CMMNJ October 2013 Meeting Minutes

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes, 

October 8, 2013; 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM; 

There will be no November 2013 meeting due to a scheduling conflict with the library.

The next CMMNJ meeting is December 10, 2013, 7 - 9 PM at the Lawrence Twp. Library. 

The Oct 8 meeting covered all the agenda items listed.  

Oral arguments in the lawsuit against DOH were heard in Appellate Court, Mt. Holly, 9/18/13. NORML NJ lawyers asked the court: to continue the tort claims against the DOH; to force the DOH to do what the law requires; to declare certain regulations ultra vires (beyond the law); and, to appoint CMMNJ a monitor for the MMP.  The 3-judge panel may decide as early as November.

Ed Hannaman advocated for CMMNJ to have an ambitious 5-year plan to gather evidence and support so we are ready to move forward to establish an actual Medical Marijuana Program in the next gubernatorial administration.

We had a discussion on improving CMMNJ's web site.

Short discussion of the Oct 24th U.S. Court hearing stemming from Smoke Down Prohibition IX, the Philadelphia event at which former CMMNJ Board member Chris Goldstein was cited. Goldstein faces six months in prison and a $1000 fine for possession of a single joint.

Greenleaf ATC reopened with limited access.  Egg Harbor's CCF ATC was scheduled to open in September, but never did. (It opened Oct. 28, 2013.) Woodbridge ATC (CCCofA) given grow permit by DOH.  It was reported that Breakwater ATC has no location at the present time. 

The group discussed changing current law to allow edibles for adults, eliminate the physician registry, and film hospice patients to dramatize their cause, and get another physician (whom a board member knows) to support med MJ.  

Voter Registration Drive: “Chris Christie Plays Politics with the Law. Sick patients suffer. Sometimes worse.” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZSPusqlxDs 

New matter: There were concerns raised over the costs to produce this video.  An idea was vetted to produce a video of patients with several people volunteering to help on the project.

NJ.COM/Inside Jersey: Medical marijuana—one of the greatest medical stories of the past 5 yrs. 

Recent Events: Ewing Community Fest:  Sat., $85 collected.

Lawrence Community Day, 10/6/13, $91 collected.

"Medical Marijuana: Legislation + Education = Blueprint for Change" New Jersey State Nurses

Association Convention, Atlantic City, 10/9. (Well received by the nurses.)  

Boston Freedom Rally, 9/14 & 15, Boston Commons, $149 collected.

Martin Lee, discussion and book signing of “Smoke Signals” at Hamilton Barnes & Noble 9/30/13; Dinner and discussion of “Project CBD” at Bonnie Waltz’s home 9/29/13.

Discussion about another Med MJ patient on trial hoping to use the med necessity defense: Amy Doherty, Medford Court, 11/6/13, 4pm, medical marijuana possession case.

Treasury report: Checking: $4297; PayPal: $3537. Billboard campaign continues.

More info: Ed Hannaman, Esq. 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 October 8, 2013 Meeting Agenda

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda, 
Lawrence Township Library, Room #2
Tuesday, October 8, 2013, 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

Approve September 2013 minutes.  Discuss:

There will be no November 2013 meeting due to a scheduling conflict with the library.

NJ’s Medicinal Marijuana Program: Greenleaf ATC reopened with limited access.  Egg Harbor ATC was scheduled to open in September, but never did. Woodbridge ATC (CCCofA) given grow permit by DOH.

CMMNJ Voter Registration Drive: New video: “Chris Christie Plays Politics with the Law. Sick patients suffer. Sometimes worse.” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZSPusqlxDs

Oral arguments in the lawsuit against DOH were heard in Appellate Court, Mt. Holly, 9/18/13. NORML NJ lawyers asked the court to continue the tort claims against the DOH, to force the DOH to do what the law requires, to declare certain regulations ultra vires (beyond the law), and to appoint CMMNJ a monitor for the Medicinal Marijuana Program.  The 3-judge panel may decide as early as November.

NJ.COM/Inside Jersey: Medical marijuana—one of the greatest medical stories of the past 5 yrs.

