Hosting the cannabis industry in your community

 

July 13, 2021

To Whom It May Concern:

Thank you for considering hosting a small part of the cannabis industry in your municipality.

I know that any increased access to a previously banned, but now legal substance like marijuana carries with it a certain amount of anxiety. But I assure you that welcoming the legal cannabis industry into your community will be a good thing.

You have only to reach out to the mayors and chiefs of police of the communities that currently house the medical cannabis Alternative Treatment Centers (ATCs). These local officials will assure you that this tightly regulated industry is a positive addition to their communities. The list of New Jersey ATCs is here: https://www.nj.gov/health/medicalmarijuana/alt-treatment-centers/

The fears associated with the legal industry have been proven to be unfounded as this current analysis from the CATO institute reveals: “The Effect of State Marijuana Legalizations: 2021 Update.” https://www.cato.org/policy-analysis/effect-state-marijuana-legalizations-2021-update

Just as the therapeutic benefits of cannabis can restore health to an individual, greater access to cannabis can restore health, and add wealth, to a community. 

Please see the Trenton Planning Board’s draft guidelines for welcoming the cannabis industry into a New Jersey community: https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/NJTRENTON/2021/06/25/file_attachments/1864079/Draft%20Ordinance.pdf

Thanks again for keeping an open mind on this issue.,


Ken Wolski, RN, MPA
Executive Director, Coalition for Medical Marijuana--New Jersey, Inc., www.cmmnj.org
219 Woodside Ave., Trenton, NJ 08618
609.394.2137

CMMNJ, a 501(c)(3) public charity, is a non-profit educational organization.

CMMNJ September 11, 2018 Public Meeting Agenda

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Township Library, Room #3 
Tuesday, September 11, 2018 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

Approve August 2018 minutes. Discuss:

Vote coming in September on NJ legalization bill? S830/A1348/A3819; A3581; A1557; S2703; New Jersey voters support 62% - 33% allowing adults to legally possess small amounts of marijuana for personal use. Voters also support 63% - 27% erasing criminal records for marijuana possession.

CMMNJ legalization priorities: home cultivation; automatic expungement, diversity of industry, protection of out-of-state patients.

CMMNJ’s published letter-to-the-editor:  Legal marijuana would make NJ healthier, safer

Stockton U. to let students minor in marijuana

New Jersey's attorney general: adjourned all marijuana cases in municipal courts until Sept. Now, A.G. says prosecutors may exercise discretion and choose not to prosecute some marijuana cases.
Petition: Legalize home cultivation in NJ!

Six New Dispensaries To Expand Access to Medicinal Marijuana in NJ; Applications were due 8/31/18. Six winners out of the 146 applicants will be announced Nov. 1, 2018.

NJ DOH MMP proposed regulations: CMMNJ submitted written comments on 8/17/18. 

Federal Court: Employer Need Not Waive Drug Test for Medical Marijuana User

NJ medical marijuana: A beginner's guide to the process

Upcoming Events: 2018 Canna-Bash, Mill Hill Park, Trenton, September 8, 2018.

Recent events: Medical Marijuana: Implications for the Disability Community: 8/8/18
Ignorance is No Excuse Tour goes to Hightstown.
Ed Forchion at the Legislative Black Caucus

Treasury report: Checking: $4045; PayPal: $2605. Ken's Birthday Fundraiser for CMMNJ

CMMNJ’s meetings are the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 7 – 9 PM at the Lawrence Twp. Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence Twp., 08648. All are welcome. (Meeting at the library does not imply Mercer County’s endorsement of our issue.)

More info: Ken Wolski, RN, MPA (609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com
http://www.cmmnj.org

Friends of CMMNJ: https://www.facebook.com/groups/62462971150/

CMMNJ, a 501(c)(3) public charity, is a non-profit educational organization.

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
August 14, 2018

July 2018 minutes approved. Discussion:

Six New Dispensaries To Expand Access to Medicinal Marijuana in NJ; Applications are due 8/31/18. Applicants chosen to proceed in the permitting process will be announced Nov. 1, 2018. Mandatory conference at War Memorial, Trenton on 8/9/18 for applicants.

DOH Commissioner Shereef Elnahal, M.D. conducted two grand rounds lectures in July with 300 physicians at NJ teaching hospitals to dispel myths and reduce stigma in the medical community. Letter from Extra Step Assurance noted re: MD education.

NJ DOH MMP proposed regulations: Submit written comments electronically or by regular mail postmarked by August 17, 2018. CMMNJ’s proposed comments were shared with CMMNJ Board prior to submission to NJ DOH. CMMNJ also proposes new regs. Eaze proposes home delivery of medical marijuana.

New Jersey's attorney general: adjournment of all marijuana cases in municipal courts until Sept.

NJ.com poll (unscientific): 80% say legalize it in NJ.  Petition: Legalize home cultivation in NJ!
NJ cops toughest in nation for pot arrests: marijuana possession is 10.6 percent of all arrests

What will NJ legalization bill look like? S830/A1348/A3819; A3581; A1557; S2703; S2702 Medical marijuana expansion bills: S1955 and several others. Priorities: home cultivation; automatic expungement, diversity, recognize out-of-state patients. State Bank discussed.
AAA push back report discussed.

