CMMNJ July 9, 2013 Public Meeting Agenda, News of the Month & June Minutes

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

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

S2842/A4241 a bill to simplify access to medical marijuana for NJ minors who have qualifying conditions, eliminate the three strain limit, and allow for edible products to be sold at ATCs, passed the Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing by a vote of 8-3 on 6/6/13. The Assembly Budget Committee approved the bill, 9-1, on 6/20/13 along with the entire Senate by a vote of 25 - 13.  The entire Assembly approved the bill on 6/24/13 by a vote of 55-13-9. The bill now heads to the desk of the governor.

NJ’s Medicinal Marijuana Program: DOH promises to open two more ATCs by September, one in Egg Harbor Twp., (grow permit issued 6/6/13) and one in Woodbridge.  Greenleaf ATC in Montclair is only open 4 hrs./wk, serving fewer than 130 pts.  About 1000 on waiting list.

The lawsuit against DOH for failure to implement the MMP is expected in court in September.

The lawsuit against the Camden Zoning Board for rejecting an ATC is also delayed until Sept.

Upcoming Events:
"Kickin' Up Dust Summer 2013" Slightly Stoopid Tour, the Stone Pony, Asbury Park, NJ, August 9, 2013:        https://www.facebook.com/events/431582343597002/

"Medical Marijuana: Legislation + Education = Blueprint for Change" New Jersey State Nurses Association/Institute for Nursing Convention, October 9, 2013, at Bally, Atlantic City. CEUs for nurses.  MORE INFO: http://www.njsna.org/

Amy Doherty, Medford Court, 7/18 at 8 am; Joe D’Souza, Bayonne Municipal Court, 7/26/13.

Recent events:
CMMNJ fundraiser, 6/12/13, The Pop Shop, Collingswood. $420 was raised!

Grandma Lobbies for Medical Marijuana in Washington, D.C. The Silver Tour, 6/17/13.

Treasury report: Checking account: $4558; PayPal account: $3444.  Billboard campaign on Facebook. http://www.giveforward.com/fundraiser/5w32/medical-marijuana-billboard-in-trenton

CMMNJ meetings are at the Lawrence Twp. Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, 08648. (Meeting at the library does not imply their endorsement of our issue.)
 
More info:  Ken Wolski, RN, MPA, (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:

Senate panel approves bill making medical marijuana more accessible to kids
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/06/senate_panel_approves_bill_mak.html#incart_river_default

N.J. issues permit to second medical marijuana dispensary
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/06/nj_issues_permit_to_second_med.html

Hard to track down medical marijuana in NJ
http://www.trentonian.com/article/20130531/NEWS01/130539920/hard-to-track-down-medical-marijuana-in-nj

Tell New Jersey to fix the Medical Marijuana laws so Vivian can get the life-saving medicine she needs
http://lettersforvivian.org/

Cheryl Miller Memorial
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151469333678657.1073741834.502598656&type=1

Activists say they will push to change N.J. medical marijuana law
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/06/medical_marijuana_activists.html

Patients take issue with medical marijuana program
http://articles.philly.com/2013-06-09/news/39836070_1_debilitating-medical-condition-marijuana-second-dispensary

Video: Mother of 2-yr-old discusses slow pace of medical marijuana law in N.J.
http://videos.nj.com/star-ledger/2013/06/video_mother_of_two-year-old_d.html

New Jersey Patients Demand Chris Christie Implement Voter Approved Medical Marijuana Law
http://www.ladybud.com/2013/06/10/new-jersey-patients-demand-chris-christie-implement-voter-approved-medical-marijuana-law/

Toddler Needs Marijuana While New Jersey in No Hurry
http://www.newjerseynewsroom.com/healthquest/toddler-needs-marijuana-while-new-jersey-in-no-hurry

Gianficaro: Marijuana a godsend for New Jersey man with multiple sclerosis
http://www.phillyburbs.com/blogs/news_columnists/phil_gianficaro/gianficaro-marijuana-a-godsend-for-new-jersey-man-with-multiple/article_44e9def2-3957-5c22-ae11-523866835953.html