Upcoming Events:
Ewing Community Fest:  Sat., 10/5/13, 10 am to 5 pm at TCNJ.
Lawrence Community Day, 10/6/13, 12:30 – 4 pm, Lawrence Twp.
"Medical Marijuana: Legislation + Education = Blueprint for Change" New Jersey State Nurses Association Convention http://www.njsna.org/, 10/9/13, Bally, Atlantic City. CEUs.
Amy Doherty, Medford Court, 11/6/13, 4pm, medical marijuana possession case.

Recent events: Boston Freedom Rally, 9/14 & 15, Boston Commons
Martin Lee at Hamilton Barnes & Noble 9/30/13, Dinner at Bonnie Waltz’s home 9/29/13.
Smoke Down Prohibition IX, Liberty Bell, Philadelphia, 9/21/13.

Treasury report: Checking: $4297; PayPal: $3537. Billboard campaign continues.

The next CMMNJ meeting is December 10, 2013, 7 - 9 PM at the Lawrence Twp. Library.

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, 
Lawrence Township Library, September 10, 2013; 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

August 2013 minutes approved.  Discussion:

S2842, the bill to improve access to medical marijuana, was signed into law by Gov. Christie at 5 pm today, 9/10/13.  (The conditionally vetoed bill passed in the Assembly on 9/9 by a vote of 69 – 1 – 4.) The new law eliminates the 3-strain limit, and allows edibles, but for minors only.   Gov. Christie insisted that a pediatrician and a psychiatrist are still required to OK medical marijuana for minors, in some cases in addition to the physician who recommends marijuana.

NJ’s Medicinal Marijuana Program: Greenleaf ATC reopened with limited access.  Egg Harbor ATC to open in September. Woodbridge ATC (CCCofA) given grow permit by DOH.

CNN chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta endorsed medical marijuana. “Weed, Part II” is coming, as a follow up to Dr. Gupta’s important show, “Weed.”

Upcoming Events:
Ewing Community Fest:  Sat., 10/5/13, 10 am to 5 pm at TCNJ.
Boston Freedom Rally, 9/14 & 15, Boston Commons.
Martin Lee, at Hamilton Barnes & Noble 9/30/13, (Dinner at Bonnie Waltz’s home 9/29/13).
Lawrence Community Day, 10/6/13, Lawrence Twp., NJ.
"Medical Marijuana” NJSA convention, 10/9/13, Bally’s, Atlantic City.
Ed (NJ Weedman) Forchion, Evesham Court, 9/12/13 11:20 am (Brownie Day).
A hearing in the lawsuit against DOH: Appellate Court, Trenton, 9/18/13 at 10:00 am.

Recent events: Marijuana Reform Rally: Statehouse, Trenton, NJ, Sunday, 9/8/13, 3pm.
Slightly Stoopid, Stone Pony, Asbury Park, 8/27. Thanks to our volunteers!
Homegrown Radio (WRNJ) Interview, 8/22/13.
Smoke Down Prohibition VIII, Liberty Bell, Philadelphia, 8/31/13.
Frank Fulbrook Memorial, 9/6/13, Camden.
Pennsylvania State Nurses Association endorses medical marijuana.

Treasury report: Checking: $4986; PayPal: $3611. Billboard raised $562; campaign continues.
Next CMMNJ meeting: Oct. 8, 2013, 7 - 9 PM at the Lawrence Twp. Library.
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:

Bellmawr seems OK with marijuana clinic
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/local/20130905_Bellmawr_seems_OK_with_marijuana_clinic.html 

LAWMAKERS READY TO APPROVE EASIER ACCESS TO MEDICAL MARIJUANA FOR KIDS
http://www.njspotlight.com/stories/13/09/06/lawmakers-ready-to-approve-easier-access-to-medical-marijuana-for-kids/

New Jersey Assembly approves medical marijuana changes
http://abclocal.go.com/wabc/story?section=news/local/new_jersey&id=9240445

N.J. lawmakers to revisit key measures after vetoes
http://articles.philly.com/2013-09-10/news/41906707_1_medical-marijuana-christie-edible-marijuana

