Families urge Gov. Christie to improve access to medical marijuana

                   

WHO: Medical marijuana patients, families and advocates
WHAT: Deliver mail to the Governor
WHEN:     Thursday, August 1, 2013, 2:00 pm
WHERE:    NJ Statehouse, Room 109, and the Governor’s office
WHY:       To urge Gov. Christie to sign S2842 and improve access to medical marijuana

Friends of the Coalition for Medical Marijuana New Jersey will gather at the Trenton Statehouse in Room 109 at 2:00 pm Thursday, August 1, 2013, to deliver several thousand letters to Governor Chris Christie, urging him to sign S2842, a bill that will improve access to medical marijuana.

Brian and Meghan Wilson’s two-year-old daughter, Vivian, is a registered medical marijuana patient who suffers from Dravet Syndrome, a seizure disorder that does not respond to traditional medical treatment. New Jersey’s Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act was passed in part to treat this very type of disorder. However, Vivian has not been able to access the type of marijuana that she needs, in a form that is appropriate for a toddler, because of New Jersey’s overly restrictive regulations.  The Wilsons are coordinating this event along with Jennie Stormes, the mother of 14-year-old Jackson Stormes who also suffers from Dravet Syndrome. The families have been asking the public to tell the governor to sign the bill through the web site: http://lettersforvivian.org/

S2842 will eliminate the current limit of only three strains of marijuana that are permitted to be sold in New Jersey and allow a type of marijuana that is specifically grown to control seizures without the psychotropic, or “high” effect.  S2842 will also allow for medicated edible products, such as tincture, oil or butter, which is a more appropriate drug delivery method for a minor, or for those who prefer not to smoke. Additionally, S2842 will simplify access to medical marijuana for New Jersey minors who have qualifying conditions by only requiring a single licensed physician to recommend marijuana, instead of the three (3) physicians who are required under the current regulations.

 S2842 was fast-tracked through the Senate and Assembly in a single month, June 2013, and is now on Governor Christie’s desk awaiting action by him within 45 days (by Aug. 8, 2013).

For further information, contact:

Ken Wolski, RN: 609-394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com
Brian Wilson: 201-577-2513, Emperorwilson@yahoo.com
Jennie Stormes: 209-327-3366, jennie@afnna.com

CMMNJ, a 501(c)(3) public charity, provides education about the benefits medical marijuana.
More at: www.cmmnj.org or,
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/62462971150/

CMMNJ July 2013 Meeting Minutes

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
Tuesday, July 9, 2013

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

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, is now on Gov. Christie’s desk awaiting action by him within 45 days (by Aug. 8, 2013.).  Tell Gov. Christie to sign this important bill into law. 
Send the governor a fax at: http://lettersforvivian.org/ 
or, send an email:
DPA: https://secure2.convio.net/dpa/site/Advocacy?pagename=homepage&page=UserAction&id=991
NORML: http://salsa3.salsalabs.com/o/51046/p/dia/action3/common/public/?action_KEY=11449
Tweet him @GovChristie, 
or write/phone at: 
Office of the Governor
PO Box 001, Trenton, NJ 
08625
(609) 292-6000

NJ’s Medicinal Marijuana Program: Greenleaf ATC in Montclair has been shut down most of June; some patients report getting no marijuana there since March 2013.  No word from DOH on when Greenleaf will reopen.  About 1000 NJ patients with ID cards are on a waiting list.  Total program failure.
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 September.

Upcoming Events: Lenny Frieling, LEAP speaker, in Millburn, NJ on 7/23/13 at 7 pm. Also, live stream available. For details, see: http://mmjnj.org/html/liveinvite.html
"Kickin' Up Dust Summer 2013" Slightly Stoopid Tour at 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 Convention http://www.njsna.org/, 10/9/13, Bally, Atlantic City. CEUs.  

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:  Next meeting will be August 13, 2013 at 7 pm - 9pm.  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   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.

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