Medical Marijuana for Kids Could Pit Parents Against Pediatricians
http://www.njspotlight.com/stories/13/06/20/medical-marijuana-for-kids-could-pit-parents-against-pediatricians/

Parents Want Medical Marijuana for Toddler
http://www.nbcnewyork.com/video/#!/on-air/as-seen-on/Parents-Want-Medical-Marijuana-For-Toddler/212433101

Parents of epileptic N.J. tot lament medical marijuana delays
http://articles.philly.com/2013-06-24/news/40148313_1_marijuana-law-marijuana-card-dispensary

Senate and Assembly panel approve bill helping minors use medical marijuana program
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/06/assembly_panel_approves_bill_helping_minors_use_medical_marijuana_program.html#/0

Scutari-Vitale Bill To Amend NJ's Medical Marijuana Law Advances
Would Promote Access to Medical Marijuana By Severely Ill Children
http://www.politickernj.com/66801/scutari-vitale-bill-amend-njs-medical-marijuana-law-advances#ixzz2XLe2YMxM

Why Medical Marijuana Doesn't Help New Jersey Children
http://www.newjerseynewsroom.com/healthquest/why-medical-marijuana-doesnt-help-new-jersey-children#yvComment

Medicinal marijuana for children now up to Gov. Christie
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/politics/20130625_Medicinal_marijuanafor_children_now_up_to_Christie.html#WTG1RVZgH8g5hYb8.99

New Jersey Lawmakers Seek To Ease Medical Marijuana Access For Minors
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/06/26/new-jersey-medical-marijuana_n_3499363.html

Reforming NJ's Medical Marijuana Law
http://www.politickernj.com/jrlassiter/66883/reforming-njs-medical-marijuana-law

NJ Marijuana Patients Now At 1000 But Most Just Wait
http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/burlington/NJ-Marijuana-Patients-Now-At-1000-But-Most-Just-Wait.html#2tlxyQ7ceAYzrMth.99

"Medical Marijuana: Legislation + Education = Blueprint for Change"
SPEAKER: Ken Wolski, RN, MPA
WHERE/WHEN: The New Jersey State Nurses Association/Institute for Nursing Convention, October 9, 2013, at Bally's Casino & Resort, 1900 Pacific Avenue Atlantic City, New Jersey
MORE INFO: http://www.njsna.org/

Extra:

Oregon Governor Approves Medical Marijuana for PTSD
http://www.eastbayexpress.com/LegalizationNation/archives/2013/06/11/oregon-governor-approves-medical-marijuana-for-ptsd

N.J. voters: Pot possession should not be a crime, poll says
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/06/polls_says_nj_voters_says_pot.html#incart_river

Why More Nurses and Student Nurses Need to Join the American Cannabis Nurses Association
(ACNA)
http://www.ladybud.com/2013/06/13/why-more-nurses-and-student-nurses-need-to-join-the-american-cannabis-nurses-association-acna/

What’s the Cost?  The federal war on patients
http://americansforsafeaccess.org/downloads/WhatsTheCost.pdf

Capitol Hill Reception - featuring Grover Norquist and Congressman Jared Polis
https://www.facebook.com/events/387400121364723/

Drug War Blocking Potential Treatments for Cancer, Alzheimer’s, Journal Claims
http://healthland.time.com/2013/06/14/drug-war-blocking-potential-treatments-for-cancer-alzheimers-journal-claims/#ixzz2XLXiR6GN

ASK DOCTOR G: What role can Cannabis play in the life cycle of a woman?
http://normlwomensalliance.org/2013/06/18/ask-doctor-g-what-role-can-cannabis-play-in-the-life-cycle-of-a-woman/

Medical Marijuana For Pets Recommended By Veterinarian Doug Kramer
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/06/05/medical-marijuana-for-pets_n_3391770.html

Medical Pot Laws Get Tougher
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324049504578545673594835756.html

Philly420: Marijuana Legalization Lobby Day at the U.S. Capitol
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/philly420/Philly420_Marijuana_Legalization_Lobby_Day_at_the_US_Capitol_.html

Medical marijuana differs from recreational pot
http://www.nj.com/times-opinion/index.ssf/2013/06/times_of_trenton_letters_to_th_742.html

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes
Lawrence Township Library, Room #2
Tuesday, June 11, 2013; 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

May 2013 minutes were approved.  Discussion:

Recent Events: 
NJ Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing, 6/6/13 to support S2842—a bill that will simplify access to medical marijuana for minors in NJ who have qualifying conditions.  CMMNJ testified and the committee approved the bill by an 8-3 vote.

