Pipe smokers around the world will celebrate the third annual IPSD on February 20, 2010 by raising their pipes together in a show of fraternity that reaches across all borders. IPSD provides an opportunity for briar lovers every where to stand up and demonstrate with pride that we are alive and well and kicking despite all the restrictions that the anti- tobacco forces have imposed on us.
IPSD originated with a group on Smokers Forums who thought that pipe smokers should have a day on which they could tell their story and educate others about the rich history and enjoyment of our hobby. February 20 was chosen because the Forums were set up on that date. Additional information is available on the IPSD website at http://www.IPSD.eu.
IPSD has the full support of UPCA, the International Committee of Pipe Clubs (CIPC) and its members in 25 countries, as well as by industry groups such as the International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers Association (IPCPR - formerly the RDTA).
UPCA urges all its member clubs to organize an event on or around February 20 to celebrate the noble art of pipe smoking and to show that we all share a strong bond of friendship with each other in this country and abroad. Let's all take this opportunity to toast each other and share a bowl together - and in doing so to make a statement. Please also send in a short report on your event and take some photos that can be posted on the UPCA, CIPC and IPSD websites
We suggest that you inform your local newspapers and TV stations about the event. Last year the Wall Street Journal published an article about IPSD on Page 1 on February 20 and ABC News also expressed interest and conducted interviews which unfortunately were not shown. Despite all the hostility to smoking, there continues to be curiosity and interest in pipe smoking. You may be able to get some coverage of the IPSD event if you bring it to the attention of the press.
Please also bring IPSD to the attention of your local B&M tobacconists. Several of them around the country took the opportunity last year to hold special sales and /or to host an IPSD event in their shops. UPCA intends to issue a press release in the near future that will be distributed as widely as possible. We will send copies to all member clubs in advance.
Submitted by Vernon Vig