all correspondence to: CIGARLUXE ATLANTA MAGAZINE, 4230 Meadow Parkmany Drive, Atlanta Georgia 30315, Fax: 770-969into establishments.

No longer cou 7811, info@cigarluxemag.com. Letters should include the writer’s full name, address, and daytime telephone number. Letters may be edited for clarity or space. CigarLuxe Atlanta (ISSN #2165-3313) ageinquiries: citizen walkAtlanta, through a park is published bimonthly by Modern Mogul Enterprises, LLC, 2430 Meadow Park Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30315. Address change and subscription CigarLuxe 2430 Meadow Parkwith a lit Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30315 Subscription rates: United States, $19.95 per year; Canada, $32.95 per year; all other foreign $52.95. Subscriptions in U.S.someone funds. TO ORDER A NEW them to enjoyare it payable without forcing SUBSCRIPTION, call 770.899.8323, email subscribe@cigarluxemag.com. CigarLuxe Atlanta is a registered trademark of Modern Mogul Enterprises, LLC, all rights reserved. To order back issues, it. Business owners found that the law di call 770.899.8323. Unsolicited manuscripts will not be returned, and no responsibility can be assumed for such material. All “Letters to the Editor” should be sent to the editor at the aforementioned a “smoking if theunrestricted business cater Atlanta address. All rights in letters sent to CigarLuxe Atlanta will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and subject tolounge” CigarLuxe Atlanta’s right to edit. Nothing may be reprinted or reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Copyright © 2012, Modern Enterprises, LLC. Toto sellarise CigarLuxe call: ers. Mogul Lounges began where mostl +1 770.899.8323. aged men frequently visited to get away f everyday life. Today’s lounges have large 6 CIGARLUXE MAGAZINE | fall 2012 comfortable oversized leather couches an

FALL 2012 PUBLISHERS Akbar Alam Sean Clinkscales Curtis Kaufman COPY EDITOR Stacey Slyter

contributors

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Sean Clinkscales MARKETING DIRECTOR Enzo Mastroianni

KING IN LUXURY: OUNGES GRAPHIC DESIGN Sean Clinkscales Studios Soweto N. Bosia

MATTEO SPERANZA is proud of his Italian heritage.

Although he has spent several years in Italy for work and pleasure, he was born in the "Leaf Nation", beer drinking city of Toronto, Canada. He is a prolific writer and Cigar Aficionado who has immersed himself into Cuban cigars, culture and lifestyle for the past nine years. Very soon he will be running cigar and cultural tours to Cuba. You can read more of his adventures on his blog at: http://cubancigarsculturelifestyle.blogspot.com

MANAGING EDITOR Felisha Wright

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one greets es have W PWTL I KWUNWZ\n past time ther you e for your KWUML IVL ound busiund with the parking lot luxury cars, tyle, you can VL _MTKWUQVO

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Gabe Albarian Andreas Boberg Sean Clinkscales Curtis Kaufman Erick London Matteo Speranza John Styles ed activity orThompson escape that would allow “the man” to Walt Andy Wrede ZMTI` TQ[\MV IVL MVRWa I ÅVM [XQZQ\ _Q\P PQ[ NZQMVL[ Josh Zerkle 4W]VOM[ \aXQKITTa IZM ÅTTML _Q\P UMV TWWSQVO NWZ Mike Bennett someoneLaCresia to tellBorden stories to, discuss politics with, and L. Witt argue against.

I discovered cigar lounges in college.

James Claus Attending a small military college, surrounded by a DJ

history written mostly by men and future soldiers, we CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS felt it was John onlySands appropriate to revive the life of cigars www.shuttersexy.com IZW]VL ][ )[ I aW]VO KQOIZ IÅKQWVILW _M NW]VL W]Zselves listening to the stories and tall tales of manly Steffano Morte Å[PQVO M`K]Z[QWV[ IVL P]V\QVO \ZQX[ <PZW]OP \PQ[ www.steffano morte.com one can learn to understand the lessons that most Cover Photography by John Sands young men have missed in our technology, results ADVERTISING driven society. EXECUTIVES Some of these lessons I’ve learned are Curtis Kaufman how to properly drink your scotch, deal with women, Al Weems t it wasn’t clean your priceless collectable junk, and the key to ular. Around survivingCIRCULATION when you’re being shot at in war. These Prestige Marketing Solutions men will sit for hours, escaping the hands of society www.cigarluxemag.com to build new friendships and business partners. At IVa TW]VOM aW] UIa ÅVL IV IZ\Q[\ I +-7 I _ZQ\Contact CigarLuxe Magzine via email at er, a bartender, and sometimes some more exotic info@cigarluxemag.com | cigarluxemag.com jobs; but, that never seems to matter to anyone else.

There’s always a chance to pass out a business card or exchange a phone number with a new colleague, www.facebook.com/CigarLuxe business contact and potential friend.

Despite the cigar lounge community being domitwitter.com/@cigarluxe nated by men, women have begun entering the cigar world and have been well received. It is losing its facade of being a man’s world, a place for men to ]V_QVL IVL LMKWUXZM[[ IN\MZ I TWVO LIa I\ \PM WNÅKM These bold trail blazing women have begun creating ladies smoking nights of to indulge into the world $19.95 only for one year (6 issues) forcing peothat men have secretly held close to them. Now, I re walking am unsure as to what women discuss in meetings uld the averor magazine groups, but I can only assume that it includes delivered to you. t cigar and networking, discussing new lines or brands and just o extinguish having a good time.

Visit www.cigarluxemag.com id not violate write Although cigar lounges have developed reputations subscribe@cigarluxemag.com red to smokW^MZ \PM aMIZ \PMa IZM NIZ UWZM \PIV I [UWSM ÅTML or call 800.626.1246 ly middle ZWWU _Q\P UMV ÅZQVO WVM LQZ\a RWSM IN\MZ IVW\PMZ from their complaining about women, and moaning over last e televisions, night’s ball game. These lounges can be utilized for nd chairs, rapid networking events, building relationships and

Subscribe Today

CigarLuxe

JOSH ZERKLE is the Lead NFL Writer for Bleacher Report.

He has contributed to Deadspin and WashingtonPost.com, and was a co-founder of the NFL site Kissing Suzy Kolber.

Josh worked as a financial analyst in South Carolina before writing on the internet full-time. He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Ohio State and tweets like a mean mofo. He lives in Atlanta with his wife.

Lacresia borden is a travel agent with over 16 years

of professional experience in the leisure and travel industry.

Her affiliations include the IATAN (International Airlines Travel Agent Network), NACTA (National Association of Career Travel Agents) and CLIA (Cruise Line International Association). She is the president of Personal Touch Tours Travel Agency which has garnered the "Best Travel Agency" acknowledgement by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and saluted as "Top Female Enterprise" by the Atlanta Airport Chamber of Commerce. She lives in McDonough, Georgia with her husband and three children. You can book your travel or see planned destinations at: www.ptttravel.com.

ANDREAS BOBERG

has competitively played golf for over 30 years. During his amateur career he played for his native Sweden in international events. Before playing college golf for Valdosta State University, Andreas played on the Swedish Golf Tour for several years. During his college career, Andreas earned two All-American Honors and helped his team finish 4th at the NCAA Nationals Tournament. After graduating from college in 1999, Andreas has worked and given golf lessons at several golf courses in the north Atlanta area, including Atlanta Athletic Club, Country Club of the South, Horseshoe Bend Country Club. Andreas is currently the head PGA Golf Professional at St. Marlo Country Club in Duluth, Georgia.

CIGAR MIKE

is a cigar enthusiast, connoisseur and entrepreneur. He travels nationwide creating inviting and memorable cigar smoking events. He resides in Atlanta.

fall 2012 | www.cigarluxemag.com

7

Cigar History

MAKING THE CUT A BRIEF LOOK INTO THE ORIGIN OF THE CIGAR CUTTER

BY Sean Clinkscales

T

hey dangled from watch-chains that stretched across the ample vests of prosperous gentlemen in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries; they snuggled in the pockets of average Joes. They promoted products as diverse as tobacco and sparkling water, or extolled the sights from Washington, D.C., to St. Paul, Minnesota. They came in such shapes as ballerinas, willowy Art Nouveau damsels, dachshunds and collies, pistols, shoes, champagne bottles, a sailing ship's wheel, a medieval helmet and a pot-bellied pig. They sat beside the cash registers in cigar stores. They remain mute yet artful reminders of a bygone age. And they all had one elegantly simple, utilitarian purpose in common: to cut the head of a cigar cleanly for an expectant smoker.

A cigar cutter is a device designed to cut one end off a cigar so that it may be properly smoked. Although some cigars are cut on both ends, or twirled at both ends, the vast majority come with one straight cut end and one end in a "cap" which must be cut off for the cigar to be smoked. Most quality handmade cigars, regardless of shape, will have a cap which is one or more

8

CIGARLUXE MAGAZINE | fall 2012

small pieces of a wrapper pasted on to one end of the cigar with a either a natural tobacco paste or with a mixture of flour and water The cap end of a cigar is the rounded end without the tobacco exposed, and this is the end one should always cut.

The cap may be cut with a knife or bitten off, but if the cap is cut jaggedly or without care, the end of the cigar will not burn evenly and smokeable tobacco will be lost.

According to Rapaport, cigar cutters come in three basic varieties, all of which are represented in Thomas' collection: pocket-size punchers or slicers, many featuring a ring that enabled the owners to attach them to watch-chains; scissor-style clippers; and large "countertop" or combination-set models.

The countertops most often were used in cigar stores; the combination sets were home accessories. Some of the cutters are whimsical; some scatological; some erotic. Few of the small ones bear any manufacturer's name or identifying date. Some are made of gold or silver; others are made of bronze; many more are made of common metals such as steel, iron or tin.

Thomas says he has paid anywhere from a few dollars to several hundred for the cutters in his collection.

Does your brand need a boost?

SOCIAL MARKETING • EVENT PLANNING • CREATIVE CONSULTING Contact Ortenzio Mastroianni for more information enzo@cigarluxemag.com fall 2012 | www.cigarluxemag.com 9

Pour

Ornellaia Masseto 2007

M

asseto is a rare and exclusive 'Cru', coming from a small vineyard of seven acres which bears the same name and which is known for its exceptional terroirs. A Merlot of great structure and longevity, production is severely limited due to an extremely rigorous selection and to the philosophy of excellence. One of the most sought after wines in the world, Masseto is frequently protagonist in the most important international auctions and constantly receives excellent ratings and unanimous consensus from the most important opinion leaders around the world.

The hallmark of Masseto is its power and impressive tannic structure. The 2007 vintage displays, in addition, an overwhelming elegance and complex wealth of aromatics, boasting impressions of perfectly ripe red and dark berry fruit, along with balsamic notes of wild herbs, smooth spices, and cocoa. The mouthfeel is dense, rich, intense, with glossy, silksmooth tannins. A very long, leisurely finish reveals a good vein of acidity and concludes clean and fresh. critical acclaim: "A perfect wine from a classic vintage, the 2007 Masseto (100% Merlot from a 17-acre vineyard of the same name) opens with an unabashedly opulent bouquet of delicious blackberry, cherry, chocolate, vanilla, exotic spice and cinnamon. Masseto excels both in terms of quality of fruit and winemaking and delivers plush, velvety tannins and an extra long, supple finish. It will make a special and valuable collection to your cellar.

