Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Jack Daniel's Tennessee Squire Association


It was a cold January day during my sophomore year at St. John's.  The phone gave a double ring, which meant that the call came from outside of the all men's campus.  And that meant it could have been a girl.  

After a quick race to the phone, I successfully grabbed the receiver from my roommate and answered with an expectant, "Hello?"  "Hello, Mr. YDP?" came the reply on the other end of the line.  While it was indeed a woman's voice, her calling me by my surname meant this 1) was not going anywhere and 2) likely something bad was going to be discussed.  

She assured me this would be a quick call - she worked for a research company and wanted to talk about adult beverages and my consumption habits.  As college student, talking about drinking seemed like a really good use of my time and I proceeded to provide the nice telemarketing lady my answers, some of which were likely off her charts.  

She concluded by asking what were my favorite top three adult beverages.  "That's easy," I replied, "Beer, whiskey, and vodka."  "No," she corrected, "What are your three favorite brands of adults beverages."  "Easy again - Jack Daniel's, Coors Light, Phillips Vodka." (hey, I was a college kid).  "Mr. Sidders," my telemarketer continued, "I am so happy to hear you say that.  I need to be honest.  I'm not really from the Such and Such telemarketing agency.  I work for Jack Daniel's, and we're looking for loyal customers like you to take part in our Tennessee Squires organization."  She continued to explain to me that as a Squire I would receive a deed for a piece of property down at the distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee and that I was encouraged to come down some day and visit my land.  

Sure enough, in the next week, my formal deed arrived in a huge brown envelope, and I still have it to this day.  

Since that time - over 25 years and at least a dozen moves - Jack Daniel's sends me at least one letter from one of my Lynchburg neighbors about my land.  Below is just the latest installment:  


They usually also send one nice gift, usually around Christmas time.  And all of this for zero cost to me.  

So what has this wrought?  Simply my undying loyalty for over 25 years.  Sure, I've drunk other American whiskeys, but I can count on one hand when I've bought anything other than Jack Daniel's.  Heck, I even made a trek to Lynchburg in the '90's to go see the distillery and my property.  They've got me hook, line, and sinker.  

I'm sure every year some new finance guy on their team takes a look at the program on paper and raises the idea of killing off the Squire program to drive the bottom line.  Given what they spend on it on an annual basis, it has to be tempting to drive all of that profit back into the business.  But Jack Daniel's is a unique brand, and I'm sure some senior executive ends up putting their arm around the new finance guy and says something like, "You know, Fuzzy, that's a dern fine idea.  And we sure appreciate you coming up with it.  What say we stop off on the way home tonight and we talk about it over some of Mr. Jack's finest?"  Which is southern for "You don't have a clue, Yankee.  Now shut up."  

For more information on the Tennessee Squires, I found this great website.  Also, any other Jack fans that might be looking for a nomination to the Squires feel free to post up and I'll see what I can do to get you in.    

92 comments:

  1. I would like to know more about being able to try and join. I am a very big Jack Daniels fan. I would like to know what would be the steps?

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  2. Thanks for sharing this. I love seeing more from the TSA. Unfortunately, I've never knowingly met a member in person. I've loved Jack for some time, and with the recent Honey and Gentleman additions, it's a great brand to love. I am a homebrewer as well, though I don't distill at home since that is sadly still illegal. Keep up the good posts, and let me know if you ever have more information or assistance on becoming a Squire. Cheers.

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    1. I greatly appreciate that. I'll do so now. Sorry for the delay, been an awfully busy few days.

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    2. For lack of a better way, I've made a public post of them that you should be able to see. Let me know when you've seen them so I can delete it before too many others do. And again, thank you very much.

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    3. Nathan,

      I got it and will recommend you. Good luck, and thanks for stopping by.

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    4. Thank you very much. I appreciate it, and I look forward to more interesting posts on the blog.

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    5. My husband would greatly appreciate your nominating him for squire-Jack Daniels. Can you let me know if this is possible? Thanks so much!

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    6. Hello YDP:

      My name is Paulo Castanheira and I've been a fan of Jack Daniel's ever since I was legally allowed to drink (maybe even a year or two before that..lol). Two years ago I fulfilled one of my dreams and drove to Tennessee with my now wife and visited the distillery. I have a specially engraved bottle at home and it is one of my most cherished possessions. Anyway, sorry to bother you with a long story but I'd very much love to become a member of the Tennessee Squire Association. Please reply to my email (paulcast85@gmail.com) and let me know if you can recommend me and how much it costs. Thank you for your time.

