I'd also like to ask you if you know that those god-awful high taxes you are charged on your smokes helps to pay for all kinds of worthwhile projects in your state? People who are rigidly anti-smoking never think of that.

In colonial times nearly everyone smoked. The tobacco industry at that time literally helped build this country. Tobacco has many useful medicinal purposes. I'm not encouraging tobacco here but also trying to lessen the stigma associated with it. Tobacco has an interesting history.

Feel free to add any other facts here. My son said I really should read up on tobacco so I can be more helpful to you. He taught me a lot last night about it on our evening walk. He thinks this "mini-forum" is a good idea.