Upcoming Events: Medical Marijuana: Implications for the Disability Community: Wed., 8/8/18
2018 Canna-Bash, Mill Hill Park, Trenton, September 8, 2018.
CMMNJ TV with Air Force veteran Chris Errickson of SAVE (Safe Access for Vets Everywhere)

Recent events: The Grassroots Cannabis Forum, July 7th, Kennedy Park, Asbury Park.
“Medical Marijuana in New Jersey” Mercer County Library, Ewing Branch, 7/18/18.
Morristown “Green on the Green,” 8/4/18, Morristown, NJ.
Newark Today: The Path To Legalization: July 19, Mayor Ras Baraka, State Senator Ron Rice
NJWeedman Victory Party/Joint Fundraising Party, Trenton, 8/5/18.

Treasury report: Checking: $4545; PayPal: $2642.

More info: Ken Wolski, RN, MPA (609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com http://www.cmmnj.org

CMMNJ Meeting Agenda for March 8, 2016

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Township Library, Room #2
Tuesday, March 8, 2016  7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

Approve February 2016 minutes. (There will be no April 2016 meeting at the Library.)  Discuss:

Jo Anne Zito welcomed onto CMMNJ Board of Directors at 2/23/16 Board meeting.

Breakwater ATC offers 5% discount to any patient with a CMMNJ t-shirt!

Upcoming Events:
Patients Out of Time conference, 4/14-16/16, Baltimore.
UNGASS 2016, 4/19-21, UN, NYC.
Global Marijuana March Day, 5/7/16 NYC & Rehoboth, DE.
American Cannabis Nurses Association (ACNA) at NJWeedman's "Joint," 322 E. State St., Trenton, NJ, 3/14/16, 7pm to 8:30 pm.
ASA's Medical Marijuana Unity Conference, 3/18-22, Washington, D.C.
CannMed 2016, 4/10-11, Harvard School of Med, Boston (Dr. Mechoulam, et.al.)
Trenton 4/20, 2pm, March from City Hall to Rally at Statehouse, After Party at The Joint.
NJLP convention 3/12/16, Tavern on the Lake, Hightstown, NJ.

Recent events: “CMMNJ TV” taping with Mary Lynn Mathre, RN and Mike Krawitz via Skype rescheduled to 3/1/16 at Princeton Community TV Studio, 10 am to 2 pm.
Jon Peditto transferred to Southern State Correctional Facility to serve 8 years.

Treasury report: Checking: $2204; PayPal: $3650. Multicolored hemp bands from Romania--Suggested retail price: $3/apiece; 2 for $5.  Wholesale prices are available.

CMMNJ's meetings are the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 7 - 9 PM at the Lawrence Twp. Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence Twp., 08648. All are welcome.  (Meeting at the library does not imply Mercer County’s endorsement of our issue.)

More info:  Ken Wolski, RN, (609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com http://www.cmmnj.org   Facebook: Friends of CMMNJ: https://www.facebook.com/groups/62462971150/?fref=ts

CMMNJ, a 501(c)(3) public charity, is a non-profit educational organization.

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
February 9, 2016

January 2016 minutes OK'd.  Note change from Room #3 to Room #2 for 2016 meetings.  Discuss:

1/12/16 was the start of a new, 2-year legislative session in NJ.  New bill numbers:
A457: Adds PTSD as a qualifying condition for marijuana therapy;
A2482 Ensures workplace protections for medical marijuana patients;
A2068  Legalizes marijuana and provides for sale and home cultivation;
A2116 "Right to Farm" marijuana for medical use;
A861 Medical Marijuana is equivalent to the use of any other medication;
A416 Dedicates taxes from medical marijuana to medical research;
A2050 Decriminalizes 15 grams or less of marijuana--imposes civil penalties.

2nd Edition of "CMMNJ Patient Handbook" being developed; get new info to Jim Price.

Facebook deleted pages for 3 NJ ATCs for "violating community standards"; community outraged.  Ken toured Breakwater ATC on 1/22/16; very impressed with the facility.

Upcoming Events:
Patients Out of Time conference, 4/14-16/16, Baltimore.
UNGASS 2016, 4/19-21. UN, NYC;
Global Marijuana March Day, 5/7/16 NYC & Rehoboth, DE.
“CMMNJ TV” taping with Mary Lynn Mathre, RN and Mike Krawitz via Skype rescheduled to 3/1/16 at Princeton Community TV Studio, 10 am to 2 pm.
American Cannabis Nurses Association (ACNA) meeting at NJWeedman's "Joint," 322 E. State St., Trenton, NJ, 3/14/16, 7pm to 8:30 pm.
ASA's Medical Marijuana Unity Conference, 3/18-22, Washington, D.C.
CannMed 2016, 4/10-11, Harvard School of Med, Boston (Dr. Mechoulam, et.al.)
Trenton 4/20, 2pm, March from City Hall to Rally at Statehouse, After Party at The Joint.
NJLP convention 3/12/16, Tavern on the Lake, Hightstown, NJ.

