Electronic cigarette industry trade organization member shares experience with analysts, industry colleagues, and media.

New York, NY -- (ReleaseWire) -- 11/25/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA), an electronic cigarette industry trade organization, is supporting member company involvement in industry support events. Participation in these events is necessary to cultivate a cooperative culture within the industry.

The latest of such events was Wells Fargo's inaugural E-Cig Forum on November 21st in New York City. The securities firm Wells Fargo organized a day-long forum during which companies representatives shared their views, expectations, and experiences for the rest of the industry.

Presenting companies offered an inside look into their brand, advertising efforts, processes, and more. Following time for direct presentation, representatives sat with Wells Fargo's e-cig industry analyst Bonnie Herzog for a "fire-side style" chat.

SFATA founding member company V2 Cigs participated in this event. V2 CEO Andries Verleur shared an overview of the company's size and position and then answered questions from Herzog. Verleur shared his experience, company plans for the future, and expectations for the electronic cigarette industry moving forward.

V2 is the nation's largest online retailer and distributor of electronic cigarettes and a founding member of electronic cigarette industry trade organization SFATA (Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association). Verleur has been with the company since its founding in 2009 and is an avid supporter of responsible growth and fair regulation. This is why he supports SFATA.

Bonnie Herzog is Wells Fargo's managing director of beverage, tobacco, and consumer research. The E-Cig Forum is one more part of Wells Fargo's continued efforts take the electronic cigarette industry seriously and support its development into a mature market. Herzog was among the first analysts to say the industry was more than a fad and has continually said that it will likely supplant the smoking industry in the next 10 years.

It is with the support of individuals like Verleur and companies like V2 that the non-profit SFATA is able to assist the electronic cigarette industry with educational and awareness endeavors. The sharing of experience is a vital aspect to any new industry's growth.

SFATA is dedicated to assisting the electronic cigarette industry grow through meaningful advocacy, educational efforts, and awareness campaigns. For more information please visit SFATA.org or email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org, email info@sfata.org or call 218-22-SFATA.

About V2
V2 Cigs is America's No. 1 online retailer of electronic cigarettes. The company's flagship website is currently ranked in the top 1,500 websites in the nation and receives more than 6 million monthly unique visitors, as tracked by online web-metrics provider Alexa.com. V2 Cigs has distinguished itself as a leader in the industry for its ever-expanding product lines, powerful vapor production and great taste. V2 Cigs provides a smokeless alternative to conventional cigarettes at a fraction of the cost. For more information, please visit v2cigs.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Government shutdown forces electronic cigarette trade organization SFATA to reschedule day of advocacy on the Hill.

Washington, DC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 10/02/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA), the largest electronic cigarette industry trade organization, was forced to reschedule its Washington, DC Fly-In for November 3rd and 4th due to the government shutdown that began on the first of October. Originally scheduled for early October, the events schedule was rendered ineffective.

The core structure of the SFATA Fly-In will remain unchanged. Participating members will gather on November 4th to receive regulatory and legislative updates on the e-cig industry and the political landscape surrounding it. A cocktail reception will follow at 6:30PM at Tabula Rasa in the Barracks district of Washington D.C.; bringing together staffers, legislators, business owners, media and interested parties. The following day (November 5th), SFATA members and staff will visit Capital Hill for a day of meetings with representatives and staffers.

The Fly-In is a landmark event for the e-cig and personal electronic vaporizer unit (PEVU) industry; it's another in a line of firsts pioneered by SFATA.

"This will be the first time e-cig industry leaders have gathered to collectively advocate for fair, business-minded legislation on Capital Hill," says SFATA executive director Cynthia Cabrera. "It is unfortunate that events forced us to reschedule, but we run effective meetings and events. While we can't control the shutdown we can mitigate our losses and hit the hill when we have the full focus of legislators and staffers."

The electronic cigarette and PEVU industry has been under intense scrutiny since it entered the U.S. market. Through this and other events, SFATA has been working to relieve pressure on the industry by fighting misinformation with education. Over the past two years SFATA has hosted educational workshops, seminars and regulatory updates to the industry and will continue working to maintain effective and productive collaboration between political and business players.

SFATA staff and members of law firm Venable LLP will be in attendance at the event. Venable LLP has provided legal and regulatory expertise to the electronic cigarette industry since the products first came to the U.S. market. SFATA has been working on behalf of the electronic cigarette industry since it was founded in early 2012.

SFATA's Fly-In is scheduled for November 4th and 5th. The cocktail reception is an open event, but meetings are exclusively for members of SFATA and registration is required. For more information about the reception or the fly-in, visit SFATA.org or email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is the largest U.S.-based electronic cigarette industry trade organization. It is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org, email info@sfata.org or call 218-22-SFATA.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Trade organization SFATA hosts open cocktail reception before a day of advocacy on the Hill for electronic cigarettes.

Washington, D.C. -- (ReleaseWire) -- 09/23/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA), the largest electronic cigarette industry trade organization will host a cocktail reception on October 3rd. Open to the public, the reception is designed to bring together staffers, legislators, business owners, media and interested parties in Washington, D.C. in advance of the two-day fly-in event SFATA has organized to advocate for innovation and access.

The October 3rd and 4th fly-in is a landmark event for the e-cig and personal electronic vaporizer unit (PEVU) industry; another in a line of firsts pioneered by SFATA. The reception falls on the first day of the fly-in and will give the public, D.C. insiders and media the opportunity to engage industry stakeholders in a social setting. Held at the popular Tabula Rasa in the Barracks section of D.C., the cocktail reception breaks ground by finally providing a relaxed environment for political and business entities to informally share ideas and views on these innovative and ever-evolving products.

The electronic cigarette and PEVU industry has been under intense scrutiny for some time, dogged by misinformation and biased research. Over the past two years SFATA has hosted educational workshops, seminars and regulatory updates to the industry and will continue working to maintain effective, productive collaboration between political and business players.

Prior to attending the reception, SFATA members will have spent the day in briefings on the political landscape surrounding electronic cigarettes, the basics of industry advocacy, and the essential arguments in support of a free and fair market for electronic cigarettes. The following day, members will meet with representatives on Capital Hill and discuss the decisions to be made over years to come.

SFATA staff and members of law firm Venable LLP will be in attendance at the reception. Venable LLP has provided legal and regulatory expertise to the electronic cigarette industry since the products first came to the U.S. market. SFATA has been working on behalf of the electronic cigarette industry since it was founded in early 2012.

"This reception will be a great opportunity to break the ice and meet some contacts," says Cynthia Cabrera, executive director of SFATA. "Events like this are as important as the scheduled meetings we have planned for the following day. They make it easier to have an open dialogue about the industry and its political future."

The reception will be at the trendy Capital Hill event space Tabula Rasa (731 8th Street SE, Washington, DC) in the Barracks District of DC. Attendance is open to members of the media, political representatives, e-cig industry leaders, and the general public, though registration is required. The reception is on October 3rd from 6:30pm to 9:30pm.

While the reception is an open event, meetings are exclusively for members of SFATA. For more information about the reception or the fly-in, visit SFATA.org or email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org, email info@sfata.org or call 218-22-SFATA.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Trade organization SFATA organizes first industry-level effort to collaboratively argue for fair and forward-thinking political action.

