Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Blackmail Material

Ok – I bet I can hear some collective sighs of relief when people open this post and see its not about them….especially since I found an old camera today and have been sending around some pictures from it (you know who you are).

Anyway – with the the Notre Dame Football season just a few days away – I was reminded of these pictures of James taken at Truman’s Bar and Grill in CoMO. 

When James was younger, we used to go there after my softball games (who hear remembers the TB Smokers?) because they had Cheap Stag…..and according to the commercials “A Midget!!!”.

One time while we were there, they dressed James up in the Midget’s Leprechaun costume and he ran around the bar.  He’ll love these pictures in about 10 years.  Smile

Since we are tentatively planning on being at Truman’s Saturday morning to watch the ND Game…I thought this might be the time to break them out again.

Enjoy -

100_1562100_1561100_1563100_1564100_1565100_1566100_1567

Darwin Awards–Mother of the Year Candidate

At what point does anyone think this a good idea?  Especially in public?

 

Cops: Mom Gave Beer To Son, 4, At Irish Pub

AUGUST 28--A South Carolina woman is facing child negligence charges after she was allegedly spotted giving her four-year-old son “shots” of beer at a bar Saturday night, police report.

mugshotGretchen Lynn Kinnear, 44, was busted following the incident at McHale’s Irish Pub in Fort Mill, a town 18 miles south of Charlotte, North Carolina. Pictured in the adjacent mug shot, Kinnear was booked into the York County Detention Center for contributing to the delinquency of a minor (she was later released on $3000 bond).

According to a York County Sheriff’s Office report, bar patron Matthew Wray told deputies that he saw Kinnear give her child “about three ‘shots’ of beer.”  This occurred, Wray added, after he “had the manager and the waitress ask her to stop” providing the boy with alcohol.

When questioned by investigators, Kinnear copped to sharing “blonde beer” samples that were provided to her in shot glasses. She admitted doing this “at least twice while inside the bar,” deputies reported.

Describing the beverage his mother gave him as “tea,” the boy told deputies that the drink “tasted funny and made him laugh a lot.” The child “also said that the ‘tea’ that his mom gives him makes him dizzy.”

The boy also revealed that his mother gave him similar “tea” at home. Asked about this, Kinnear acknowledged that “about once or twice a week she drinks wine at her home” and allows her son “to have some.”

Kinnear added that she “doesn’t do it to get him drunk or keep him quiet.” But the sheriff’s report does not detail why she provides the boy with alcohol.

Child welfare workers took custody of the boy at McHale's and subsequently placed him in the care of a couple who babysits the child, deputies reported.

Jump over to the Smoking Gun to read the Police Report -

http//www.thesmokinggun.com/documents/mom-shares-beer-with-boy-579813

Three Days to Go–Father Hesburgh

Not many people realize that Notre Dame doesn’t have Fraternities – but instead they have Residence Halls. 

Each year, Notre Dame's 2,100 incoming freshmen are divided amongst 28 residents halls and one house.  Residence halls at the University of Notre Dame are unique among universities, with most students remaining in the same hall for their entire tenure at Notre Dame. As such, they function much more like the aforementioned fraternities (or sororities) than a typical residence hall at a state school for example.

All of the halls at Notre Dame have a unique culture and history that makes them notable and unique, unlike most residential halls at other Universities.

With that background – its great to recognize Students Celebrate with Hesburgh

“Zahm House celebrated its 75th anniversary Sunday by honoring one of the few people on campus older than the dorm itself: 95-year-old University President Emeritus Fr. Theodore Hesburgh.”

Smokes and Booze would like to congratulate Zahm and highlight another comment (and Picture) from the article.  Also, if you are looking for a quick read on Father Hesburgh – I suggest this Wiki Article as a primer.

Fthr H“Senior Peter Flores said the experience of smoking cigars with Hesburgh is unforgettable.

“Fr. Ted is known for smoking a cigar or two, and there’s no greater bonding experience among men than smoking a cigar with a guy you look up to,” Flores said.”

I totally agree. 

Here is Father Hesburgh talking about From Trains to Planes (from the 125 Years of Notre Dame Football)

 

– Cheers.

Hooters vs Joe Biden

First of all, I never knew that Hooters originated in Tampa – but then again…why would I care.

Secondly, “Uncle Joe” tops the list of politicians that I would love to get drunk with.  For those of you who were with me in Germany – He just reminds me of the “Uncle Scott” stories.  He’s the crazy relative that gets drunk, speaks his mind (which nobody can James Hootersunderstand), pisses everyone off and then passes out on the lawn.  I guess getting drunk with him would be a bit of a vacation for me….because then I wouldn't have to play this role.

Finally – am I the only one that wishes Hooters would bring back the buxom women again.  The last few times I have been there, pickins were mighty slim.  At least James had fun.

Anyway……here is the story for today:

 

Hooters Welcomes Joe Biden to Tampa

Vice President Joe Biden cancelled his scheduled trip to the Republican convention in Tampa because of the threat of bad weather, but that has not stopped a local Hooters restaurant (in nearby Clearwater, Florida) from welcoming him to the area anyway. Here's a picture, which mocks Biden for recently getting his location wrong at a campaign event:

Hooters

 

The gaffe occurred when Biden said he was in North Carolina, at a campaign stop in Virginia.

http://www.weeklystandard.com/blogs/hooters-welcomes-joe-biden-tampa_651045.html

Sunday, August 26, 2012

Lucy Spraggan's audition - The X Factor UK 2012

 

Thanks Alby for pointing me in the right direction here (although you linked to the wrong vid on FB).