Recent events: Free, live streaming "Cannabis Health Summit," 1/23 & 1/24.
Jon Peditto sentenced on 1/29/16 in Toms River to 8 years in prison--supporters demonstrated at the Ocean Co. Courthouse.

Treasury report: Checking: $2335; PayPal: $3650. Multicolored hemp bands from Romania--Suggested retail price: $3/apiece; 2 for $5.  Wholesale prices are available.

More info:  Ken Wolski, RN, (609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com http://www.cmmnj.org   Facebook: Friends of CMMNJ: https://www.facebook.com/groups/62462971150/?fref=ts

CMMNJ, a 501(c)(3) public charity, is a non-profit educational organization.

Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:

Facebook Shuts Down Medical Marijuana Pages In New Jersey
http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2016/02/03/facebook-shuts-down-medical-marijuana-pages-in-new-jersey/

Why Facebook deleted New Jersey's medical marijuana pages
http://www.csmonitor.com/Business/2016/0204/Why-Facebook-deleted-New-Jersey-s-medical-marijuana-pages

Facebook restores 2 N.J. medical marijuana pages, without pics and prices
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/02/facebook_restores_one_nj_medical_marijuana_page_sa.html

Christie: No apologies to family who left N.J. for sick child's medical marijuana
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/02/christie_no_apologies_to_nj_family_who_moved_to_de.html

Should more N.J. patients be allowed to get medical marijuana?
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/02/patients_advocates_blast_short_disease_list_in_med.html

Philly420: Marijuana reform bills greet Gov. Chris Christie
http://www.philly.com/philly/columnists/philly420/Marijuana_reform_bills_greet_Chris_Christie.html#57RACt2OKdPr4E5l.99

Philly420: Very different outcomes to growing pot, and getting caught, in Pa. and N.J.
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/Very_different_outcomes_to_growing_pot_and_getting_caught_in_Pa_and_NJ.html#YSckXupamfYCGl1K.99

Patient Advocates Bring Medical Cannabis Issues to United Nations
http://nationalpainreport.com/patient-advocates-bring-medical-cannabis-issues-to-united-nations-8829552.html

War on Drugs Takes Center Stage at UN as Global Leaders and International Activists Assemble in NY
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/hannah-hetzer/war-on-drugs-takes-center_b_9251950.html?1455717545

HELP NOT HANDCUFFS FOUNDER APPEARS BEFORE UNITED NATIONS
http://asburyparksun.com/help-not-handcuffs-founder-appears-before-united-nations/

THOMPSON: State shouldn’t fund drug war expansion
http://www.app.com/story/opinion/columnists/2016/02/25/war-drugs-thompson/80940644/

NJWeedman: It’s time for religious diversity on Supreme Court
http://www.trentonian.com/opinion/20160221/njweedman-its-time-for-religious-diversity-on-supreme-court

Freedom Leaf
https://issuu.com/freedomleaf/docs/freedomleafissue12sm?e=19776705%2F33177858

CMMNJ Public Meeting Agenda for May 14, 2013

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Township Library, Room #2
Tuesday, May 14, 2013; 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

7:00 PM:  Call meeting to order.   Approve April 2013 minutes.  Discuss:

NJ’s Medicinal Marijuana Program: DOH promises to open ATCs in Egg Harbor Twp., and Woodbridge by September.

The lawsuit against DOH for failure to implement the MMP is progressing; oral arguments expected in late May.

Recent events: Spreading the word at MS Walks.  "Medical Marijuana Update: New Jersey's program, the law and the science," NJ Case Management Society, Woodbridge Hilton, 4/17/13, (2 CEU’s awarded to over 100 RNs). “The Science of Marijuana” Ramapo College, 4/4/13 with Dr. Jahan Marcu. NORML NJ meeting 5/13, New Brunswick.  Radio interview on WFAN with Bob Salter 4/7/13.  CMMNJ Board of Directors meeting 5/2/13.

Upcoming Events: Gay Pride Parade, Asbury Park, 6/2/13 Noon to 7 pm (volunteers needed); CMMNJ fundraiser on 6/12/13 8am to 9pm at the Pop Shop, 729 Haddon Avenue, Collingswood 856-869-0111 • www.thepopshopusa.com (15% of your bill goes to CMMNJ if you mention the fundraiser to your server).  Green Fair on Sat., 6/8/13 in Bordentown, NJ.

Treasury report: Current finances: Checking account: $4127; PayPal account: $3830 .  Billboard campaign on Facebook. http://www.giveforward.com/fundraiser/5w32/medical-marijuana-billboard-in-trenton

CMMNJ meetings are the second Tues. of each month, 7 - 9 PM at the Lawrence Twp. Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, 08648. (Meeting at the library does not imply endorsement of our issue.)