Washington, D.C. -- (ReleaseWire) -- 09/09/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA), an electronic cigarette industry trade organization, announced plans for a fly-in October 3rd and 4th. This will be the first time electronic cigarette industry stakeholders have come together to advocate for business-minded legislation.

Fly-in's are collective efforts to advocate for change on behalf of a business community or industry. Meetings will be scheduled with key representatives and decision makers to discuss why opposing or supporting particular legislation is essential to protect jobs, encourage economic growth, and maintain a fair market. Fly-ins often fall under the purview of trade organizations. They cultivate meaningful dialogue and direct communication with individuals best situated to understand and support the industry.

SFATA is approaching the event with the utmost care and attention to detail. Before meeting with representatives, SFATA members joining the fly-in will be provided with a full update on the state of the electronic cigarette industry, advice on how best to communicate with representatives, and detailed facts and figures to support the messages the industry hopes to convey to decision makers.

SFATA staff and members of law firm Venable LLP will be on hand to provide extensive support throughout the two-day event. Venable LLP has been following the politics and litigation surrounding the electronic cigarette industry since the products first came to the U.S. market. SFATA has been working on behalf of the electronic cigarette industry since it was founded in 2011.

The meetings themselves will be carefully organized to make the most of the time available. Participating members will be scheduled to meet with their local and state-level representatives.

The evening of October 3rd, SFATA members, legislators, and media will attend a cocktail reception at Tabula Rasa near Capitol Hill, hosted by SFATA to break the ice, view product samples and meet business owners and stakeholders in advance of serious discussions the following day. The entirety of October 4th is set aside for meetings with representatives and decision makers on the Hill.

"This is the first ever electronic cigarette and vapor device industry fly-in," said SFATA executive director Cynthia Cabrera. "It is likely to be a cornerstone event that foreshadows and shapes the future political landscape of the industry."

The 2013 SFATA Fly-in is an open event for electronic cigarette industry stakeholders and members of the media. For more information, please visit SFATA.org or email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org, email info@sfata.org or call 218-22-SFATA.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Trade organization SFATA hosting final summer series webinar for electronic cigarette companies.

Washington, D.C. -- (ReleaseWire) -- 08/08/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA), an electronic cigarette industry trade organization, is hosting the last of its summer webinar series for electronic cigarette industry leaders. The organization hosted one-hour webinars in June and July and will be wrapping up the series with a final webinar this month.

SFATA's third and final summer webinar will feature Deborah Stern and Emily Simon, attorneys with the international trade law firm Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A (ST&R). Stern and Simon will cover import compliance issues as they apply to electronic cigarette components and liquids.

Deborah Stern, a member of the firm, advises domestic and multinational clients on customs and trade issues. Senior attorney Emily Simon counsels clients on both import compliance and U.S. Food and Drug Administration issues. Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg maintains offices in Miami, Washington, DC, Chicago, Hong Kong, New York, San Francisco and Scottsdale.

Deborah Stern and Emily Simon's webinar is scheduled for August 20, 2013 at 1:00PM.

Over about an hour, Stern and Simon will provide a basic overview of the import compliance issues most pertinent to the electronic cigarette industry. Although many e-cig companies leave shipping matters in the hands of their foreign suppliers, U.S. regulators hold receivers accountable for mislabeling and information errors. This means companies need to know how best to organize and manage incoming inventory to protect themselves from losses.

SFATA's summer webinar series is part of SFATA's ongoing education efforts for the electronic cigarette industry and its community at large. June's webinar focused on electronic cigarette industry expansion into the Canadian market. August's webinar focused on import compliance regulations and issues. Additional future webinars are in development. SFATA also provides live events, workshops, written reports, and a monthly newsletter to its membership and followers.

Live viewing of and participation in SFATA's August webinar will be free and open to members of the electronic cigarette community and industry, though registration is required. Recordings of the webinars will be available to members on the SFATA website following the events. For more information or to register for this event, please visit SFATA.org or email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org, email info@sfata.org or call 218-22-SFATA.

About ST&R
Founded in 1977, Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A., together with its related consulting company Sandler & Travis Trade Advisory Services, is the largest dedicated international trade and customs service provider in the world, employing over 600 customs and trade professionals in 12 cities throughout North America, South America, Europe and Asia.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Electronic cigarette industry trade organization SFATA hosted presentation to electronic cigarette industry leaders on product liability and insurance.

Washington, D.C. -- (ReleaseWire) -- 07/29/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA), an electronic cigarette industry trade organization, hosted the second of three summer webinars for electronic cigarette industry leaders on July 23. The organization's one-hour webinar offered a wealth of information on potential product liability and insurance concerns as they apply to electronic cigarettes.

SFATA's second summer webinar featured Sarkis Kaladzhyan and Jason Perez of Calco Commercial Insurance. The two shared their experience with and expectations for the electronic cigarette industry. They covered topics ranging from appropriate product warning language, instruction manual organization, insurance cost analysis, and litigation defense.

Kaladzhyan is president and principal broker of Calco Commercial Insurance. Perez is Calco's Senior Commercial Broker for Commercial Property and Casualty. Calco specializes in providing electronic cigarette industry leaders with product liability support.

SFATA members and participants in the webinar also received a list of 45 warning language suggestions to assist in developing an understanding of product warning language. According to Kaladzhyan, companies wishing to protect themselves from litigation should provide superior warnings, rather than simply adequate ones. By this, he means that companies need to inform their customers as to what they shouldn't do as much as what they should do.

"E-cig companies should take Kaladzhyan's advice to heart," says SFATA Executive Director Cynthia Cabrera. "Product liability is rapidly becoming the single highest risk category for electronic cigarette companies."

SFATA's summer webinar series is one part of SFATA's ongoing education efforts for the electronic cigarette industry and its community at large. June's webinar focused on electronic cigarette industry expansion into the Canadian market. August's webinar will focus on import compliance regulations and issues. Additional future webinars are in development. SFATA also provides live events, workshops, written reports, and a monthly newsletter to its membership and followers.

The next webinar will feature Deborah Stern and Emily Simon of Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A. The two will provide an overview of the processes and challenges of import compliance for electronic cigarettes. Any U.S.-based organization that receives products or materials from abroad will benefit from participating in this webinar.

The last summer webinar will be on August 20, 2013 at 1:00 PM (EST).

Live viewing of and participation in SFATA's summer webinar series is free and open to members of the electronic cigarette community and industry, though registration is required. Recordings of the webinars will be available to members on the SFATA website following the events. For more information or to register for this event, please visit SFATA.org or email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org, email info@sfata.org or call 218-22-SFATA.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Calco Commercial Insurance president Sarkis Kaladzhyan presents to electronic cigarette industry leaders on product liability and insurance.

Washington, DC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 07/09/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA), an electronic cigarette industry trade organization, has launched a summer webinar series for electronic cigarette industry leaders. The organization planned one-hour webinars in each of June, July, and August.

SFATA's second summer webinar is now rapidly approaching and will feature Sarkis Kaladzhyan and Jason Perez of Calco Commercial Insurance. The two will present on product liability issues and insurance essentials as they pertain to the electronic cigarette industry.

Kaladzhyan is president and principal broker of Calco Commercial Insurance. Perez is Calco's Senior Commercial Broker for Commercial Property and Casualty. Calco specializes in providing electronic cigarette industry leaders with product liability support.

