University Cigar Club! (Need Assistance)

[Robinsond]

Alright everyone, I believe I am in need of a bit of assistance.

I have decided to start a cigar club at my University (The University At Albany). I am just curious to get some feedback from you guys about what to do at meetings. I was thinking of having either weekly, or bi-weekly meetings. During these meetings, we will talk about various things:

-Recent cigar favorites/not favorites
-Cigar history
-Cigar terminology
-The etiquette that comes hand in hand with the fine world of cigars
-Various deals that are around
-Contests and prizes (Prizes include cigars, cigar accessories, and gift certificates to the local tobacconist)
-Budgetary matters
-The different types of cigars
Etc. Etc. Etc.
...


If you guys have any ideas on what else I should talk about during these meetings, please let me know! I myself am fairly new to cigars, and I feel as if having to teach others and hold meetings will assist me in learning a great deal about the subject.
Also, in order to make it a club, I need a constitution. I have a blank slate with that currently, but I wanted to know what sort of things to include.

We also get a $250 dollar budget, and I need some input on what to spend it on.
-I was thinking about buying a box, and giving them away as prizes for various contests.

I also need feedback on the name for the club! I was thinking University At Albany Cigar Aficionados (UACA). I don’t want to create a cliché though, with all the other groups that call themselves aficionados. Each and every comment will be considered! Thank you so much for your input in advance!
:help:

-Robinsond

 

[dk_fxn]

Alright everyone, I believe I am in need of a bit of assistance.

I have decided to start a cigar club at my University (The University At Albany). I am just curious to get some feedback from you guys about what to do at meetings. I was thinking of having either weekly, or bi-weekly meetings. During these meetings, we will talk about various things:

-Recent cigar favorites/not favorites
-Cigar history
-Cigar terminology
-The etiquette that comes hand in hand with the fine world of cigars
-Various deals that are around
-Contests and prizes (Prizes include cigars, cigar accessories, and gift certificates to the local tobacconist)
-Budgetary matters
-The different types of cigars
Etc. Etc. Etc.
...


If you guys have any ideas on what else I should talk about during these meetings, please let me know! I myself am fairly new to cigars, and I feel as if having to teach others and hold meetings will assist me in learning a great deal about the subject.
Also, in order to make it a club, I need a constitution. I have a blank slate with that currently, but I wanted to know what sort of things to include.

We also get a $250 dollar budget, and I need some input on what to spend it on.
-I was thinking about buying a box, and giving them away as prizes for various contests.

I also need feedback on the name for the club! I was thinking University At Albany Cigar Aficionados (UACA). I don’t want to create a cliché though, with all the other groups that call themselves aficionados. Each and every comment will be considered! Thank you so much for your input in advance!
:help:

-Robinsond

Wish we would've had one when I was up at Albany.

I think you are on the right track with your ideas.

I like the name, but is a bit reminiscent of a certain periodical. Maybe UACigarClub or something to that effect.

Check with some manufacturers online and see if they would be willing to support you guys in some way with freebies and such. Some of these guys on twitter are really open to stuff like that. Well, great idea and good luck.

 

[Cyrann]

I'm going to be blunt...

(1.) Prizes are a double edge sword; it will bring people in the door, but you cannot keep it up forever... and as soon as it drops, so does your attendance. I would see what kind of turn out you get before you decide to do anything along the lines of prizes.

(2.) Again, I would see what your core group is before you decided to spend the $250 bucks on one box. Grab (10) Padron 2000s (that wont break the bank) and hand them out... good smokes and good fun. After which you see how many are going to come or want to participate again you can then discuss what you want to smoke and accomplish in the next meeting.

(3.) Use the $ to try new smokes and see where the industry is going... it's not that difficult to get a 5er or (2) 5ers for the core group. Also, if there are regulars, I doubt throwing down $10-20 bucks for next weeks herf is too much.

Not that my opinion matters or actually is based off anything, was just trying to think of what I would want to do.

 

[GoingPostal]

I agree with Cyrann, don't start giving out prizes right away. well here are my two cents.

1. You want to start simple. Since your realitvely new Start off discussing cigar basics, Sizes, storage, lighting techniques, etc. Focusing on relatively inexpensive solutions since college students don't have much money to play with. this way you don't scare off any newbs or people looking to get into cigars.

2. As said before, reach out not only to the online retailers, but your local B&M may be wanting to help via discounts, events, specials.

3. How about instead of handing out cigars as prizes, hand them out as research/homework. End of the meeting they take the cigar home, remove the bands beforehand, have them take notes on what they liked didn't like about it and share there experinces at next meeting then have them guess what the cigar was, winner gets a prize, maybe as simple as getting to choose the next blind tasting.

4. how's this for a name Brothers of The Leaf of University of Albany (BOTL UA), you could also try to play off the mascots name.

