Challenges Facing the Electronic Cigarette Revolution

It should be noted that this right to choose is being challenged. From misinformed lawmakers to scared big tobacco companies, actions are being made to limit the sale and use of electronic cigarettes. Lawmakers and tobacco lobbyists have seemingly made it their crusade to stop the use of electronic cigarettes, and in turn take away your right to choose.

As an e-cigarette user, you have a right to know about the bills that are being proposed, passed, and thankfully, challenged around the country.

From proposed bans based on inconclusive or incomplete data in Utah to unfair and biased attacks claiming that e-cigarettes are aimed at children, the popular thing to do seems to be to bury the e-cig revolution before it has a chance to take root.

Success Lies with You

This is why it is important to note that just like any successful revolution, the responsibility for the  future of the e-cig rests squarely on the shoulder of the individual. So stay informed. Visit sites like CASA or your favorite E-cigarette Brand’s News Feed. Write your congressman. And if you hear of proposed bills that you think the rest of the e-cig community needs to be aware of, share it with us and let us know.

 Look for E-Cigarette Companies with USA-Made Ingredients, Stringent Product Quality Control Standards

Charlotte, NC – February 17, 2012 – As the popularity of electronic cigarettes continues to grow, hundreds of small companies and individuals are scrambling to turn out a product – opting for lower production cost over quality just to capitalize on the buzz. But the industry is not without scrutiny from anti-smoking groups, governments and agencies, as well as public officials and lawmakers across the country. blu Cigs, the nation’s largest e-cig vendor, has long advocated quality control measures, and urges consumers to verify the reputation of their chosen brand by asking the following questions:

1)     Where does my brand make its liquid ingredients (known as ‘smoke juice’)? Many companies, in an effort to reduce the bottom line, source their ingestible ingredients from China under dubious quality control standards.

2)     Is my brand sold at reputable retail chains, or only online? Brands sold at retail have to meet higher standards from both retailers and insurance. Think twice before going with a company that sells only online.

3)     Can I see proper documentation if quality is called into question? General product safety and quality control testing documents should be readily available upon request. If they’re not, it could be a red flag something is amiss.

4)     Is my e-cig a ‘mod’?  ‘Mods’ are exactly what they sound like – e-cigs that have been modified in some way from their original form. ‘Mods’ are typically not produced by knowledgeable manufacturers or people with the required know-how to ensure safety.  Quite often these products use homemade components that are not designed to be used together, many of which have not been certified or tested to proper standards in their finished form.

“Testing and more importantly, continual testing as part of quality control is what differentiates blu Cigs and others from the dozens of ‘cowboys’ out there with garage operations looking to make a quick buck, and capitalize on a hot industry,” commented Jason Healy, President of blu Cigs. “We have always upheld the highest standards when it comes to our products’ safety and quality. As further proof of these measures, all of our ingestible ingredients are manufactured in the U.S.for better quality control standards. We’ve gone the extra mile to ensure the safety and quality of our products and to deliver the best possible experience to our customers.”

Charlotte based market leader blu Cigs is the only e-cigs manufacturer that can claim liquid ingredients that are 100% made in the USA, through an exclusive partnership with Wisconsin-based Johnson Creek Enterprises – which has enabled the company to become the largest domestic e-cigarette provider.

For more information on blu Cigs, including its safety testing and standards, visit www.blucigs.com or wiki.blucigs.com

About blu Cigs                       

blu Cigs is the innovator of electronic cigarettes in the U.S., offering an alternative to smoking. blu’s high-tech “e-cigs” look and feel just like traditional cigarettes – without the smoke, smell, tar and ash. blu Cigs are battery-operated – creating a smoke-free vapor “puff” that evaporates within seconds. blu Cigs are available in convenient disposables or rechargeable packs for continuous daily use, with or without nicotine and in a variety of flavors. blu Cigs have been featured in the presenter gift bags at the Grammy Awards and other celebrity events, and are used by a number of A-list actors, musicians, and athletes. Based in Charlotte, NC – at the heart of tobacco road – blu Cigs is the only e-cigarette provider whose ingestible contents are 100% made in the USA. For more, visit www.blucigs.com.

PR contact: Jesson Geipel, Resound Marketing

While these choices are available, this is also slightly limiting. One of the best things about electronic cigarettes is that your choices are not limited. There is an array of flavors and strengths to choose from. For instance, did your old tobacco brand offer you an option like a pina colada flavor? How about a coffee bean taste?