Sarkis Kaladzhyan and Jason Perez's webinar is scheduled for July 23, 2013 at 1:00PM.

Kaladzhyan's presentation will focus on how companies might protect themselves from the most likely and significant product liability issues to plague the market. This includes identifying, protecting against, and creating solutions to unknown health hazards and product defects. Perez will be on hand to share his insight and experience in customizing insurance policies for niche clients and exotic products – both areas which fit much of the electronic cigarette industry.

Kaladzhyan and Perez will provide an array of information useful to all parts of the supply chain from manufacturer to retailer.

SFATA's summer webinar series is part of SFATA's ongoing education efforts for the electronic cigarette industry and its community at large. June's webinar focused on electronic cigarette industry expansion into the Canadian market. August's webinar will focus on import compliance regulations and issues. Additional future webinars are in development. SFATA also provides live events, workshops, written reports, and a monthly newsletter to its membership and followers.

Live viewing of and participation in SFATA's summer webinar series will be free and open to members of the electronic cigarette community and industry, though registration is required. Recordings of the webinars will be available to members on the SFATA website following the events. For more information or to register for this event, please visit SFATA.org or email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org, email info@sfata.org or call 218-22-SFATA.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

California legislators push anti-electronic cigarette bill without constituent backing or supporting evidence.

Sacramento, CA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 06/25/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA), an electronic cigarette industry trade organization, is advocating against state-level legislation in California that would treat electronic cigarettes as conventional, smoked cigarettes. This legislation would severely restrict and prohibit use of electronic cigarettes in the state of California without any evidence supporting the need for these changes.

Among other things, California Senate Bill 648 (SB 648) proposes that electronic cigarettes and other vapor products should not be used anywhere that tobacco smoking is prohibited. This would ban electronic cigarette use in almost all workplaces, bars, and restaurants regardless of the preference of business owners and their employees. It would also ban use of electronic cigarettes inside or within 20 feet of any public building or vehicle owned by the state. Although recently amended due to public outcry, the bill even proposed to give landlords the power to prohibit residents from using e-cigs within their homes.

There is currently no evidence suggesting legislation of this magnitude against electronic cigarettes is required. Research into the risks and effects of electronic cigarettes is still under review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Backers of SB 648 are attempting to enact policy far beyond their understanding and expertise. The bill contains a conclusion that the use of e-cigs "may be a hazard to the health of the general public," yet many in public health agree that more research is required to support such an assertion. E-Cigs produce no smoke, no ash, no odor and the vapor produced dissipates in approximately 11 seconds or less.

SFATA membership and staff are taking a direct role in the education of regulators and the advocacy for fair and responsible legislation. Without more information, California Senate Bill 648 represents an overzealous attempt to institute policy without reason or support. In its current draft, SB 648 shows that California state legislators are willing to ignore constituents. The bill would subject non-smokers to secondhand smoke by forcing them to use e-cigs in areas designated for smoking traditional tobacco cigarettes. It would also encourage smokers to continue smoking and increase smoking-related debris by impeding access to an environmentally friendlier alternative.

It is SFATA's goal to assist the legislative process by providing facts and commentary to policymakers. Efforts by the FDA to determine the precise risks of electronic cigarettes and appropriately regulate them should not be impeded by rash state-level politics. SFATA is also assisting with electronic cigarette community and consumer group organizing efforts to make their voices heard during the decision-making process.

California Senate Bill 648 is awaiting assignment to a review board.

SFATA is dedicated to assisting the electronic cigarette industry grow through meaningful advocacy, educational efforts, and awareness campaigns. For more information about SB 648 or other advocacy and awareness efforts, please visit SFATA.org or email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org, email info@sfata.org or call 218-22-SFATA.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Electronic cigarette industry trade organization member shares experience with analysts and media.

New York, NY -- (ReleaseWire) -- 06/19/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA), an electronic cigarette industry trade organization, is supporting open dialogue and transparent market activities. These are cornerstone aspects of any responsible and mature industry.

Nothing embodies these goals more than a recent discussion in which Andries Verleur, CEO of V2 Cigs, answered questions from analysts and media in a conference call on Monday. Verleur shared his experience, company plans for the future, and expectations for the electronic cigarette industry with analysts and media in a conference call hosted by Well Fargo.

V2 is the nation's largest online retailer and distributor of electronic cigarettes and a founding member of electronic cigarette industry trade organization SFATA (Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association). Verleur is an avid supporter of responsible growth and fair regulation for the electronic cigarette industry. Verleur has been with the company since its founding in 2009.

The conference call was organized as part of Bonnie Herzog's "Tobacco Talk" series. Herzog is Wells Fargo's managing director of beverage, tobacco, and consumer research. Among the topics covered were Verleurs expectations for the international electronic cigarette market, the manufacturing practices and supply chains that make the industry possible, the evolution of online sales, and developing trends in consumer behavior.

SFATA is an organization assisting in making discussions and dialogue opportunities like these happen. A summer seminar series and regional live events are both being organized by the SFATA to continue discussion like this conference call.

"Dialogue is an essential part of any new industry," says SFATA executive director Cynthia Cabrera. "It is through open discussion that the industry can grow into a mature and responsible part of the national and international market."

It is with the support of individuals like Verleur and companies like V2 that the non-profit SFATA is able to assist the electronic cigarette industry in the educational and awareness endeavors that it focuses on. The sharing of experience is a vital aspect to a new industry's growth.

SFATA is dedicated to assisting the electronic cigarette industry grow through meaningful advocacy, educational efforts, and awareness campaigns. For more information or to register for an of SFATA's future events, please visit SFATA.org or email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org, email info@sfata.org or call 218-22-SFATA.

About V2
V2 Cigs is America's No. 1 online retailer of electronic cigarettes. The company's flagship website is currently ranked in the top 1,500 websites in the nation and receives more than 6 million monthly unique visitors, as tracked by online web-metrics provider Alexa.com. V2 Cigs has distinguished itself as a leader in the industry for its ever-expanding product lines, powerful vapor production and great taste. V2 Cigs provides a smokeless alternative to conventional cigarettes at a fraction of the cost. For more information, please visit v2cigs.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Food and pharmaceuticals regulation expert Sara Zborovski presents to electronic cigarette industry leaders on entering the Canadian market.

Washington, D.C. -- (ReleaseWire) -- 06/14/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA), an electronic cigarette industry trade organization, is launching a summer webinar series for electronic cigarette industry leaders. The organization is planning one-hour webinars in each of June, July, and August.

SFATA's first summer webinar will feature Sara Zborovski presenting on the lucrative and currently untapped electronic cigarette market of Canada. Zborovski is a partner at Gilbert LLC, a practice focused on assisting industries regulated by Health Canada and the Food and Drug Administration. She has been heavily involved in both the pharmaceutical and food industries and works often at the intersection of regulation and intellectual property concerns.

Sara Zborovski's webinar is scheduled for June 24, 2013 at 1:00PM.

Zborovski will cover a wide range of issues relevant to those interested in selling electronic cigarettes in Canada. Her presentation will provide an overview of the two most prominent players in electronic cigarette regulation there – the Therapeutics Product Directorate and the Natural Health Products Directorate. Additionally, she will provide an explanation of different regulatory definitions of nicotine, Canada's 4mg nicotine threshold, and appropriate phrasing for regulatory submissions. Finally, Zborovski will present on the standard of evidence for a successful regulatory submission.

