Blog

At The Odd Duck Intersection of Tobacco and Stamp Collecting

A Note from Duckie: This was the very first article-style piece I wrote back in 2023. My mentor, Randy Neil, sadly passed away in March of 2024. This article was one he planned on publishing in the magazine he edited. Randy was — and still is, somewhere — one of the kindest souls I’ve ever… Continue reading At The Odd Duck Intersection of Tobacco and Stamp Collecting

Blog

Exploring Geppetto’s World: Tobacco Choices in Disney Classics

Ever just watch a clip from a movie, show, or anything and wonder. “What are they smoking?” I know I do. As do a few other friends of mine. This comes from a friend of mine. While watching the animated classic “Pinocchio,” they wondered something. They asked in a group text. “What's in Geppetto’s pipe… Continue reading Exploring Geppetto’s World: Tobacco Choices in Disney Classics

Blog

Blood, Sweat, and Tears: The Cuban Tobacco Industry and Forced Labor

Before proceeding, please note this article includes content some readers may find upsetting. Reader discretion is advised. Every luxury item has its hidden costs. These are sweatshops for handbags or blood diamonds from illegal mines. Now, as recent reports reveal, there are hidden costs for cigars as well. The tobacco industry has long carried an… Continue reading Blood, Sweat, and Tears: The Cuban Tobacco Industry and Forced Labor