More info:  Ken Wolski, RN, MPA, Executive Director, Coalition for Medical Marijuana—New Jersey, Inc., 219 Woodside Ave., Trenton, NJ 08618   (609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com   www.cmmnj.org 

Facebook: Friends of CMMNJ: https://www.facebook.com/groups/62462971150/?fref=ts

CMMNJ, a 501(c)(3) public charity, is a non-profit educational organization.

Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:

More empty promises on medical marijuana in NJ?
http://www.phillyburbs.com/blogs/news_columnists/phil_gianficaro/more-empty-promises-on-medical-marijuana-in-nj/article_c74a4405-d3b8-5058-9693-46cfdeaed27b.html

Christie proposes $1.6M for medical-marijuana program
http://articles.philly.com/2013-04-10/news/38437314_1_marijuana-program-ken-wolski-greenleaf-compassion-center

Up in smoke: Years after being approved, resident says NJ Medical Marijuana Program a ‘scam’
http://www.hudsonreporter.com/view/full_story/22312513/article-Up-in-smoke-Years-after-being-approved--resident-says-NJ-Medical-Marijuana-Program-a-%E2%80%98scam%E2%80%99-?instance=secondary_stories_left_column

New hope for Jersey's stunted medical pot program
http://money.msn.com/now/post.aspx?post=54dd717d-e84c-40d1-8a48-3a99a6510bbf

S. Jersey's first medical marijuana facility nears launch date
http://articles.philly.com/2013-04-22/news/38712345_1_william-thomas-medical-marijuana-program-compassionate-care-foundation

'Cruel Bureaucracy' of Medical Marijuana Law Forces Sick, Frustrated Patients to Find Another Way
http://www.newjerseynewsroom.com/state/nj-medical-marijuana-cruel-bureaucracy

Collingswood commissioner event. Medical marijuana at minute 57:
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/32180803

Two more N.J. marijuana dispensaries may open
http://articles.philly.com/2013-05-05/news/39028649_1_dispensary-health-commissioner-mary-o-dowd-background-checks

State's Third Medical Marijuana Center to Open in Woodbridge Come September
http://www.njspotlight.com/stories/13/05/02/state-s-third-medical-marijuana-center-to-open-in-woodbridge-come-september/

Aspiring medical pot grower in Woodbridge passes financial and background checks
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/05/aspiring_medical_pot_grower_in.html

NJ Marijuana Dispensary Draws Strong Opinions: A Model for Others, or ‘Pretty Dysfunctional’?
http://www.painmedicinenews.com/ViewArticle.aspx?d=Policy%2B%26%2BManagement&d_id=83&i=May+2013&i_id=951&a_id=23044

Does Medical Marijuana Work? The Experts Are Divided
http://www.wnyc.org/articles/wnyc-news/2013/may/07/strong-scientific-opinions-both-sides-medical-marijuana-debate/

Joseph D’Souza’s Trial
http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2013/04/joseph-dsouzas-trial.html?showComment=1368050928187#c2474974290282166083

What would Cheryl do?  Medical marijuana and MS
http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2013/04/what-would-cheryl-do-medical-marijuana.html

Medicinal marijuana facility in Egg Harbor Township expects to open in September
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/breaking/medicinal-marijuana-facility-in-egg-harbor-township-expects-to-open/article_7bb8d43f-2b15-5668-a4d1-4ea48745df4c.html

Extra:

Fox News Poll: Nationwide Support For Medical Marijuana Legalization At All Time High
http://cannabis.hawaiinewsdaily.com/2013/05/01/fox-news-poll-nationwide-support-for-medical-marijuana-legalization-at-all-time-high

Decriminalization: The first step to truly legal marijuana
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/breaking/Decriminalization_The_first_step_to_truly_legal_marijuana_.html#SsTxTUw1L32rZHKg.99

42 Seconds: Pot Legalization and Marijuana Reform | Dan Savage: American
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=fV0UWbCTluw#!

Marijuana Policy and Presidential Leadership: How to Avoid a Federal-State Train Wreck
http://www.wola.org/sites/default/files/Marijuana%20Policy%20and%20Presidential%20Leadership_v24.pdf

Anything Technologies Media Focuses On Major Medical Marijuana Opportunity for 2013
http://online.wsj.com/article/PR-CO-20130417-913112.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

'NJ Weedman' busted again
http://articles.philly.com/2013-04-19/news/38650072_1_medical-marijuana-card-monday-night-evesham-police

JEFF EDELSTEIN: Marijuana laws in NJ under Chris Christie make the Weedman see double
http://www.trentonian.com/article/20130423/OPINION03/130429887/jeff-edelstein-marijuana-laws-in-nj-under-chris-christie-make-the-weedman-see-double

NJ Weedman Hoping for Change in NJ Marijuana Laws [AUDIO/POLL]
http://nj1015.com/nj-weedman-hoping-for-change-in-nj-marijuana-laws-poll/

'N.J. Weedman' publishes legal motion to help people arrested for marijuana possession
http://www.nj.com/mercer/index.ssf/2013/05/nj_weedman_publishes_legal_mot.html

Which Drugs Actually Kill Americans [Infographic]
http://www.popsci.com/science/article/2013-04/which-drugs-actually-kill-americans