At all points where appropriate, Zborovski will compare regulation standards, issues, and requirements to those currently existing under the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to assist industry leaders in understanding similarities and differences between the two.

SFATA's summer webinar series is part of SFATA's ongoing education efforts for the electronic cigarette industry and its community at large. July's webinar will focus on electronic cigarette industry insurance essentials. August's webinar will focus on import compliance regulations and issues. Additional future webinars are in development. SFATA also provides live events, workshops, written reports, and a monthly newsletter to its membership and followers.

Live viewing of and participation in SFATA's summer webinar series will be free and open to members of the electronic cigarette community and industry, though registration is required. Recordings of the webinars will be available to members on the SFATA website following the events. For more information or to register for this event, please visit SFATA.org or email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org, email info@sfata.org or call 218-22-SFATA.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Trade organization SFATA clarifies industry-wide stance for use of electronic cigarettes by minors.

Washington, D.C. -- (ReleaseWire) -- 06/10/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA), an electronic cigarette industry trade organization, supports efforts made by various states to ban the sale of electronic cigarettes to minors and supports the efforts of family and public health groups to keep electronic cigarettes out of the hands of minors.

SFATA believes electronic cigarettes (e-cigs) should be available to consenting adults seeking to enjoy an alternative product and is working to educate regulatory and legislative bodies on e-cigs in an effort to influence possible future regulation at the state and federal levels.

Anti-tobacco groups such as The American Cancer Society Action Network (ACS CAN) oppose state age verification bans as part of their strategy to force the FDA to regulate access to e-cigs at the federal level instead. This stance can be seen in a letter to Arizona Senator Adam Driggs.

Despite widespread awareness of electronic cigarettes, a recent fact sheet released by Action on Smoking & Health states "Among children regular use of e-cigarettes is extremely rare." According to the report, of minors who had heard of e-cigarettes, 7% had tried them. Two percent of those surveyed reported using them monthly or weekly, all of which were already smoking. When only taking minors who had never smoked, 99% reported having never tried e-cigarettes. The remaining 1% of non-smoking minors who had tried e-cigs reported only having tried them once or twice.

The report summarizes, "We found no evidence of regular e-cigarette use among children who have never smoked or who have only tried smoking once."

"We believe consenting adults should enjoy unfettered access to this lifestyle product and will work with the appropriate entities to ensure the product remains available to the market demographic for whom it is intended" says SFATA executive director Cynthia Cabrera.

Many consider an outright ban of electronic cigarettes as the way to protect youth from accessing the products. A heavy handed approach of that type is unnecessary. There is not sufficient evidence to justify applying indoor and public space smoking bans, high taxes, flavor restrictions, and advertising bans to electronic cigarettes. Age verification processes are the best way of ensuring e-cigs are restricted solely to those who should be enjoying them.

SFATA is a trade organization dedicated to advocacy, awareness, and education for the electronic cigarette industry. SFATA is taking an active role in policy discussions in hopes of laying the foundation for a successful and responsible market. For more information, please visit SFATA.org or email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org, email info@sfata.org or call 218-22-SFATA.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Trade organization SFATA presents three-part webinar series for electronic cigarette industry leaders.

Washington, D.C. -- (ReleaseWire) -- 06/03/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA), an electronic cigarette industry trade organization, is launching a summer webinar series for electronic cigarette industry leaders. The organization is planning one-hour webinars in each of June, July, and August.

SFATA's summer webinar series is designed to provide insight into areas of concern as determined by feedback from SFATA membership who are cognizant of the fact that although uncertainty hangs over future FDA actions, many other aspects of the electronic cigarette business are equally important. Future webinar and seminar series are also in development.

The first webinar in the series is scheduled for 1:00 PM, June 24, 2013. Sara Zborovski will be presenting on the lucrative and untapped electronic cigarette market of Canada. Zborovski is a partner at Gilbert LLC, a practice focused on assisting industries regulated by Health Canada and the FDA. She has been heavily involved in both the pharmaceutical and food industries and works often at the intersection of regulation and intellectual property concerns.

July's webinar will focus on electronic cigarette industry insurance essentials. Sarkis Kaladzhyan of Calco Commercial Insurance will be presenting on how companies might best navigate the often confusing and vague insurance necessities of electronic cigarette business. August's webinar will focus on Import Compliance regulations and issues. Dates and times for the July and August webinars are available on SFATA's website.

SFATA's summer webinar series is part of SFATA's ongoing education efforts for the electronic cigarette industry and its community at large. SFATA also provides live events, workshops, written reports, and a monthly newsletter to its membership and followers.

"This summer's webinar series is going to hit on topics some of our members have been asking for help with for some time now," says SFATA executive director Cynthia Cabrera. "I believe this will be a valuable experience for anyone in the e-cig industry. It's our mission to answer questions about the industry for the industry."

Live viewing of and participation in SFATA's summer webinar series will be free and open to members of the electronic cigarette community and industry, though registration is required. Recordings of the webinars will be available to members on the SFATA website following the events. For more information or to register for this event, please visit SFATA.org or email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org, email info@sfata.org or call 218-22-SFATA.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Trade organization membership expands as need for advocacy and awareness grows.

Washington, DC. -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/30/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA), an electronic cigarette industry trade organization, has added five companies to its roster of supporting members. These companies will now be direct supporters of SFATA efforts to advocate, educate, and improve the electronic cigarette industry.

The new members include Pure Cigs, Vape Revolution, E VaporMaker, My Smokeless, and Cherry Vape.

Pure Cigs is an online electronic cigarette retailer offering both slim models emulating conventional cigarettes and larger customizable models. Vape Revolution is a vaping lounge and retail location based in Cerritos, California. E VaporMaker is a brick and mortar electronic cigarette store located in Seminole, Oklahoma. My Smokeless is a primarily online retailer focused on electronic cigarette designs that closely emulate the taste and feel of conventional cigarettes. Cherry Vape is an online retailer perhaps best known for their special design drip tips (electronic cigarette mouth pieces).

SFATA hosted an electronic cigarette industry update in April as well as a workshop for electronic cigarette industry leaders in January. These events offered valuable information which drove interest and attendance to both. These and future events are organized by SFATA to provide the industry with insight, intelligence, and advocacy. It is through these events that SFATA builds much of its membership.

"Any industry, but especially one less than a decade old, needs those working to improve it through education and support endeavors," says SFATA Executive Director Cynthia Cabrera. "Our growing membership is a testament from industry leaders that they believe we're doing the job right."

Since January, SFATA membership has grown by nearly one third with new members joining monthly. Members enjoy many benefits including upcoming access to affordable liquid quality testing, compliance assistance, reduced insurance rates for members, research resources, and battery standards support. For more information or to become a member, please visit SFATA.org or email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org, email info@sfata.org or call 218-22-SFATA.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Trade organization SFATA presented an update for the electronic cigarette industry from Las Vegas.

Las Vegas, NV -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/30/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA), an electronic cigarette industry trade organization, hosted an industry update on April 23 at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas. The event helped electronic cigarette community members and business leaders better understand the e-cig market and the regulatory and legislative landscape set out ahead of the industry.

