Last evening we had the presentation by Peter Christ of LEAP (Law Enforcement Against Prohibition) introduced by Jonathan Leavitt of MMPI (Maine Marijuana Policy Initiative). See below for my earlier discussion of this presentation.

The talk was in the concert hall and dining area of the First Universalist Church of Norway (UU) in Norway, Maine. There were six members, including me, of the church there and perhaps ten or twelve other people. The church did not dare sponsor the event but merely allowed the presentation to take place, for the usual small fee, because of its belief in freedom of speech. I myself joined LEAP after the event and got myself a little badge pin. This morning I sent in a contribution to MMPI and joined it. I can see that many with jobs might have to think twice about joining these organizations in the present pernicious “War on Drugs” climate. But I’m a retired olde guy and should be able to get away with it.

Peter Christ was a loud, aggressive talker with a tough cop personality and a no-nonsense attitude sparked with much wit and humor including self-deprecation. He and his organization want all illicit drugs to be under the control of government, not left in the hands of criminals. They’re not saying “Hey, lets light up and tune out”. What they’re saying is “Legalize, regulate and tax”. That is the mantra of LEAP. (Note the tax part and think of swelling federal and state coffers!)

But “Oh my God!” many will say. Kids will now be able to get heroin, not to mention pot, free and clear! Can kids get alcohol now? No, it’s controlled by the government. If you’re an adult and get hooked on heroin, join heroin anonymous, a group which would be possible under “Legalize, regulate and tax”, just as alcoholics today join AA. That would be a lot better than losing your life savings to the mob or being gang-raped in a prison.

Well, I could write a lot more here while I’m on this roll, but perhaps I’ve rambled on enough for now. Oh, I forgot, I don’t do drugs. (Oh, but I forgot, I drink alcohol, in moderation.)