N.J. Assembly OKs bill with medical pot changes
http://www.northjersey.com/news/NJ_Assembly_OKs_amended_bill_to_expand_medical_pot_for_children.html

Lawmakers Act on Christie’s Conditional Vetoes
http://www.njtvonline.org/njtoday/video/lawmakers-act-on-christies-conditional-vetoes/

N.J. Says O.K. to Medical Marijuana for Kids
http://www.nonprofitquarterly.org/policysocial-context/22877-n-j-says-o-k-to-medical-marijuana-for-kids.html

NJ Backs Edible Medical Pot for Sick Kids
http://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/NJ-Assembly-Backs-Edible-Medical-Pot-for-Sick-Kids-223108651.html

Southern NJ medical marijuana site poised to open
http://tbo.com/ap/health/issues/southern-nj-medical-marijuana-site-poised-to-open-ap_health_issues2598c2fac5b144b8ac9225af941c31e3

Pot or Prescription Painkillers – Which is the Bigger Gateway Drug? [POLL]
http://nj1015.com/pot-or-prescription-painkillers-which-is-the-bigger-gateway-drug-poll/

CMMNJ Hosts Martin A. Lee, Author of Smoke Signals and Acid Dreams
http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2013/09/cmmnj-hosts-martin-lee-author-of-smoke.html

New Marijuana Drug Has Some Worried
http://www.myfoxphilly.com/story/23546506/new-marijuana-drug

Planned Expansion On Soon To Open Medical Marijuana Facility In South Jersey
http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2013/09/14/south-jersey-medical-marijuana-center-plans-to-expand/

REGULATING MEDICAL MARIJUANA ISN’T AS EASY AS YOU THINK http://www.ryot.org/regulating-medical-marijuana-isnt-easy-think/370117

Letter: Where are N.J. medical marijuana patients?
http://www.nj.com/south-jersey-voices/index.ssf/2013/09/letter_where_are_nj_medical_ma.html

Christie Signs Changes to Medical Marijuana Law
http://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/Christie-Signs-Changes-to-Medical-Marijuana-Law-223856261.html

N.J. health officials 'dragging their feet' on medical marijuana, lawyers argue in court http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/09/nj_health_officials_dragging_their_feet_on_medical_marijuana_lawyers_argue_in_court.html

Court hears arguments in delay of state's medical marijuana program
http://www.phillyburbs.com/00redesign/news/local/court-hears-arguments-in-delay-of-state-s-medical-marijuana/article_c465d116-abd0-5de9-9528-60368bc217cd.html

Extra:

Top 10 New Jersey medical stories of the past five years
http://www.nj.com/inside-jersey/index.ssf/2013/09/top_10_new_jersey_medical_stories_of_the_past_five_years.html

Smoke Down Prohibition 8 Highlights
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7oG0XBkehgQ&feature=youtu.be

Cannabis-based Medicines for Opiate Dependence
http://www.examiner.com/article/cannabis-based-medicines-for-opiate-dependence

Jury Nullification vs. The Drug War: NJ Weedman on His Unlikely Marijuana Acquittal
http://reason.com/reasontv/2013/09/04/jury-nullification-vs-the-drug-war-nj-we

'Man, I'm not that high': N.J. Weedman talks the politics of pot http://www.nj.com/mercer/index.ssf/2013/09/man_im_not_that_high_nj_weedman_talks_politics_pot_and_the_art_of_protest.html

N.J. Weedman reports to Burlington County Jail to serve 270-day sentence for marijuana possession http://www.nj.com/mercer/index.ssf/2013/09/nj_weedman_reports_to_burlington_county_jail_to_serve_270-day_sentence_for_marijuana_possession.html

EAST WINDSOR: Senate candidate cited again for marijuana use
http://www.centraljersey.com/articles/2013/09/05/windsor_hights_herald/news/doc5228de1ad96aa673742715.txt

Weedman 2.0: Senate candidate lights up in public again
http://www.trentonian.com/article/20130903/NEWS01/130909940/weedman-2-0-senate-candidate-lights-up-in-public-again