Merlot from Tuscany, Italy $399.00

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Gabe Albarian 10

CIGARLUXE MAGAZINE | fall 2012

Dine

Elbow Room The highly successful Elbow Room is a neighborhood themed sports pub & pizzeria in the heart of Buckhead that was established in 1999 by Joe B. In spite of the sports pub’s theme, the menu offers a variety of items to choose from including, but not limited to: pizzas, cal zones, chicken sandwiches, burgers, wings, and salads just to name a few. There are also a range of drinks to choose from consisting of coke products, beer(bottle or Tap), and wine. Our specials include $0.50 pizza slices Happy Hour “, which is from 5-7pm.

We serve high quality food made with nothing but the freshest vegetables, meats, cheeses, and breads. All of our BBQ, wing, and pizza sauces as well as our pizza dough are made fresh right in the kitchen from scratch to ensure quality and natural flavors by our Chef, Brian H. The Elbow Room has a friendly atmosphere. As you are surrounded by 20 flat screen TVs giving you the best sports package around(direct TV), to watch the game of your choice; you will quickly appreciate the fact that it’s not just a place to watch the game and enjoy good food and drinks. It’s a place to hang out with friends and enjoy other choices of entertainment such as: playing pool, darts, golf, keno (lottery), and dancing to our jute box. We also have an outside grill and a relaxing patio overlooking Pharr road, Atlanta Fishmarket, and new developments.

Hungry but can’t stay to hang out with us? Call us or place your order in person. You can order anything from our menu (excluding beer and wine), and your order will be ready to-go upon your arrival. Let our chef do the cooking so you don’t have to.

248 Pharr Road, Northeast Atlanta, Georgia 30305 404.231.3308 www.elbowroomatlanta.com

Photos by Laurie Bivona www.lbgphoto.com

— Curtis Kaufman fall 2012 | www.cigarluxemag.com

11

Golf

Callaway Ion X Glove As golfers begin to take to the links all across the country, stores continue to stock and restock shelves with all the needed accessories. Everything from shorts and visors to tees and head covers are gobbled up by avid golfers as they prepare for the season. While all accessories have their place in the golfer's game, one plays an especially critical role in the comfort and feel the golfer gets when he actually steps up to play the ball: the golf glove.

With a seemingly endless line of golf gloves cluttering the walls at every sport store and specialty shop, sorting which is best can be a daunting task. Fit, feel, sizing, material, ventilation, performance, and durability all factor into a golfer finding the perfect glove to suit his game. And, although some are clearly superior to others, only a select few can be categorized as the best. The Callaway Ion X is one of best golf gloves available on the market today.

Callaway's Ion golf glove features an ion-generating band at the wrist and is made with premium Cabretta leather for superior feel and fit. Precision leather positioning maximizes the glove's performance, while birdseye mesh provides ventilation and flexibility.

Perform your best on the course with CallawayÂŽ Men's Ion X Golf Glove. This comfortable glove adds excellent grip to you swing for added control. Its premium Cabretta leather construction offers superior fit and feel, while precision leather positioning and motion control mesh maximized performance.

Premium AAA Cabretta leather for superior fit and feel Precision leather positioning maximized performance Digitized chevron grip zone Motion control mesh Ion generating band

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Erick London 12

CIGARLUXE MAGAZINE | fall 2012

Cigars

Davidoff Medium Leather Croco Travel Humidor This humidor, which also comes in calfskin ($990), is beautifully made, with elegant wood both inside and out. But it only holds five cigars. Davidoff will not increase the capacity of this box by using a smaller regulator, but a bit more room for cigars would make this a flawless box instead of just a good one. That said, Davidoff makes travel humidors that hold 25 cigars-which is as big as they come. The Thuya Brilliant finish is $1,070, and the Gaboon is an excellent value at $520. Both come with a unique inner tray which minimizes damage to cigars while in transit.

Hand-crafted travel case Holds up to 4-6 cigars Croc brown finish Spanish cedar lining Dimensions 9" x 6" x 1"

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Walt Thompson fall 2012 | www.cigarluxemag.com

13

Tech

HydroView Scuba diving isn't exactly easy, and it's even harder if you're trying to shoot any sort of decent photos or video. So why not let the HydroView ($4,000) do it for you? This underwater vehicle shoots 1080p video and high-quality stills, which it beams back wirelessly to the same iPad that you use to control it via the accelerometer and touchscreen. Other features include onboard LED lights, the ability to reach speeds of five knots going forward and one knot in reverse, and the ability to collect data on water conditions. Just think of it as your very own remotecontrolled miniature James Cameron.

MSRP $3,599

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; John Styles 14

CIGARLUXE MAGAZINE | fall 2012

Tick

Glashutte Steel Navigator Worldview With the Navigator Worldview, Glashütte Original presents an homage to the adventurous 1920s when commercial aviation was in its infancy. With Vintage collection styling, the Navigator Worldview has an adjustable city-ring that allows its user to determine the time across different time zones. Find wallpaper and pricing inside.

The case measures 44mm in diameter. Oversize hour numerals and Glashütte Original’s own panorama date at 6 o’clock provide ideal readability, and the generous application of luminous material lights up the night.

The sapphire case back reveals the Caliber 39-47 movement with its skeletonized rotor with 21K gold oscillation weight, swan-neck fine adjustment, and Glashütte three-quarter plate with stripe finish.

The Glashütte Original Navigator Worldview is priced at €7,850.

The images below may be enlarged with a click.

Delivered in a satin-finished stainless steel case, featuring traditional diamond-shaped hands and oversized luminous Arabic numerals, this is a perfect remake of an aviator’s watch

from 1920s-1930s!

Well, to be frank, the diamond-shaped hands arrived to pilot’s watch fairy recently, but that doesn’t really spoil the picture, since this is not a re-issue.

The choice of the layout offers unrivaled legibility and if you are into this sort of style, you should definitely consider giving this watch a go.

Like the recently presented Glashutte Original Seventies Panorama Date (Ref. 39-47-12-12-14) automatic watch, the new Glashutte Original Senator Navigator WorldView is also powered by the GO 39-47 self-winding caliber with GO’s signature Panorama Date complication.

Let the pair of crowns do not confuse you: while the crown at 3 o’clock is used to operate the movement, the other crown –at 4 o’clock– is here to set the rotating flange ring that lists the main time zones.

Although there are only 12 hour markers on the timekeeper’s dial, the watch is still capable of displaying whole 24 main time zones. £7.850 • $9,900

— Sean Clinkscales fall 2012 | www.cigarluxemag.com

15

Torque

BMW 135i Convertible Last spring, while taking a bunch of cars on quick test-drives back to back, I had an epiphany: Tooling around in a BMW (BMWA) convertible on a sunny day with the top down and the throaty engine growl echoing in your ears is one of the all-time great pleasures of modern-day driving. That realization led me to book the 2012 BMW 135i convertible for a week-long test drive. I came away feeling conflicted.

The joy was there, for sure. Thet 135i—is like a sawed-off version of the 3 Series convertibles, which are among the best ragtops ever made. Speed, agility and handling are all similar. Drop the ragtop, which takes just 22 seconds, and you get the same rush as you do in a 3 Series convertible.

The 135i convertible super-fast-shifting, dual-clutch, sevenspeed automatic is available as an option on the new 135i for just $450 (a six-speed stick shift is standard on both models).

You can add a leather-wrapped steering wheel and paddle shifters for another $100.

If you haven’t yet tried the new German double-clutch transmissions, test one out. They’re dynamite. They shift faster than any human can, which is why many German cars (including the 135i) are now slightly quicker with an automatic than with a stick. BMW’s terrific speed-sensitive steering system also is available as an option on the 135i convertible for $1,550.

The 135i convertible marvelously powered by turbocharged, 3.0-liter, 300-horsepower inline six-cylinder engine, the same one that comes in the 335i.

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CIGARLUXE MAGAZINE | fall 2012

The 2012 1 Series doesn’t yet have government crash-test ratings. The convertible, however, comes with pop-up rollover hoops and special head-protecting side airbags, as well as front bags and stability and traction control.

BMW has been doing great this year, with U.S. sales hitting 193,565 units in the first eight months of the year, up 14.6 percent from last year. The gains, however, are mainly from SUVs (the new BMW X3 had a 254.1 percent sales gain through August). Sales of most BMW car models are off, and the 1 Series is no exception. U.S. sales of the 1 Series fell 31.3 percent, to just 5,898, in the first eight months of this year compared with the same period in 2010.

Behind the Wheel A big appeal of the 135i is its quickness. The car accelerates from zero to 60 in 5.4 seconds with a stick shift and 5.3 seconds with a dual-clutch automatic. The 128i is a full second slower (6.4 seconds) with a stick shift and falls way behind (to 7.0 seconds) with the Steptronic automatic. That yawning time difference is one measure of the superiorty of the dual-clutch automatic.

MSRP $44,675

— Timothy Lee

Our Smokin' Staff Invites You to Visit Us

245 N. HIGHLAND AVENUE SUITE 140 ATLANTA, GA 30307 VOTED "BEST OF ATLANTA" FOR 5 CONSECUTIVE YEARS FEATURING FULL BAR WITH OVER 100 SCOTCH CHOICES

Hours of Operation

OPEN 7 DAYS FROM NOON - MIDNIGHT

www.highlandcigar.com

www.facebook.com/highlandcigar

twitter.com/@Highland_Cigar

Places

St. Simmons Island St. Simons Island is the largest of the Golden Isles along Georgia's southern Atlantic coast. Eighteen square miles in size, it is accessible by car via the F.J. Torras Causeway. St. Simons has a wide array of lodging choices ranging from stately hotels to comfy B & B's. Golf resorts, condo rentals and vacation homes round out your choice for a spectacular St. Simons Island vacation. Make sure you bring or rent some bikes to explore, up close, all the beauty the island offers. And being an island, make time for some water sports and quality beach time. The restaurant scene here is packed with great local eateries, many serving fresh local seafood.

The first inhabitants of St. Simons lived there during fishing season about 2,000 BCE (Before the Common Era). No one knows what they first called themselves. The much later historic tribe, which encountered the Europeans, became known as the Timucuan. The tribe and people persist. Arising from the prehistoric Mississippian culture that flourished over much of the Southeast, the eastern Timucuan ranged along the coastal plain of southeast Georgia and northern Florida. Their complex and loose confederacy was made up of seven distinct tribal groups that spoke at least five dialects of the Timucuan language.

Just north of the village on St. Simons Island is a park of stately live oaks. On the southern edge of the oaks, along a narrow lane, is a low earthen mound. Growing upon it are three majestic oak trees; these serve as a natural monument for the more than 30 Indians buried in the mound. The men, women and children interred there lived in a settlement that flourished on this site two centuries before the first European touched shore.

St. Simon Island, GA is home to fabulous beaches, golfing, charter fishing, spas and salons, and a variety of restaurants, fun events and entertainment for everyone. The unspoiled beauty of St. Simons and its distinctively charming beach lifestyle that is unhurried and under-developed are what make it so special. www.stsimonsisland.com

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Gabe Albarian 18

CIGARLUXE MAGAZINE | fall 2012

Fun

Mario Andretti Racing Experience

M

ario Andretti Racing Experience is the closest you'll ever get to being in an actual open wheel, Indy Car race. Experience firsthand the thrill and excitement of racing an open wheel, open cock pit Indy-style race car on the superspeedway! Your foot is on the gas; your hands are on the wheel as you drive the race car by yourself with no lead car to follow. You'll have in car radio communications with your personal racing instructor who acts as your spotter during your on track timed racing session.

The adrenaline rush and timed racing session begins when you take off down pit road and ends when you return to the pits.

And if you don't want to drive, you can sit in the backseat of a 2 seat, Indy Car for a Ride Along where you'll whip through three

laps of pure, heart-pounding speed up to 180 mph. Race to the finish line and make your purchase today before it's too late!

