From: ????????????????
Subject: Re: Your Pipes Digest subscri...

Dear Steve and Fellow Pipe-Fans:

I've been an avid pipesmoker for just under 20 years (I'm 40). I started off
on pipes as a way to spell my cigarette usage, and later to wean myself off
the sticks altogether. The was a time (about four yers ago) when I had well
over $500 worth of pipes, racks, humidors and related equipment; I went
through a two-year Puritan stint, and got rid of all of it. So now, after
trying abstinence and not liking it, I'm back on pipes with a much humbler
collection of pipes and related materials (OH well!). I still have a Comoy,
and Peterson bulldog from my fatter years, so I'm not altogether on "Tobacco
Road," as it were.

As for my tobacco tastes, well I'm afraid that I must admit to being among
the relatively "great unwashed;" I smoke a Vanilla aromatic suppliewd by
Dream Castle Tobacco Company, of Richmond, Va. 23224. I've tried English
blends, both mild and strong, I don't personally care for them. 

My attraction for pipes extends back into my early childhood; all the
pipesmokers I knew seemed to be intelligent and rational people, and I was
attracted to that. I was especially attracted to it, after I started
cigarettes, as it seemed that they were anything *but* relaxing! It took me a
few years to "grow" into a pipe, that is to feel that I wasn't some kind of
kid pretending to be a grownup; I guess turning 40 has a way of making you
feel that you're not pretending anymore! 

Anyway, I've read and enjoyed many of the digests in here, and look forward
to reading more. Also, if I may be heretical, anyone who happens to also like
and occasional pricey stogie and finds his/herself in downtown Chicago might
want to visit "Old Chicago Smoke Shop" on 10 South LaSalle Street ZipCode
60603 (Ph#: 1-800-621-1453); it's a friendly store with a great variety of
product.

Happy Puffing,

Mario J. Trentanelli
????????????????


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