Three speakers presented at the event followed by a forum discussion led by e-cig industry litigation expert Phil Damon. The event drew a crowd of about 60 electronic cigarette and tobacco industry leaders. Afterward, many guests adjourned to Le Central Bar also at the Paris Hotel for mingling and networking.

M. Daniel Walsh, president of electronic cigarette company Purebacco USA, was among attendees and called the event "Without a doubt, the most information packed and insightful program I've attended to date." Walsh was one of many that walked away from the event better informed. He only recently became involved with SFATA, but appreciates its goal of education and advocacy for the still budding e-cig industry. "In my experience, SFATA is among the most professional, ethical, and sincere trade associations I've ever participated with."

The first speaker was serial entrepreneur Anthony Miranda. He presented on the immediate necessity for improved manufacturing quality control within the industry. According to Miranda, companies not only need to work toward a high level of quality assurance and good manufacturing practice, but should also take an active role in the shaping of electronic cigarette regulation though trade organizations and advocacy.

Miranda is recognized as one of the most influential and knowledgeable analysts and strategists in the e-cig world. Recently, he founded Vaporchem, a consulting company which provides good manufacturing practice (GMP) and regulatory compliance management on a web-based software platform.

The second speaker was industry insider William Bartowski. He presented on the unique challenges of manufacturing electronic cigarettes within the current market. According to Bartowski, continued development and improvement of electronic cigarette technology will keep products competitive, protect the industry from restrictive regulation, and improve consumer experience overall.

Bartowski oversaw the landmark Ruyan U.S. patent submission which covers a significant portion of electronic cigarette technology on the market today. He is now president of VapAria Corporation, a Minneapolis-based company involved in the research and development of electronic cigarette technology, patents, regulations, and legislation.

The final speaker was Todd Harrison, a partner at Venable LLP – a law firm which has extensive involvement in electronic cigarette industry litigation, regulation, and compliance. Harrison gave an overview of the governmental goings on within the industry and provided a little insight into how electronic cigarette companies might survive and thrive given the current and coming environment.

Harrison's work has involved him with food and drug consumer protection and product regulation agencies in the United States and internationally. Venable has been involved in much electronic cigarette litigation since e-cigs were first introduced to the U.S. market.

Attendance to the E-Cig Industry Update was free and open to members of the electronic cigarette industry and community though registration was required. For more information on this or future events, please email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org, email info@sfata.org or call 218-22-SFATA.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Trade organization SFATA presents an update for the electronic cigarette industry from Las Vegas.

Las Vegas, NV -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/17/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA), an electronic cigarette industry trade organization, will be hosting an industry update on April 23 at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas. The event is designed to assist electronic cigarette community members and business leaders in understanding more of the regulatory and legislative landscape set out ahead of the industry.

The event will start at 3:00PM and run until about 6:00PM in the Champagne 1 Ballroom. Attendance for the event is free. There will be three speakers at the event and then a forum discussion lead by e-cig industry litigation expert Phil Damon. Afterward, guests may adjourn to Le Central Bar also at the Paris Hotel for networking with SFATA staff and electronic cigarette industry leaders.

The first speaker will be serial entrepreneur Anthony Miranda presenting on the immediate necessity for improved manufacturing quality control within the industry. Miranda is recognized as one of the most influential and knowledgeable analysts and strategists in the e-cig world. Recently, he founded Vaporchem, a consulting company which provides good manufacturing practice (GMP) and regulatory compliance management on a web-based software platform.

The second speaker will be industry insider William Bartowski presenting on the unique challenges of manufacturing electronic cigarettes within the current regulatory landscape. Bartowski oversaw the landmark Ruyan U.S. patent submission which covers a significant portion of electronic cigarette technology on the market today. He is now president of VapAria Corporation, a Minneapolis-based company involved in the research and development of electronic cigarette technology, patents, regulations, and legislation.

The final speaker will be Todd Harrison, partner at Venable LLP – a law firm which has extensive involvement in electronic cigarette industry litigation, regulation, and compliance. Harrison will give an overview of the governmental goings on within the industry and provide a little insight into how electronic cigarette companies might survive and thrive given the current and coming environment. His work has involved him with food and drug consumer protection and product regulation agencies in the United States and internationally.

SFATA's E-Cig Industry Update will be at The Paris Hotel in Las Vegas on April 23rd from 3:00PM to 6:00PM in the Champagne 1 Ballroom. Networking for those wishing to attend will continue at Le Central Bar also at the Paris Hotel.

Attendance is free and open to members of the electronic cigarette industry and community though registration is required. A recording of the presentations will be available on the SFATA website following the event. For more information or to reserve a seat, please email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org, email info@sfata.org or call 218-22-SFATA.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Electronic cigarette industry trade organization SFATA presents an industry update from Las Vegas.

Las Vegas, NV -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/15/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA), an electronic cigarette industry trade organization, has announced that food and drug regulatory expert Todd Harrison, Esq. will present at the industry update planned for April 23 at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas. Harrison is a partner at Venable LLP – a law firm which has extensive involvement in electronic cigarette industry litigation, regulation, and compliance.

Harrison's presentation will be The E-Cig Landscape: A Regulatory and Legislative Update. Harrison will give an overview of the governmental goings on within the industry and provide a little insight into how electronic cigarette companies might survive and thrive given the current and coming environment.

Harrison has experience working with most of the U.S. government's food- and drug-related regulation and enforcement agencies including extensive work with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Harrison has also been involved with several consumer protection groups focused on a variety of product sectors (including dietary supplements, medical devices, cosmetics, and more).

Harrison presented alongside former FDA chief counsel and fellow Venable partner Ralph Tyler at SFATA's E-Cig Summit 2013 earlier this year. Harrison and Tyler stressed the importance of manufacturing standards, scientific testing, and communication with Congress. E-Cig Summit 2013 was a successful regulatory education workshop for electronic cigarette industry leaders. It is part of a series of workshops presented by SFATA to educate and improve the electronic cigarette industry.

SFATA's E-Cig Industry Update will be at The Paris Hotel in Las Vegas on April 23rd from 3:00PM to 6:00PM in the Champagne 1 Ballroom. Networking for those wishing to attend will continue at Le Central Bar also at the Paris Hotel.

Attendance is free and open to members of the electronic cigarette industry and community though registration is required. For more information or to reserve a seat, please email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org, email info@sfata.org or call 218-22-SFATA.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Electronic cigarette industry trade organization SFATA presents an industry update from Las Vegas.

Las Vegas, NV -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/11/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA), an electronic cigarette industry trade organization, has announced that industry insider William Bartowski will present at the industry update planned for April 23 at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas. Bartowski oversaw the landmark Ruyan U.S. patent submission which covers a significant portion of electronic cigarette technology on the market today.

Bartowski's presentation, entitled Manufacturing Challenges in E-Cig Technology, draws attention to the unique challenges of manufacturing electronic cigarettes within the current regulatory landscape. The information in his presentation will be pertinent to manufacturers, distributors, and even regulators.

Bartowski introduced electronic cigarettes to the U.S. market in 2007 while working with Ruyan. He won new product and innovation awards at the 2008 Tobacco Plus Expo. That same year, he oversaw the development of the first disposable electronic cigarette.

