Why did you run for election to the board and what do you hope to accomplish during your tenure?
Teresa Alison Wessling
Georgetown Tobacco & Pipe
Washington, D.C.
“Georgetown Tobacco & Pipe has been in business for more than 59 years. I want to ensure that we, and every brick-and-mortar retailer, can continue to operate our businesses for years to come.
“That is why I wanted to be a part of the Premium Cigar Association’s Board of Directors. The work the PCA does to advocate on behalf of our industry is essential in protecting our businesses. Even with the historic remedy from Judge Mehta this summer, there will always be a need for us to fight against some government regulation or taxation at the federal, state and local levels.
“Because I live in Washington, D.C., I can be actively engaged on behalf of retailers everywhere and participate in the PCA’s advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill.
“I am grateful for this opportunity to give back to the industry that has given me so much and to help build strategic initiatives that will continue to evolve the PCA.”
Joshua Everts
Vault 1905
Meridian, Idaho
“I ran for my PCA board position out of a desire to impact the premium cigar industry. I have had so many folks invest in my retail success, and I want to return the favor.
“One of my big goals is retail education and retail experience. I want to help grow the next generation of cigar retailers and consumers.”
Angela Yue
Grand Cathedral Cigars
Tampa, Florida
“I ran for the PCA board to give back to a community that has given so much to me. The premium cigar industry has not only been my livelihood for the past 14 years but I am so fortunate and blessed to have met so many wonderful people and mentors along the way.
“I hope to be a resource for my peers and a liaison between the PCA and brick-and-mortar stores. I look forward to increasing retailer and manufacturer engagement, which in return grows and preserves our industry as a whole.”
Jessica Hutson
Just for Him
Springfield, Missouri
“I have been lucky enough to be a part of the PCA board for the past few years. I have worked with some amazing people and I’m proud of what has been accomplished. We have changed the structure of our board to include more representation from manufacturers. We have opened elections to the entire association. We have introduced PCA exclusive cigars and specials exclusively through the PCA website. Most importantly, we have started to see positive movement in legislation and legal battles throughout the country.
“I ran for re-election because I am excited to be a part of the education initiatives we are working on. It isn’t enough to survive this climate. My favorite part of any PCA gathering is the sharing of knowledge and ideas. I’m looking forward to being a part of that for the next three years. I’m even more excited to see the group of new board members. The incoming knowledge and experience is going to help move the PCA forward in ways I can’t even imagine right now!”
This story first appeared in PCA The Magazine, Volume 3, 2023. To receive a copy of this magazine you must be a current member of PCA. Join or renew today at premiumcigars.org/membership.