Manifesto

First of all, I want to thank everybody for coming out and supporting us during the release of the Manifesto. I understand that some folks are frustrated because of the scarcity of the cigar. I can assure you that it was not my intention to upset anybody.

The Manifesto was created for a couple of reasons.

1. This marks 50 years since JFK signed the Embargo. His signature on that piece of paper was an integral part in the downward spiral of the freedoms and liberties our country was founded on. It's not the fact that the Embargo was signed; it's how JFK went about it. He made sure that he had his stash of Cuban cigars before the Embargo went into place. We continue to see the government living above the rules and regulations they are putting into place. Because of this, a portion of the sales of the Manifesto is being given to the CRA to help us fight for our right to smoke and enjoy cigars.

2. I can remember starting 262 with a handful of cigars, a botched sales pitch, and very little experience in the industry. There were a handful of retailers that 'took a chance on the guy from Virginia.' The Manifesto was my way of repaying these retailers that stuck their neck our for me and helped me grow my brand. My goal is not to become a predominately limited edition company, but a company that retailers enjoy working with because we're in their corner. Maybe that means we'll do a few short runs each year. Maybe that means that each year we'll run a special cigar that's available for one retailer. I'm not sure what it means, but I hope that you'll continue to support us and your retailer. As a good friend of mine always reminds me, "a rising tide lifts all boats."

Thank you for listening, and as always...smoketherevolution