Mario Andretti Racing Experience offers corporate events and group events at all of the Racing Experience locations. If you have a group event or corporate group that needs a race track location for a racing school event or driving experience and the location is not listed, please call a Mario Andretti Racing Experience Corporate sales manager at 877-RACE-LAP (7223527) Racing locations may be added for Mario Andretti Racing Experience Corporate driving experience groups. A Mario Andretti Racing Experience sales manager will assist you with your corporate group's needs.

Office hours: Monday-Friday 8am to 5pm www.andrettiracing.com

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Sean Clinkscales fall 2012 | www.cigarluxemag.com

19

HERO for the HOMELESS

Cover Story

T

STORY BY SEAN CLINKSCALES • PHOTOS BY JOHN SANDS

here’s a common thread among men of presence and character. Their stature seems to tower over everything else around them. It is not malicious or intentional – it just is. Their aura immediately makes your inner consciousness analyze itself; how can I be better? How can I do better? That is part of the embodiment of a hero – that is in the DNA of Dr. Carlton Young.

The awards, commendations and black and white photos that surround his office, further cement his hero status. Some tell of a time when America was in a state of disarray and divisiveness. We were in a war that many did not believe in or understand. I know it sounds like our present day America, but it was during the Vietnam War. Dr. Young’s long career in the United States Marine Corps spanned over 22 years.

He served valiantly as a combat soldier in both the Vietnam War and the first Gulf War and, as a result, he was later awarded the "Soldiers Medal for Heroism." Other plaques and memorabilia tell of his humanitarian efforts that are at the heart of his entrepreneurial career and philanthropic calling.

THE FALL FROM GRACE Dr. Young sits back in his very comfortable looking leather chair and offers up how life happened and created a chapter in his life that involved being homeless for a little over three years.

“After retiring from the military, I went to work for the FAA in Washington, D.C.”, he says. He explains that from the very beginning he was walking on eggshells. “It was a great job, but when word got around that I was retired military, people looked at me as a 'double-dipper'.” His hire came about when his reporting boss was out of town. He was the only male in a sea of women who had been hired primarily through nepotism. He recalls that he could hear the venom in his bosses voice when she squalled, “Oh you’re the person who got my friends job.” He thought removing himself from the environment would help ease the tension building around the job. After a visit to Atlanta, he requested a transfer and got it approved. Things did not bode well there either. “I could have done some things differently,” he admits. Eventually he lost his job.

Dr. Young often felt unchallenged and always pursued his entrepreneurial aspirations. After losing the FAA position, he started a recycling business. He took old roofing shingles and tires, grinded up the products and would resale the inventory to asphalt companies. “This business did really great for two years,” he recalls. But after certain mishaps and obstacles the business faltered. He had leased machinery that he could no longer pay for, went bankrupt and loss his home. He and his son ended up living in their car and had nowhere to go. He had a daughter at the time, but she was living with her mother.

Why not stay with family? He had family in Atlanta, but they were basically “dead” to him. “My mother abused me from age 6 to high school because of my striking resemblance to my father.” See, his father had an extramarital affair.

“It was very divisive in our home,” he says. “My mother would pit my siblings against me and each other.” After leaving the house on his on terms, he never looked back as this unhealthy separation followed into adulthood. He and his three sisters don’t speak. His younger brother is serving 65 years in state prison. His only close relationship to family was with his older brother who passed away in 1994. He did finally make peace with his mother before she died.

PHOENIX RISING So to obtain any kind of money he worked at Labor Ready or would be on the street with a cup from McDonald’s and panhandle. He had horrific thoughts of taking his life and his son’s life. He was at the end of his rope with nowhere to go. One night he was listening to a tape by Les Brown, “It’s Not Over Till You Win” while talking with his son. His son sweetly spoke to his father with tears steadily streaming down his eyes, “Dad, I know you are going to fix this.” At this moment, Dr. Young was reignited.

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Dr. Young, President & Founder of

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Dr. Young in his office discussing his labor of love, The Georgia National Alliance Community Coalition For The Homeless.

Dr. Young with paparazzi his very successful Our bodyguard is back on the job as autobiographical "From Home to attempts to get some final shots of our book, A-List Homeless to Success". socialite as she enters the limo to her next destination.

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Another business venture fell into his lap. After cleaning a friend’s oven, the landlord of the complex offered him a contract to do all the ovens on the property. He used his skills from the military to strategize his plan. He used the computer at Fort McPherson to make flyers and used the library phone as his primary contact. His business grew to cleaning restaurant ovens. He had saved enough money to rent a dilapidated, ratinfested shack in order to have a roof over their head. “People will capitalize on your misfortune,” he quips. “I cleaned ovens until I got a job at Delta Airlines.” He was totally back on his feet and his dignity was fully restored, yet something was pulling at him. “I never though of speaking or writing books, but that is what I was lead to do.”

AN EXPERT FROM EXPERIENCE Dr. Young became a lead expert on homelessness in America. A dynamic and entertaining speaker, he travels all over the United States, sharing his own personal battle with homelessness, while raising awareness about its causes, effects and solutions.

He wrote the critically acclaimed book, "From Home to Homeless to Success," and authored Empowered to Succeed, a personal development series that shares insight into the tangible benefits of constructive thinking. Dr. Young is also the coauthor of three books, "Unleash The Greatness Within You", "From Mediocre To Magnificent" and "Unleash The Passion For Your Purpose".

From his experience he understood that there is a large disconnect between the programs and the homeless that they attempt to serve. “Listen, I’m not trying to take away anything other organizations are out there doing to battle homelessness.

I just know first hand that the major facets of their program do

not work because they do not know what a homeless person has gone through,” he emphatically states. “Their infrastructure is faulty.” Recently the Pine Street facility shut down that has been a sore spot for many residences and businesses in the area. At all hours, drug activity can be seen in the acrossthe-street parking lot and Atlanta Police Department officials have confirmed that a certain amount of criminal activity that occurred. Also over the years, surrounding businesses have reported that staff and patrons have been accosted by men lingering around the shelter. The general consensus from Midtowners is that the shelter had been a blight on the neighborhood, bringing crime to the local area and damaging property values.

“You got guys who are homeless employed by the facility but have not received proper training and still do not fully understand their own homelessness.”

He was lead to found the Georgia National Alliance Community Coalition for the Homeless and his “Where Are You Sleeping?” program has quite a different process. The program seeks out men on at a time. Each individual is put through a rigorous screening process to see if they are sincere about getting off the street. Once qualified, that person moves into the house with three other gentlemen, also eager to reinsert themselves as productive members of society.

“Responsibility. Accountability. These are the things lacking in a lot of these other facilities”, Dr. Young quips. “Everybody in the house knows they have to get up in the morning, clean themselves up and go to work. Certain weekends they will have to get up a do yard work. The level of responsibility is put back in their hands,” he says. “You restore the dignity of a man and you restore his life. Change the inside of a man and the outward appearance will change. There is a quote by Wayne Dyer, ‘If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.’ Most people have no idea what that quote really means,” he quips. “The perception is that all homeless are lazy, on drug addicts, mentally ill, but that is not everyone. It is there but that is not everyone. Many veterans are coming home with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and cannot properly function in society and cannot keep a job. The veteran does not understand what is going on and we’ve failed (as a country) to produce a proper program for veterans.”

Like all programs he needs funding, volunteers and mentors.

It is unfortunate that the flow of donations to his program has been slow. He believes this is a result of other programs falling

short and his solution being looked at as more of the same. He looks to shake off that perception.

10 for 10 This mentoring program by Dr. Young is one of his core remedies in eradicating homelessness. 10 homeless men will be matched with 10 determined, dedicated, positive and flexible business men and women who can offer support, guidance and restore a man’s dignity through a regular friendly relationship. When asked why men are only mentored at this point, Dr. Young quickly responds, “The mass population of homeless people are single males. We want to decrease this number and expand into helping all of the homeless population. You can’t save everybody and everybody doesn’t want to be saved, but we aim to make a significant blow to homelessness in America.”

Through his board affiliations with the Prostate Cancer Coalition board and Operation Restoration with Anne Batte, he has another outreach program called “The 100” where 100 homeless men receive free prostate cancer checks.

SPIRITUAL AWAKENING Dr. Young is not overtly religious but does believe a spiritual base is needed to help overcome homelessness and maintain once you come out of it. “You have grown men scared of life, scared of people. The trust is gone. There is a spiritual fall 2012 | www.cigarluxemag.com

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foundation needed, but you don’t force-feed people religion.”

He knows this first hand. He tells the story of going to the shelter one day with his son to rest their heads and get some food. “I gotta tell you shelters don’t feed the homeless,” he quips. I get a little confused. “See they get other people's leftovers and put it together in a container for you to eat; they don’t cook.” I get it, he continues.

“So we haven’t eaten for three days and they bring out the containers that you can smell but you can’t eat yet because you have to listen to the shotgun preacher give a two hour sermon before you can take a bite.” I’m flabbergasted.

“You haven’t heard a word he’s said. You’re just ready to eat,” he exclaims. “Now that I’ve put together my program, I’ve asked them why they do this and their response is, ‘if we feed them first they’ll leave’. Well they are going to leave regardless.”

I nod in agreement. I see the theory that is in place, but it is backwards and faulty. They believe by force-feeding religion on a man who is starving, he’s going to “feed” his soul with the spiritual guidance being placed in front of him, then he can nourish his physical body. You reverse the process, you will get better results.

“Exactly,” Dr. Young lights up. “You gotta feed them first.

There are some who are going to leave regardless, but eventually some will stay to listen. Those are the ones who want to get out of their plight.”

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MOVING FORWARD

“You have to deal with the homeless situation one person at a time, one family at a time. We can take these abandoned homes and rebuild them and give them to a family. There is a lack of commitment and concern. The commodity is there, but no empathy.”

Dr. Young knows he has to pay-it-forward in every way conceivable. “I looked down upon the homeless at a point in my life,” he sadly admits. “It hurts to be looked down upon. It hurts to be spit on and I received those same hurts when I was homeless. If you want to give a homeless person money, do it with sincerity and forget about what they do with the money. Give a homeless person a smile.

As a person you have to ask yourself, ‘how far do I go?’ Give a man a bath or hot shower, brush his teeth, give him a hair cut and watch the way he looks at himself. That glimmer of pride comes back.”

Dr. Young gives an account of such an act of kindness.

He was in the West End of Atlanta in February. It’s was cold and rainy, ice crystals were on his car. A Caucasian man was on the street and everyone was passing him by.

His clothes where dingy and ragged, hair a mess, his skin covered in dirt. Dr. Young looked down and his feet were bare. He pulls over and asks him, “Where are you shoes?”

He could look into his eyes and see that far away look of distrust, despair and embarrassment that he once had when he had no place to go.

“Come with me, I want to get you some shoes,” he told the man. Reluctantly he went with Dr. Young. They walk into the store and the shoe salesperson accosts them and says he (the homeless man) can’t come in here.

“Why not?” Dr. Young inquires.

“Well that’s why we’re here,” Dr. Young states. The salesperson really wanted to say he’s a dirty homeless guy. Only thing he could come up with is that excuse. Now the salesperson doesn’t want to measure his feet and asks Dr. Young to do it. Dr. Young tells the sales person he doesn’t know how to and it is their job. The salesperson reluctantly measures his feet while Dr. Young buys a package of tube socks. He buys the guy some boots because they last longer. The homeless man takes a look at Dr. Young and walks out the store.

“Why did you do that?” The salesperson asked.

“Because I knew you wouldn’t,” Dr. Young bluntly replies.

Bravo, a hero in action.

“I don’t where he is, I never saw him again, but I like to think that I restored a little bit of his dignity.” I’d like to think so to.