Lucy really has talent – not just mimicking and copy other’s songs.  I hope she goes a long way on the X Factor UK.

Cheers-

Happy 111th Birthday Beulah Christie

What a great lady – and we wish her 111 more years.

You can read about here HERE – but here are some excerpts pertaining to Smokes and Booze.

Cheers Beulah -

A cigar roller for White Owl and William Penn cigar companies by age 17, she married Ruben Christie on Sept. 24, 1923.

And -

With a little prodding, Christie will tell the story of how, during Prohibition, she and her husband operated a “blind pig” — a place that sold illegal booze — in the basement of their Detroit home. 

The night she let two men in and they opened their coats to reveal police badges, “I just about fell to the floor,” she said, giggling. “I had never been in trouble.”

That was the last time, too, Christie said. She was released, while her husband “spent a couple of days in jail.”

Notre Dame and SNOOP

I cant help it – I love Snoop (He’ll always be Snoop to me).

We actually talk about him a lot here on S&B -

so it’s no surprise we showin sum Snoop to get us fired up for the upcoming season, especially when he’s rockin the Irish Jerseys. 

Go Irish – and GO SNOOP

    SnoopSnoop2

6 Days to Go - What do Irish People REALLY know about American Football?

Saturday, August 25, 2012

Its Official–Star Trek is now better than Star Wars

It’s no secret that I have always loved Star Wars.  If you just do a quick search in the upper left hand corner, you will see that it is a common subject here.

But now – George Lucas hasn't just raped my childhood….he has locked it in room with Pennywise the Clown.

Check out these clips of the new Seth Green (has he ever been funny) TV series coming out – Star Wars Detours

Friday, August 24, 2012

More on the President and Beer

The President has been in the news quite a bit lately. 

First, there was the President buying beer at the Iowa State Fair, followed by the impact on the stalls owner.

Then there was the story of the President having beer on his bus – beer that was brewed for the Whitehouse – and providing a bottle to a supporter.

Since the recipe is Secret – this has spawned even more frenzy, starting with a petition (yes I signed it) stating -

Release the recipe for the Honey Ale home brewed at the White House.

Following in the footsteps of great men like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin, Barack Obama has reportedly been enjoying the rewards of home brewed beer. Recent reports from news outlets like the Washington Post (August 15th, 2012) have stated that Obama has been drinking a White House home brew Honey Ale while on the campaign trail.

In keeping with the brewing traditions of the founding fathers, homebrewers across America call on the Obama Administration to release the recipe for the White House home brew so that it may be enjoyed by all.

"I think it’s time for beer” -Franklin D. Roosevelt (March 12, 1933)

https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/release-recipe-honey-ale-home-brewed-white-house/XkpkYwc0

A Freedom of Information Act Request –which contains the gem

Also, if you could send me a copy autographed by the president, you'd be the coolest FOIA officer in the federal government, and who could resist that title?

And finally – its been brought up at a White House Press Conference (where Jay Carney typically side steps the issue).

 

While all this humor is nice and everything – and I love the material, as it give me something to write about, am I the only one that thinks the President should be addressing real issues vs trying to appear as the average Joe?  Everything seems a photo-op and softball question.  We should be holding him (and the other candidates) to the line on questions  pertaining to the good of the country…..not just giving them soundbytes.

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Shia LeBeouf as a Bootlegger? Lawless Trailer

Ok – I don't think I will surprise anyone by saying I am NOT a Shia LeBeouf fan.  However, I put in in the same category as Leonardo DiCaprio – an actor just waiting for his breakout role.  For DiCarprio, it was Catch Me If You Can….and for LeBeouf, it could be Lawless.

Set in Prohibition-era Virginia – this movie has everything I could ask for:  Gun, Booze, Sex and Violence. 

Be warned, this is a Red Band Trailer – so there is some nudity, therefore it might be NSFW.

Cheers

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Joe Cocker–need I say more?

Thanks to CharlieT for sending this over.  To bad we missed the Anniversary  for the ending of Woodstock by a few days…..but it’s Joe Cocker (and damn funny), so I decided to run it anyway.

Cheers -

Woman accused of Stealing a lot of Booze from Walmart

While I understand how you can get that much out of a Shoppette – how do you get that much booze out of a Walmart?  Also, did she pass Walmart’s Age Verification Policy?

Woman accused of stealing $1,800 in alcohol from Wal-Mart

FREMONT — An Omaha woman is suspected of stealing more than $1,800 in alcohol from a Wal-Mart in Fremont.

Lindsay Foral, 34, was arrested Sunday. Officers were called when Floral was accused of walking out of the store with more than $800 worth of alcohol. She also was accused of stealing more than $1,000 worth of alcohol earlier in day.

Foral was arrested for felony shoplifting. Police say she's suspected of pulling off similar thefts in Omaha.

http://journalstar.com/news/state-and-regional/nebraska/woman-accused-of-stealing-in-alcohol-from-wal-mart/article_8372227c-8ced-50bc-a1ec-92ec8ab1ea39.html

Thief

Monday, August 20, 2012

RIP–Phyllis Diller

Phylis-dillerToday we lost a great comedian – Phyllis Diller, who passed away from at heart attack at 95.

Although known for decades for smoking from long cigarette holders in her comedy act, Diller is a lifelong nonsmoker, and the cigarette holders were stage props that she had specially constructed.

Sadly, we loose another one of the greats from the generation that brought us Bob Hope, Jerry Lewis, the Rat Pack and many more.

