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Tampa’s aging cigar makers keep craft alive amid boom
In Tampa, 85 year old Josephine Puerta and fellow women rollers sustain handmade cigars as demand rises while youth shift away. Industry records show 1994 and 1995 sales gains, but total U S cigar volume remains far below peak years. Prices rise for buckeyes as tobacco costs surge and U S production declines due to aging labor force.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Osephine Puerta
Puerta
Tampa
Fla
United States
Cigar Association of America
Mario Garrido
Vincent & Tampa Cigar Co
Buckeye
Ohio
Vincent Ruilova
Vincent & Tampa
Garrido
Buckeyes
Norm Sharp
Villazon & Co
Honduras
Bertha Palaez
Ybor City
Sanchez & Hoya
Rico Tampa Co
Palaez
Lila Hhle Marhina