As Cuomo evolves on medical marijuana, Savino urges him to hurry up
http://www.capitalnewyork.com/article/politics/2013/04/8529346/cuomo-evolves-medical-marijuana-savino-urges-him-hurry

Patients can't wait years for marijuana dispensaries
http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20130507-OPINION-305070391

The endocannabinoid-CB receptor system: Importance for development and in pediatric disease.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15159678

ASA:  Off to the U.S. Supreme Court we go
http://safeaccessnow.org/blog/blog/2013/04/25/off-to-the-u-s-supreme-court-we-go/#more-3699

OBAMA AND MARIJUANA: THEN AND NOW
http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/hendrikhertzberg/2013/05/obama-and-marijuana-then-and-now.html

Dr. Sue Sisley Talks About Medical Marijuana, PTSD and Scientific Freedom
http://medicalmarijuana.org/marijuana-legalization/dr-sue-sisley-talks-about-medical-marijuana-ptsd-and-scientific-freedom/

Cannabidiol reduces cigarette consumption in tobacco smokers: Preliminary findings
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S030646031300083X

Why U.S. Vets Are Fighting for Medical Marijuana
http://www.alternet.org/why-us-vets-are-fighting-medical-marijuana?page=0%2C3&akid=10375.222865.y7Z3Cg&rd=1&src=newsletter832014&t=17&paging=off

Maryland Gov. O’Malley Signs Medical Marijuana Law
http://justsaynow.firedoglake.com/2013/05/02/maryland-gov-omalley-signs-medical-marijuana-law/

10 Cannabis Studies the Government Wished it Had Never Funded
http://worldtruth.tv/10-cannabis-studies-the-government-wished-it-had-never-funded/

Cannabinoids in Clinical Practice
http://www.ccic.net/index.php?id=261%2C784%2C0%2C0%2C1%2C0

Medical Marijuana and MS: One Woman's Story,Pt 1.
http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/medical-marijuana-and-ms-one-womans-storypt-1

Medical Marijuana Activism & Parenting: Risky Business
http://ladybud.com/medical-marijuana-activism-parenting-risky-business/

Medical Marijuana and MS; National MS Society
http://wn.com/medical_marijuana_and_ms_national_ms_society


Organizers Of L.I. Summit Say FDA Should Decide Merits Of Medical Marijuana, Not States
http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2013/04/08/organizers-of-l-i-summit-say-fda-should-decide-merits-of-medical-marijuana-not-states/


Educational and other videos on cannabis
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.586065854744486.1073741839.340205239330550&type=1

CMMNJ Public Meeting Agenda for March 12, 2013

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Township Library, Room #2
Tuesday, March 12, 2013; 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

7:00 PM:  Call meeting to order.   Approve January 2013 minutes.  Discuss:

CMMNJ’s 10th anniversary party/pot luck dinner will be held at Peter Rosenfeld’s house on March 9, 2013 at 6PM.  Free, but bring food to share. RSVP--call or email Ken for directions (see below).  Facebook info at:  https://www.facebook.com/events/411123942315565/

NJ’s Medicinal Marijuana Program (MMP): Only Greenleaf ATC in Montclair, NJ is selling marijuana to registered patients, by appointment only--at least two months wait for an appt.

The lawsuit against DOH for failure to meaningfully implement the MMP is progressing and it moves to the Appellate Court per the Superior Court hearing of 1/24/13.  Various Motions are being filed and the court is expected to set a date for oral arguments around the end of May.

Upcoming Events: NORML Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference, 3/16/13, U. of PA, Phila.
MS Beef ‘n Beer, 3/23/13; 11630 Caroline Road, Phila. 19154; 7:30 pm – 11:30 PM.
"Medical Marijuana Update: New Jersey's program, the law and the science," NJ Chapter of the Nat’l. Case Management Society, Woodbridge Hilton, 4/17/13, 6 pm (2 CEU’s will be awarded).

Recent events: CMMNJ Board conference call held on 2/12/13.
Americans for Safe Access “National Medical Cannabis Unity Conference” 2/22 – 25/13; D.C. The World Medical Cannabis Expo scheduled for 4/5–7/13 in Piscataway was postponed!
A765:  Authorized use of medical marijuana is equal to use of any other prescribed medication.

Treasury report: Current finances: Checking account: $3625; PayPal account: $3665.

CMMNJ meetings are the second Tues. of each month, 7 - 9 PM at the Lawrence Twp. Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, 08648. (Meeting at the library does not imply endorsement of our issue.)

More info:  Ken Wolski, RN, MPA, Executive Director, Coalition for Medical Marijuana—New Jersey, Inc., 219 Woodside Ave., Trenton, NJ 08618   (609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com www.cmmnj.org
Facebook: Friends of CMMNJ: https://www.facebook.com/groups/62462971150/?fref=ts

CMMNJ, a 501(c)(3) public charity, is a non-profit educational organization.

Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:

Bill Would Clear Way for Medical Marijuana Users to Receive Transplants
http://newbrunswick.patch.com/articles/bill-would-clear-way-for-medical-marijuana-users-to-receive-transplants

Charlotte's Web and Zaki's Journey (Medical Marijuana for Dravet Syndrome)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=BH5yzEu3JGQ

Pot patch considered medical breakthrough
http://www.msnewsnow.com/story/21116615/pot-patch-offers-medicinal-marijuana-treatment-at-ole-miss?hpt=he_c2#.URsHSXgsKTY.email

The New England Journal of Medicine: Medicinal Use of Marijuana
http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMclde1300970?query=TOC#t=cldeOpt1

N.J. medical pot program beset by clashes with state, patient backlogs, legal challenges
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/03/nj_medical_pot_program_beset_b.html

Jim Gearhart Discusses the Current State of Medical Marijuana in NJ with Max Davidson
http://nj1015.com/jim-gearhart-discusses-the-current-state-of-medical-marijuana-in-nj-with-max-davidson/

Gov. Christie Said He’s Not Trying To Sabotage Medical Marijuana Program
http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2013/03/04/gov-christie-said-hes-not-trying-to-sabotage-medical-marijuana-program/#comment-819275343

Off the Front Page: Medical marijuana is discussed with Ken Wolski of the Coalition for Medical Marijuana, New Jersey
http://vimeo.com/60606562

Pot and prejudice: Editorial
http://blog.nj.com/njv_editorial_page/2013/02/pot_and_prejudice_editorial.html?fb_action_ids=10151290186363657&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_ref=s%3DshowShareBarUI%3Ap%3Dfacebook-like&fb_source=aggregation&fb_aggregation_id=288381481237582

New Jersey's lone marijuana dispensary overwhelmed with requests
http://www.northjersey.com/montclair/New_Jerseys_lone_marijuana_dispensary_overwhelmed_with_requests.html?c=y&page=1


Extra:

Register Today for the First NORML Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference
http://blog.norml.org/2013/02/11/register-today-for-the-first-norml-mid-atlantic-regional-conference/?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=Register+Today+for+the+First+NORML+Mid-Atlantic+Regional+Conference

Do You Think Medical Marijuana Should Be Legalized for Dogs?
http://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/medical-marijuana-for-dogs?fb_action_ids=10151319573293657&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=aggregation&fb_aggregation_id=288381481237582

John Schwarz, Father Of String Theory, To Headline Medical Marijuana Conference In D.C.
http://patients4medicalmarijuana.wordpress.com/2013/02/19/john-schwarz-father-of-string-theory-to-headline-medical-marijuana-conference-in-d-c/#more-6294

National Medical Cannabis Unity Conference 2013
http://vimeo.com/59752831

The DEA's marijuana mistake
http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/editorials/la-ed-marijuana-dea-medical-research-20130125,0,5887628.story

CMMNJ January 8, 2013 Meeting Minutes and Media Update

 

 

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes

January 8, 2013

7:00 PM:  Meeting called to order.   December 2012 minutes approved.  Discussion:

Reminder: There will be no public CMMNJ meeting in February; library room unavailable.

NJ’s Medicinal Marijuana Program (MMP): Greenleaf ATC in Montclair, NJ is selling up to ½ ounce of marijuana to registered patients by appointment only--at least two months wait for an appointment.  Two strains are available; a sativa and an indica (Green Crack & Blue Dream). THC content reportedly exceeds 10%.  NJ’s 7% sales tax applies—cost is approx. $130/quarter ounce. Fewer than 500 patients have ID cards from DOH.  Rumors are that improvements to the MMP will be coming soon, including the promised lozenges.  MMP is failing hospice patients and many others.  Some oncologists in the state admit knowing marijuana helps cancer patients but refuse to join DOH registry (along with 99.5% of all NJ MDs.)

The lawsuit against DOH for failure to meaningfully implement the MMP is progressing and it asks the court to appoint CMMNJ monitor of the program. (A court hearing was held 1/24/13.)

The cmmnj.org web site crashed.  Ryan Bly fixed it; discussion re: need for continuous update.

Upcoming events: 

CMMNJ Board conference call is scheduled for Tues., 2/12/13 at 7 pm.

  

CMMNJ’s 10th anniversary party/pot luck dinner at Peter Rosenfeld’s house on March 9, 2013. 

Americans for Safe Access National Medical Cannabis Unity Conference; Feb. 22 – 25, 2013; Washington, D.C. http://safeaccessnow.org/blog/conference2013/

The World Medical Cannabis Expo April 5 – 7 2013, Piscataway, NJ 

http://worldmedicalcannabis.com/  CMMNJ fundraiser in conjunction with our table at this?

Treasury report: Current finances: Checking account: $3405; PayPal account: $3353. 

Next public CMMNJ meeting is March 12, 2013 from 7 - 9 PM at the Lawrence Twp. Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence Twp. 

Ken Wolski, RN, MPA, Executive Director

Coalition for Medical Marijuana—New Jersey, Inc. www.cmmnj.org

219 Woodside Ave., Trenton, NJ 08618   

(609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com 

CMMNJ, a 501(c)(3) public charity, is a non-profit educational organization.