CMMNJ/Cheryl Miller Medical Marijuana Memorial held 6/7/13, in the Statehouse.   Press Conference at noon; march to Dept. of Health cancelled due to inclement weather.

Gay Pride Parade, Asbury Park, 6/2/13.  Many thanks to all our volunteers and to the great support we received from Pride 2013!

Upcoming Events:
CMMNJ fundraiser on 6/12/13 8am to 9pm, Pop Shop, 729 Haddon Avenue, Collingswood. (15% of your bill goes to CMMNJ if you mention the fundraiser to your server).

Grandma Lobbies for Medical Marijuana, Washington, D.C.: The Silver Tour Monday, June 17, 2013 from 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM http://silvertourlobby.eventbrite.com/

NJ’s Medicinal Marijuana Program: The NJ Health Dept. issued a permit 6/6/13 for Compassionate Care Foundation of Egg Harbor Twp. to begin growing medical marijuana.  The DOH promises to open ATCs in Egg Harbor and Woodbridge by Sept.  Greenleaf ATC in Montclair is only open 4 hrs./wk, serving about 130 patients.  Waiting list of patients is close to 1000.  The lawsuit against DOH for failure to implement the MMP is delayed until Sept.  The lawsuit against the Camden Zoning Board for rejecting an ATC there is also delayed until Sept.

Treasury report: Checking account: $4388; PayPal account: $3529.  Billboard campaign on Facebook. http://www.giveforward.com/fundraiser/5w32/medical-marijuana-billboard-in-trenton

The next CMMNJ mtng. is scheduled for July 9, 2013, 7-9 pm at the Lawrence Twp. Library.

More info:  Ken Wolski, RN, MPA, Executive Director, Coalition for Medical Marijuana—New Jersey, Inc., 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.

CMMNJ June 2013 Public Meeting Agenda

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda
Lawrence Township Library, Room #2
Tuesday, June 11, 2013; 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

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

Upcoming Events: 
NJ Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing, 6/6/13 at 1pm, Statehouse Committee Rm. #4 to support S2842--to simplify access to medical marijuana for minors with qualifying conditions.
CMMNJ/Cheryl Miller Medical Marijuana Demonstration June 7, 2013, 11:00am to 3:00pm; Statehouse Press Conference at noon then a march to Dept. of Health at 12:45pm
CMMNJ fundraiser on 6/12/13 8am to 9pm, Pop Shop, 729 Haddon Avenue, Collingswood 856-869-0111; (15% of your bill goes to CMMNJ if you mention the fundraiser to your server).
Grandma Lobbies for Medical Marijuana: The Silver Tour Monday, June 17, 2013 from 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM http://silvertourlobby.eventbrite.com/

NJ’s Medicinal Marijuana Program: DOH promises to open ATCs in Egg Harbor Twp., and Woodbridge by September.  Greenleaf ATC only open 4 hrs./wk, serving fewer than 200 pts.  The lawsuit against DOH for failure to implement the MMP is delayed for months.

Recent event: Gay Pride Parade, Asbury Park, 6/2/13.  Many thanks to all our volunteers!