In 2009, Bartowski successfully resolved 17 different investigative demands from U.S. state attorneys general regarding marketing materials with therapeutic claims. He is currently involved in discussions with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration relating to electronic cigarettes and other unregulated products containing nicotine. He has engaged the Federal Aviation Administration in ongoing litigation and hearings involving the use of lithium batteries in electronic cigarettes and their legal shipment by air.

Bartowski is president of VapAria Corporation, a Minneapolis-based company involved in the research and development of electronic cigarette technology, patents, regulations, and legislation. Bartowski holds numerous patents (pending) related to electronic cigarette technology and ingredients separate and distinct from Ruyan (now Dragonite) patents. He also holds a U.S. patent for a non-nicotine, non-tobacco cigarette alternative.

SFATA's E-Cig Industry Update will be at The Paris Hotel in Las Vegas on April 23rd from 3:00PM to 6:00PM in the Champagne 1 Ballroom. Networking for those wishing to attend will continue at Le Central Bar also at the Paris Hotel.

Attendance is free and open to members of the electronic cigarette industry and community though registration is required. For more information or to reserve a seat, please email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org, email info@sfata.org or call 218-22-SFATA.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Electronic cigarette industry trade organization SFATA presents industry update from Las Vegas.

Las Vegas, NV -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/08/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA), an electronic cigarette industry trade organization, has announced the first of 3 presenters at its industry update planned for April 23 at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas. Serial entrepreneur Anthony Miranda will be presenting on good manufacturing practice as it applies to the industry.

Miranda serves as a member of the Scientific and Educational Committee for SFATA and has more than thirty years of experience founding, operating, and selling companies in the manufacturing, telecommunications, and entertainment sectors. Most recently, he served as Director of Research and Development at the Los Angeles-based electronic cigarette company Safecig. He now works as a consultant and researcher with e-cig companies based both here in the U.S. and overseas.

Miranda's presentation is entitled Good Manufacturing Practices: It's Time! His presentation will focus on the need for improved quality control within the industry and the regulatory issues it faces.

Miranda is recognized as one of the most influential and knowledgeable analysts and strategists in the e-cig world. Recently, he founded Vaporchem, a consulting company which provides good manufacturing practice (GMP) and regulatory compliance management on a web-based software platform.

Miranda's expertise is of high value to electronic cigarette companies. He has tracked the evolving challenges of the electronic cigarette industry's rapidly growing consumer market. He writes and consults on those issues most pertinent to the new industry right now.

SFATA's E-Cig Industry Update will be at The Paris Hotel in Las Vegas on April 23rd from 3:00PM to 6:00PM in the Champagne 1 Ballroom. Networking for those wishing to attend will continue at the Le Central Bar also at the Paris Hotel. Additional speakers will be announced soon.

Attendance is free and open to members of the electronic cigarette industry and community though registration is required. For more information or to reserve a seat, please email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org, email info@sfata.org or call 218-22-SFATA.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Electronic cigarette trade organization SFATA presents industry update from the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas.

Las Vegas, NV -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/02/2013 -- The Smoke-Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA) will host a three-hour industry update at the Paris Hotel on April 23rd from 3:00PM to 6:00PM. The event will cover the state of the electronic cigarette (e-cig) industry as it has developed over the first quarter of 2013.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration may soon request that e-cigs be regulated as tobacco products rather than under a unique (and more appropriate) classification of their own. Regulated as tobacco products, the availability of electronic cigarettes to the public would be restricted and many electronic cigarette companies could be forced to close.

The three-hour meeting will include regulatory and legislative updates, an overview of good manufacturing practices, as well as an open forum discussion moderated by Phil Daman, Esq. of Daman & Associates, LLP.

Attendance at a SFATA-sponsored electronic cigarette summit in January exceeded expectations with more than 100 industry stakeholders, e-cig business leaders, and community members attending. Many who could not attend requested more events like the summit. The industry update is part of a series of workshops presented by SFATA to assist the growth and maturity of the electronic cigarette industry.

SFATA is the only association that represents a wide cross section of all segments of the industry including distributors, manufacturers, retailers and more in order to address a wide variety of electronic cigarette consumer matters. SFATA hopes to make industry self regulation a reality through (1) providing the tools necessary for regulators, industry specialists, and consumers to make informed decisions, (2) increased interest, education, and advocacy for proposed and new legislation and FDA regulation, and (3) improved testing, uniform manufacturing processes, and established guidelines for the future of the industry.

Member goals aim to streamline processes, impact free and fair trade through self-regulation, and alleviate government expense by providing cohesive industry support for consumer affairs. Programs being established include quality and safety standards, manufacturing best practices, controls for sales and marketing responsibility.

The E-Cig Industry Update will be at The Paris Hotel in Las Vegas on April 23rd from 3:00PM to 6:00PM in the Champagne 1 Ballroom. Networking for those wishing to attend will continue at the Le Central Bar also at the Paris Hotel.

Attendance is free and open to members of the electronic cigarette industry and community though registration is required. For more information or to reserve a seat, please email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org, email info@sfata.org or call 218-22-SFATA.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Electronic cigarette companies eager to join industry-wide collaboration for advocacy and awareness.

Washington, DC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/15/2013 -- A workshop aimed at educating members of the electronic cigarette industry and community about impending regulation was presented by the Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA) at the end of January. The workshop (E-Cig Summit 2013) was the first in a series designed to align and unify the electronic cigarette industry's efforts to advocate for fair and balanced regulations.

Success of the event has inspired interest from companies not previously members of SFATA. Volcano Ecigs, Digital Ciggz, Tasty Vapor, and Ecigs Equador have now joined original founding members V2 Cigs, Johnson Creek and Green Smoke in SFATA membership.

Volcano is a manufacturer and retailer headquartered out of Hawaii and perhaps known best for their versatile and powerful Lavatube. Digital Ciggz is an online retailer for all things electronic cigarette related and boasts one of the most diverse inventories on the market. Tasty is primarily an online electronic cigarette vaporizing liquid (e-liquid) retailer which offers both premium and highly customizable e-liquid flavor mixes. Ecigs Equador is a South American based electronic cigarette distributor.

As members of SFATA, these companies will receive valuable market intelligence, product testing services, and the latest news from the industry. Through membership in SFATA, these companies will be supporting research into electronic cigarettes, lobbying and advocacy on behalf of the industry, and awareness programming to grow the market of informed consumers.

"This is an opportunity that I feel a definite level of responsibility in being a part of," says Tasty Vapor owner Geoff Braithwaite. "We're not here to cash in on a trend. We're here to stay, we love our customers, and we're fully willing to participate."

The most immediate concern for SFATA and its membership is advocacy for appropriate regulation and legislation for electronic cigarettes. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration may soon regulate electronic cigarettes as either tobacco products or smoking cessation devices. SFATA is not in support of either. SFATA believes that electronic cigarettes should be regulated separately in a niche category of their own. Only by putting electronic cigarettes into the inappropriate regulatory framework can the electronic cigarettes market grow without needless restrictions of their sale.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks to support campaigning and research endeavors necessary to secure the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Adversaries to electronic cigarettes misrepresent views and efforts of the industry to influence regulators.

Washington, DC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/08/2013 -- An open comment period was held by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration through January 16th to accept input on innovative products and treatments for tobacco dependence. The comment period included a public hearing in December.