NJ.COM LTE: Medical marijuana a safer option

In her letter “Medical marijuana: The end doesn’t justify the means” (Jan. 24), Assemblywoman Mary Pat Angelini (R-Ocean) paints a fear-mongering picture of medical marijuana as a gateway drug.

Ms. Angelini claims to be “sensitive to the pain that individuals endure from disease,” but her letter proves otherwise. Calling marijuana a “highly dangerous drug” in the context of medical use is ridiculous. A quick glance at the side effects of the arsenal of drugs legally prescribed for my cancer yields the following warnings: “euphoria, feeling of being ‘high,’ tolerance, risk for dependency,” not to mention “weak or shallow breathing, confusion, double vision, nausea, dizziness, seizure, liver toxicity, cardiac arrhythmia, heart attack, coma, death.” I invite Ms. Angelini to look me in the eye and tell me medical marijuana use — or “abuse” — is anywhere near as dangerous as that.

As a cancer patient, I have taken a multitude of prescription drugs. When combined with the toxicity of chemotherapy drugs, the effects on my body were devastating. I have been hospitalized for side effects of these medications, and have had to wean myself off of them slowly, under a doctor’s supervision, to avoid life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. I am thankful every day that I did not develop a full-blown addiction to these pharmaceuticals, but many patients are not so fortunate.

Surely, through her work as a substance abuse program director, Ms. Angelini must realize that prescription drug dependency is a true problem for people who have had serious illnesses or injuries, and that prescription opioid abuse is a real gateway to hard drug addiction.

Medical marijuana does not pose any proven health risks, and it offers not only pain relief, but may even provide actual treatment for certain diseases.

-- Vanessa Waltz,

Princeton

The writer serves on the board of directors of the Coalition for Medical Marijuana-New Jersey (cmmnj.org).

http://www.nj.com/times-opinion/index.ssf/2013/01/times_of_trenton_letters_to_th_596.html#incart_river

Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:

Relief from pain

http://cj.sunne.ws/files/2013/01/Lawrence_0116.pdf

New Jersey Medical Marijuana NEWs and UPdates

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I6qmYyV4zw0&feature=youtu.be

Lawsuit Over NJ Medical Marijuana Program Heads To Appeals Court

http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2013/01/24/lawsuit-hopes-to-force-njs-medical-marijuana-program-forward/

Lawsuit seeks faster track for New Jersey medical marijuana program

http://articles.philly.com/2013-01-25/news/36529265_1_health-commissioner-mary-o-dowd-dispensaries-richard-caporusso

NJ Medical Marijuana Program Case Moves to Appeals Panel

http://nj1015.com/nj-medical-marijuana-program-back-in-court/

N.J. judge allows lawsuit against state on slow medical pot rollout to continue

http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/01/nj_judge_hears_arguments_again.html

Choose family or health

http://www.northjersey.com/news/187411601_Choose_family_or_health.html

Medical Marijuana Butter Recipe

http://drmarijuananj.com/nj-medical-marijuana-research/medical-marijuana-butter-recipe/

Stuck in a legal gray area, Egg Harbor Township marijuana dispensary still unable to open

http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/article_bc288116-5f68-11e2-8702-0019bb2963f4.html

Bridgewater man gets probation for growing marijuana plants in Bernards park

http://www.nj.com/somerset/index.ssf/2013/01/bridgewater_man_gets_probation.html

Montclair marijuana dispensary in demand

http://www.northjersey.com/news/187411631_Montclair_marijuana_dispensary_in_demand.html?page=all

Extra:

The Case for Treating PTSD in Veterans With Medical Marijuana

http://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2012/01/the-case-for-treating-ptsd-in-veterans-with-medical-marijuana/251466/

Two years’ probation for marijuana activist ‘NJ Weedman’

http://articles.philly.com/2013-01-17/news/36376236_1_ed-forchion-nj-weedman-marijuana-activist

'NJ Weedman' sentenced to probation, fines, in medical-marijuana test case

http://articles.philly.com/2013-01-18/news/36396510_1_nj-weedman-nj-weedman-medical-marijuana

Feds should admit marijuana is not as dangerous as heroin: Editorial

http://blog.nj.com/njv_editorial_page/2013/01/feds_should_admit_marijuana_is.html

Marijuana politics in NJ, PA & the U.S.

http://whyy.org/cms/radiotimes/2013/01/03/marijuana-politics-in-nj-pa-the-u-s/

Show makes TV history with medical marijuana discussion

http://therickilakeshow.com/Health/Show-Makes-TV-History-With-Medical-Marijuana-Discussion#.UQ_pF6VEFEH

The DEA's marijuana mistake 

http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/editorials/la-ed-marijuana-dea-medical-research-20130125,0,5887628.story

Republican Assemblyman Wants To Decriminalize Small Amounts of Marijuana

http://www.njtvonline.org/njtoday/video/republican-assemblyman-wants-to-decriminalize-small-amounts-of-marijuana/

Ending Marijuana Prohibition in 2013

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/rob-kampia/ending-marijuana-prohibition_b_2534869.html

Upcoming Events:

Bridging the Gap Between Public & Policy – Americans for Safe Access National Medical Cannabis Unity Conference, taking place February 22nd – 25th at the Mayflower Renaissance Hotel in Washington, D.C.

http://safeaccessnow.org/blog/conference2013/

The World Medical Cannabis Expo, April 5- 7, 2013, Piscataway, NJ

http://worldmedicalcannabis.com/tickets-registration-info/

DHSS says no ATC permits have been issued yet for Medicinal Marijuana Program

The Star-Ledger reported yesterday that not a single Alternative Treatment Center (ATC) has been issued a permit to operate by the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS).