She will be missed.

Two Places Closed in Mid-Missouri

I always hate to see a place go under.

Recently two places appear to have closed in Mid-Missouri, with no hope in site for them.

First, we have Native Stone/Bull Rock Brewery by Jefferson City.  I reader passed over to me that they have locked their doors with no announcements and are now Up for Sale.

We were not kind to Native Stone/Bull Rock when we reviewed them, and I really don't buy the – “We’re going to simplify our lives” quote.  Everything I had heard stated that they were struggling and it all comes down to that.  Again, I hate to see a place close – but (IMO) this one was preventable.

Meanwhile – Galactic Fun Zone appears to be no more as well.  Their doors had shut at the beginning of Summer, and a note in the door had stated “Opening in August Under New Management”.  With the sign down and a new paint job – I had hoped that this was a salvageable situation, especially after this article in the Columbia Tribune.

However, Saturday I saw they were holding an auction – and an auction means reduction in inventory.  This does not bode well.

I am particularly saddened by the loss of Galactic Fun Zone – because I got to know Monte and he really did seem like a personable and well liked individual.  When he is quoted as saying -

“Ethical things were being done that I did not want to be a part of,” he said. The daily operations and “business practices” weren’t being handled in a way he agreed with, he said. Nor was, he said, “the method of bill payment.”

then there are issues. 

Hopefully the new management of both of these places can re-establish clientele and institute sound business models.

We hope for their success.

Monday Quick Hits–Aug 20 2012

We have a couple of stories this week – starting off with the President of the United States.  A you might recall, last week – President Obama stopped off at the Iowa State Fare and bought a round of beer for some potential votes (except the Romney Supporter).  Well, it turns out, it might have cost the owner of the Beer Tent some serious cash -

Obama's Beer Tent Stop May Have Cost Owner $25,000

President Barack Obama’s impact on what is arguably the Iowa State Fair’s most storied watering hole has become a morning-after mini-debate over the breakfast bacon ­ thanks to a tweet from Sen. Chuck Grassley, as well as fairgrounds chatter.

obama-iowa-state-fair-beer

Obama’s fair stop Monday evening required shutdown of the popular Bud Tent, the heart of fairgrounds nightlife at the intersection of E. 33rd Street and Grand Avenue. Fairgoers eager to greet the president were ushered inside, screened and scanned by the Secret Service and penned in by yellow caution tape.

There are “two sides to this story,” said Mike Cunningham II, the third generation owner of the 65-year-old Bud Tent.

On one hand, Cunningham, 39, appreciated the historical significance of Obama’s visit: His great-grandfather, Lloyd Cunningham, was secretary of the fair board from 1942 to 1962 and was on hand to greet then-President Dwight Eisenhower when Ike visited the centennial fair in 1954 with Iowa’s own President Herbert Hoover in tow. (That was the first of four visits by sitting presidents, followed by Gerald Ford in 1975, George W. Bush in 2002 and Obama on Monday.)

On the other hand, the small business owner side of Cunningham fumes that the president “put a damper on what I’m trying to do here.” His Bud Tent was shut down at the most lucrative time of day, with a popular rock cover band, Hairball, about to perform at the Susan B. Knapp Amphitheater next door ­ with legions of thirsty fans.

http://nation.foxnews.com/president-obama/2012/08/14/obamas-beer-tent-stop-may-have-cost-owner-25000#ixzz23XYuRXc1

Hey – we all love Twilight, right?  Yeah, me neither….hell, I honestly didnt know who Kristen Stewart was until a few months ago…..and considering I could care less about Hollywood romances, this would normally not be on my radar.  That is until you get headlines like this (although I dont get what the big deal is…..I could live on this diet) - kristen-stewart-australia

Kristen Stewart 'living on Red Bull and cigarettes'

Sources said to be close to the actress, who is currently staying with a friend after moving out of her and Pattinson's Los Angeles home, told Showbiz Spy that she is living on a diet of Red Bull and cigarettes and refuses to eat.

Read more (if you care) Here - http://www.digitalspy.com/celebrity/news/a400331/kristen-stewart-living-on-red-bull-and-cigarettes.html

Next up – we have a study from the Mr Obvious Department.  All I want to know, is how can I get a grant to study crap like this?  I would never work again…..geez.

Binge-drinking students happier than others, study findsT_bingeDrinking1

Over at Gizmodo – they have a nice quick article about

How To Keep Beer from Going Bad

Here is the secret – its LIGHT.

Finally, I know its not St Patrick’s Day – but this video is to good to pass up.

Cheers -

I love reader’s feedback

I love going back and looking at reader’s comments.

I never delete them (unless they are SPAM or trying to sell something), because I believe everyone has an opinion and a right to state it.

Friday I had a good one from John M. regarding the post – My Brother was (sorta) famous…..so buy my wine.

Randy wasn't "sorta" famous, he is known as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, you HAVENT got a clue of what you're talking about. And so what if she makes a few bucks, you don't think Randy would support his sister being in business?

This is the second negative comment (and the funniest) on this subject, so I thought I would retort.

First off – I stand by my statement that Randy was “Sorta” famous.  If you asked 100 people, I would wager that only 10% would know who he was, who he played for and how he died.  Its a generational thing, and his window of fame is so small that it doesn't transcend well.  It doesn't take away from his body of work – but over time people forget. 