 

[Robinsond]

3. How about instead of handing out cigars as prizes, hand them out as research/homework. End of the meeting they take the cigar home, remove the bands beforehand, have them take notes on what they liked didn't like about it and share there experinces at next meeting then have them guess what the cigar was, winner gets a prize, maybe as simple as getting to choose the next blind tasting.

4. how's this for a name Brothers of The Leaf of University of Albany (BOTL UA), you could also try to play off the mascots name.

These are some great ideas here! The blind taste test is a great idea, and while people are still developing their pallets, they can try to pick out more simple characteristics of the cigar, and eventually work themselves up to the more subtle tastes.

I was thinking of handing out the prizes when we do get a core group together. I think it would be fun to do different activities, also it'll help get everyone comfortable and familiar with each other.

I was also thinking about going to my local tobacco shop and asking them to give members a 5% discount, or something along those lines. I believe that it will get people into the shop, bring the shop some business, along with providing the members with a small price relief.

I really like the names so far! Keep em coming and I'll make a small poll eventually!!!

I GREATLY appreciate everyone's advice so far! Keep the ideas flowing!

 

[dk_fxn]

I was also thinking about going to my local tobacco shop and asking them to give members a 5% discount, or something along those lines. I believe that it will get people into the shop, bring the shop some business, along with providing the members with a small price relief.

who do you use as your local?

 

[Robinsond]

They're called Edleez. I used to go to the Tinder Box in Haverford, PA, but now I go to Edleez in Albany, NY. Seems like quite a nice shop so far!

 

[dk_fxn]

They're called Edleez. I used to go to the Tinder Box in Haverford, PA, but now I go to Edleez in Albany, NY. Seems like quite a nice shop so far!

that's the shop I went to back when I was up in UA. Great place with good selection!!

 

[agctribefan]

Habana Premium Cigar Shop has a better selection and more knowlegable staff. Eldeez is not bad. Decent selection, with decent prices on some things. The lounge at Habana premium is much nicer. perfect spot for your club meeting. They will definitely give you a discount after a few meetings. Talk with the guys there. The owner, Scottie, is really nice.

 

[dk_fxn]

Habana Premium Cigar Shop has a better selection and more knowlegable staff. Eldeez is not bad. Decent selection, with decent prices on some things. The lounge at Habana premium is much nicer. perfect spot for your club meeting. They will definitely give you a discount after a few meetings. Talk with the guys there. The owner, Scottie, is really nice.

Next time I'm up in Albany, I am going to have to check that place out.

Edleez is walking distance from campus, so that was the only option for a car-less freshmen.

 

[Robinsond]

Yeah, that's the primary reason why I chose Edleez. I will definitely check out the other place. I'll just have to mapquest it, and see how to get there with a bus. Thanks for all comments, and your interest!!

 

[agctribefan]

its right on central just north of wolf rd

 

[Robinsond]

Ahh ok gotcha...I think there's a bus that takes you right onto wolf road, next to colonie center. I'm gonna check it out next time I have a couple hours to kill! Thanks for the Suggestion!

 

[Savi1090]

I love the idea, I'm thinking about trying to get a pipe club together here at UT Chattanooga but its just been a thought. I do have a question though. I'm on the student government here at UTC and one of the things we do is approve clubs, i.e. check the constitutions, money allocations, etc and I know as a state university our guidelines stipulate what sort of clubs we can approve and disapprove and I'm not sure about your university but I don't think here we could approve a money allocation to a club based on tobacco, I know that's sad, but its still kind of frowned upon giving university money to promote smoking. You might be in a different situation but that's just my experience. Good luck with your startup!

 

[Robinsond]

Thank you very much Savi!! I hope you do well with your pipe club, as I will have with my cigar club. I haven't yet put this plan into motion, due to the fact that I am still gathering some core members, along with ideas. I do know people that work in the offices that approve and disapprove of different clubs and ideas. The friend that works in the office isn't sure about the club either, but she said she'll put in a good word about it, which i am very thankful for. If it doesn't work out with the money allocations from the University, I am fully prepared to become more serious about getting an on, or off, campus job and personally funding this club. Thanks for your support!, and good luck with your own endeavors! :grin:

 

[Mast3r_Shake]

I worry about college cigar clubs. I feel like it would be really hard to get going. First of all you can't have weekly meetings, maybe 1 time every two weeks at most. When I was in school I was a board member of Habitat for Humanity and let me tell you even for that group at Penn State it is hard to keep people involved and you can't expect people to be able to show up every week. Kids have things to do you know. Where are you going to have the club meetings to smoke?

We just started a Lehigh Valley Cigar Club and the only reason it has worked so far is that we had a good core group of starting members from previous friendships forged through cigar smoking. Do you have friends into cigars to start the group with? If you are starting this alone then I think it is a bad idea. You need to start this with a few people with a board that makes decisions.

Lastly you have to smoke at Club meetings and have events to smoke at (not manufacturer events but like poker night or something). You can't just hold meetings where you talk about cigars, there is no way you will keep enough college student interest that way.