Don’t Limit Yourself

Electronic cigarettes give you a choice like never before. For instance with blu, our e-cig cartridges are available in:

• Classic Tobacco
• Magnificent Menthol
• Cherry Crush
• Vivid Vanilla
• Java Jolt
• Pina Colada
• Peach Schnapps

For whatever the occasion, there is a flavor cartridge for you. So don’t limit yourself. Experiment and try different flavors. If you want something different, then try a Pina Colada. Or, if you are looking for an after dinner treat, there is always Java Jolt or Vivid Vanilla. The point is that with all these flavor options, your taste buds will not get bored by just one or two choices. Electronic cigarettes give you the ability to change things up and try something different.

You now have the ability to give your friends discounts on the blu Premium Starter Kits

Nothing has changed with the referral system, you don’t have to do anything different or send new referrals. If you have those friends that have been patiently waiting for their Premium discounts, now is the time to tell them to make the switch.

If you are not an advocate of blu yet, dont worry….the opportunity has never been better. To join the referral program click here (or the picture <<<<) and it will take you to our referral start page.
Simply sign up with the system and then start sending referrals to all of your family members, work friends, facebook  buddies, twitter followers and anyone else you can think of.

The system is designed to be very simple to use and to get you the most rewards possible.
As a reminder, rewards for referrals are UNLIMITED. For every person you successfully refer to blu, you will earn a $2 credit towards your next purchase of carts or accessories. You can combine these rewards with all of the rewards points you are already earning for even deeper discounts.

In addition to this, we are still offering 1200 rewards points to our top advocate every week. These points are put directly into your account and you can use them instantly.

So, recap:

You are now able to earn referral rewards on Premium Starter Kits!
Be out top advocate for a bonus 1200 rewards points
Referral rewards are UNLIMITED

Go to the Official blu Cigs Refer A Friend Page to sign up now and help all of your friends make the switch to the smarter alternative!

Be sure to take a look at this other article about the referral program…. lots of great info!!

Using the Referral Program To Your Advantage

What do I need to get started?

• Try a disposable e-cig: There are a number of electronic cigarette brands that offer a disposable option. This is a great choice for the first time e-cig user. Disposable electronic cigarettes allow you to shop around and try different brands before you make a commitment.
• Investing in an electronic cigarette starter kit: Once you decide on the brand, you will need to invest in a starter kit. This typically includes things like pack, charger, batteries, and flavor cartridges.

What flavors can I choose?

• One of the best things about electronic cigarettes is that they come in a variety of flavors. Currently, here at blu Cigs, we offer seven different flavor choices, including Classic Tobacco, Magnificent Menthol, Cherry Crush, Vivid Vanilla, Java Jolt, Pina Colada and Peach Schnapps

Do electronic cigarettes come in a non-nicotine option?

• While your options will depend on the electronic cigarette brand you choose, many e-cigs are available in a non-nicotine option. blu electronic cigarettes cartridges are available in non-nicotine, as well as light, ultra-light, and full-flavored.

Does Full Flavored Mean I get More Flavor?

• At blu, Full Flavored means higher in nicotine. The flavors are named this way because people relate the fullness or lightness of electronic cigarettes to how much nicotine is in a cartridge. Also, the nicotine in a blu e-cig cartridge does add to the ‘hit.’ Therefore it can offer a ‘fuller’ flavor experience.

How long does an electronic cigarette cartridge last?

• While we can’t speak for every e-cig brand, the length of time a blu e-cig cartridge lasts will often depends on the user. However, on average, the blu Original and Premium cartridges will last for approximately 250 puffs (equal to around a pack of traditional tobacco cigarettes) and the blu Premium100 cartridges will last approximately 320 puffs (about a pack and half of traditional cigarettes).

For the first time since the discovery of tobacco, there is finally an alternative – and you have exercised your right to this alternative.

Protecting Your Right to Vape

You should, however, be aware of the ongoing struggle that the electronic cigarette industry faces. Almost since their inception, e-cigs have sparked  a series of debates and encountered strong opposition from tobacco lobbyists, big tobacco companies and anti-smoking activists.

The Consumer Advocates for Smoke-Free Alternatives Association (CASAA) reports – on almost  a daily basis – on any number of proposed bills and laws aimed at limiting the use and/or sale of electronic cigarettes.  While some of these laws undoubtedly have credence, many others will end up handicapping the e-cigarette industry, and limit its ability to continue to offer innovative alternatives to the consumer.

The E-cig Revolution is Rooted with You

This is why it becomes important for electronic cigarette users to take a stand. To remain informed on any and all proposed laws and regulations regarding the sell and use of e-cigs. As one of the few legitimate alternatives to traditional tobacco cigarettes, electronic cigarettes are part of a revolution that is just now starting to take root. Laws and legislation based on false or broad-based claims will only serve to kill this revolution before it gets a chance to blossom.

So take a stand, stay informed, and protect you right to choose an alternative. Visit CASA or the blu Cigs blog for the latest news. By remaining up to date on any  changes affecting the industry, you can help protect your right to make an informed and educated decision.