Dr. Young's new book "Achieving What You Want", launches this fall. If you would like to donate, volunteer or become a mentor you can contact Dr. Young and the Georgia National Alliance Community Coalition for the Homeless at the following: Georgia National Alliance Community Coalition for the Homeless P. O. Box 4179 Atlanta, Georgia 30302 404.212.9965 life@carltonyoung.com www.gnacch.org

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PHOTOS BY STEFFANO MORTE

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SPORTS SPECIAL

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Jakoyah relaxes on the golf cart with her cigar as Tanya sets up to tee off.

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Tanya hit a powerful shot off the tee (l), but she ends up having to make a tough dig out of the sand.

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Tanya makes a great shot out of the sand and on to the green leaving herself an easy put for birdie on this PAR 4 hole.

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Models/Actresses Jakoyah Clarke Tanya Boniface Photography Steffano Morte www.steffanomorte.com Styling Jakoyah Clarke Tanya Boniface Hair and Makeup Jakoyah Clarke Tanya Boniface Production Curtis Kaufman Akbar Alam Sean Clinkscales curtis@cigarluxemag.com akbar@cigarluxemag.com sean@cigarluxemag.com Location North Fulton Golf Course 216 W Wieuca Road Northwest Atlanta, GA 30342 (404) 255-0723 www.northfulton.americangolf.com Cigars The South Beach Cigar provided by Sinan Cigars exclusively at Scottish Tobacco www.scottishtobacco.com

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Golf

HIT LONG & STRAIGHT

I

BY ANDREAS BOBERG

f you are jealous of your golfing partnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s distance, especially from the tee, I encourage you to continue reading and see if these few swing thoughts can help you next time you are looking to hit it long and straight.

Set-up position: When you are setting up to hit a driver, make sure the ball is towards the front foot in your stance, and that the ball is teed up high enough to that at least half the ball is above the clubface. Keep your feet shoulder width apart, and have a very slight bend in your knees. Bend your upper body from the hips, so your spine keeps nice and straight as you are standing over the ball and the weight favors the balls of your feet. Be sure you have a few inches of space between end of the grip and your legs. If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have any room, try to stand further from the ball.

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As you start the backswing, make sure to start by rotating your shoulders, keeping the hands very quiet. This will allow you to make a wide swing arc, which is very good when you want to hit it long and straight. When the clubs gets to parallel with the ground, bend your right elbow and try to keep it close to your body. This will allow you to complete the back swing with a wide swing arc and a big powerful shoulder turn. Note that the hands have still not moved.

A few key things to look at on the top of the swing: 1 The left arm is straight.

2 There is space between your neck and the club’s shaft. If your arc is not wide, you have probably hinged your hands.

3 The club head’s leading edge is parallel with your left arm.

You may need the help of a friend, a mirror or a video camera to see what your position of top of the swing looks like.

From this position of top of the swing, you have a very good chance of hitting something long and straight. Make sure you start the down swing by rotating your shoulders towards the ball, pulling with your left shoulder/triceps.

Note again, that the hands are not moving.

Are you a slicer?

Most of the students who seek my help have a problem with slicing, and the harder they swing the worse it gets. I have found that MOST of the slicers encounter this problem by either; overactive hands, or fast hips.

If you are suffering from overactive hands (most of you have at some point in your life played baseball) the key to straightening it out is in the beginning of your backswing.

As you are standing in your address position and the club is back because of the shoulder’s rotation, try to keep the face of the club looking at the ball for as long as you can. I know that this will feel as if the club head is “closed”, but resist the urge to roll the hands to the club’s toe will point towards the sky.

If you are suffering from fast hips, the key to straightening your ball flight out is on the downswing. What is happening is that your hips are rotating faster than the rest of your body, leaving the clubface hitting the ball too late. Try this tip next time you are hitting balls on the practice range.

Take your regular set-up position, but before you begin your backswing, pull back foot back (close your stance) a foot or two. Adjust your distance from the ball before you begin your swing. Having your back food behind your target line will lock your hips in position, making it more difficult for them to slide or glide through the impact zone. Hit a few drives with 75% of full power. This drill will improve the timing between your hips and the rest of your body and straighten your ball flight.

For more information about hitting it long and straight, and other areas of the golf swing, please contact me on my email address at swedishgolfpro@gmail.com Mr. Andreas Boberg has a wealth of knowledge and experience having played competitively for over 30 years. During his amateur career he played for his native Sweden in international events. Andres earned two All-American Honors and helped his team finish 4th at the NCAA National Tournament during his college career at Valdosta State University. Mr. Boberg has worked and given golf instructions at several golf courses in the north Atlanta area, including Atlanta Athletic Club, Country Club of the South and Horseshoe Bend Country Club. He is currently the Head Golf Professional St. Marlo Country Club in Duluth, Georgia.

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NFL 2012 P

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NFC East 2012 N.Y GIANTS 2 time Superbowl winning quarterback Eli Manning is actually the THIRD most popular quarterback in NYC. That tells you just how much respect that Eli Manning gets from the NYC media.

Bottom line: Tom Coughlin is a top notch NFL coach and Eli Manning is a top 3 NFL quarterback. I beg anyone to differ.

The Giants have re-signed their one lone holdout Osi Umenyiora and the defense looks to pick up where it left off last season. The only potential hole in the Giants attack is probably at the tight end position, they took a gamble on Jake Ballard by putting him on waivers. The New England Patriots picked him up. Yet, with former Cowboy Martellus Bennett in the fold, even the tight end position may not be a problem. Expect the Giants to have an average record and as usual and make their postseason run to the NFC Championship game.

DALLAS COWBOYS Is Tony Romo ready to lead the Cowboys to the Super Bowl?

That is the question. Now it is time to see if Tony Romo and Dez Bryant can step up to the plate. It would also be to the Cowboys advantage to acknowledge 2nd year running back DeMarco Murray as a potential ALL PRO talent.

With defensive coordinator Rob Ryan in his second year with the team and the signings of all pro cornerback Brandon Carr and rookie sensation defensive back Morris Claiborne, the team has addressed its biggest team weakness which was the [MKWVLIZa ?M _QTT ÅVITTa [MM _PI\ SQVL WN damage on the line of scrimmage Defensive End DeMarcus Ware can do with a little defensive secondary help. Don’t be surprised if he breaks former N.Y. Giant Michael Strahan’s NFL sack record this year.

We all should remember this one thing, the Cowboys are basically the same team that Bill Parcells had back in the early to

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mid-2000’s. Time for the Cowboys to get to a Superbowl without re building may be running out.

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES Now that the Eagles have re-signed mercurial receiver DeShawn Jack[WV IVL ÅZML 1 UMIV let President Joe Banner to step down from his position which now will ITTW_ PMIL KWIKP )VLa :QML \W PI^M ÅVIT [Ia QV ZMOIZL[ \W ITT XTIaMZ NZWV\ WNÅKM LMKQsions, all is well in Eagles land.

With “Shady” McCoy in tow on offense and Nnamdi Asomugha, in his second full season with the team on Defense, this should be an interesting season for the Eagles. They have the potential talent to MQ\PMZ _QV \PM LQ^Q[QWV W]\ ZQOP\ WZ ÅVQ[P behind both the N.Y Giants and the Dallas Cowboys.

The real question is, can Mike Vick stay healthy long enough for the Eagles to make a run at this 2012 Super Bowl?

WASHINGTON REDSKINS Rookie sensation at quarterback RG III and Santana Moss….Good luck with the season, the hope is that Mike Shannahan’s system is in place and fully functioning. That of course all depends on the players. I am being kind when I predict the Redskins going 7-9. This hope all hangs WV ZWWSQM Y]IZ\MZJIKS :WJMZ\ /ZQNÅV 111 and his constant and steady improvement.

If he can have half the rookie season that Cam Newton had for the Carolina Panthers last season, alto they still will not win many games, the Redskins will have a bright future ahead of them.

NFC EAST PREDICTIONS: DALLAS COWBOYS (11-5) N.Y. GIANTS (10-6) (N.Y. GIANTS get tie breaker over EAGLES) PHILADELPHIA EAGLE (10-6) WASHINGTON REDSKINS (6-10) NFC North CHICAGO BEARS Chicago QB Jay Cutler has to hope this

season the blocking issues that plagued the offensive line last season do not repeat itself when Cutler was sacked over 45 times. Running back Matt Forte is holding out in hopes of getting a contract on par with premier backs in the league, which is interesting to say the least. With the addition of rookie receiver out of South Carolina, Alshon Jeffery and free agent Brandon Marshall, if his head is right, the Bears Offense should pick up and begin score a bit more. Of course I cannot fail to mention the multi-dimensional Devin Hester will do what he normally does.

Defensively, Brian Urlacher is back for his 13th season. Of course the hope is he can come back anywhere near full speed after [XZIQVQVO PQ[ 5+4 IVL )+4 QV \PM ÅVIT game of the season last year. With Julius Pepper, rookie Shae McClellin up front and Briggs along with a healthy Urlacher, \PM *MIZ[ LMNMV[M [PW]TL ÅVL \PMU[MT^M[ right back in the top 10 in league 2012 season. Look for them to make the playoffs after missing 2011.

DETROIT LIONS <PM ÅZ[\ \PQVO \PM ,M\ZWQ\ 4QWV[ IZM OWQVO to realize this season is; there is a difference between being the hunter and the hunted and strength of schedule in 2012 is going to be a lot harder than their schedule was in 2011. Detroit is now a playoff team, in spite of only lasting one round.

The Lions are a team built on chemistry, not many changes from last season player wise. On offense, Matt Stafford is back after having a break out 2011 season with over 5,000 yards passing and 40 something touchdowns. He and wide receiver Calvin Johnson make a very productive tandem on offense and if the Lions KW]TL ÅVL I KWV[Q[\MV\ Z][PQVO I\\IKS \PMQZ offense will be even better. Of course if Detroit’s secondary does not improve this season to assist their strong defensive line, the playoffs will be “one and done” this season as well.

GREENBAY PACKERS The Green Bay ended the 2011 season with a 15-1 record. Unfortunately for them, that loss was to in the NFC Championship game to the eventual Super Bowl champion N.Y. Giants. Aaron Rodgers had an MVP season, unfortunately for him, he was outplayed in the one game that mattered by Eli Manning. The Packers enter the 2012 season with pretty much the same lineup from last season and a bitter taste in their mouths. The Packers will not have the same record as last year if for no other reason than the improvement of the Bears and Detroit Lions. Yet, expect more of the same MVP caliber performance from Mr. Rodgers and top tier Offense.

It is what it is on defense they have made major improvements.

MINNESOTA VIKINGS Now that the Donovan McNabb experiment is over and young Quarterback Christian Ponder is in place, maybe, just maybe the Vikings can let their future be now. Disgruntled wide receiver Percy Hervin is back in camp albeit without a new contract. The hope is, running back Adrien Peterson can return to form after yet another injury.

The Vikings secondary cannot get any worse than it was last year by giving up a league worst 34 passing touchdowns and over 4,000 yards passing. Although they did lose Cornerback Husain Abdullah for religious purposes, the Vikings did attempt to rebuild their secondary in the draft by drafting a pair of corner backs out of Notre Dame, Harrison Smith and Robert Blanton.

NFC NORTH PREDICTIONS: GREENBAY PACKERS: 12-4 CHICAGO BEARS: 10-6 (expect a bounce back w/ a weaker schedule) DETROIT LIONS: 10-6 (expect more losses now that they are expected to win) MINNESOTA VIKINGS: 4-12

JIM CLAUS (NFC/AFC SOUTH) NFC South Tampa Bay Buccaneers After closing out the regular season with 10 consecutive losses, look for the Bucs to be on an up-swing. The addition of Vincent Jackson and Dallas Clark will give Josh Freeman that true No. 1 wide receiver as well as a tight end with good hands for his check down route. FreeUIV U][\ ÅVL I _Ia \W TQUQ\ PQ[ \]ZVW^MZ[ and bounce back from his poor decision making when it came to throwing the ball.