Electronic cigarette advocates and communities rallied to provide input on how regulation as either tobacco products or smoking cessation aids would negatively impact them personally. The argument is that regulated as tobacco products, the sale of electronic cigarettes would be subject to the same restrictions faced by conventional tobacco cigarettes. Regulated as smoking cessation aids, electronic cigarette companies would be required to prove their products successful as cessation aids before selling them to the public.

A number of electronic cigarette adversaries claim the industry wants to be able to make claims about the success of electronic cigarettes as cessation devices without going through the clinical trials necessary to prove it. This is a misrepresentation of the expectations the electronic cigarette industry has for regulation. This also, incorrectly, applies the statements and views of some private citizens and consumer groups to businesses and industry leaders.

In reality, responsible marketers of electronic cigarettes and industry leaders do not make cessation related claims. Indeed, the Sottera court ruling in 2010 determined that electronic cigarettes could not be regulated as drug delivery devices as long as cessation related claims are not made for the products. For this reason, electronic cigarette companies avoid making or supporting cessation-related statements.

The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA) is not in support of regulation of electronic cigarettes as either tobacco products or smoking cessation products. The only common element between electronic cigarettes and tobacco is nicotine. Electronic cigarettes deliver a tobacco free vapor. Thus, SFATA believes that electronic cigarettes should be regulated separately from tobacco products. Although they deliver nicotine and resemble tobacco cigarettes, electronic cigarettes do not derive their vapor from tobacco leaves.

As to smoking cessation, electronic cigarettes do not exist for cessation and shouldn't be regulated (or banned) based on their success in this capacity. SFATA does believe that individual companies that desire to make smoking cessation claims should go through the FDA approval process as other companies have done for other smoking cessation products.

It is SFATA's belief that electronic cigarettes should be regulated under a niche category of their own. Only in doing so can electronic cigarettes be meaningfully regulated in a way that doesn't needlessly restrict or prohibit their sale by forcing them into an inappropriate regulatory framework.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors necessary to secure the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Stakeholders from around the world attend inaugural e-cig summit.

Las Vegas, NV -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/04/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA) held its 2013 E-Cig Summit, Monday January 28, 2013 at The Oquendo Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. In attendance were approximately 100 stakeholders from the personal electronic vaporizing unit ("PEVU") segment of the market place, which included manufacturers, distributors and retail sellers of electronic cigarettes as well as representatives from The U.S. Food and Drug Administration FDA ("FDA"). The purpose of the summit was to educate stakeholders on regulatory and legal issues facing the electronic cigarette industry.

"We are extremely pleased with the overwhelming support and input members of the industry shared with SFATA and each other during yesterday's summit" says SFATA executive director Chris Venis. "The willingness this large group of stakeholders showed in their commitment to work together, in a strategic and organized manner to achieve common goals is truly remarkable."

SFATA is aware that the FDA plans to deem electronic cigarettes as tobacco products, which will have significant and negative consequences for stakeholders. If regulated under the current Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act (the "Act") stakeholders may be required to spend millions of dollars per year on testing specifically designed to prevent harm caused by combustible tobacco products like combustible tobacco cigarettes, which would be inappropriate for PEVUs such as electronic cigarettes and electronic cigars.

Another, perhaps unintended consequence of applying the Act, which was never intended to govern PEVUs, would be that consumers who currently enjoy a wide variety of e-cig flavors would likely be limited to a choice of Menthol only.

Attendees were particularly interested in hearing keynote speaker Mr. Ralph Tyler, Esq. and his thoughts on whether the FDA had proper authority to deem electronic cigarettes as tobacco products and the significance and applicability of Sottera, Inc. v. Food & Drug Administration, 627 F.3d 891 (D.C. Cir. 2010), a case which is often misunderstood and one which Mr. Tyler oversaw while serving at FDA.

Mr. Tyler is currently a partner within Venable LLP's Litigation and Government groups, located in Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C.; he is uniquely qualified to comment on such issues.

Immediately prior to joining Venable LLP, Mr. Tyler served as the Chief Counsel for the FDA where he oversaw the FDA's legal operations, including all counseling, litigation and enforcement matters, which included the Sottera case.

Mr. Tyler's keynote address was entitled The Immediate Threat to the E-Cig Industry of FDA Substantial Equivalence Requirements. He informed attendees that while reasonable legal minds may disagree, it remains clear that Congress never intended the Act to apply to electronic cigarettes.

He continued by clarifying that the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in the Sottera case did not determine that electronic cigarettes are to be classified as tobacco products. Rather, the issue before the court was limited to whether or not electronic cigarettes could be classified as "drugs," "devices," or "combination products" not whether or not e-cigarettes could be classified as tobacco products.

Mr. Tyler noted that while the Court in Sottera held that the FDA could not classify electronic cigarettes as "drugs," "devices" or "combination products" absent therapeutic health claims, the FDA may [not shall], deem electronic cigarettes as tobacco products under the Act if, and only if, the FDA were to issue proper deeming regulations. To date, the FDA has not attempted to deem electronic cigarettes as tobacco products and as such, electronic cigarettes are not deemed as tobacco products.

Mr. Tyler and one of his Partners at Venable, Mr. Todd Harrison, Esq. who is the Chair of Venable's FDA practice group regularly advises clients on FDA matters, stressed the importance of industry stakeholders playing an active role in SFATA and in coming together to: (1) Implement universally accepted industry standards for Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and scientific testing and (2) Communicate the standards to officials within Congress as well as to those at the White House's Office of Management and Budget.

Other presenters included Mr. Lou Maiellano, from TAZ Consulting who discussed the evolution of the e-cig industry; Mr. Kevin Altman, a consultant to CITMA (Council of Independent of Tobacco Manufacturers of America) who spoke of the positive influence strong industry trade associations can have in shaping appropriate legislation and closing remarks by Mr. Phillip Daman, Esq. of Daman and Associates, LLC, an attorney who regularly counsels stakeholders in the electronic cigarette industry on regulatory matters and issues involving the protection and use of their intellectual property.

Mr. Daman cited the importance of reaching out to local, state and federal legislators to help educate them about e-cig technology as many city, state and federal agencies misunderstand the relevant laws and technology. By way of example, Mr. Daman pointed to an opinion letter written by the Attorney General for the Commonwealth of Virginia which was requested by Christopher Peace, a Delegate within Virginia's House of Delegates after a constituent called him subsequent to being incorrectly told by the Virginia Department of Health that the e-cigs do violate the state's ban on smoking in restaurants or other public places. Contrary to the Department of Health's assertion, the Attorney General for the Commonwealth stated that e-cigs did not fall within the Virginia's ban on smoking laws because they produce "vapor" not "smoke."

See http://www.oag.state.va.us/Opinions%20and%20Legal%20Resources/Opinions/2010opns/10-029-Peace.pdf

SFATA plans to have additional workshops in 2013 so that industry stake holders may continue to collaborate on issues such as manufacturing standards, scientific testing and lobbying initiatives to ensure that the industry does not suffer harm from inappropriate regulations. Specifically, SFATA plans to return to the White House, with many of its new members, to speak with officials in the Office of Management and Budget to discuss why FDA's efforts to regulate PEVUs under the FSPTCA are inappropriate. To learn more about SFATA please visit www.SFATA.org.

