Meeting was called to order at 8:02 pm on 3/18/17 at 8 to 8 Cigar in Villa Park, IL. Various possible developments regarding pending FDA regulations of premium cigars and pipe tobacco were discussed. Posters for the upcoming Chicago Show were given along with flyers for the Show to those members who are able to distribute these items to various tobacco shops in the general Chicago area. The question came up as to other hotels in the St. Charles area that would have available rooms for Show attendees as Pheasant Run is apparently fully booked for the Show. It was suggested that those interested in finding alternate lodgings should go to the St. Charles website for information on hotels in the area. Craig Cobine indicated that a coupon book would be presented to all Show attendees paying full admission that would allow them to receive tobacco samples and other tobacco items at the Show as part of the entry fee. It was announced that the pipe making seminar is now all sold out. It was also announced that a new event, a meerschaum pipe making seminar will also be held with spaces currently available. The membership was informed that the Saturday night dinner event at the Show will be undergoing a significant change this year. In the past, a single entry was served, consisting of a filet Mignon with appropriate side dishes for a set price which included a “goodie bag” replete with pipe tobacco, cigars and other tobacco related items that was distributed to every diner. This year, an alternate menu is being provided inclusive of a beef dish but also providing alternative chicken, fish and vegetable dishes, all at lower prices than the previous steak dinner. No goodie bags will be provided, but several boxes of cigars will be provided as door prizes. Also, the tobacco blending seminar will be held this year. There was some question about that due to the confusion surrounding the pending FDA hindrances. Full information on all of these topics can be found on our Club website. Chuck Martin distributed sign up sheets to members requesting as many members as possible volunteer and hour or two, or more during the duration of the Show to help out with various duties to make the Show run smoothly. We are asking our members to please volunteer a couple of hours when possible to help out.
As nothing worthwhile is ever easy, it was noted by Craig Cobine that a newly appointed St. Charles fire marshal has indicated new restrictions to our exhibitor table arrangements in the Expo Center. No tables are to be allowed to be placed in front of fire extinguishers and electrical outlets. Unfortunately, the fire marshal has refused to indicate on the floor plan provided by the Club, how many or which tables are to be removed leaving the Show committee with no idea of how many tables will be available for exhibitors. Repeated requests for a specific table count have gone unanswered. Let us pray.
Upcoming meeting dates:
April 22nd
May 20th
June 24th
July 22nd
Respectfully submitted,
Paul Bender
Acting President – Chicagoland Pipe Collectors Club