 

[Robinsond]

I absolutely agree with you mast3r shake! Meetings are only going to be held most likely once every two weeks. There are plenty of places around campus that are smoke-friendly, so all I've gotta do is choose one. I also DO have a core group, and along with my friend Lauren, are assigning positions to them according to their strong points and personalities.

Currently, I am the President.
Lauren - vice president, in charge of decisions, member applications, and publicity.
Liz - Treasurer, she takes care of the financial part of the club, and helps decide where and when to spend the money we are given. She also takes minutes during the meetings.
Andrew - Executive, He also handles what we talk about during meetings, and helps to introduce our members to new products and styles.
Krystina - Founding member (member from day 1)
Chelsea - Founding member (member from day 1)

I know it seems like more girls than guys (well it is), but I just haven't met too many guys to invite yet! More will come with time, and hey, maybe the girls in the club will attract more male members!!

Thanks for your input, and happy smoking!
-Robinsond

 

[strife]

I absolutely agree with you mast3r shake! Meetings are only going to be held most likely once every two weeks. There are plenty of places around campus that are smoke-friendly, so all I've gotta do is choose one. I also DO have a core group, and along with my friend Lauren, are assigning positions to them according to their strong points and personalities.

Currently, I am the President.
Lauren - vice president, in charge of decisions, member applications, and publicity.
Liz - Treasurer, she takes care of the financial part of the club, and helps decide where and when to spend the money we are given. She also takes minutes during the meetings.
Andrew - Executive, He also handles what we talk about during meetings, and helps to introduce our members to new products and styles.
Krystina - Founding member (member from day 1)
Chelsea - Founding member (member from day 1)

I know it seems like more girls than guys (well it is), but I just haven't met too many guys to invite yet! More will come with time, and hey, maybe the girls in the club will attract more male members!!

Thanks for your input, and happy smoking!
-Robinsond

Whoa 2 to 1 ratio chicks to guys! Can I join?

 

[Mast3r_Shake]

I absolutely agree with you mast3r shake! Meetings are only going to be held most likely once every two weeks. There are plenty of places around campus that are smoke-friendly, so all I've gotta do is choose one. I also DO have a core group, and along with my friend Lauren, are assigning positions to them according to their strong points and personalities.

Currently, I am the President.
Lauren - vice president, in charge of decisions, member applications, and publicity.
Liz - Treasurer, she takes care of the financial part of the club, and helps decide where and when to spend the money we are given. She also takes minutes during the meetings.
Andrew - Executive, He also handles what we talk about during meetings, and helps to introduce our members to new products and styles.
Krystina - Founding member (member from day 1)
Chelsea - Founding member (member from day 1)

I know it seems like more girls than guys (well it is), but I just haven't met too many guys to invite yet! More will come with time, and hey, maybe the girls in the club will attract more male members!!

Thanks for your input, and happy smoking!
-Robinsond

Already I see a problem with the "Founding Member." If you want to start a legitimate group you have to think of the future when you guys are gone. What purpose does a founding member post have in 7 years? None, so that should be eliminated. Next I would state that you are the founder, not the president, and then with in your first meeting have elections to the posts to make them official. You basically know how the voting will go but you should still have it. Executive is something within a company, not a club. I think that position would be better suited as Secretary which is the recorder of both club meetings and board meetings.

The Treasurer does not get to decide where the money goes, but just takes care of the money. Keeps tabs on it, knows how much is going in and out of the club, finds out how much shirts will cost, etc. Money decisions are voted on by the entire board. Secretary takes minutes, not treasurer.

First and foremost you need to come up with a list of positions that the board will be compromised of and a specific description of each. As of now they seem very random, and as I stated earlier founding members are not positions. This club if you are serious will eventually be passed on out of all of your hands so it must be created in a manner that change will not lead to it's demise.

As of now this sounds like "your" club, not the "school's" club. Remember you are making a club for the school, not for yourself.

 

[dk_fxn]

I absolutely agree with you mast3r shake! Meetings are only going to be held most likely once every two weeks. There are plenty of places around campus that are smoke-friendly, so all I've gotta do is choose one. I also DO have a core group, and along with my friend Lauren, are assigning positions to them according to their strong points and personalities.

Currently, I am the President.
Lauren - vice president, in charge of decisions, member applications, and publicity.
Liz - Treasurer, she takes care of the financial part of the club, and helps decide where and when to spend the money we are given. She also takes minutes during the meetings.
Andrew - Executive, He also handles what we talk about during meetings, and helps to introduce our members to new products and styles.
Krystina - Founding member (member from day 1)
Chelsea - Founding member (member from day 1)

I know it seems like more girls than guys (well it is), but I just haven't met too many guys to invite yet! More will come with time, and hey, maybe the girls in the club will attract more male members!!

Thanks for your input, and happy smoking!
-Robinsond

Whoa - cigar club with a ton of chicks?!?!? Is enrollment open to UA alum? Grad in 2000...lol

hi shake!