A classic example is this clip of Roy Clark I found this weekend – pure genius.  But kids today would have no idea who he was.  He’ll never be as famous as Eddie Van Halen, but if you were to ask those of us who grew up in the 50’s, 60’s or 70’s – they recognize him immediately.  See, Generational.

That leads my second comment – why his sister (and Ozzy for that matter) are being money grabbers here.  You see, everything is about “The Brand”.  Ozzy knows this (as he is manipulated by gold-diggerSharron), and so do other bands (such as KISS).  They have a certain image to maintain so they can continue to make money without having to change much.  They believe they have a working formula and they fear deviation will lose them fans.  Its the same in all industries (who here remembers New Coke?) and it Brand is highly protected. 

So, do I think Randy would support his sister being in business – yes I do.  Do I think he would allow her to use his image?  Not on your life.

I do appreciate your (and everyone else's) feedback – but you can’t sway my opinion here.  Instead, you only caused me to do a little more reading on Randy (funny – I never knew he slept with Sharon Osborne) and listen to some music. 

Potential Cigar Laws could be devastating

I was going to run this just as a quick blurb on the Monday Quick Hits – but this article is to important not to dedicate an entire post to.

Once again, Bigger Government is trying to rule our lives, all in effort to “Protect the Children”.

I’m sorry, but kids don't smoke cigars.  Why would they shell out $10 or more for one cigar, when they can buy cigarettes?  When will the police enforce any of these underage smoking laws, rather than just looking the other way?

The truth is, once you give an organization power, they never relinquish it, but instead want to expand it.

Case in Point-

Bam’s cigar trouble

baby cigarPresident Obama’s Food and Drug Administration is widely rumored to be working on a new regulation that would ban sales of cigars through mail-order clubs and maybe even humidors — when the cigar-friendly state of Florida could determine the winner in the presidential race.

At issue is a draft FDA regulation that insiders say would “deem” cigars subject to many of the provisions of a 2009 law that gave the agency the power to oversee the sale of tobacco products.

The rising use of machine-made cigars by underage smokers has long troubled the FDA. But the new regulation apparently wouldn’t clearly distinguish these cheap, small cigars from larger, premium brands smoked by adults.

Among other things, the regulation could require the sellers of high-end cigars to store stogies in separate rooms accessible only to employees. Rather than selecting cigars by walking through fragrant humidors, shoppers would be forced to buy them off a list — with the stogies stored behind the counter. Plus, the FDA measure could effectively shutter mail-order sales as well as popular “cigar of the month” clubs.

About 85,000 Americans work in the premium-cigar business, according to the industry’s main trade group. Many of these jobs would be in jeopardy if the FDA’s regulations went forward. About 75 percent of the domestic importers and producers of cigars are located in Florida, where it’s a $2 billion-a-year industry.

The rumors have stoked so much consternation that Congress is advancing a bill to block the FDA, exempting premium cigars from regulation. The measure already has 220 bipartisan cosponsors, including Democratic Sen. Bill Nelson of Florida.

Even before it’s voted on, the bill may prompt the FDA to take a middle road: The agency could argue that the premium cigars fall within its jurisdiction as a “tobacco product,” but that, for now, it will exercise discretion and not regulate the high-end smokes.

Whatever the FDA does, the fight reveals a broader trend of expanding the scope of regulation to cover areas never envisioned by Congress.

Regulators often prefer to enlarge their jurisdiction rather than tend to their chief obligations. Agencies like the FDA thus divert their attention from important but basic duties.

For example, that 2009 tobacco law was crafted as a way to cut down on underage use of cigarettes. It was, in many respects, a forward-looking measure — envisioning that traditional cigarette makers would gradually transition to developing and marketing smokeless-tobacco products that don’t pose the same health hazards as cigarettes.

But the FDA has been loath to accept that alternative tobacco products could pose a lower health risk than cigarettes. Under the law, it should be examining the relative hazards, rather than spending its energies seeking to expand its powers.

And its reluctance to embrace the work of examining (and potentially approving) alternative tobacco products may have the perverse effect of more fully implanting the big tobacco companies in the business of making and marketing cigarettes.

Stogie-gate is capturing lots of headlines in Florida — a state that’s home to a vibrant cigar industry. The administration may decide it’s politically wise to table its regulation until after the November election, rather than risk a backlash.

But the president’s regulators have already shown their cards. It’s a team that’s been too easily seduced by fashionable distractions, and will cause a lot of jobs to needlessly go up in smoke.

Read more: http://www.nypost.com/p/news/opinion/opedcolumnists/bam_cigar_trouble_5EBqylrk9PBzVPkwVTlcFK#ixzz245xIFGYF

Friday, August 17, 2012

DWI Crackdown Starts Friday in CoMO

Time for Drive Sober, Or Get Pulled Over.  The Columbia Police Department says they are joining forces with other law enforcement agencies statewide to enforce DWI laws.  The crackdown starts Friday night and runs through September 3rd.  The police will participate in sobriety checkpoints across Missouri and DWI saturation patrols.

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Booze and Food

I could see Scotch on a sandwich, but I would be leery of Gin (and I love Gin).

Mark or Dave, as my resident food experts, what do you think?

Alcoholic Sandwiches Now Available

MANHATTAN, N.Y.-- Customers of Salumè, a Manhattan panini shop, are now able to order alcoholic sandwiches. Salumè offers several different paninis that are infused with either scotch or gin.

None of the alcohol is cooked off during the assembly of the sandwich since the sandwich is placed in liquor and then served. No word if you have to be of legal drinking age to purchase the sandwich.