Treasury report: Current finances: Checking account: $4388; PayPal account: $3529.
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:

No compassion involved in NJ marijuana law
http://www.phillyburbs.com/news/local/burlington_county_times_news/opinion/letters_to_editor/no-compassion-involved-in-nj-marijuana-law/article_f49023ee-3995-5e41-ab74-9a707e7cb882.html

Medical marijuana is hard to get for local patients
http://www.courierpostonline.com/article/20130602/NEWS01/306020089/Medical-marijuana-hard-get-local-patients?fb_action_ids=10200666045446726&fb_action_types=og.recommends&fb_ref=artsharetop&fb_source=other_multiline&action_object_map=%7B%2210200666045446726%22%3A586423231379286%7D&action_type_map=%7B%2210200666045446726%22%3A%22og.recommends%22%7D&action_ref_map=%7B%2210200666045446726%22%3A%22artsharetop%22%7D

Relief elusive for N.J.'s youngest medical marijuana patient
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/05/relief_elusive_for_njs_younges.html

Christie said he's 'not inclined to allow' children in N.J. medical marijuana program
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/05/christie_said_hes_not_inclined.html

Growing Pains at N.J. Marijuana Dispensary
http://www.pharmacypracticenews.com/ViewArticle.aspx?d=Policy&d_id=51&i=May+2013&i_id=957&a_id=23216

Vivian Wilson’s Grandfather Discusses Her Medical Marijuana Case with Jim Gearhart
http://nj1015.com/vivian-wilsons-grandfather-discusses-her-medical-marijuana-case-with-jim-geahart/

Cannabis use associated with lower blood sugar
http://www.foxnews.com/health/2013/05/22/cannabis-use-associated-with-lower-blood-sugar/?intcmp=features

Bill would help Scotch Plains toddler, other sick kids, get medical marijuana
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/05/bill_would_help_scotch_plains.html

Assembly Passes Bill To Make Sure Medical Marijuana Patients Keep Access To Organ Transplant Programs
http://njtoday.net/2013/05/23/assembly-passes-bill-to-make-sure-medical-marijuana-patients-keep-access-to-organ-transplant-programs/#ixzz2VMhpGXN5 

Is Weed The New Wine? See Who's Out In The Open Singing Pot’s Praises
http://www.myfoxphilly.com/story/22402044/is-weed-the-new-wine-many-out-in-open-singing-pots-praises

Give this toddler her pot: Editorial
http://blog.nj.com/njv_editorial_page/2013/05/give_this_toddler_her_pot_edit.html

N.J. state senator introduces bill easing child access to medical marijuana
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/05/state_senator_introduces_bill.html

Hard to track down medical marijuana in NJ
http://www.trentonian.com/article/20130531/NEWS01/130539920/hard-to-track-down-medical-marijuana-in-nj

Frustration mounts in NJ over pace of medical marijuana
http://www.thedailyjournal.com/article/20130603/NEWS01/306020008/Frustration-mounts-NJ-over-pace-medical-marijuana

N.J. doctors need better understanding of marijuana treatment: Opinion
http://blog.nj.com/njv_guest_blog/2013/06/nj_doctors_need_better_underst.html

Up in smoke
Years after its approval, resident says NJ Medical Marijuana Program a ‘scam’
http://hudsonreporter.com/view/full_story/22765038/article-Up-in-smoke-Years-after-its-approval--resident-says-NJ-Medical-Marijuana-Program-a-%E2%80%98scam%E2%80%99-?instance=secondary_stories_left_column

Danielle McBride: “I Chose Cannabis To Save My Child”
http://www.ladybud.com/2013/06/danielle-mcbride-i-chose-cannabis-to-save-my-child/

SCUTARI & STENDER MOVE TO AMEND NEW JERSEY'S MEDICAL MARIJUANA LAW
http://www.politickernj.com/65974/scutari-stender-move-amend-new-jerseys-medical-marijuana-law#ixzz2VMlwL62V
or sign up for a free trial of State Street Wire at http://www.politickernj.com/freetrial

76% of Doctors Would Prescribe Medical Marijuana if Necessary
http://www.medicaldaily.com/articles/16074/20130530/76-percent-doctors-prescribe-medical-marijuana-necessary.htm#ZcCArRpc2wd8TIJ7.99 

Extra:

Legalizing, and Ending a Gross Injustice
http://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2013/05/22/how-can-marijuana-be-sold-safely/in-legalizing-marijuana-end-the-racial-bias

ACLU: Racist pot policies must end
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/20130605_ACLU__Racist_pot_policies_must_end.html#3PbfmscybhIKOk9A.01