LeGarrette Blount will still carry much of the offense this season, and with improved quarterback play, there’s serious potential for Blount to be a top 5 running back this season.

Aqib Talib, Ronde Barber and the rookie Mark Barron give the Bucs a solid secondary, but with the dynamic passing attacks of New Orleans, Atlanta and Carolina in their division, a .500 record seems like asking too much.

ATLANTA FALCONS The Falcons are looking to make this 2012 season their year to shine; there is tons of talent on this team. They have three outstanding pass-catchers, a top 10 running back in Michael Turner, and an outstanding quarterback in Matt Ryan.

Remember, this team has been in the top seven for points scored the past two years, and don’t expect anything less in 2012.

Atlanta really needs to focus on their defense if they plan on winning their division title. With the addition of both Asante Samuel and Lofa Tatupu, look for \PM LMNMV[M \W JM [QOVQÅKIV\Ta JM\\MZ \PIV previous years; Samuel paired with Brent Grimes gives Atlanta two very good corners, and Tatupu is a great addition to the linebacker core. Atlanta still has a lot to prove in terms of being a Super Bowl contender, but with a full training camp this season look for the Falcons to be headed to another playoff run.

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS Two words changed the entire 2012 outlook for the Saints: Bountygate scandal. If that weren’t enough of a headache for New Orleans, the absence of their fearless WV ÅMTL TMILMZ ,ZM_ Brees surely won’t help their situation. Brees has already missed OTAs and minicamp which has cost the team precious practice time and timing for a high powered passing attack. Not to mention the suspensions of their head coach Sean Payton and star defender, Jonathan Vilma, the Saints couldn’t seem to catch a break this off season.

Look for the Saints to get a deal worked out with Brees by mid-late July, but unfortunately too much time may have already been missed. Wild Card hopes will be contested by Detroit and Philadelphia, could this be a Saints-less playoff year?

CAROLINA PANTHERS Selecting Cam Newton last year was the smartest decision the Panther organization has ever made. Carolina’s 2011 season success was based almost exclusively on the playmaking ability of Newton. It seems unlikely anything will change this upcoming season. The Panthers will have an outstanding ground attack between DeAngelo Williams, Jonathan Stewart, Mike Tolbert, and Newton.

Unfortunately when it comes to their passing attack, Steve Smith is basically their only receiving option in a less than stellar receiving core.

There are still several positions that will need to improve dramatically if Carolina plans on competing for Wild Card hopes.

On the bright side, with such young talent, look for the Panthers to be a division contender within the next two or three seasons.

NFC South Predictions: Atlanta Falcons: 12-4 New Orleans Saints: 9-7 Carolina Panthers: 7-9 Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 7-9

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AFC South Houston Texans The Texans showed serious potential in \PMQZ ÅZ[\ XTIaWNN IXXMIZIVKM J]\ _Q\P the loss of a good deal of talent in Mario Williams and DeMeco Ryans, look for Houston to experience some setbacks on their defensive play, which was crucial in last year’s performance.

On offense the Texans have some explosive weapons in Arian Foster, who’s one of the elite if not best running backs in the game today; and Andre Johnson, who is one of the most exciting wide receivers to watch go up and get the ball. Unfortunately the Texans were exposed when Matt Schaub went down as a result to an injury, and they barely made it into the playoffs.

If Schaub can remain healthy, the Texans have a really good chance at competing in the AFC Championship game and possibly to the Super Bowl.

Tennessee Titans Last season, the Titans just missed a Wild Card spot; even with a poor performance from Chris Johnson, and a season ending injury suffered to Kenny Britt early in the season. Now a new season is emerging, Johnson promises his season slump is over and has vowed to win the rushing title back, and Britt is expected to make a full recovery from his torn knee injury. Both players are key to the success of the Titans and they elevate the play of the whole team, which will be increasingly QUXWZ\IV\ WV \PM ÅMTL QN 2IKS 4WKSMZ Q[ to win the starting quarterback role from the veteran Matt Hasselbeck. Look for Kendall Wright to make a mild impact due to his ability to be a deep ball threat which could prove to be a dangers option for Locker who excels in the deep pass.

Steve Hutchinson and Kamerion Wimbley were the only offseason additions and both will become key starters; Hutchinson will

add some additional help on the line for Johnson to bounce back after his less than impressive performance, and Winbely will add some much needed help to a defense that was ranked 24th last season. If the Titans can manage to step up on defense, IVL \PMQZ WNNMV[M \W JM ÅZML ]X TWWS NWZ them to make a strong contention for the division title and go deep into the playoffs.

Indianapolis Colts After an embarrassing 2011 season, things really have nowhere to go but up for the Colts. With the departure of Peyton Manning, Pierre Garçon, Dallas Clark and Joseph Addai it would seem all hope is lost for this franchise, but with the addition of such young and promising offensive players like the “once in a generation” quarterback in Andrew Luck, as well as Coby Fleener, Dwayne Allen and T.Y. Hilton they may have a chance. With so much youth now on the team, and trying to learn brand-new offensive and defensive schemes, it’s going to take more than one offseason to improve Indy to division contenders.

With so much rebuilding left to do, I still see them as the worst team in the NFL for the second season. On the positive note, this means another 1st overall pick could be headed their way.

Jacksonville Jaguars The signing of Laurent Robinson and Aaron Ross and drafting Justin Blackmon gave the fans of Jacksonville plenty to cheer about this offseason, making it appear that the Jags may have division contending potential.

Unfortunately bad news was soon to follow with Blackmon’s DUI, followed by the holdout situation of Maurice Jones-Drew. It is unknown how long MJD will continue to hold out especially after seeing the devas-

tating effects it had on Chris Johnson in Tennessee. MJD’s absence not only affects himself but also the developing quarterback Blaine Gabbert, who struggled during the 2011 season.

Fortunately the Jags have a solid defense and have retained Mel Tucker as their defensive coordinator, but with the offense not able to put points on the board, the defense can only hold off opposing teams NWZ [W TWVO JMNWZM \PM ÆWWL OI\M[ WXMV AFC Predictions: Tennessee Titans: 10-6 Houston Texans: 9-7 Jacksonville Jaguars: 8-8 Indianapolis Colts: 4-12 D.J. (AFC North) Baltimore Ravens “Pay the man his money”. One of my favorite movie quotes for one of the NFL’s best players.

The Ravens Superbowl chances are all based on the health and happiness of Ray Rice. He is a defense’s nightmare and a quarterbacks dream. Just look at the numbers: Over 2,000 yards from scrimmage, 704 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns. Why shouldn’t he be paid if he can produce numbers like that? His two receivers Boldin and ;UQ\P ÅVL themselves in ideal single coverage, while defenses fear :Ia KWUQVO W]\ WN \PM JIKS ÅMTL WZ TQVQVO up in the slot. This forces the safeties to play the run before they can cover those two explosive receivers.What about the defense you say? Even with Terrell “T-Sizzle” Suggs out for the majority of the 2012 with his injured achilles tendon; Ed Reed still contemplating retirement, Ray Lewis being older, and Haloti Ngata still anchoring that defensive line, the Ravens are still AFC favorites.

PITTSBURG STEELERS We’ve seen it before. Big Ben RoethlisJMZOMZ ZITTaQVO \PM \ZWWX[ IN\MZ I LMÅcit. This is what we expect from the great CONTRIBUTORS: L. Witt, James Claus and DJ

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ones. No way are Big Ben and the Steelers going to let the Denver Broncos and that college style offense take the lead. No way have these two teams sniffed overtime. Okay no way the Broncos win. Wait…Broncos win? Saying it now, even though we’re nearing training camp for the 20122013 season, still doesn’t sound right. Clearly what we experienced in January was folly, it can’t be true. I’m sure I speak for all of Steeler Nation when I say that the past is the past and we must look towards the future. Hines Ward is gone, which leaves more touches for Wallace and Brown, who both went over 1000 receiving yards. The defense is older yes, but healthy and their schedule plays well for the Steelers defense to get off to a hot start. New offensive coordinator Todd Hailey should resurrect the horrid running game the Steelers tried to push forth these past two seasons. It all hinges on the shoulder of Big Ben; he must stay healthy, and to do that his offensive line has to stay healthy late in the season. If this happens, look for the Steelers to give the Ravens a run for the AFC north title.

CLEVELAND BROWNS 4-12 If you’re a Cleveland Brown fan, I pray thee, CHANGE TEAMS!! The Cleveland Browns might win 4 games this year. That’s if RG3 and Andrew Luck are both utter failures and the Raiders don’t show up to play. Trust me, this is not in jest. Let’s just view some key issues with the Browns. First off, Mike Holmgren is a horrid president; he’s a great coach, but I’m not quite sure how he picks his players. He had a few good years in Green Bay with Brett Farve and in Seattle with Matt Hasselbeck, but he inherited those guys. Secondly,

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Cleveland drafts a running back, and according to the Great Jim Brown “He’s alright”. Then they draft…..wait for it….a “28” year old quarterback. No, no, no. Not to back up McCoy, but to become the starting QB. Seriously? Despite their offensive woes, the defense is actually pretty good and kept Cleveland in a handful of games last year. What Cleveland really needs are receivers and a better offensive line. Look for Trent Richardson to keep defenses honest, McCoy and Weeden to battle it out for the starting QB, and for Cleveland to once again do what they’ve done for the past two decades….Bomb. In hindsight, I change my mind, 3-13!!!!!

CINCINNATI BENGALS The “Cincinnati Bungles” are no more. Chad “85”, Carson Palmer, and Cedric Benson are all gone. Enter the new and improved Bengals and the only records we talk about when it comes to the Bengals are the records that the young QB and WR combo put up last year. Yes, Cam Newton put up other worldly numbers, but Andy Dolton, who led his team to the playoffs and against the best defense in the league, was a turn over away from advancing in the playoffs. With an handful of stand outs on offense and defense, there’s no reason why the fans of the Bengals shouldn’t be optimistic about the future of this organization. Look for A.J. Green to have Calvin Johnson type numbers this year. With a full off season and training camp under his belt, I believe that Andy Dalton will have a break-out season. Look for him to pass over 4000 yards and throw for over 25 touchdowns. The addition of Green-Ellis should help the Bengals in short yard situations. DE Michael Johnson should also have a breakout season. This may or may not be the year for the Bengals to make the playoffs. They snuck up on teams last year, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see this team hosting a Lombardi trophy within the next few years.

PREDICTIONS BALTIMORE RAVENS 11-5 PITTSBURG STEELERS 10-6 CLEVELAND BROWNS 4-12 (wait that was last year’s record) CINCINNATI BENGALS 9-7 L. Witt (NFC/AFC West) AFC West SAN DIEGO CHARGERS This year’s offense will have new faces and names wearing the Charger Bolt. Keeping Antonio Gates happy and having added experienced Robert Meachem, Eddie Royal and Roscoe Parrish, look for QB Phillip Rivers to come close to breaking the newly set passing yards record. The new addition of John Pagano as the defensive coordinator [PW]TL TQ^MV ]X \PM PWZZQÅK LMNMV[M \PMa had the last couple of years. If draft picks Melvin Ingram and Kendall Reyes live up to expectation, it should be a good start to rebuilding their defense.