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  4. Great story, YDP thank you for sharing. My great-grandfather introduced me to his friend Jack and since I turned 21 it's been my drink of choice. I had the chance to visit the distillery last year and it was a great experience. I would love to go back and visit the Squire room. Any help you can give to making this dream come true would be much appreciated. Thanks.

    Alex

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  5. That is an awesome story! I have been a fan of Jack Daniels for years, and tend to get a nice bottle of Gentleman Jack when people can't figure out what to get for my birthday or Christmas. My favorite memory of Jack Daniels is the Christmas after I turned 21, my grandfather poured me a Jack and water and handed it to me with a smile and a wink. My dad sat down beside me with his Jaxk and said, "Welcome to adulthood." Three generations of Jack drinkers sharing their favorite spirit in the same room. To this day, it's been the best drink I think I've ever had. So if there is anyway you could nominate me to the Squires' Association, I would be most appreciative.

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  6. I'd be happy to nominate any of the visitors to YDP to the Squires. The only down side is that to do so will require you sending me a lot of personal information which are required fields - name, address, mobile #, email, DOB are all required. Hence, if you're OK with that, I'm happy to nominate. If you're not, I'd encourage you to visit www.tennesseesquires.com, click on the "Not a Squire?" link, and let the good folks at Jack Daniel's know why you'd be a good candidate. Good luck!

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    1. I am a long time drinker of Jack Daniel's and would love to be nominated. What is the best way of contacting you in private?

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    2. Hey YDP sent my info to the in box you listed. Read your blog as much as I can hope you'll help me out.

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    3. I would love to be nominated. I was given my uncles deed certificate not long before he passed away. Even though it has no value its worth more then money can buy due to how proud he was to say he owned a piece he never mentioned the size haha. He loved to drink his Jack Daniel and tell stories about his life. I hang his with pride on my wall and would Love to have one of my own to hang beside his. He helped raise me from the age of 10 when my mother walked out and left my father on hard times. My uncle moved in to help us. My father was still recovering from having both legs amputated due to a accident. I thank God for both of them because the morals they instilled in me. I have since lost both but I have the memories. I myself drink old JD since it was always around and I'd sneak into their bottles when I was young haha now I'm 49 yrs young and still enjoying it. Thank you for your time.

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    4. And here I am 5 years later...who would have thought I am finally a Squire.

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    5. Congrats! Hopefully I can say the same after 5 years of trying. :)

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    6. can someone please nominate me so that i could nominate my husband as his wedding gift!! please contact me!

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    7. can someone please nominate me so that i could nominate my future husband as his wedding gift!! please contact me! He has gone through enough a limb amputation and so much more please contact me antonia.m.ferrante@gmail.com

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    8. Hello YDP:

      This iqs Paulo Castanheira. I replied to one of your other posts about being nominated to the Tennessee Squire Association. I don't know if you've read my post. If you have, I apologize for bothering you with another one. I just saw this post saying that you need some of my personal info. If you can email me at paulcast85@gmail.com or let me know where I can privately send you my info (instead of posting it here publicly) I will be glad to send it to you. Thanks again. I hope you can help me out and that I can join this awesome group.

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  7. I would be more than willing to provide any further information. Let me know the best private way to provide this information to you. Thank you for everything by the way. Glad I found this blog.

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    1. Hi YD I sent you an email for nomination. It's all in there. I explained all the details in the email. Hope to hear from you thanks.

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  9. I am so happy I found you! I am currently a member of The Order of Gentlemen and would absolutely love to be a Squire! I am going to follow your advice to Nathan Davis. You are AWESOME!

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  10. I was seriously considering finding Lemmy Kilmister of MotorHead e-mail address and begging for a nomination before I found this page!

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  11. Alex, I have your nomination submitted - good luck.

    And don't forget the joker!

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    1. YDP, I'm not going to ask or suggest how I would love to be nominated but I'm interested in getting my brother nominated so I can thank him for his selfless service to this country in the USMC. Yes, I would love to be nominated but my main concern is being able to thank my brother for what he has done. Neither one of us know a Squire, well neither of us know a Squire that has made it known.

      Thanks.

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    2. I forgot to include contact Information. Ooty5529@gmail.com

      Thanks.

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  12. I need a nomination too Yellow Dog....I'm Alexs dad...I should be first. lol

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  13. Hey YDP...I sent you an email requesting a nomination. Thanks in advance!