SFATA's E-Cig Summit 2013 was held at The Oquendo Center in Las Vegas on January 28th. Attendance was free to members of the electronic cigarette industry. The next workshop is scheduled for April 2013; details will be announced soon. Individuals seeking information about future workshops can email SFATA's Executive Director, Mr. Christopher Venis at Director@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association represents a wide cross section of the "Smoke Free" industry including distributors, manufacturers, retailers and consumers of Personal Electronic Vaporizing Units such as electronic cigarettes and the liquid solutions they contain. SFATA is largest organization of its kind and is dedicated to educating members of the industry on state and federal regulatory issues, providing a framework for meaningful industry standards and GMPs, furthering the advancement of peer reviewed scientific studies and serving as an advocate capable of successfully engaging government officials on behalf of its members. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support outreach and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. For more information, visit SFATA.org.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Electronic cigarette industry trade organization SFATA presents workshop aimed at preparing industry stakeholders for the year ahead.

Las Vegas, NV -- (ReleaseWire) -- 01/24/2013 -- E-Cig Summit 2013 is the first of an ongoing series of electronic cigarette industry workshops presented by the Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA). The event – held on the 28th of this month – will be at Oquendo Center in Las Vegas and is free to attend. The keynote speaker will be Ralph Tyler, former chief counsel for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Additional speakers will discuss various pertinent industry topics and issues but all will highlight the keynote topic of the workshop: The Immediate Threat to the E-Cig Industry of FDA Substantial Equivalence Requirements. Tyler will be providing insight into the circumstances leading to substantial equivalence requirements and the problems they present.

"Ralph's unique perspective and experience places him among the most qualified people around to speak on FDA regulation of the e-cig industry," says SFATA executive director Chris Venis. "Even the most seasoned e-cig advocates should be able to learn something from Ralph."

As chief counsel, Tyler oversaw roughly 90 lawyers working within the various regulation territories under the FDA including tobacco products. He will provide a basic understanding of how the FDA came to control tobacco products and the regulatory atmosphere now operating under their control. Ultimately though, Tyler will focus on the necessities surrounding potential regulation of electronic cigarettes by the FDA.

Tyler will provide a basic understanding of substantial equivalence, how it is to be handled, and why it should matter to the electronic cigarette industry. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to regulate electronic cigarettes as tobacco products or smoking cessation devices. Under either classification, availability of electronic cigarettes to the public would be restricted and many electronic cigarette companies may be forced to close. Substantial equivalence will be the first step in this process. Electronic cigarettes will not meet substantial equivalence requirements.

E-Cig Summit 2013 will be at The Oquendo Center (2425 East Oquendo Rd.) in Las Vegas on January 28th. Attendance is free and open to members of the electronic cigarette industry and community. Individuals seeking information about or invitation to this and future workshops can email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Electronic cigarette industry trade organization SFATA presents workshop aimed at preparing industry stakeholders for the year ahead.

Las Vegas, NV -- (ReleaseWire) -- 01/24/2013 -- E-Cig Summit 2013 is the first of an ongoing series of electronic cigarette industry workshops presented by the Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA). Overwhelming interest in the workshop from many electronic cigarette industry stakeholders and community members has now forced a change in venue and schedule. The event – now held on the 28th of this month – will be at The Oquendo Center in Las Vegas.

This change was made to accommodate a crowd more than double the size of what was expected. Interest in the workshop has been driven largely by interest in the keynote topic – The Immediate Threat to the E-Cig Industry of FDA Substantial Equivalence Requirements. Guest speaker Ralph Tyler will draw on his experience as former chief counsel for the FDA to speak on impending regulation of the electronic cigarette industry.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to regulate electronic cigarettes as tobacco products or smoking cessation devices. Under either classification, availability of electronic cigarettes to the public would be restricted and many electronic cigarette companies may be forced to close. Substantial equivalence will be the first step in this process. Electronic cigarettes will not meet substantial equivalence requirements.

"Without an understanding of the FDA's plans and a unified effort to advocate for fair regulation, electronic cigarette companies may soon find themselves unable to stay in business," says SFATA executive director Chris Venis. "I think that's why we've seen such an incredible response to this event. The need and desire for an understanding of what's going on with the FDA is massive."

Additional speakers at the event will cover marketing, regulation, compliance, and other various topics as they apply to the electronic cigarette industry and the keynote topic of substantial equivalence.

E-Cig Summit 2013 will be at The Oquendo Center (2425 East Oquendo Rd.) in Las Vegas on January 28th. Attendance is free and open to members of the electronic cigarette industry and community. Individuals seeking information about or invitation to this and future workshops can email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Bill Godshall and Klaus Kneale to speak at workshop aimed at preparing electronic cigarette industry stakeholders for the year ahead.

Las Vegas, NV -- (ReleaseWire) -- 01/17/2013 -- The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA) announced two guest speakers at the first of its ongoing electronic cigarette industry workshops, E-Cig Summit 2013. Prominent electronic cigarette advocate Bill Godshall and e-cig industry journalist Klaus Kneale will each be presenting at the workshop.

E-Cig Summit 2013 will be at Trump International Hotel Las Vegas January 28th and 29th. It will be open to e-cig manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers and retailers, as well as interested members of the e-cig community. Attendance will be free of charge.

Bill Godshall has been involved in electronic cigarette advocacy, regulation, and litigation since the industry's earliest days in the U.S. His work to prevent unnecessary and unfair bans against the industry has been paramount to its survival. Godshall will be presenting on the basics of coalition development and advocacy. His primary focus will be on how the industry can affect real change to impending substantial equivalence regulations.

Klaus Kneale is the news and opinions editor at EcigAdvanced.com, an electronic cigarette industry news and reviews website. He's been writing solely on the industry and politics of electronic cigarettes for nearly a year. Kneale will be presenting on how the e-cig industry can best engage with media and cope with common e-cig adversaries. This will provide industry leaders with the tools necessary to take advantage of opportunities with the media. Only through the support of the thinking public can meaningful change to regulations like substantial equivalence occur.

"Bill has made countless selfless contributions to the industry and its current survival is due in large part to his ongoing efforts. Klaus brings a professional, journalistic voice to a world currently flooded with bias and opinion," said SFATA executive director Chris Venis. "Both bring a level of insight invaluable to e-cig industry stakeholders."

The keynote topic at the event will be The Immediate Threat of FDA Substantial Equivalence Requirements. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to regulate electronic cigarettes as tobacco products or smoking cessation devices. Under either classification, availability of electronic cigarette to the public would be restricted and many electronic cigarette companies may be forced to close. Substantial equivalence will be the first step in this process. Electronic cigarettes will not meet substantial equivalence requirements.

E-Cig Summit 2013 will be at Trump International Hotel Las Vegas on January 28th and 29th. Attendance will be free of charge. Individuals seeking information about or invitation to this and future workshops can email info@sfata.org.

About SFATA
The Smoke Free Alternatives Trade Association is dedicated to the advocacy, education, and reputation of the electronic cigarette industry. Through its membership, SFATA builds the networks necessary to support campaigning and research endeavors paramount to the future of the industry. SFATA's primary concern is the fair regulation of electronic cigarettes in a way that creates an even playing field for all companies in the market. For more information, visit SFATA.org.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm