Cigar Aficionado

Dear Marvin,
Representative Peter King's assessment of the risks facing America was spot on ["Risks Facing America," February 2015]. In light of the serious issues facing American foreign policy, doesn't this present istration's efforts to "normalize" American-Cuban relations seem like "smoke and mirrors?" I believe most readers of this magazine greatly prefer a more secure country to one where Cuban cigars are more readily available.
James L. Wilkinson
Sarasota, Florida

Dear Marvin,
Just finished your interview with Mr. Rubin ["Life After No. 1", February 2016]. Tried the Prensado a few years ago and was disappointed for the reasons he pointed out and never went back.

But after reading his very open and honest of what happened I'll be going back for another try. I appreciate someone who'll man up when things go wrong.
Dan Rogers
Folly Beach, South Carolina

Dear Marvin,
I just finished reading David Savona's interview with Alan Rubin and strange as it may seem, I found it profoundly moving. In an age where many are quick to affix blame on anyone but themselves, here we see the head of a major cigar manufacturing company stepping up assuming full responsibility for an unfortunate turn of events that easily could have been placed on any number of parties.

Mr. Rubin went to great lengths to identify the source(s) of the problem and then wasted no time in doing all that was necessary to correct what needed correcting.

Here we have an article that should be required reading in any business class—a top executive who will
assume blame as quick, or quicker, than take credit. He jumped into the trenches, identified problems and fixed them. Alec and Bradley should learn a valuable lesson. Continued success.
E.G. Edone
Wyckoff, New Jersey

Dear Marvin,
I would disagree with the comment regarding cruise lines offering havens for cigar smokers. ["The World's Best Cruises," December 2015.] I have found that while the "cigar" lounges may be well-appointed, they tend to be populated by cigarette smokers much more often than cigar smokers. Perhaps I am a bit of a cigar snob, but trying to enjoy a fine cigar among a group of cigarette burners (usually just trying to get a quick nicotine fix) is not a very satisfying experience. I would suggest relegating the cigarette smokers to the open air decks thus reserving the cigar lounges for their intended purpose: allowing cigar smokers to relax, mingle and share in one of life's diversions.
Rob Kiehm
Eureka, Missouri

Dear Marvin,
I've worked in politics in some form or fashion for over 15 years. I've been a cigar smoker for around the same amount of time. In fact, Rush Limbaugh gave me my first cigar, a Cuban Montecristo No. 2, if I right. I'm sure he doesn't even this, but I certainly do.

I was working on Sean Hannity's radio show at the time and was still a wet-behind-the-ears kid. During my first day on the job, Hannity's producer told me at one point that I may run into Limbaugh. He emphasized that I must show Rush an extreme amount of deference and respect.

Several months later, I ran into Rush as he was exiting the bathroom. Understandably intimidated, I stuck out my hand and introduced myself. "Hello, Mr. Limbaugh, sir," I said, shaking Rush's still-wet hand. "I'm Aaron and I work for Sean. I've listened to your show for years and ire you very much." Limbaugh laughed, and said: "Cut the Mr. Limbaugh crap, kid. I'm Rush and it's nice to meet you." He reached into his pocket, grabbed a cigar and asked me if I'd like one. Knowing my mother would kill me (my mom was not a big fan of cigars back then), I took one anyway.

Rush then informed me that he loved my boss, Hannity, but laughingly told me to remind Sean that he owes him a new microphone. You see, Limbaugh is famous for broadcasting with a golden microphone and one day Sean Hannity was substitute hosting for him and broke his microphone. This story is fairly well-known. You see, like every other New Yorker, Sean talks with his hands. He knocked the microphone down by accident and it broke. When informed about this, Rush's response was reportedly, "He can replace it after he makes his first million."

Rush told me that he hoped I enjoyed the stogie, and we parted ways so he could get in the studio and keep the world safe for democracy. With a smile and a handshake, we said good-bye. I went back to my work for "The Sean Hannity Show," finished the day, and ran off to Bryant Park to smoke Mr. Limbaugh's gift. I checked my jacket pocket a zillion times to make sure it was still there. I lit it with a cheap lighter I bought off a street vendor and bit off the end because I didn't have a cutter.

I didn't appreciate the awesome smoke then as I would now, but I treasure the memory. Smoking a cigar for the first time, I was enthralled that it was a gift from one of my heroes. I became a Brother of the Leaf that day and have been one ever since.

Rush did not broadcast from New York very often the year I was at WABC. I only saw him in ing once more, but did not get the opportunity to thank him for the cigar. I am eternally grateful.

Thank you Rush.
Aaron Gulbransen
Henrico, Virginia