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  14. Hello. I would love to have my father in law nominated. He is an avid jack Daniel's drinker and this would be a great surprise for him. If anyone could help me out please email: tuba_steve04@yahoo.com Thank you much

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  15. I would love nothing more than to be nominated. I have been a Jack Daniels fan all my life. This would be a great honor to me to be nominated

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  16. Chris -

    If you are still willing to submit nominations I would love if you could do me that favor. I have been a JD fan for almost 30 years, and while I do occasionally dabble in other whiskies (I am a member of the Makers Mark Ambassador club) my real love has always been fine Tennessee sippin'. Glad to furnish the information that you advised would be required. Your consideration is appreciated!

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    1. YDP -

      Just saw your note above about sending the info in an email. Will do so and thanks!

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  17. Will anybody please do me the honor of a nomination as well. I am a member of the order and owner of several Jack Daniels collectable bottles. And have been trying to become a member for quite some time?

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  18. I would love to receive a nomination for a Tennessee Squire. I love Jack Daniels and would consider it a great honor to be a Squire. Would anyone be kind enough to nominate me? My email address is travism0077@gmail.com
    I've been trying to become a member for a while with no luck. Thanks!

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  19. I would truly love if someone would contact me and consider my husband for nomination.
    He drinks ONLY jack daniels lol. Our collection is slowly over taking our home with vintage jack daniels memorabilia. We are members of the Jack Daniels Sinatra country club. Own several boxes of various sorts of jack daniels including gold medal and some you can only get in the states (were Canadian) my husband is a highly respected welder in his field. His name is very well known for what he does. He is a husband, father and hard working provider. Jack has become a part of him, not a single holiday goes by where he doesn’t get something jack daniels. Please consider my message and email me if you like. It would be an honor for him and you would fulfill a little dream of his I’m sure. Thank you all so much

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  21. Jack Daniel's is my almost daily evening ritual. My Grandfather gave me my first bottle as a 21st birthday present in 1997, and I've been loyal ever since. He's 90 now and when we get together, it's still over a glass of Jack. I'd love to receive a nomination!

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  22. Laura Mae Williams
    On my way back from Lynchburg for the second time in less than a year. Have drank Jack Daniels all my life and had the opportunity to go to the barrel lighting and now I cant stay away. I Love this town and am considering changing my retirement plans :-).
    Would like to become a squire. If you can give me a hand on that I'd forever be in yer debt. Thanks

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  23. Hello, I have been looking for a member to nominate my boyfriend for his birthday. My Grandfather was a member but he passed away and I can't find anyone at the organization that can help me. My boyfriend is part of The Gentleman's Order and is a huge Jack Daniels fan. Please let me know if you can help or have a recommendation to who I can reach out to. My email address is tlingo@hearst.com. Thank you! Tracy

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  24. Hey YD I've been loyal as long as you. I have an entire room with JD everywhere and of course a pool table. The one thing I don't have SQUIRE MEMBERSHIP. I REALLY COULD USE THE NOMINATION. I'm a member of the OrderOf Gentleman. Hope you nominate me. I sent my info complete to your in box. Thanks

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  25. I am very interested in joining your group, But I am not a squire, I was at the distillery and was speaking to someone about being a squire, but it was late and they had to rush off. I would like to be a squire and only drink JD. If you can point me in the right direction, that would be greatly appreciated.

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  26. Id love to be nominated as a squire. Id put my squire certificate next to my army enlistment certificate and war medals. If youd like to nominate a veteran and 15 year jd drinker id be honoured. Contact me direct.

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  27. Thank you for sharing your story! I am an avid collector and consumer of Jack, I'd live your help with membership if you still are able. The distillery is a truly amazing place, a must see for even non-drinkers.

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  29. Been doing some research after learning about the Squires.
    I retired from the Marine Corps last year and moved to Memphis. Old Jack and I have been friends for many years both here and overseas. I would be honored if you could find time to nominate me. My wife and I are planning a Motorcycle trip this summer to Lynchburg to check out the birthplace. Feel free to contact me.
    Thank you

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  30. Been doing some research after learning about the Squires.
    I retired from the Marine Corps last year and moved to Memphis. Old Jack and I have been friends for many years both here and overseas. I would be honored if you could find time to nominate me. My wife and I are planning a Motorcycle trip this summer to Lynchburg to check out the birthplace. Feel free to contact me.
    Thank you

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  31. I am a Squire from the early 80's. Happened to have a new address as I got a divorce. I do not have my paperwork or plot number as it proved to be a most contentious divorce. Is there any other kind?
    Looking for help as to how to get my deed and title. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.