DENVER BRONCOS With the biggest coup of free agency season, the Broncos look to build around the future Hall-of-Famer Peyton Manning with a total revamping of the offense, moving from a wildcat mix to a pass-oriented offense. Even with the loss of Eddie Royal to free agency, the Broncos have added a new duo of tight ends in Jacob Tamme and Joel Dreessen to help with the struggling receiving corps.

With last year’s #20 total defense, Von Miller and company look to improve under their new defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio. Even though they have scrapped their entire offensive and most of their defensive plan from last year to start new,

never count a Peyton Manning team out until the clock strikes 0:00.

OAKLAND RAIDERS In the past eight years, Oakland has had six different head coaches. This year will prove to be interesting with Reggie 5K3MVbQM NWZUMZ 8IKSMZ I[ \PM ÅZ[\ General Manager since the great Al Davis and Dennis Allen (former Bronco Defensive coordinaton) replacing Hue Jackson as Head Coach. Even though they had a top-10 total offense last season, look to see a different Raider team with Carson Palmer taking over from the beginning.

Even though Palmer has his work cut out for him with the mostly third year and younger guys, he does have WR Jacoby Ford and RB Darren McFadden to help guide the young offense. The secondary will be searching for a new identity with players who have little to no experience at the professional level.

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS The Chiefs had a rocky season last year, ÅZQVO \PMQZ PMIL KWIKP UQL_Ia \PZW]OP the season and replacing him with Romeo Crennel.

The big feather in Crennel’s cap was ending the Packer’s perfect season in week 15 with a severely injured team. Now with a healthy Matt Cassel, new TE Kevin Boss and all-purpose Dexter McCluster together, there is potential for offensive explosion in Arrowhead. Watch for DE Glenn Dorsey and the defense to run the 3-4 and pressure the QB with blitzes. Eric Berry is looking to return from an ACL tear in the season opener against Buffalo.

PREDICTIONS Denver Broncos: 10-6 (5-1) Oakland Raiders: 8-8 (3-3) San Diego Chargers: 8-8 (2-4) Kansas City Chiefs: 5-11 (1-5)

NFC WORST (WEST) SEATTLE SEAHAWKS After coming off one of their worst seasons last year, the Seahawks look to improve on the offensive end with recent additions at QB with Matt Flynn and rookie Russell Wilson. This has the makings of a quarterback controversy in Seattle when Tarvaris Jackson is included into the mix. Marshawn Lynch looks to have another 1000 yard season regardless of who is under center.

Even though they were in the top-10 of total defense, their draft was heavy in defensive draft picksCoach Carroll’s specialty. We will see if the new offensive editions and the defensive mind of Coach Carroll can help these birds recover from last year’s debacle.

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS After a stellar season no one expected, the hunters become the hunted. Alex Smith looks to return after his best season—and his team courting Peyton Manning as their ÅZ[\ [\ZQVO -^MV \PW]OP \PMa _MZM WVM WN the worst passing offensive teams in the league, their running game was top-10 and they can improve with the addition of second-round pick LaMichael James RB and ÅZ[\ ZW]VL XQKS ) 2 2MVSQV[ I\ ?: <PMQZ defense was #4 in total and will have to work hard to maintain their status with notable signees like Ahmad Brooks and C.J. Spillman.

It is not every team that can say they did not allow a rushing touchdown for the ÅZ[\ NW]Z\MMV¸aM[ \PI\¼[ ZQOP\ ¸OIUM[ Hopefully two of the best linebackers to play the game, Patrick Willis and Navorro Bowman, will continue their excellent play and continued dominance.

ST. LOUIS RAMS The second worst team last season has UILM [WUM [QOVQÅKIV\ KPIVOM[ \W \PMQZ makeup. New Head Coach hire is Jeff Fischer who then hired defensive coordinator Greg Williams. That did not turn out

well when Roger Goodell ruled Williams guilty of “bountygate” and suspended him QVLMÅVQ\MTa [W \PM VM_ LMNMV[Q^M KWWZLQnator is Jeff Fischer…for now anyway.

They will have to work with 16 rookies on their current roster to provide some support for Sam Bradford and his less than consistent offense. Brian Schottenheimer, the new offensive coordinator will have his work cut out especially with the recent suspension of Brody Eldridge, TE. Bradford has the potential to be a great quarterback with the right supporting receivers and coaches. The new edition of Pro-Bowler Steve Smith and four new targets via the draft give Schottenheimer and Bradford more targets to improve their offensive performance this season.

ARIZONA CARDINALS According to the depth chart, Cardinals starting QB is John Skelton from Fordham.

Even though he had taken over for an injured Kolb last season, the Cardinals focused most of their draft picks on helping the young quarterback. They bulked up the O-line with Bobby Massie and Sonio Kelemete and got another target in Notre Dame standout Michael Floyd.

The defense had a rough start last year and they look to improve. Bryant McFadden has returned to Arizona and Darnell Dockett looks to pick up where they left off at the end of last season. We will see if this extremely young team can be a contender in their division.the right supporting receivers and coaches. The new edition of Pro-Bowler Steve Smith and four new targets via the draft give Schotten.

PREDICTIONS Seattle Seahawks: 9-7 San Francisco 49Ers: 12-4 St. Louis Rams: 6-10 Arizon Cardinals: 5-11 Kansas City Chiefs: 5-11 (1-5)

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Travel

YOUR MANSION AWAITS

THE WORLD IS YOUR OYSTER AT GRAYCLIFF HOTEL, RESTAURANT & CIGAR COMPANY IN NASSAU, BAHAMAS

BY LACRESIA BORDEN

G

raycliff Hotel is a colonial mansion with lush tropical gardens featuring two restaurants, including a French/Bahamian restaurant with the largest private award winning wine collection in the region.

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Anse Chastanet with a majestic view of the Piti and Gros Piton mountains.

Luxury suite inside the Graycliff Hotel.

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Poolside at Graycliff Hotel.

Situated next door to Government House and only a few minutes away from white sand beaches, Graycliff offers an enticing world tucked away from the casinos and glitter Nassau is known for. The hotel boasts twenty elegant guest chambers and spacious cottage suites.

The ambiance at Graycliff is to make each guest feel as if theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve returned home. Upon arrival, guests are invited to sit and relax in comfort of the lounge while checking in.

The rooms are all individually decorated in various styles with names that evoke all the charm and romance of the tropics and now, with the addition of the Graycliff Cigar Company, the rooms also reflect the cigars made there.

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Stairwell to the Graycliff humidor.

Graycliffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decor features an alluring blend of the old and the new. To experience the old there is the Pool Cottage where Winston Churchill used to stay or the Baillou, the original master bedroom in the main house. To experience the new, there is the Mandarino Cottage with its extra large bathroom with whirlpool. All rooms are air-conditioned with private bath.

Breakfast is served to hotel guests only.

Luxury rooms are located in the main building of the hotel in in the gardens. King-bedded room, two doubles or two twin beds with a sitting area. All rooms are air conditioned and have private bath (most with Jacuzzi tubs), mini bar, safety deposit box, direct-dial telephone, alarm clock, data port, cable TV, hair dryer, luxurious bathroom toiletries, iron/ironing board, daily housekeeping and evening turn down service. All rooms are individually decorated with antiques that reflect their names, as the rooms are not numbered. The hotel's restaurant, is the first 5-star restaurant in the Caribbean Region, serves gourmet cuisine. There is also a steakhouse. The hotel is a picture-perfect, palm fringed Inn nestled in the heart of Old Nassau. Surrounded by tropical gardens and the Caribbean Sea

just beyond, it is the perfect setting that is both restful and resplendent, befitting a mansion that has the only five-star restaurant in the entire Caribbean. There are 20 elegant guest chambers and spacious pool-cottage suites that are available in the historic 250-year old mansion. The property has a full service amenity spa and beauty salon, two swimming pools and a 5 star gourmet restaurant. The Graycliff Cigar Company creates cigars on property and offers cigar rolling lessons. In the property's wine cellar, there are over 250,000 bottles of the world's finest and rarest vintages. Lounge, bar and free on site parking.

LaCresia Borden is a travel agent with over 16 years of professional experience in the leisure and travel industry. Her affiliations include the IATAN (International Airlines Travel Agent Network), NACTA (National Association of Career Travel Agents) and CLIA (Cruise Line International Association). She is the president of Personal Touch Tours Travel Agency which has garnered the "Best Travel Agency" acknowledgement by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and saluted as "Top Female Enterprise" by the Atlanta Airport Chamber of Commerce. She lives in McDonough, Georgia with her husband and three children. You can book all your travel needs or see planned destinations at: www.ptttravel.com; visit the office at 3301 Dogwood Drive, Hapeville, GA 30345 or call (404) 305-9353.

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Social

HOT SPOTS THREE ATLANTA HAUNTS TO FIRE UP YOUR NIGHT

Tavern at Phipps.

hals Hal’s exceptional menu, Easy Street appeal, loyal clientele and relaxed charm have been a centerpiece of Atlanta’s Buckhead for more than 20 years. Whether you crave an award-winning steak, sumptuous fish and shellfish, delectable pastas, soups or salads, you’ll be eating food as good as it can be, served by a professional team that’s been together for more than 17 years. Experience the genteel hospitality and a genuine love of pleasing the public that makes Hal’s a place where everyone feels welcome to take a load off while enjoying the comfort of friends and the flavor of some of the best dishes in Atlanta.

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PROHIBITION Prohibition was designed to look like an old fashioned underground speakeasy (a bar that has some sort of hidden and possibly restricted entrance point). The Atlanta bar is located in Andrews Square Buckhead Inside, the speakeasy theme is carried throughout. Soft lighting, oak paneled walls, and sconces from the 20s contribute to the atmosphere.The drink menu includes headings such as "Gin Prescriptions" and "Mezcal and Tequila Potables." Cocktails on the menu include classic themed drinks such as the Gin Gin Mule and the Dark and Stormy. If you are so inclined, the house humidor stocks 19 of the top 25 Cigar Aficionado cigars for you to enjoy cozied up by the fire in a leather sofa. Should you feel like a nosh or full meal, there is a short but diverse menu. Menu highlights include Venezuelan Crab Cocktail, New Zealand Lamb Pops and Nueske's Smoked Moulard Breast.

The layout inside PROHIBITION.

whiskey blue You're on top of the world as you sip and socialize under the stars at our rooftop bar—when it comes to excitement and the hottest scene in town, the sky's the limit. Entering a glass elevator that climbs 125 feet up the outside of the W AtlantaBuckhead, guests arrive at the rooftop, Whiskey Blue. Boasting two outdoor terraces with magnificent views of Buckhead and Lenox Square from one side and of Midtown on the other, Whiskey Blue has a vibe unlike any other.

The interior design of the lounge, with its modern art deco décor, warm wood paneled walls and low lighting create an intimate, upscale tone for guests looking to enjoy signature cocktails while listening to guest DJ’s spin great music. Adding to the swanky atmosphere, images of classic rockers line the walls and beautiful patrons sip their drinks while perching on the comfortable couches scattered throughout. The outdoor patios are prime locales in the warmer months, featuring cabanas, rolling hills of rtificial grass and trees and a full service bar. fall 2012 | www.cigarluxemag.com

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hutter S Sexy PHOTOGRAPHY

速

simply. photography.

(770) 744 -1931 info@ShutterSexy.com www.ShutterSexy.com 50

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WE HELP YOU DISCOVER THE TOP CIGAR SHOP HUMIDORS AND LOUNGES IN YOUR FAVORITE PLACES ACROSS THE COUNTRY

Humidor Hop

Sandy Springs Cigars 6649 Roswell Road, Northeast Atlanta, GA 30328 (404) 843-8339 The personnel at Sandy Springs Cigars will be more than happy to help you find the cigars you are looking for and gift wrap your purchase. If you are a discerning smoker, drop in soon at Sandy Springs Cigars. You’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for.