Amid Proposed Bans and Tax Hikes on E-Cigs, South Carolina Town Leads the Way With Rational Thinking

Charlotte, NC – February 9, 2012 – This week, the North Myrtle Beach City Council in South Carolina passed the second and final reading of a new ordinance to regulate smoking within city limits, effective March 7. Noticeably absent from the ordinance were electronic cigarettes, which were expressly removed by council members before the vote. As public officials and lawmakers across the country continue to push for bans and tax hikes on e-cigarettes, blu Cigs commends the North Myrtle Beach council for its decision and for doing its own due diligence, and not letting misinformed public opinion or political posturing influence a rash choice.

“This latest news is a step in the right direction, and we can only hope that many more councils across the country will follow suit,” commented Jason Healy, President of blu Cigs, the market leader of e-cig brands. “We encourage other law makers to do the same and take a closer look at the available studies on e-cigs in order to make a fair and informed decision. We hope councils do not simply get caught up in the ‘herd mentality’ of other cities, which have prematurely passed legislation of e-cigarette bans without all of the available facts.”

blu Cigs maintains that proposed state-wide bans and tax hikes blatantly impede consumers’ freedom-of-choice and are in direct opposition to consumer health advocacy. Electronic cigarettes are void of the tar, ash, smell and second-hand smoke present in traditional cigarettes, instead emitting a smoke-free vapor “puff”. A recent study co-authored by Dr. Michael Siegel of Boston University’s School of Public Health titled, “Electronic cigarettes as a harm reduction strategy for tobacco control: A step forward or a repeat of past mistakes?” determined that e-cigarettes are a safer option than tobacco cigarettes, and even have the potential to become a smoking cessation device.

blu encourages city council members to learn the facts, and consider the impact of banning smoking alternatives before making a decision affecting the freedom and health of the community.  For more information on blu Cigs, go to www.blucigs.com, or for more information on the current issues surrounding e-cigs, visit blu’s blog at www.blu.net.

About blu Cigs                       

blu Cigs is the innovator of electronic cigarettes in the U.S., offering an alternative to smoking. blu’s high-tech “e-cigs” look and feel just like traditional cigarettes – without the smoke, smell, tar and ash. blu Cigs are battery-operated – creating a smoke-free vapor “puff” that evaporates within seconds. blu Cigs are available in convenient disposables or rechargeable packs for continuous daily use, with or without nicotine and in a variety of flavors. blu Cigs have been featured in the presenter gift bags at the Grammy Awards and other celebrity events, and are used by a number of A-list actors, musicians, and athletes. Based in Charlotte, NC – at the heart of tobacco road – blu Cigs is the only e-cigarette provider whose ingestible contents are 100% made in the USA. For more, visit www.blucigs.com.

Jason Healy - President bluCigs

Firstly I have a question for each side, partly tongue in cheek, but nonetheless pertinent to the discussion.  At what age does someone cease liking flavors?  Sounds like a silly question but honestly when do you stop liking chocolate, mint, strawberry’s or bubble gum.  I personally believe the answer to the question is, never, in most cases do you cease liking flavors.  More importantly, the reason I ask this question is that the answer is core to the solution and why it’s such a sticking point for anti-smoking groups.

To add further perspective lets remove cigarettes from the discussion and put the same scrutiny on all products that are intended for Adult consumption.  As I am writing this from my point of view as an adult consumer lets take a look at alcohol for example.  Alcohol is not intended for children and has similar restrictions to cigarettes when it comes to sales and advertising.  If I place the same scrutiny on alcohol manufacturers as placed on cigarette companies then Samuel Adams and Smirnoff  are the most blatant examples of companies attempting to attract children to purchase products intended for adults (I’m not saying these companies are attempting to market their products to children here let’s make that clear).  What I am saying is that if we are simply attacking marketers of adult products based on their use of flavors purely as a tactic to attract children then Samuel Adams and Smirnoff are blatantly marketing to children as they offer adult products with infused flavors like orange, blueberry, marshmallow, cinnamon, chocolate and strawberry.  Stay with me, as I know this is sounding ridiculous, but aren’t these same flavors available in candy bars, breakfast cereals and other products intended for mostly children and marketed that way?  Now I know a lot of people out there will say, yes alcohol companies are also guilty of the same tactics.  I disagree, but lets assume for a second you are correct.  Are we then saying that companies like K-Y are blatantly marketing to kids also?  They offer their KY Jelly  in great flavors like chocolate and strawberry.  The point I am trying to make, and hopefully have had some success, is that the use of flavors is not an attempt to attract children and that flavors are way of life from cradle to grave.