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

The President buys beer in Iowa

While I could be critical of the beer he bought (Budweiser), I will actually give the President a pass here.  At many of these events, InBev has such a strangle hold – that getting any beer of quality in is next to impossible, and you have to make do with what you have.  Fair enough.

However, to single out someone like he did – and then refuse to buy them a beer is a bit of a dick move.  That individual was exercising his right to free speech, and that would have made an excellent photo op and story (if the guy put the sign away) – showing that the President can reach across party lines and possibly find a new voter. Possibly having a bit of discussion to understand the man’s views and to explain his own.

I drink all the time with people of differing political or religious beliefs, that's what the camaraderie of drinking is all about.

Totally out of touch and not cool.

President

Four more beers! Obama buys Budweiser for Iowa State Fair voters

President Obama stopped by the Iowa State Fair yesterday and bought voters beer at the Bud Tent.

“Hey everyone who's over 21, you gotta buy a beer!” Obama said, according to the pool report, as he stopped by the party tent where one person was holding a Romney sign

When asked if he was buying, Obama said, “Let me see what’s in my wallet.”

As the crowd cheered “Four more beers!” the president relented.

“I’ll tell you what, except for Romney sign, I’ll buy beers for ten people,” he said.

The president is visiting Iowa as part his “Ground Force One” bus tour of the state.

Monday, August 13, 2012

Olympic Swimmer advertising cigarettes

Now that the Olympics are over – how about a Former Olympian doing cigarette advertising.

Meet Jeanne Wilson, 200 Meter Breaststroke swimmer from the 1948 Games (coincidentally, also held in London).

This former Purdue Alum didn’t place though – she said

“I led all the way to 100 meters and then ran out of breath or something”

I guess she should have laid off the Camels

Sunday, August 12, 2012

La Gloria Wavell Natural Review

Last night was movie night.

With the weather finely getting mild enough to sit outside, I decided to go to some old staples- The Wild Bunch, Jim Beam and a La Gloria Wavell Natural.

I went with the movie The Wild Bunch for a couple of reasons.  First, I was reminded by it due to my recent post – a Picture of the Original Wild Bunch.  Even though they are completely unrelated, the name stuck in my head.  Secondly, what better opening scene to smoke and drink to than the shoot out with the Temperance Movement marching through?  Such a classic movie.

Now, I am not going to review the Beam here, as it is a staple that should be in everyone’s liquor cabinet.  You can mix it or drink it straight, and while it is not my standard “Go-To” Bourbon, with all the charity work they do for our Military (HERE and HERE are two examples), I thought the least I can do is throw some money their way.  Well done lads.

The La Gloria cigar is also one I revisit from time to time, and has been a staple in MY Humidor since we got it.  Since I had a box sent to me recently, I thought I would give it the official look.

Beam and CigarLa Gloria Wavell Natural

  • Wrapper – Ecuadoran Sumatra
  • Filler – Dominican, Nicaraguan
  • Binder - Nicaraguan

Appearance – A few veins, but not distracting from the overall appearance of the cigar.  I wanted to add, that I love the wrapper – as the nostalgic representation of a woman just screams “Cigar” to me.

Light, Draw and Burn– Easy to light, with a consistent and steady burn throughout.  What I particularly liked was the cigar staying lit the entire time and it required no touchups. I attribute that to the excellent draw and flow.  The ash held nice and had hardly any flaking. 

Flavor – A very smoky cigar during the first 1/3, I really enjoyed the light flavors of leather, spice (nutmeg) and a surprising amount of sweetness that lingered after the exhale.  Once you get to the last 2/3’s, the amount of smoke subsides a little (but not much) and flavors really blend well.  A hint of coco comes in, and you begin to get some of the oils that create a silky mouthfeel. 

I can easily see why the La Gloria Line consistently score in the 90s by Cigar Aficionado.  This is a great cigar and an excellent every day smoke.  I’ve been smoking them for over a week, and I still haven't gotten bored (which is saying something with my ADD).

Often, I am asked “What is a good cigar for newbies” – well, this is it.  If you are new to cigars, or If you are looking to stock you humidor – this is the perfect stick to get you started.  I give it a 5 out of 5 Thumbs upThumbs upThumbs upThumbs upThumbs up

Saturday, August 11, 2012

Hugh Hefner’s Favorite Place in the Playboy Mansion

Recently I read where Hugh Hefner was quoted as saying 

My favorite best-kept secret about the Playboy Mansion is . . . The wine cellar. The house was built in 1927 during Prohibition, and there is a secret panel that leads to what is now the wine cellar, but it used to be where they stocked the liquor.

This inspired me to do a little searching (at 2AM) on the Playboy Mansion and I was surprised about how little is actually out there about this room …..possibly explained by this clip with Playmate Holly:

I did find what I believe to be one picture inside the Cellar – published by Big Brother Playboy, although I cannot swear to its authenticity.  That being said – I have farmed this out to a friend that I trust and will get back if she says it is real.

wineceller

Cheers

Asian Snake Wine appears on Oddities

The Science Channel has a new show called Oddities and I caught an episode on Saturday Morning.  How awesome was this particular episode featured Asian Snake Wine – and the fraud that it was.  Its really funny that they gave the seller $50 for the “Large Bottles” that AsianSnakeWine.Com sells for 199 Euro. 

As far as the show – its pretty interesting, and I love all the Masonic stuff in the background (aprons and Fezzes).  Maybe I will go there some day – would love to browse.

Check out my experience with AsianSnakeWine.Com at MY other blog asiansnakewine.blogspot.com.

