Moochin' at the ICE...
Moochin' at the ICE...ASC prides itself on being a non-commercial group, and we are organizing the Boondoggle with that spirit of self reliance. The staff is going to supply cigars for the events from our own humidors. This is not going to be one giant four day freebie-fest, but we assure you no one will be without a great cigar to smoke, or shortchanged in the good time category.
In order to get the "okay" for a gang of consumers like ASCers to get into the exhibit hall, we (the Boondoggle organizers) promised that we would not mis-represent our status, or otherwise take advantage of the exhibitors who are paying good money to show their stuff to potential retailers.
We are hoping to make a positive impression on all of the vendors attending. We want them to realize what an educated cigar consumer group we are, and to consider us one of their media release contacts for future information. This is a real opportunity for ASC to make its presence known to those less Internet savvy.
Also, please realize that each exhibitors' time during the show is very, very valuable. We shouldn't distract them from "working" trade attendees. There should be plenty of time to talk with industry representatives while at the ICE, but please be polite and allow them to do their job - meeting with and selling to qualified buyers....
Don't loose sight of our real purpose in organizing this Boondoggle - the camaraderie. Meeting the faces behind the posts... seeing the personalities in the flesh... sharring the smoke... and the talk... and the laughter... and the time together... the true fellowship of ASC. And, mooching isn't a necessary part of that... yep, I'll admit it's fun... but not an end, in and of itself.