If flavors are not the magic ‘child’ magnet anti-smoking groups would have us believe then what is the issue and why do they choose to use flavors as their big ‘ah-ha moment’ against cigarette companies.  The answer to that question is ‘its easy’ and doesn’t require too much work.  Sounds simple but its very true because the real issue here is marketing, how and where products are marketed that are intended for adults.  At the end of the day the ‘anti’ side of any argument will always gravitate to the easiest and simplest way to attack their adversary while maximizing their ability to get others on their side. Think about it, put yourself in the shoes of the anti groups and think about the huge undertaking of combating and going into war against alcohol and cigarette companies for example.  How do you get anyone to see your side of an argument or more importantly to agree with your view point…… say the opposite side is hurting children!  Gold! you win!  No one wants to hear the anti-smoking groups point of view if they merely take the approach of trying to change the choices of consenting adults who can make decisions for themselves when it comes to their health or well being, but if you claim someone is hurting a poor defenseless child then chances are you’ll get more ears and a few more wins.

I want to close by making it very clear that I support 100% any regulation or restriction that prevents a child from gaining access to cigarettes, electronic cigarettes and alcohol.  But I take exception when such regulations attempt to limit the personal rights and choices of an adult.  I also have concern when governments and regulators attempt to create laws that are essentially parenting decisions rather than undertaking the admittedly more difficult task of helping to educate parents and adults so that they can protect their children rather than the government doing a job that should always rest on the shoulders of the village and not the King.

Just having my say – Jason Healy, President, blu cigs
Follow me on twitter @blucigs

Drawbacks of Traditional Valentine’s Day Gifts

Just consider this for a moment: Yes, flowers, chocolates and jewelry are nice, but they also are pretty darn predictable. Each coming with their own associated drawbacks:

• Flowers: These are nice for a day or two – Unfortunately, they will also wilt and die. Not exactly that perfect symbol of love
• Chocolates: Delicious? Yes! But then they get eaten and disappear. Leaving your sweetheart with nothing but a stomachache.
• Jewelry: Jewelry is definitely a nice touch. But, it can also put a strain on your finances, which in turn, can put a strain on your relationship.

E-Cigs as a Symbol of Love?

On the other hand, electronic cigarettes are a unique gift. Unlike flowers or chocolates they won’t disappear. And, as opposed to Jewelry, they are budget friendly. Other advantages include:

• Add some excitement: Electronic cigarettes come in a variety of flavors. This lets you add a little extra excitement.
• Keep it fresh: Traditional cigarettes can leave a bad taste in your mouth. But e-cigs can keep things tasting fresh.
• Saving money: Well this may not sound overly romantic. But the money you save with e-cigarettes can be used on other romantic adventures.

Take heed, while there is little doubt that electronic cigarettes are a great gift, you may not want them to be the only symbol of your love. Make sure you take the time to plan a truly special Valentine’s Day – complete with romantic dinner and special outing.

Your Electronic Cigarette Dictionary

Atomizer: The atomizer is the heating element, responsible for creating the “vapor.” In simple terms, the atomizer heats the flavor solution (or smoke juice) and vaporizes it. In a blu Electronic Cigarette, the atomizer is contained within the flavor cartridge.

Analog Cigarette: Analog cigarette is a fancy way of referring to a regular, old-fashioned tobacco cigarette.

Cartomizer: A cartomizer refers to an electronic cigarette cartridge with a self-contained atomizer. Because they are one unit (cartridge and atomizer), the user receives a new atomizer every time they replace the flavor cartridge, allowing for optimum performance.

Disposable: Disposable electronic cigarettes come fully assembled, and cannot be recharged or refilled. They are simply bought, used, and discarded. This makes them a great choice for first time e-cig users or travelers.

e-Juice (e-liquid): E-liquid or e-juice is the solution contained within the electronic cigarette cartridge. This liquid is heated and vaporized inside the e-cigarette.

e-Cig (e-cigarette): This is simply an abbreviated way to refer to an electronic cigarette

Smoke Juice: This is the same thing as e-liquid or e-juice. It is the liquid that gets heated and turns to vapor.

Personal Vaporizer: This is just a fancy way of saying “electronic cigarette.”

Starter Kit: If you are new to electronic cigarettes (or vaping), you will need an e-cigarette starter kit. This normally contains a case, flavor cartridges, batteries, and charger.

Throat Hit: This basically refers to the sensation received from inhaling on an analog cigarette or electronic cigarette.

Vapor: E-cigs do not have combustion; this means there is no smoke. Instead, the bi-product is a vapor.

Vaping (Vape): Electronic cigarettes do not produce smoke; just vapor. So it’s called vaping, not smoking.

There are a ton of additional terms that could be included. If you have some you would like to share, please let us know.