Cheers -

Saloons of 1900’s Utah

Wild Bunch

I love old time pictures – especially when they involve Booze and History.

In the above picture, you have the saloon that was the hangout of The Wild Bunch in 1889. The man standing beside the tree is Harry Longbaugh (The Sundance Kid) and the man sitting on the chair beside him is Butch Cassidy.

Who knew Utah could be so cool Winking smile

Anyway – Jump over to the Salt Lake City Tribune for their pictorial

A Look Back: Saloons, brewing companies in Utah around 1900

to see some other cool beer and Saloon pics of the era.

Cheers

Friday, August 10, 2012

I can hardly BEAR it (Bad Pun Intended)

The only thing this article is missing is the obligatory reference to Yogi.  At least these bears listened to Yogi’s PSA (After the jump) and left the cigarettes alone -

Drunk Bear Family Downs Over 100 Beers During Bear Rager

Bears breaking into places and behaving like adorable gluttons is totally a thing now. First, the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory incident, and now a Norwegian bear party.

A cabin in northern Norway was ransacked by a family of bears, according to cabin owner Even Borthen Nilsen. And they made a night of it.

“They had a hell of a party in there. The cabin has the stench of a right old piss up, trash, and bears.2

So either bears or humans with really bad personal hygiene.

And a taste for beer. The bears, allegedly an adult and three cubs, somehow finished off over 100 cans of beer. (I'm guessing there was less drinking than smashing, but even so.) The bears also gorged themselves on marshmallows, chocolate spread, and honey, because Norwegian cabins are the stuff of fairy tales.

Adding to the magic of this story: the Norwegian press has a way with words.

“Nilsen explained that excrement on the outside of the cabin left him in no doubt that it was a family of bears which had taken over his cabin for night of feasting and drunken revelry.”

OK, so Colorado, Norway — what's next? Adorable bear invasions always happen in threes.

Thursday, August 9, 2012

Send a Troop a Man Crate–Contest

Man Crate Contest

Sometimes I wonder if I miss-named this blog. 

Perhaps I should have named it Soldiers, Smokes and Booze – because many of my posts tend to be about helping those in the Military (usually through some tie to smoking and drinking). 

Case in point would be the recent post about Kid Rock.

Anyway – as I always strive to tie them all together, here is another way you can help a Active Duty or Reserve Military Member….and it doesn't cost a cent (just a little writing).  It’s a nomination contest from the folks at Man Crates:

Man Crates for the Troops

We're big fans of the men and women of our military. That's why we want to give something back. If you know an active-duty or reserve soldier, sailor, marine, airman, or coast guardsman who might like a Man Crate, fill out the form below.
Tell us a little about what makes him special—did he have a particularly hilarious shore leave involving some unsavoury characters? do something brave or heroic? make life in the FOB a little easier for the rest of the guys in his unit? We'll take submissions through September 1st. We'll read through all of the entries, pick a favorite (or two), and ship him a Man Crate to any US or APO address, on us.
To sweeten the deal, if you're currently active-duty or reserve and your submission is selected, we'll send you a free Man Crate, too. It's our humblest way of saying "thank you" for everything our troops do to keep us safe.

Now, I am sure you are asking – What American Beer Crateare “Man Crates”?  Well, while I cannot personally vouch for the product…I can say it looks intriguing.  What they do is stuff a crate full of stuff that a man (and some women) would like and ship it off….complete with mini-crowbar.  Each crate is themed (the one shown is called the American Beer Crate) and really seems to catch the essence of Manliness.

What I particularly like – is what these crates do NOT Contain:

DOES NOT CONTAIN:

  • Bows
  • Ribbons
  • Wicker baskets
  • Cellophane wrapping
  • Fluff
  • Instructions.  Did we mention that these crates are for guys?

We all know SOMEONE who is serving somewhere – and this is a great opportunity to possibly get them some recognition.

So head over to http://www.mancrates.com/pages/contest, tell them a little bit about the person you are nominating and give it a go.

Somewhere, there will be one happy Service Member when this arrives.

Cheers -

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Randy Travis arrested for trying to buy Cigarettes

Ok, there is more to the story….but if the Clerk would have just stalled him instead of arguing (and called 911 in the background), the crash may have been avoided.

Randy Travis Threatened Trooper During DWI Arrest: Police

Country superstar Randy Travis is facing a felony charge for allegedly threatening to shoot a state trooper during a DWI arrest in North Texas Tuesday night, police say.

According to the Grayson County Sheriff's Department, Travis was arrested Wednesday following a single car crash on Farm-to-Market Road 922 at Clover Road near Tioga.

Sources tell NBC 5 that prior to the crash, a call was placed to 911 by a store clerk who reported Travis had walked into a convenience store naked to buy cigarettes.  The clerk said there were words exchanged and that Travis left without making a purchase.

A short time later, a second call was received by 911 saying a man was found lying in the roadway along FM 922 near Clover Road.

State troopers, responding to the 911 calls, arrived at the scene and found Travis, who refused a blood and breath test, with a strong odor of alcohol on his breath and several other signs of intoxication, police said.


The state trooper that arrested Travis placed him into custody on suspicion of driving while intoxicated -- a Class B misdemeanor.

During the arrest, police said Travis threatened to shoot and kill the troopers working the case. Consequently, Travis was also arrested on a charge of retaliation, a third-degree felony punishable by 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine, according to Grayson County District Attorney Joseph Brown.

