SAM THE DEALER

Being an independent, liberal, conservative Libertarian, I am
compelled to comment on the letter from your reader in Palm Harbor
("Not the solution," April 5) who believes that "pot" (I assume he
means marijuana) should be legalized.

I, too, believe that the government should get out of the business of
trying to stop the use of marijuana and get into the business of
making a profit from its use.

However, I would like to see it taken one step further and include
all other forms of illegal drugs. Like the ABC Liquor Stores, Uncle
Sam could establish Euphoria Emporiums and make a bundle selling all
the drugs they want to those inclined to buy.

I disagree with the writer that the revenues should be used to offer
free drug treatment. It seems to me that if users can afford the
habit, they also ought to be able to pay for the treatment. If they
can't, then it seems an excellent way to purify the gene pool. Like a
bus full of reporters plunging over a cliff, that would be a really
good beginning.

ANDREW CHAPMAN

Fort Walton Beach