Woman's death in Rockaway Twp. leads police to large marijuana grow house
http://www.dailyrecord.com/article/20130515/NJNEWS/305150014

The Economics of Extortion: Could Cannabis Replace the Leukemia Drug Gleevac?
http://www.ladybud.com/2013/05/the-economics-of-extortion-could-cannabis-replace-the-leukemia-drug-gleevac/

The 23rd Annual Inmternational Cannabinoid Research Society and Symposium on the Cnnabinoids
http://icrs2013.org/

Pot Luck: Could Marijuana Be Used to Treat Diabetes?
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/804281?nlid=31311_590&src=wnl_edit_medn_wir&uac=142709SZ&spon=34

D.C.: Silver Tour Lobby Day Will Be First Ever Senior Marijuana Rally In Nation's Capitol
http://hemp.org/news/content/dc-silver-tour-lobby-day-will-be-first-ever-senior-marijuana-rally-nations-capitol#.UZNzQG6VKeI.twitter

Carl Sagan, Marijuana Advocate, Explains What It's Like To Be High While Carl Sagan
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/05/31/carl-sagan-marijuana_n_3367112.html

PTSD And Medical Marijuana
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AgZhtlOFWBk&fb_action_ids=469306166484734%2C469297326485618&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=other_multiline&action_object_map=%7B%22469306166484734%22%3A569089383135152%2C%22469297326485618%22%3A606137252743936%7D&action_type_map=%7B%22469306166484734%22%3A%22og.likes%22%2C%22469297326485618%22%3A%22og.likes%22%7D&action_ref_map=%5B%5D

Save the date: Wednesday, October 9, 2013, 2:45pm - 3:45pm
"Medical Marijuana: Legislation + Education = Blueprint for Change"
SPEAKER: Ken Wolski,RN, MPA
WHERE: The New Jersey State Nurses Association/Institute for Nursing Convention, October 9-11, 2013, at Bally's Casino & Resort, 1900 Pacific Avenue Atlantic City, New Jersey 08401.
MORE INFO: http://www.njsna.org/

Cheryl Miller Memorial Press Conference, March and Protest Rally in Trenton

WHO: Medical marijuana patients, families and advocates
WHAT: Hold a Press Conference at the Statehouse, then March to Rally at the Dept. of Health
WHEN: Friday, June 7, 2013: 12:00 noon Press Conference; 12:45 pm March to Dept. of Health
WHERE: NJ Statehouse steps, then to 369 S. Warren St., Trenton, NJ
WHY:      Failure to meaningfully implement the Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act

Friends of the Coalition for Medical Marijuana New Jersey will demonstrate in Trenton between the hours of 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM on June 7, 2013, the 10th anniversary of the death of medical marijuana patient and activist Cheryl Miller.  Medical marijuana patients, families and advocates will gather at the Statehouse steps for a 12:00 noon press conference to protest the state’s failure to meaningfully implement the Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act.

Present will be patients who are registered in the program but not yet able to access their medicine, those who have a qualifying condition but are not able to register, and those have a non-qualifying condition because of the narrow list allowable under current state law.

Meghan Wilson, whose two year old daughter Vivian is a registered medical marijuana patient will wrap up the press conference before supporters begin the 1/2 mile "march" (at approximately 12:45pm) to the Department of Health at 369 South Warren St., Trenton.  Patients who are not able to march will be there to greet them at approximately 1:00pm. There will be a brief memorial remembrance of Cheryl Lee Miller on the tenth anniversary of her passing.  Medical marijuana patients will have the opportunity to hand-deliver letters of concern and objection to Health Dept. officials.

Jim Miller said, “Patients will be heard, and we will continue to expand this program to accurately reflect our needs.”

For further information, contact: Jim Miller at 908.278.4172 or:

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, a 501(c)(3) public charity, provides education about the benefits medical marijuana.

