Today, J. Glynn Loope announced that he will be stepping down as Executive Director of Cigar Rights of America (CRA) on November 4, 2020, the day after Election Day. Loope has led CRA since 2008 and is leaving to pursue other opportunities.
“It has been a privilege to champion the rights of adult consumers to enjoy a premium cigar,” said Loope. “I am very proud of the work that CRA has accomplished giving a voice to the premium cigar community at the federal, state, and local levels.”
Under Loope’s leadership, CRA’s membership has grown to include tens of thousands of adult consumers, more than 800 premium cigar retailers, and 75 manufacturers and distributors of premium cigars. Last year, CRA advocated for premium cigars in 350 Congressional offices and in 16 state legislatures. CRA continues to co-lead the litigation challenging FDA’s decision to regulate premium cigars.
“CRA is more than a job, it is a mission,” said Loope. “For almost a dozen years, we have built a national network together that can take this work into the next decade and beyond. This has been accomplished with a dedicated staff and hundreds of volunteers, for which I am thankful and express my sincere appreciation. I remain committed to supporting and advocating for the premium cigar industry, given that the threats confronting it are the new normal.”
“I am extraordinarily grateful to Glynn for his tireless leadership and dedication to CRA,” said Robert G. Levin, Chairman of CRA’s Board of Directors and President of Holt’s Cigar and Ashton Distributors. “No one is a more passionate advocate for the right to enjoy a premium cigar than Glynn. The entire CRA community thanks Glynn for his years of service and his many contributions to the organization and the premium cigar industry.”
During the next six months, Loope will work with CRA’s Board and staff to ensure a smooth transition and CRA’s continued success. After Loope steps down this fall, he will remain a Lifetime Member of the organization.
“The important work of CRA will continue,” said Loope. “As a long-time cigar enthusiast, I look forward to continue to support CRA as a consumer. I encourage everyone who enjoys a fine cigar to protect your right to do so by becoming a member of CRA.”