The motto of this friendly tobacco and gift store is “a tradition of excellence in smoking.” That’s wonderful news for those who look for the best in pipes, tobacco and accessories.

Sandy Springs Cigars, located in Atlanta at 6649 Roswell Road Northeast, Suite C, phone (404) 843-8339 begin_of_the_skype_ highlighting (404) 843-8339 end_of_the_ skype_highlighting, features one of the area’s most complete selections of fresh imported and domestic cigars. The selection

Dunwoody Cigars 1404 Dunwoody Village Parkway Atlanta, GA 30338 (770) 481-0000 Dunwoody cigars came into existence from several men wanting to keep the local cigar store alive. A store in the same location as where Dunwoody Cigars is now had been in business for 15 yrs. But went out could no long keep the doors open with the economy and other factors to force the

includes Perdomo, Ashton, Kristoff, Padron, Rocky Patel, Romeo Julietta, Avo, Zino and more. If you smoke a special brand, they’re sure to have it in stock or will gladly special order it for you.

On display, you will find an impressive array of magnificent pipes from all over the world. Beautiful silver and gold lighters are also showcased for your inspection. Not only do they sell the very best, but they also carry moderately priced pipes, cigars and smoking accessories. There is a walk-in humidor housing domestic and rare tobaccos from Jamaica, Honduras, Turkey and other famed tobacco areas. closure of the store. Former customers of the store who all have other businesses and jobs decided to put together a plan and reopened the store under all new company and store name. The Current owner are Bob Scheetz, Jay Markowitz, Ron Harris, Steve Hindman, Patrick Carr, Roger Steffens, and Clay Burton. Manger of the Store Is Doug Long who has been in tobacco retail for over 20years. All the owners and the store manager have been coming to the store for many years so faces are familiar to returning customers. The owner did not want to loose there one sanctuary where they can meet and enjoy the same interests along with having a good cigar, great company.

Been open Since middle of January 2012.store opens everyday at 10am except Sunday we open at 11am. Close 8pm Monday –Thursday. Close 9pm Friday And Saturday. 6pm on Sunday. fall 2012 | www.cigarluxemag.com

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To tell us about yourself-who you are and what do you do?

I am a venture capitalist born and raised in NYC,(my parents migrated here from the Dominican Republic). My belief is anything is possible so if you strive to work hard you will be successful. Of course, I have experienced ups and downs and I must reiterate "many ups and downs." But I've realized that when pain is present love is also, I know this for a fact. And where there is faith, there's a future. Years ago I heard a famous quote "A man with a belief is stronger than a thousand people working from sun up to sun down." Life is for those who can see the future and makes it come to fruition.

Yesterday is gone, tomorrow is not here, the only thing we own is right now. Its imperative to make every second count, love as many people as you can while you are here. Remem ber one of the assets of real wealth is the ability to love unconditionally.

Royal 10 international is a premier promotions and plaining company That provide the highest quality service for all your needs.

What are you currently up to? Are there any exciting projects on-going? I am currently publishing a book, launching a cigar line, providing consulting projects for major clients. In October, Royal 10 Internat'l will be sponsoring a black-tie event to commemorate breast cancer awareness.

Who or what inspires you? Reginald Lewis, the author of "Why Should White Guys Have All The Fun." This was the first book that I read in its entirety.

Do you currently have retailers? Yes and growing!!

Finally what tips or advice could you give to other entrepreneurs, just starting out? This is from the bottom of my heart, if you aren't making money

within six months of starting your business....you really need to check yourself and your partners' because its time for a divorce! Stay focused, this is the key to greatness. Detach yourself from all distractions, ie name droppers; particularly people that relish in saying "My friend does that." Time is priceless, make every second count. Also, stay away from people who constantly entice you to spend money. Anyone can spend money but it takes skills to attain it with minimal spending. My number one rule is: if you can't make money without it then you will only lose it when you get it. Let the Company earn the right to pay for itself and the right to spend. I love you and best regards, Sosa.

We Provide: Promotions: product launches, fashion shows Commemorations: civic/community events Home parties: custom cigar rolling Royal 10 International has over 5 years experience in event/promotional planning.

Royal 10 International is a premier promotional/event p planning Company and we endeavor to provide excellent and impeccable service to ensure that your event is a success.

For more information please contact:

Royal10int@gmail.com Royal10int@gmail.com 404.844.3586 770.841.5226 404.644.7992 7207757402

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CHARRED OAK BOURBON WHISKEY

It all began in Western Wyoming in 1860. Great-grandfather Clyde was born and before he was 15 he had a reputation as one of the best ranch hands in the state. As the story goes, he was an extremely bright and innovative young man, and by the time he was 18 he had branched out into the liquor making business, better known as “runnin’ shine”. He excelled at everything he undertook, and whiskey making became his specialty.

He set up his stills in the hills under tree cover to avoid detection, and at night would move the liquor down to the edge of the ranch property when he was ready to distributesit. He was on the way down to deliver a batch of whiskey when a huge storm came out of nowhere. Clyde was forced to drop the jugs under a large old oak tree just on the edge of the ranch property, and run for cover. He had just made it to the barn when a giant lightning bolt hit the old oak tree, splitting it square down the middle. When daylight came, he saw the blackened split oak tree, still smoking from the fire, and all of his whiskey jugs and contents ruined.

He had another large batch ready to go, but he had no more jugs, and no way of purchasing anything to hold his whiskey. He looked at the oak tree, with all the leaves burned off, and the gaping split that ran from the top of the 50 foot tree to about 5 feet from its base. He had an idea. He called on the other young ranch hands, and they began chopping off all of the burned branches. One of the largest limbs had split in such a way that it made a natural charred barrel. They rolled it up into the mountains to his still, and they transferred all of the whiskey into the charred oak tree barrel. They had to let it sit in the barrel, as it was securely hidden, and returned to their work on the ranch.

The late 1800’s had its share of problems in the West, and the ranch owner abruptly decided to move his ranch to another part of the state. Clyde had to leave his renowned whiskey in the mountains, sealed in the charred oak barrel. It was 3 years before he could return to the ranch where he had left his whiskey. Not knowing if the oak barrel was still there, he walked way up into the mountains, and everything was just where he had left it. Clyde removed the sealed oak lid, and tasted it. He couldn’t believe it was so smooth and better than anything he had ever produced before. He realized that quite by mistake, he had the best whiskey in the West. He knew that he had to rethink his whiskey business. He had oak barrels to make and whiskey to brew, but before he started on his new venture, he wrote down his barrel aged whiskey recipe, and he gave it to his son, my grandfather, who in turn gave it to my father. That very recipe, and the story of Great-grandfather Clyde’s whiskey making has been handed down, and put away for many, many years…. until now.

Over one hundred years later it is finally being made again, given a name, and available for everybody to enjoy.

Welcome to the very appropriately named Charred Oak. 54

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TM

750ml

50%abv 100 proof fall 2012 | www.cigarluxemag.com

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2012 IPCPR 80th Annual Convention & International Trade Show

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2012 IPCPR Orlando, Florida Photos by Joyce Larkins and Curtis Kaufman

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CigarLuxe Magazine @ 2012 IPCPR Orlando, Florida

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CigarLuxe Magazine @ 2012 IPCPR Orlando, Florida

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Cigar Scene CigarLuxe Magazine Smokeout @ Elbow Room All Photos by John Sands

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Cigar Scene

Blue Havana Kili Climb for Kids Charity Event All Photos by Enzo Mastroianni

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Want To WOW your Crowd?

BOOK A CIGAR ROLLER FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT

404.281.4897

curtis@cigarluxemag.com • www.cigarluxemag.com CigarLuxe

@CigarLuxe

NETWORKING IN LUXURY: CIGAR LOUNGES BY: ORTENZIO MASTROIANNI

Have you ever entered a room and everyone greets you with a handshake and a hello? Times have KPIVOML IVL Q\¼[ PIZL \W ÅVL [WUMWVM \W PWTL I LWWZ NWZ aW] TM\ ITWVM [Ia PMTTW 1 ÅVL Q\ KWUNWZ\ing to know that this seemingly forgotten past time can still be found in a cigar lounge. Whether you know everyone or are entering the lounge for your ÅZ[\ \QUM 1¼^M NW]VL \PI\ aW] _QTT JM _MTKWUML IVL invited to join any conversation. I have found business men and professionals milling around with the unemployed and millionaires alike. The parking lot outside exhibits the same eclectic mix of luxury cars, bikes, and old classics. Whatever your style, you can ÅVL I XTIKM WN IKKMX\IVKM ZMTI`I\QWV IVL _MTKWUQVO atmosphere.

Cigars have been around for years, but it wasn’t till the 1990’s when lounges became popular. Around

that time smoking bans began to appear forcing people to snub out their precious cigar before walking into many establishments. No longer could the average citizen walk through a park with a lit cigar and enjoy it without someone forcing them to extinguish it. Business owners found that the law did not violate a “smoking lounge” if the business catered to smokers. Lounges began to arise where mostly middle aged men frequently visited to get away from their everyday life. Today’s lounges have large televisions, comfortable oversized leather couches and chairs, mini bars packed with Scotches and Brandy, and large cedar lockers stained with years of cigar smoke and age to store your hand rolled foreign smokes at the proper humidity.

Cigars have always seemed to be a male dominat-

ed activity or escape that would allow “the man” to ZMTI` TQ[\MV IVL MVRWa I ÅVM [XQZQ\ _Q\P PQ[ NZQMVL[ 4W]VOM[ \aXQKITTa IZM ÅTTML _Q\P UMV TWWSQVO NWZ someone to tell stories to, discuss politics with, and argue against. I discovered cigar lounges in college.

Attending a small military college, surrounded by a history written mostly by men and future soldiers, we felt it was only appropriate to revive the life of cigars IZW]VL ][ )[ I aW]VO KQOIZ IÅKQWVILW _M NW]VL W]Zselves listening to the stories and tall tales of manly Å[PQVO M`K]Z[QWV[ IVL P]V\QVO \ZQX[ <PZW]OP \PQ[ one can learn to understand the lessons that most young men have missed in our technology, results driven society. Some of these lessons I’ve learned are how to properly drink your scotch, deal with women, clean your priceless collectable junk, and the key to surviving when you’re being shot at in war. These men will sit for hours, escaping the hands of society to build new friendships and business partners. At IVa TW]VOM aW] UIa ÅVL IV IZ\Q[\ I +-7 I _ZQ\er, a bartender, and sometimes some more exotic jobs; but, that never seems to matter to anyone else.

There’s always a chance to pass out a business card or exchange a phone number with a new colleague, business contact and potential friend.

Despite the cigar lounge community being dominated by men, women have begun entering the cigar world and have been well received. It is losing its facade of being a man’s world, a place for men to ]V_QVL IVL LMKWUXZM[[ IN\MZ I TWVO LIa I\ \PM WNÅKM These bold trail blazing women have begun creating ladies only smoking nights to indulge into the world that men have secretly held close to them. Now, I am unsure as to what women discuss in meetings or groups, but I can only assume that it includes networking, discussing new lines or brands and just having a good time.