A search warrant was granted by a judge for a blood specimen, which was later taken at a local hospital. Travis was booked into the Grayson County Jail just before 5 a.m.

Brown added that Travis' February arrest for public intoxication will be taken into consideration when the case goes before the court.

Travis, wearing a UT hat and scrubs, was released Wednesday morning after posting bond of $1,500 for the DWI charge and $20,000 for the retaliation charge.

Read More Here…..

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

This Day in History–Aug 7 1782 The Purple Heart

I am so glad I didn't miss this one today.

A big Salute to all recipients.

Cheers -

Purple Heart Day – August 7th
The original Purple Heart, designated as the Badge of Military Merit, was established by George Washington, Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army – by order from his Newburgh, New York headquarters on August 7, 1782. The Badge of Military Merit was only awarded to three Revolutionary War soldiers. The modern Purple Heart began it’s rebirth on October 10, 1927, when Army Chief of Staff General Charles Pelot Summerall directed that a draft bill be sent to Congress "to revive the Badge of Military Merit". After much bureaucratic scPurpleuffling, the Purple Heart was officially instituted by Executive Order of the President of the United States on the on the 200th Anniversary of George Washington's birth, out of respect to his memory and military achievements. War Department General Orders No. 3, dated February 22, 1932 was then published announcing the details of the decoration.
The Purple Heart award is a heart-shaped medal within a gold border, 1 ⅜ inches (35 mm) wide, containing a profile of General George Washington. Above the heart appears a shield of the coat of arms of George Washington (a white shield with two red bars and three red stars in chief) between sprays of green leaves. The reverse consists of a raised bronze heart with the words FOR MILITARY MERIT below the coat of arms and leaves. The ribbon is 1 and ⅜ inches (35 mm) wide and consists of the following stripes: ⅛ inch (3 mm) white 67101; 1 ⅛ inches (29 mm) purple 67115; and ⅛ inch (3 mm) white 67101. Additional awards of the Purple Heart are denoted by oak leaf clusters (U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force) and by gold 5/16 inch stars (U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and U.S. Coast Guard).
The criteria were then detailed in a War Department circular dated February 22, 1932 and authorized award to soldiers, upon their request, who had been awarded the Meritorious Service Citation Certificate, Army Wound Ribbon, or were authorized to wear Wound Chevrons subsequent to April 5, 1917, the day before the United States entered World War I. The first Purple Heart was awarded to Gen. Douglas MacArthur, who was instrumental in breaking loose the bureaucracy that held up the reinstitution of the award.

Sunday, August 5, 2012

Third time is a charm for Kid Rock

I like Kid Rock’s Music.  Its not my all time favorite, but I have a few songs in my playlist.Rock

After this, I’ll be adding a few more.

Kid (or is it  Mr. Rock) has been listed here twice before (Jim Beam and Kid Rock, and Kid Rock Steps Up Again), so it really doesn't surprise me he is making a Third Appearance.

You see, Kid Rock and Jim Beam have partnered again to support the Military – This time by providing musical instruments to them, both here and overseas.

Having been deployed myself several times, I know what an impact music has on on the morale of our troops – so this (IMO) is a great program.

You to can help -  Text SALUTE to 27722 and donate $5, or visit Operation Homefront to do what you can.

Every little bit helps, and is nothing compared to the sacrifice of our brave men and women. 

A big THANK YOU goes out to Kid Rock and Jim Beam for making this happen.

Cheers

Happy International Beer Day

Zombie Drinking Game

Saturday, August 4, 2012

In case you missed it–Aug 2nd was Russian Paratrooper Day

Who knew Alby was a Russian Paratrooper?  I always thought he was in the Mexican Infantry.

Russia drains fountains for drunken paratroopers

City governments across Russia drained the water from municipal fountains Thursday, hoping to keep drunken paratroopers from drowning in them.

Aug. 2 is Paratrooper Day in Russia and every year more than one million burly active and retired soldiers take to the streets in their signature blue berets and striped undershirts to mark the occasion, often by combining large quantities of vodka with plunges into fountains.

Russian President Vladimir RussianPutin seemed to call for restraint Thursday, but with a barely concealed smile, during public remarks to paratroopers in Ulyanovsk. “I hope that Paratrooper Day will pass without excesses, and that your colleagues will behave themselves adequately, at least without gross violations of public order,” he said.

Officially, the day is celebrated with cadet marches and memorials. Unofficially, the elite troops start drinking at sunrise, then head off to city parks to brawl. Migrant workers from Central Asia have been targets of violence on past Paratrooper Days, and the Federation of Migrants of Russia issued a public warning to avoid parks, train stations and commuter trains, and anywhere else paratroopers might be celebrating on Thursday. The U.S. Embassy in Moscow similarly sent out an announcement, saying that while the majority of the celebrations are “jovial and peaceful,” Americans in Russia would be wise to steer clear of “any large crowds and public gatherings that lack enhanced security measures.”

There were no serious reports of violence Thursday. Two drunken revellers were arrested in Moscow after they slammed a Tiger – a vehicle similar to a U.S. Humvee – with a mock machine gun strapped to the roof into a car on a Moscow highway. Moscow city authorities also distributed several tons of watermelons in a downtown park at no charge; paratroopers had been known to steal them in the past.

The 4th Amendment and knowing when to say NO

Today boys and girls, I would like to talk about the 4th Amendment of the US Constitution -

The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized

Why is it important to know this?  Because you have the RIGHT to refuse any searches performed by the police. 