CMMNJ May 14, 2013 Meeting Minutes

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
Tuesday, May 14, 2013; 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

7:00 PM: Meeting called to order. April 2013 minutes approved. Discussion:

Upcoming Events: 
Cheryl Miller Memorial in Trenton on Friday, June 7 from 11am to 3pm—Press Conference at the State House & march to Health Dept. for a rally. More on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/156388517866235/
Gay Pride Parade, Asbury Park, 6/2/13, noon to 7 pm; 
Green Fair, Bordentown, NJ, Sat., 6/8/13;
CMMNJ fundraiser, “The Pop Shop,” 6/12/13, 8am to 9pm, 729 Haddon Avenue, Collingswood 856-869-0111, (mention CMMNJ to your server), more at: http://www.thepopshopusa.com; 
D.C.: Silver Tour Lobby Day: First Ever Senior Marijuana Rally In Nation's Capitol, June 17. Great 28 minute video, “Should Grandma Smoke Pot?” at: http://www.gofundme.com/1wvgxk

NJ’s Medicinal Marijuana Program: DOH promises to open ATCs in Egg Harbor Twp., and Woodbridge by Sept. but these facilities still await DOH permits to grow marijuana. The lawsuit against DOH for failure to implement the MMP is progressing; oral arguments expected in late May. Only about 150 patients have received medical marijuana in NJ in 4th year of the program.

Recent events: 

Spreading the word at MS Walks, Newtown, PA & Ocean City, NJ; 
"Medical Marijuana Update," NJ Case Management Society, Woodbridge Hilton, 4/17/13; 
“The Science of Marijuana,” Ramapo College, 4/4/13 with Dr. Jahan Marcu; 
NORML NJ meeting 5/13, The Ale House, New Brunswick;
Radio interviews on WFAN with Bob Salter; 
CMMNJ Board of Directors meeting 5/2/13.

Treasury report: Current finances: Checking account: $4127; PayPal account: $3830. Billboard campaign on Facebook raised over $500:
http://www.giveforward.com/fundraiser/5w32/medical-marijuana-billboard-in-trenton

Next CMMNJ meeting: 6/11/13, 7 - 9 PM, Lawrence Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, 08648. 

More info: 

Ken Wolski, RN, MPA, Executive Director

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

219 Woodside Ave., Trenton, NJ 08618 

(609) 394-2137 

ohamkrw@aol.com  kenwolski@gmail.com

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.

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

Joseph D’Souza’s Trial

If you think medical marijuana patients are no longer getting arrested in New Jersey for possession of marijuana, ask Joseph D’Souza.

Mr. D’Souza now has both a medical marijuana ID card and an arrest record for the first time in his life.

Mr. D’Souza, at 54 years of age, is a survivor of three separate bouts of cancer.  His treatment included chemotherapy, radiation therapy and multiple surgeries.  His face is permanently disfigured from surgery and he suffers from chronic pain as a result of the cancers.  He can no longer work—he’s on disability.  He qualifies for medical marijuana therapy in New Jersey and, in fact, he has a Medicinal Marijuana Program ID card from the state’s Department of Health.

Mr. D’Souza’s car was legally parked in Bayonne on February 12th when the police arrived.  His vehicle was searched and the police found a small amount of marijuana—less than a gram. Mr. D’Souza said that the marijuana belonged to a passenger.  But because Mr. D’Souza was the driver of the car he was arrested for possession of marijuana.  He is being punished because someone who obtained marijuana illegally left him holding the bag.

He is outraged that he has an ID card that would allow him to legally possess marijuana but he cannot obtain this medicine because of the months-long wait at the only Alternative Treatment Center that is open in the state.  Mr. D’Souza said that he has had his ID card for over four months.

Now Mr. D’Souza feels tremendous stress at being dragged through the criminal justice system.  He faces imprisonment and fines he cannot afford.  Mr. D’Souza also said there were eight police cars surrounding his car when he was searched and arrested, and a drug dog was brought out.  He believes this is a shameful waste of police resources.

He’s right.

In the absence of a fully functioning Medicinal Marijuana Program, New Jersey must decriminalize marijuana.  The entire Assembly agreed to this in June 2012 and the Senate should take action on this now.  Governor Christie has said that he would veto any decriminalization bill that made it to his desk.  Mr. D’Souza hopes the governor changes his mind.