In January 2011, a full year after the New Jersey Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act was signed into law, the DHSS issued a Request for Applications (RFA) for ATCs to grow, process and distribute marijuana to qualified patients here. Extensive applications were required to be submitted by 2/14/11, accompanied by a $20,000 application fee. The DHSS RFA noted that on 3/21/11 there would be a “Department announcement of applicant(s) granted a Permit to operate an alternative treatment center.” On March 21, 2011, the DHSS issued a press release announcing the “Licensing of Six Nonprofit Alternative Treatment centers for (the) Medicinal Marijuana Program.”

Yesterday, nearly six months later, the Ledger reported that DHSS spokeswoman Donna Leusner said that the March announcement actually meant that the applications had been approved with the intent to award permits. "The process is not over," Leusner said. "The department has not issued permits yet for any of the alternative treatment centers. No one will be able to begin the business of growing or dispensing medical marijuana until this process is completed."

Ken Wolski, executive director of the Coalition for Medical Marijuana--New Jersey, Inc. said, “CMMNJ is disappointed to learn that the licensing of six ATCs on 3/21/11 was only a misleading communication from the DHSS. Apparently the DHSS did not mean what it said. I wonder if this had anything to do with the sudden resignations of New Jersey’s two top health officials announced in March 2011, DHSS Commissioner Dr. Poonam Alaigh and Deputy Commissioner Dr. Susan Walsh? A greater and more immediate concern, however, is when exactly these ATCs will start to operate. Gov. Christie said in a press conference in July 2011 that he expected medical marijuana to be available to patients by the end of this year. This is nonsense. This can never happen. It is clearly another piece of medical marijuana misinformation from the Christie administration.”

“Meanwhile, qualified patients continue to suffer and die in NJ without the pain relief and quality of life improvement that marijuana can bring to them. Multiple sclerosis patient John Wilson began serving a five year prison term for growing marijuana to treat his debilitating medical condition. Medical marijuana patient Colleen Begley faces 10 years in prison for obtaining marijuana from out-of-state and sharing it with her fellow patients."

"These delays in implementing the medical marijuana program are intolerable.” Wolski said. “If the state can’t get its act together, let qualified patients or caregivers grow six plants at home, like the original bill said.”

Ken Wolski, RN, MPA, Executive Director, Coalition for Medical Marijuana--New Jersey, Inc.
219 Woodside Ave., Trenton, NJ 08618
609.394.2137 www.cmmnj.org ohamkrw@aol.com

CMMNJ note to potential medical marijuana non-profits

CMMNJ has received many emails this week from those who wish to open an Alternative Treatment Center in New Jersey to serve patients in a medical marijuana program. This has been our reply:

The “New Jersey Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act"A804/ S119 was approved by the state legislature on 01/11/10.

When it is signed into law by Governor Corzine, it will remove the state-wide penalties for the possession, and use of up to two ounces of marijuana when a New Jersey licensed physician recommends it for one of the qualifying medical conditions.

Qualifying medical conditions include cancer, AIDS, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, etc. The physician must have an on-going responsibility for the patient’s condition. Patients will be issued ID cards in a program run by the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS). Patients may designate a caregiver to assist them with obtaining and using the marijuana. The caregiver must also register with DHSS.

The marijuana will be obtained from Alternative Treatment Centers which will be set up in the north, central and southern parts of the state, with two Centers in each region to start. The Centers will be tightly regulated by the DHSS and the Department of Law and Public Safety, which will monitor the amount of marijuana dispensed at these Centers, much as it now monitors the way Scheduled narcotics are dispensed. New Jersey will be unique among the 14 medical marijuana states in that only the Garden State will prohibit home cultivation of medical marijuana.

Specific information about how to apply to the Department of Health to become an Alternative Treatment Centers will probably not be available until June or September of 2010.

For more info, join the CMMNJ mailing list for monthly updates on the latest info as it becomes available. Visit: www.cmmnj.org

CMMNJ, a 501(c)(3) public charity, provides education about the benefits of safe and legal access to medical marijuana. Donations are income tax deductible. Help us to continue our mission with your generous financial support.

Ken Wolski, RN, MPA
Executive Director
Coalition for Medical Marijuana--New Jersey, Inc. www.cmmnj.org
219 Woodside Ave.
Trenton, NJ 08618
ohamkrw@aol.com