  • Pulled over for speeding and they want to search your car?  Tell them no. 
  • Cops show up for a noise complaint, turn the music down and tell them sorry.  Take the ticket and don't let them in.
  • Someone want to search your backpack while you are in a store (don't get me started with the stupid Walmart door alarms) – ask them to call a cop, and he better bring a warrant.

Ok, these are extreme cases – an yes, the cop could make your life a pain for awhile while he gets a warrant, but remember – refusal is a right….not an admission of guilt.

Caqr

Why does this come up?  Because of todays news story out of Polk County Florida.

You see – if you are pulled over for a broken taillight and you can answer yes to any of these three questions…..you should probably refuse the search, take the chance the cop just sites you for the taillight and pray -

  • Your Name is Stoner
  • You have joint disguised as a cigar on the center console
  • There is a Dead Alligator in a Tool Box

Since this knucklehead answered yes to all three…..and consented to a search, you can imagine where this is going.

Polk Deputy Searching Truck Finds Dead Alligator in a Tool Box

WAHNETA | A Polk County deputy found marijuana in two men's truck Tuesday and something strange stashed in a tool box: a dead 4-foot alligator, arrest reports say.

Jessie Stoner, 20, and Christopher Walling, 22, both of Winter Haven, were pulled over about 1:20 a.m. on First Court East in Wahneta because they had a broken tail light, arrest reports say.

They gave the deputy permission to search the truck and he found a cigar wrapper stuffed with marijuana on the console, reports say.

"I haven't smoked in a while," said Stoner, who was driving when the deputy pulled them over, according to his arrest report.

The deputy arrested them and then continued his search, discovering the alligator's body.

Stoner and Walling were charged with misdemeanour counts of drug possession and taking an alligator without a permit.

Friday, August 3, 2012

Watch it for the Cameo

Thanks to TheProfessor for sending this over. 

This might not be you your kind of music – but you have to watch it for the cameo.  And if you want to know more about the rum he is holding, go HERE.

Cheers -

Thursday, August 2, 2012

Obama wants your Beer Money

I usually try to stay away from politics here.  If I do say something, it is usually funny – and I go after both parties (the Sarah Palin Drinking Game is one of our more popular pages).

That being said, I had to post this one.

You see, The President originally wanted to raise $1 Billion in campaign funds, and now it is looking like he might not even make $750K.

So, how does farm out for cash?  Via Twitter of Course.

Obama

I do want to point out – He’s saying you shouldn’t buy your friend a drink, but that you should instead give the money to him.  Ummm, I think my friends would appreciate it more I was buying for them.

What are your thoughts?

Cheers -

PS – Since we are on the topic of Twitter, Feel free to follow me @SmokesAndBooze or The Professor @MySideOfTheBar

What not to do–Marketing 101

Macallan

Click to embiggen – Can you spot the Marketing Mistake?

Wednesday, August 1, 2012

This Day in History–SHANE

While I would disagree that this is the Greatest Western (Open Range, Tombstone and Josey Wales top my list) this was a great movie….and was actually the first western I ever read.

A classic you can watch with your kids…..enjoy.

Shane released by Paramount

Shane, considered by many critics to be the greatest western movie, is released by Paramount Pictures.

Based on Jack Schaefer's 1949 novel of the same name, Shane was a new type of western. After World War II, Americans began to crave books and films that offered more realistic and complex characters. Simple two-dimensional heroes like Hopalong Cassidy no longer seemed believable to adults who had lived through the horrors and hardships of World War II. Schaefer's book, and the movie based on it, created a western hero for a more mature and sophisticated America.

Alan Ladd played a drifting gunfighter who goes by only one name, Shane. In the opening scene, Shane rides down out of the rugged Teton Mountains into a fertile valley (the movie was filmed in Jackson Hole, Wyoming) where he meets a homesteading family: Joe and Marian Starrett, and their son, Joey. Eager to give up the rootless gunfighter's life, Shane hires on as a farmhand. Soon, however, he learns that the local cattle baron is trying to run the Starretts and other homesteaders off their land so he can continue using it for grazing.

Shane is initially reluctant to use his guns to help the homesteaders. However, when the cattle baron hires a famous gunslinger named Wilson (played by Jack Palance) who kills one of the farmers, Joe Starrett is determined to take revenge. Realizing the stubborn Starrett will almost certainly be killed, Shane knocks him unconscious and goes in his place. After killing Wilson, Shane reluctantly concludes that he cannot escape his violent past and must leave the settled valley. In one of the most memorable scenes in movie history, Shane rides off into the wild mountains, the boy Joey's voice echoing after him: "Come back, Shane!"

Simultaneously mythic and realistic, Shane created one of the first fully rounded western heroes. Shane lives by his gun, but he is essentially a good man who envies Joe Starrett's settled family life. Ironically, Shane's fate is to use violence to create civilized communities where violence is no longer acceptable or necessary.

This (Late) Day in History–July 30 1733

OK – I get it, its a little late – but still an important date in Masonic History….so I wanted to include it.

On this day – July 30 1733, at the Bunch of Grapes Tavern on King (now State) Street, Henry Price - empowered by a warrant from the Premier Grand Lodge in England - gathered together with 18 men and organized what would become the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts. Based on this precedent, the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts is the oldest Grand Lodge in the Western Hemisphere and the third oldest in the world.
They immediately instituted "The First Lodge," today known as St. John's Lodge. The first duly constituted Lodge in the new world.
This image is from the plaque affixed to the building on the site where the Bunch of Grapes Tavern once stood.

Masonic

 
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