Despite acknowledging the failure of the War on Drugs, the governor wants to continue to arrest 20,000 people in New Jersey each year for marijuana offenses.  Most of these arrests, like Mr. D’Souza’s, involve possession of small amounts of marijuana.  It makes no sense.

Moreover, no one knows how many of these arrestees are using marijuana medicinally.  It will be decades before New Jersey recognizes the full extent of marijuana's therapeutic potential.  Meanwhile, we must stop arresting people like Mr. D’Souza.

If you would like to show support for Mr. D’Souza, he is scheduled to have his second appearance at Bayonne Municipal Court on May 9, 2013 at 9:00 A.M.

"What would Cheryl do?" Medical marijuana and MS

The Greater Delaware Valley chapter of the National MS Society unceremoniously pulled the plug on the Coalition for Medical Marijuana--New Jersey (CMMNJ) after originally offering us a table at their March 23rd "Beef and Beer" fundraiser in Philadelphia. They waited until I showed up to have a volunteer tell me that there was no table available, and when pressed for an explanation it was explained to me that someone associated with Clear Channel Outdoor threatened to "pull sponsorship" if CMMNJ was allowed to distribute information about medical marijuana at the event. So they acquiesced to coercion and promptly sent me packing. http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2013/03/ms-society-refuses-medical-marijuana.html

In order to fully understand how unacceptable that is to me, I find it necessary to share some otherwise very personal information. I say this especially to the people running the show at the MS Society's Greater Delaware Valley Chapter, whom I will contacting and offering a link to this blog as well as the one preceding it. This way, they will at least have the benefit of being aware of my intentions ahead of time, unlike the blind side they provided me with.

Although it was almost a decade ago, I remember June 4th, 2003 as if it were yesterday. It was a Wednesday. It was also the day that I had to tell my wife that she was about to die. Two days earlier we had checked Cheryl into the hospital because a weekend bout of chest congestion was causing her to breathe more rapidly than normal. We were assuming that she might need some IV antibiotics, and maybe some nebulizer treatments and additional IV fluids. There had been a noticeable decline in her already compromised condition over the previous few months and I wasn't taking any chances. Multiple sclerosis already had a formidable list of conquests over Cheryl's rapidly weakening body and I didn't want to see that list grow further.

I was sitting with Cheryl while she slept when a nurse called me into the hallway. She informed me that Cheryl had lost her ability to swallow properly. She was slowly aspirating liquid into her lungs and would be needing a feeding tube to survive. So this was it. It had finally come time for me to stand up for Cheryl one last time. She had been very clear about her wish to have no extraordinary means taken to prolong the inevitable. Having no feeding tube was at the top of her list, and it was up to me to make sure that request was honored. Cheryl had lived her life with dignity, and she wanted to die with dignity.

I went over to the chair by her bed and sat there watching her sleep. She had endured so much during the two decades that I had known her, even beyond her struggle with MS. Her youngest son, Ricky, died from an accidental gunshot to the head 20 years earlier and her only daughter, Deena, had been gone for four years, having been killed in a car accident in Oklahoma. Beyond all of that, she suffered physically every time she painfully put her deteriorating body on display while publicly challenging medical marijuana prohibitionists to explain their views to her personally. She would use civil disobedience as a tool to embarrass them when they refused. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KdxUcwAOkI

When she finally woke up I told her that I had something important to tell her...that she was about to be with Ricky and Deena again. She looked puzzled at first, then she closed her eyes and acknowledged my meaning with a slight smile and a nod of her head. She missed them so much and she believed that they would all be together again someday, and here I was telling her that day had finally come. Then Cheryl opened her eyes, turned her head slightly to look at me, and and softly said, "Aww honey...I'm sorry." Her concern for MY well-being at a time like that would surprise nobody who knew her. It was also a transition to something else that I needed to tell her while there was still time. I had made Cheryl a wedding vow almost 19 years earlier, promising to do for her whatever her arms or legs could not, till death do we part. Now that we were about to part, I felt that she deserved to know that I didn't feel capable of continuing on as a medical marijuana advocate without her. Although Cheryl did what she did for everybody else with multiple sclerosis, I did what I did for her. I relied on her strength to realize my own, and now she would no longer be here to help me keep my eyes on the prize.

