Las Vegas, NV – Today marks the first day for IPCPR registration as retailers, exhibitors and media begin picking up their trade show packages before tomorrow’s Day-1 activities begin. Today also saw a joint seminar hosted by the IPCPR and Cigar Rights of America focused on the FDA and how we can do more to help our cause in the fight for cigar rights.
Florida state representative, Bill Posey (R) was the guest speaker bringing his thoughts and vast experience to those in attendance.
Posey’s main message today was on building a stronger grassroots movement aimed at shifting the thought in this country away from being a state of entitlements. Posey questioned the audience with a series of questions aimed at getting a feel for how active the audience was with regards to cigar rights. “Let me see a show of hands if you’ve signed a formal petition… Now let me see a show of hands if you have personally contacted your local state representative…” Posey passionately urged all attendees to do more in terms of getting the word out. “If you’re not a member of CRA, join. If you haven’t signed a petition yet, do so. If you haven’t personally contacted your local state representative, do it now because that is the only way your voice will be heard. My challenge to each of you here is to be sure your hand is raised the next time these questions are asked of you.”
Posey went on to share stories on how politics work at the state level. He also spent about 15 minutes taking questions from the audience.
It was a unique opportunity to hear first hand from one of the many government officials fighting on our behalf. Posey was enthusiastic and engaging – a great way to kick off IPCPR 2013.
So now comes my challenge to you, the casual cigar enthusiast. There are three things you can do today to help our cause: 1) Sign the CRA petition today, this costs you nothing; 2) contact your local state representative. By this I mean, take a few minutes to call your representative, send them an email. If you don’t know how to contact your representative, you can look here; and 3) Join Cigar Rights of America today!