Although cigar lounges have developed reputations W^MZ \PM aMIZ \PMa IZM NIZ UWZM \PIV I [UWSM ÅTML ZWWU _Q\P UMV ÅZQVO WVM LQZ\a RWSM IN\MZ IVW\PMZ complaining about women, and moaning over last night’s ball game. These lounges can be utilized for rapid networking events, building relationships and making new friends and connections daily. Whether you know nothing about cigars, consider yourself to JM IV IÅKQWVILW WZ R][\ VMML IV M[KIXM NZWU \PM LIQly grind; consider visiting a cigar lounge to see what you’ve been missing. fall 2012 | www.cigarluxemag.com

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Scottish Tobacco

2625 Piedmont Road, Northeast #52A Atlanta, Georgia 0324-3012 404.237.0525 â&#x20AC;˘ 404.237.0527 | fax www.scottishtobacco.com

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CIGARLUXE MAGAZINE | fall 2012

SCOTTISH TOBACCO

Sean Clinkscales • Fine Artist

Cigar Corner

CIGAR MIKE Drew Estate Under Crown Toro size Understated this cigar has fantastic balance of strength and flavor. This is a medium body cigar so that most anyone can smoke it complex enough to give any smoker several reasons to return to it if you haven't tried the under crown you are missing out.

"Cigar Diva"

Gurkha Wicked Indie Toro size This cigar is peppery spice up front then has a mellowing affect its a rich medium body cigar with a touch of sweetness to it. The wicked indie is a great smoke and a great buy. I'm sure you will feel the same once you head into your local cigar store and see it on display pick one up and enjoy this treasure.

LFD Double press Toro size Not to be confused with the factory press the double press has the spice that you love and look forward to . This cigar is a medium / full body cigar with a old school musky , earthly flavors. Dad would love this cigar so grab a few one for your father and you and a friend it's a keeper .

"Tiger's Claw"

La Aurora 100 Anniversary Lancero The return of on of my favorite cigars the 100 anniversary is still a fantastic cigar it's smooth shuttle strength and beautiful flavor to match. I recently smoked the lancers which I highly recommend and was overwhelmed with this pencil sized master piece . It would be good with a nice wine or light scotch.

KA Kendall's Spider Amazing taste and flavor from the first pull of this medium to full body cigar. This is a cigar smoker's cigar .Complex yet very smooth inviting you to continue to smoke this cigar down past the label. This cigar has some amazing taste this cigar will be a pick look out for the spider.

"Parcel"

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Gurkha 125 Anniversary Very nice and spicy with a unique flavor that stands out and brings a richness that adds a balance to the spice . You will enjoy examining the flavors in this cigar its a big release for Gurkha I feel this is going be a keeper . The 125th is very consistent down to the end.

Lou Rodriguez Maclure Now this a spicy meatball . Rich with flavor and just enough spice to push it into the full body area. This cigar is well balanced and great with a nice craft beer. The Lou Rodriguez cigar brand is one to look for in 2012 .

Otega series D . Natural Medium body to full flavor. This cigar has deceptive strength covered by a smooth almost buttery flavor. I enjoyed this cigar with a cup of coffee. The flavors just seemed march up so well. I would look for the Otega label at your local cigar shop. fall 2012 | www.cigarluxemag.com

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fall 2012 | www.cigarluxemag.com

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Cigars

25 CIGARS WE REALLY DIG The prices listed are based on average MSRP listings. They do not reflect any tax or surcharges as each state has different regulations and laws when it comes tobacco products.

601 Habano Robusto - Effortless draw from this dense and creamy smoke. Underlying sweet notes accompany the spice throughout. Hints of cofee with an earthy edge round out this medium-full body cigar.

U.S.: $7.50

Alec Bradley Family Blend - Clean taste with creamy texture. Slow build to spice and sweet undertone throughout. A smooth and flavorful medium bodied cigar.

U.S.: $7.25

Burn Robusto - Slight cinnamon notes complement the sweet earth and dark chocolate notes. Spices fill the nose and finish off this full body cigar.

U.S.: $7.50

Oliva Serie V Special V Figuarado - A curvy figurado with a bulbous end and pointy tip. This figurado smokes evenly with a toasty, woody flavor profile that also reveals hins of leather and cedar.

U.S.: $7.50 68

CIGARLUXE MAGAZINE | fall 2012

NICARAGUA

RING: 50 LENGTH: 5" FILLER: Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua WRAPPER: Nicaragua

HONDURAS

RING: 50 LENGTH: 5.5" FILLER: Honduras, Nicaragua BINDER: Indonesia WRAPPER: Nicaragua

NICARAGUA

RING: 50 LENGTH: 5" FILLER: Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua WRAPPER: Ecuador

NICARAGUA

RING: 60 LENGTH: 6.5" FILLER: Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua WRAPPER: Ecuador

NICARAGUA

RING: 52 LENGTH: 6" FILLER: Dom. Rep. Nicaragua BINDER: Ecuador WRAPPER: Ecuador

HONDURAS

RING: 40 LENGTH: 7.5" FILLER: Honduras BINDER: Honduras WRAPPER: Nicaragua

NICARAGUA

RING: 52 LENGTH: 5" FILLER: Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua WRAPPER: Connecticut SG

NICARAGUA

RING: 52 LENGTH: 6" FILLER: Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua WRAPPER: San Andres, Mexico

HONDURAS

RING: 52 LENGTH: 6.125" FILLER: Nicaragua BINDER: Indonesia WRAPPER: Nicaragua

NICARAGUA

RING: 50 LENGTH: 5" FILLER: Dom. Rep., Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua WRAPPER: Nicaragua

NICARAGUA

RING: 54 LENGTH: 4.5" FILLER: Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua WRAPPER: Ecuador

Casa Miranda Toro - A light brown cigar with a perfect draw and an even burn.

Medium bodied with a pleasant touch of spice along a tobacco and woody profile.

U.S.: $10.95

Corojo 5 Lancero - Creamy texture with a smooth and unique spiciness. Clean aroma with sweet cocoa notes in this extremely well made cigar.

U.S.: $9.00

Drew Estate UF-13 - Deep and rich earth tones fill this peppery cigar. Smooth wrapper that is dark and oily. Great draw with a fullbodied finish.

U.S.: $TBA/Prototype

Drew Estate Undercrown Toro - Spicy sweetness comes blasting through in this smoke.

The flavors continues with more spices in the aroma. Medium body. Very well made.

U.S.: $7.95

EP Carillo Maduro - Rich woodiness hits the palate in the form of hickory and cedar with this smoke. It's balanced by fresh tobacco notes with a touch of sweetness.

U.S.: $9.50

My Father Cigar Flor De Las Antillas Seamless creamy brown wrapper with white peppery notes throughout. Full body with rich aroma and bold flavored spices and cocoa.

U.S.: $8.95

A.J. Fernandez San Lotano Oval - A smooth draw on this creamy cigar. Rich earth tones with hints of cedar and cocoa. Full body full flavored cigar from beginning to end.

U.S.: $8.50 fall 2012 | www.cigarluxemag.com

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Flor de Gonzalez 90 Miles Robusto - Amazing draw with rich dense smoke. A wave of coffee notes and some wood immediately hit the palate.

Finishes off nicely with cocoa flavors.

U.S.: $5.50

La Palina - Cedar and coffee notes permeate from this spicy and peppery cigar that takes a dense and creamy turn.

U.S.: $9.95

LFD Factory Box Press III - This dark cigar with oil wrapper has nice flavors with a lots of aromas such as oak and and tea, and notes of dried fruits, an extremely creamy smoke.

U.S.: $12.95

Don Pepin Garcia - A strong luring smell with sweet coffe and cocoa notes. A creamy smooth texture and flavor is covered in a oily wrapper.

Medium-Full bodied cigar.

U.S.: $9.95

Padron Family Reserve No. 45 - Big earthy and cocoa tones with rich tobacco notes. A mediumfull body cigar with great character and flavorful spices on the finish.

U.S.: $25.00

Arturo Fuente Hemingway - BCreamy smoke with and always underlying sweetness with hints of cedar. Mild-medium bodied.

U.S.: $9.95

Xen by Nish Patel Torpedo - A golden boxpressed belicoso with a very pointy tip. Some upfront wheaty, bready notes can be detected over the light, underlying spiciness.

U.S.: $7.75 70

CIGARLUXE MAGAZINE | fall 2012

NICARAGUA

RING: 50 LENGTH: 5.5" FILLER: Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua WRAPPER: Ecuador

HONDURAS

RING: 50 LENGTH: 6" FILLER: Dominican Republic BINDER: Dominican Republic WRAPPER: Dominican Republic

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

RING: 58 LENGTH: 6.25" FILLER: Dominican Republic BINDER: Dominican Republic WRAPPER: Ecuador Sumatra

NICARAGUA

RING: 60 LENGTH: 6" FILLER: Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua WRAPPER: Ecuador

NICARAGUA

RING: 64 LENGTH: 4" WRAPPER: Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua FILLER: Nicaragua

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

RING: 46 LENGTH: 7" FILLER: Dominican Republic BINDER: Dominican Republic WRAPPER: Indonesia

NICARAGUA

RING: 52 LENGTH: 6.125" FILLER: Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua WRAPPER: Ecuador

NICARAGUA

RING: 52 LENGTH: 6.125" FILLER: Honduras, Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua WRAPPER: Ecuador Habano

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

RING: 50 LENGTH: 5" FILLER: Dominican Republic BINDER: Dominican Republic WRAPPER: Cameroon

NICARAGUA

RING: 52 LENGTH: 5.5" FILLER: Honduras BINDER: Honduras WRAPPER: Ecuadorian Habano

Rocky Patel Winter Collection 2012 - Slighlty toothy wrapper with overall silky feel. Rich spiciness with cinnamon, cocoa and tobacco flavors. Smooth full-bodied cigar.

U.S.: $7.99

La Aurora Camaroon - This cigar had a lot of spices and sweet undertones with cedar and earth undertones. Medium bodied.

U.S.: $8.99

Davidoff/Camacho Room 101 Ltd. Namakubi - This cigar with a light oily sheen. The draw seemed to help the cigar smoke slowly and smooth with an even burn. Offering leathery, toasty intonation balanced by oaky and woody flavor. medium body and Extremely well made.

U.S.: $10.95 NICARAGUA

RING: 54 LENGTH: 5.5" FILLER: Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua WRAPPER: Nicaragua

NICARAGUA

RING: 42 LENGTH: 4" FILLER: Nicaragua BINDER: Nicaragua WRAPPER: Ecuador

NICARAGUA

RING: 55 LENGTH: 5" FILLER: Colombia BINDER: Dominican Republic WRAPPER: Ecuador

DOMINICAN REPUBIC

RING: 60 LENGTH: 4.375" FILLER: Domician Republic BINDER: Domician Republic WRAPPER: Ecuador

Padron 1926 Natural - A well balanced cigar with hints of cofee and spice to synergize with the heavy notes of cocoa. Full, smooth, and refined.

U.S.: $19.95

Tatuaje Havana VI Verocu No. 5 - This dark, slightly oily cigar starts off wheaty and woody and increasingly intensifies to black pepper flavors, with hints of brazil nuts and a touch of acidity.

U.S.: $4.25

Gurkha Seduction Robusto - A fuller bodied cigar with rich robust flavor. Sweet flavor with a hint of spice and earth.

Opens up well with a cedar and finishes off with a smooth sweetness.

U.S.: $7.00

Ashton Virgin Sun Grown - The burn on this semi-pressed perfecto is uneven then corrects itself. It's nutty, toasty and earthy, with a hint of acidity on the finish.

U.S.: $11.50 fall 2012 | www.cigarluxemag.com

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CIGARLUXE MAGAZINE | fall 2012

Link & Smith, P.C. 888-315-8840

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www.LinkSmithPC.com fall 2012 | www.cigarluxemag.com

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7-20-4 Dog Walker Cigarsâ&#x201E;˘ 603-965-4493 Vintage Cigar Distributors of New England, Inc. fall 2012 | www.cigarluxemag.com

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