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  32. Hey YD. Been reading your post for awhile now. Always entertaining. Any chance I could hit you up for a Squires Club invite. I'll send you the required info via email, if you're inclined to accommodate me... thanks in advance. clydefones@gmail.com

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  34. Hello Yellow Dog...hope this message is not years to late but I would love you or any of the other fine squires to sponsor me I could give you any information you might need. Appreciate the opportunity. chadwick.bell@gmail.com

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  35. Readers, I've recommended dozens now, and it takes up too much time. I'm discontinuing recommendations unless there is a really, really compelling reason (in which case, post up). I apologize, but it has become too much of a chore. I do encourage you to head to their site, hit the "Not a Squire?" link, and apply. Good luck.

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  36. I am trying very hard to get nominated to become a Tennessee Squire. I would love the opportunity to become a life long squire.

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  37. Hello YDP, I know it's been a while since you originally posted this item and it's always wonderful to find fellow Jack enthusiasts. I'm a fine Southern woman that enjoys Jack black, the single barrel, the Sinatra blend as well as Gentleman Jack when offered my choice of relaxing, evening libations. Nothing like it in the world. I'd love to be considered for a nomination to the Squire's club. To be honest, I'm more of a Groucho fan ("wouldn't consider being a member of a club that would have me"), but this membership I'd happily cherish. I get frustrated when my friends that prefer Maker's over Jack show of there swag. I'd like to fly my preferred whiskey colors :) I'll be heading over to try my luck. See ya in the Squire's room. Regards, Angie

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  39. I am posting in the hopes that someone may be able to help me fulfill my fiancé, Greg’s, lifetime dream – to become a Tennessee Squire. After eight beautiful years together, we will be married this September in the Outer Banks. I have wracked my mind for a wedding present for him, but the one thing he wants more than anything, I can’t purchase. Greg is a lifetime, loyal, Jack Daniel’s drinker. He’s a wonderful man -- the kind of guy that will give you the proverbial “shirt off his back” and ask for nothing in return. I’ve never met a person that didn’t have a kind word to say about him. He’s a great drinking companion and my best friend. If anyone here can help in my request, or direct me to someone who might be able to help, I’d be eternally grateful.

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  40. Lisa, I'll try a nomination for you. Please provide me a means to reach you privately so that I can get the necessary information - name, address, mobile #, email, DOB are all required

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    1. Hello YDP, How can I contact you regarding becoming a Tennessee Squire. My daughter and I both loyal Jack Daniel's enthusiasts. My contact info is lorivelino@gmail.com Thank you!

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  41. Hello I would love to be nominated my uncle was a member and I have his deed unfortunately I learned I can't transfer it to myself after his passing , he had no children and we were close. I would love to carry on the tradition and show my love for JD. Yes I have a glass almost every evening before bed. Please consider nominating me and I appreciate your time . Thank you
    Elaine

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  42. Hello Yellow Dog Patrol I would love any help you can give with myself becoming a Tennessee Squire. I would be forever grateful please contact me with what I need to do. Thank You Mark MHFLA@JUNO.COM

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  43. hello,I have been looking to become a Tennessee Squire for a long time. Being a long time Jack drinker and collector I would love and be eternally grateful for any help you can give in becoming a Squire. Thanks in advance. Friends in Jack. Michelle 61smom@gmail.com

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  44. Look for some help to get nominated everyone I know that is a squire already nominated someone please help my email is gtoman04@verizon.net

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  45. I would be very interested in getting nominated. If you are still willing to do this please let me know. Thanks!

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  46. I would love to be nominated! If you are still offering, please let me know what information you need (blake.hunter@aleris.com). Thank you!

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  47. Hello my name is Dan Carroll and I am interested in becoming a Jack Daniel’s Squire. I understand you must receive a nomination or sponsor from a current member and that is why I am reaching out, in hopes that you would nominate me.

    I have been a lover of Jack for as long as I can remember, my parrot is named JD and crossed the Mexican border with a complete stranger to bring my 3L tipper bottle back across the border. (Only allowed 1L per adult so I had to recruit a stranger to accompany my gf and I back across)

    I work as a Firefighter Paramedic and when not on duty enjoy my nightly glass or glasses of Jack Daniel’s. Any help with becoming a Squire would be greatly appreciated, it has long been something I have wanted to be part of.

