MEDICAL MARIJUANA

I was very pleased to read the coverage you gave the case of medical
marijuana patient David Zink ("Activist fighting felony drug charges," Aug.
28).

I do, however, think a more accurate portrayal of Mr. Zink would be that of
patient rather than as activist. Mr. Zink was simply engaged in lawful
activity that helped to improve his and his fellow patient's quality of
life. He is a patient who has been forced into becoming an activist.

Most disturbing, and most telling, though, is the quote from Long Beach
City Prosecutor Thomas Reeves, who said, "We all rely on federal grants.
Nobody wants to put that at risk." Therein lies the ugly truth as to why
The Compassionate Use Act is ignored throughout so much of the state.

R.L. (Rick) Root
Communications Director
American Medical Marijuana Association
Westminster