* Vasconcellos deserves high praise for his essay.

This extraordinary statement is both courageous and historic,
especially in light of his defense of McWilliams and other medical
marijuana patients who are currently being persecuted by hostile
federal officials.

Vasconcellos' challenge to the federal government to respect the will
of the people is the kind of genuine and inspired leadership that
deserves our respect and support. It's time to stop arresting sick
people.

STEVE KUBBY
Olympic Valley, Calif.