J. Glynn Loope, the long-time Executive Director of Cigar Rights of America (CRA), announced that he will be stepping down as on November 4, 2020, the day after Election Day. Loope has served as CRA’s leader 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 in a press release. “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.”
Loope has been the only Executive Director CRA has had since the organization was founded in 2008.
Under Loope’s leadership, CRA navigated the grassroots movement against smoking bans, tax increases, and federal regulation. During his tenure, Loope was at the forefront of the battle lines against the SCHIP tax increase and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)’s Deeming Rules regulating premium cigars.
“CRA is more than a job, it is a mission,” added 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.”
Sorry to hear Glynn will be leaving CRA later this year. He’s done a super job of leading this organization and a good friend as well. Wish him the very best on whatever the future holds. As he is a CRA life member, we hope to still see him in Florida at some of our wonderful cigar events.