    Thank you for your time and consideration.

    Dan Carroll
    Carroll1137@yahoo.com

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  48. I'm actually reaching out for my fiance to become a squire. It's all he drinks and it's the only memorabilia he collects . Please email me if you would consider nominating him for the tn squires association.He has been searching for someone that could nominate him. Hopefully u will be able to. My email is baileyvause89@yahoo.com. thank you so much.

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  49. Hi!! I would like to know the steps to join the jack Daniel squire or if you can nominate my fiancee. Jack Daniels is his favorite whiskey and every bottle he drinks, he keeps it for his collection. He gets excited everytime a new master distiller bottle comes out. I hope you are able to help! You can reach me at dth1du@gmail.com. Thank you!!

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  50. I've been trying to get nominated for squires for years now and can't seem to find anyone to nominate me. I have been drinking Jack for years. It's my favorite whiskey. I've been to the distillery twice and will be returning in two weeks with my wife and step son to celebrate his 21st birthday with Jack. So if you nominate me or know some one I'd very much appreciate it. You can reach me at mrgrinch1969@comcast.net.Thank you

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  51. I would love it if I could get my father nominated. I stumbled across this site while ordering some JD for him for father's day. I got hold of his phone to send from his account.

    Mitch

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  52. Just left the distillery and found out about the squires during our tour. My husband is a huge fan and has a bar dedicated to Jack back home in Chicago. It was only logical to visit Lynchburg on our drive home from Alabama. It was so worth the stop, this was his Disney World and it was nice to see him so happy. He will be turning 50 in August and thought becoming a Tennessee Squire would make his special day even greater. Not to mention, I'd look pretty good for asking. So if you would be so kind to nominate my husband, I'd be much obliged. Thank you for your consideration.
    Christine

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  53. I love Jack Daniels and really want to get over to the Distillery next year . I have a huge collection of Jack Daniels, including both Sinatra select and Century and would love if any one could nominate me as a Squire

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  54. I really would like to be nominated as a Squrie. My dad was a jack lover and that is all I can ever remember him drinking as a kid. Well as soon I was old enough to taste jack daniels I love it and have evening drinking it ever since. I have a huge collection of jack daniels. Being part of the Squrie would be like winning the Lottery to me....any help would be greatly appreciated..Thanks Jimmy

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  55. I have been trying for years to find someone to nominate my husband, Greg, as a Tennessee Squire. He is a lifelong Jack Daniels drinker and collector, and a squire membership would mean the absolute world to him.

    He's the kind of guy that would give a stranger the shirt off his back -- he's kind, compassionate, funny and an all-around great guy. If someone would consider nominating him, you can reach me at lisamarie19668@aol.com

    I promise that we would pay his nomination forward and help another deserving person.....

    Thanks much,
    Lisa

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  56. Dear YDP:
    I have been on the hunt for many years for these "mythical" squires. I have only run across one in person and he was a customer of ours. While Jack Daniel's did enter the conversation and so did squires, the opportunity never arose for me to ask such a favor of sponsoring me. I would very much like to be a squire. If you would be so kind as to sponsor me I would be indebted to you. Please contact me at dcnull@gmail.com.
    Thank you for you time,
    Clint

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  57. Would love to get a nomination for a friend of mine who owns a bar and LOVES her Jack! In my opinion, she deserves it more than most!!

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  58. My husband & I would love a nomination to the TSA. As proud Tennesseans, we love our Jack!

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  59. As a lover of Jack for over 40 years, I am hoping that a Squire can find it in their heart to nominate me to become a squire. I have been trying to find a squire for a long time with no luck. Please,Please,Please contact me if yiu can do this.....THANK YOU!! Fred Schaffer

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  60. I am lover of all things Jack Daniel's and would love to become a squire. I don't know any personally so am having issues getting nominated. If a current squire sees this, you sponsorship would be greatly appreciated (gordon.banks@att.net)

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  61. So I find myself here looking for a sponsorship into Jack Daniel's Squire club and heard you might be able to help out. While I would of liked for a more formal asking I hope this reaches you and my email is thomasrustay@gmail.com

    Thank you...

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  62. Well here is to hoping. Looking to nominate my husband. I've been trying over the years with no success. He will be 50 end of August and I'd love to surprise him. Thanks kme1373@aol.com.

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