She looked a little confused as I tried to explain my doubts about being able to continue on as a medical marijuana advocate without her. Then she softly but definitively said, "But you HAVE to," followed by rhetorically asking me, "Don't you wish someone had told us about medical marijuana long before we found out on our own?" Then she paraphrased what she had first told me a dozen years earlier when I asked her if she wanted me to quietly take care of her with cannabis, or go public with our discovery. "We shouldn't wish that somebody would have done something for us that we aren't willing to do for someone else." In an effort to give her closure, I promised that whenever an opportunity presented itself to spread accurate and up to date medical marijuana information to MS patients, I would ask myself,  "What would Cheryl do?" I told her that if I felt that she would have shown up, I would show up and do the best that I could without her. She died peacefully three days later.

Which brings me to the situation at hand. I have a promise to keep. I know exactly what Cheryl would do to ensure that MS patients in the Greater Delaware Valley are not denied access to medical marijuana information. SHE would show up at one of the 14 upcoming "Walk MS" fundraising events being sponsored by the offending chapter and hand out medical marijuana information to participants directly...the same information that was censored at the March 23rd fundraiser. The locations and dates of those walks can be found here: https://secure3.convio.net/nmss/site/SPageServer?pagename=WLK_National

Cheryl began handing out information in New Jersey about cannabis therapeutics relative to MS at the 1994 Toms River MS walk, and continued the tradition at various Jersey Shore locations over the next nine years. Her last time out in public was at the Ortley Beach walk in April of 2003, six weeks before she died.

"Cheryl's last Walk MS event, at Ortley Beach NJ, April 2003" 

She showed up at these events in response to the National MS Society's deliberate and purposeful underestimation of the potential benefits of cannabis for MS patients in the '90s. They would say that they could not recommend cannabis use for MS patients until there were more studies done, while refusing to do the research that they insisted was necessary to get accurate information. They preferred to be ignorant by design.

And now? Using research performed by organizations other of their own, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society's National Clinical Advisory Board concluded in its 2008 "Treatment Recommendations for Physicians" that "it is clear that cannabinoids have potential both for the management of MS symptoms such as pain and spasticity, as well as for neuroprotection." They then go on to estimate that 15% of MS patients already use cannabis for symptomatic relief. However, the real bombshell was their observation that "an unexpected result of basic research, as well as some evidence from clinical trials, led to the discovery that cannabinoids may also reduce neuronal damage." Reduce neuronal damage? They continue on, saying that a reduction in neuronal damage could result in "possibly limiting disease progression" and that marijuana could be used "perhaps as an add-on to other treatments," concluding that "in some ways this is even more exciting than its effects on symptoms such as pain and spasticity."

Really? Let me be clear why that is so exciting. In Cheryl's case, limiting disease progression means that she might have been with me longer and she would have suffered less. This information was prevented from being handed out to the 250 people attending the March 23rd fundraiser.

The success and scope of my response to the censorship of medical marijuana information at the MS Society's Greater Delaware Valley chapter fundraiser is dependent on the amount of help I have. I can't cover all 7 walks happening on April 21st, and I can't cover all 6 walks being held on May 5th. However I will enjoy the May 4th event at the Philadelphia Museum of Art and will be able to attend one walk on each of the other two days that they are being held. I currently have two potential offers of help, meaning that in a best case scenario we could cover as many as half of the 14 scheduled MS Walks in the Delaware Valley.

Anyone wanting to help make it a clean sweep and deliver a message that will be heard loud and clear, you can get in touch with me at pot4ms@yahoo.com. I will be able to make your participation as easy as possible. I can guarantee you, virtually everyone you hand a flyer to will thank you, especially those who are walking for an MS patient who is one of the 15% not waiting for the blessing of the Multiple Sclerosis Society before reaping the benefits of medical marijuana.

Jim Miller, President
CMMNJ