“Smoke Down Prohibition” Marijuana Protest Returns to Philadelphia’s Liberty Bell on Saturday
http://www.thedailychronic.net/2013/25650/smoke-prohibition-marijuana-rally-returns-philadelphias-liberty-bell-saturday/

700 MEDICINAL USES OF CANNABIS SORTED BY DISEASE
http://www.encod.org/info/700-MEDICINAL-USES-OF-CANNABIS.html

Chris Christie Plays Politics with the Law. Sick patients suffer. Sometimes worse.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZSPusqlxDs

Project CBD
http://projectcbd.org/

Video: Numerous pot protesters arrested at ‘Smokedown Prohibition’ 9 http://blogs.philadelphiaweekly.com/phillynow/2013/09/23/smokedown-video/

HIGH TIMES at 24th Annual Boston Freedom Rally
http://www.hightimes.com/read/high-times-24th-annual-boston-freedom-rally

Cannabinoids and the Urinary Bladder
http://www.omicsonline.org/Cannabinoids-and-the-Urinary-Bladder-2161-0932.1000163.pdf

"Medical Marijuana: Legislation + Education = Blueprint for Change"
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/

Pennsylvania State Nurses Association (PSNA) Position Statement on Patients’ Safe Access to Therapeutic Marijuana

Background
History has documented the use of marijuana (cannabis) in medical settings since 28th century BCE China, and it was first introduced to the Western world in the early 19th century (Johnson, 2013). It was quickly adopted by health care professionals to treat various problems such as nausea, chronic pain and psychological disorders, and it was widely accepted in the United States until the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937 (Johnson, 2013). Since that time, it has undergone a complicated past of federal regulation regarding its use recreationally and medicinally.

Currently, marijuana is classified under the Controlled Substances Act as a Schedule I drug; possessors are subject to federal punishment and no clinician is permitted to prescribe, as it has no known medical value. Despite this regulation, 18 states and the District of Columbia have adopted laws to permit its use as a therapeutic medication in many disease entities (ProCon.org, 2013). Supporters of the legalization of medical marijuana advocate for the distinction between leisure and medicinal use of the drug, ensuring that with proper clinician oversight, abuse of the drug can be avoided. Many supporters specifically compare use of medical marijuana to the current practice of using opioids for symptom management, citing the fact that drugs like morphine have a greater potential (23 percent to 10 percent respectively) to become addicting yet are used for pain management across the health care continuum (Cohen, 2009). Additionally, they reference the zero to few deaths caused by illegal marijuana use as compared to use of legal federally-regulated prescription drugs (0 vs.10,008 in 2009, respectively).

There has been documentation of efficacy from medicinal marijuana, both smoked and in oral tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) form in pain control and reduction of spasticity, for improvement of glaucoma, asthma, seizures, appetite stimulation and in management of nausea (Joy, Watson & Benson, 1999; ACP, 2008). The results are highly variable. There is difficulty delineating true effects of cannabis from the emotional well-being resulting from smoked marijuana (“high”). Additionally, there is worry regarding the endorsement of a drug delivery system that involves smoking. There are also ongoing safety concerns – relatively poorly documented – regarding medical marijuana’s potential to exacerbate mental illness, to be a “gateway” for harder drugs, and to cause respiratory arrest and even death (Cohen, 2009). Due to the drug’s classification as a Schedule I drug, potential drug manufacturers and physicians have been unable to conduct rigorous clinical trials using the standard grade drug to draw definitive conclusions regarding the drug’s risk/benefit ratio.

Position
It is the position of PSNA that medical marijuana is worthy of further rigorous clinical testing. In order to weigh the true risks and benefits of medical marijuana, there must be a discussion and openness at the federal level regarding the conversion of marijuana from a Schedule I to Schedule II drug classification. Schedule II classification would allow testing of consistent grade medical marijuana in a randomized controlled fashion in order to ascertain the drug’s risk/benefit profile for a multitude of illnesses and symptoms. In addition, PSNA supports protection from prosecution for patients who currently use medicinal marijuana or for providers suggesting medicinal marijuana for relief of intractable conditions or symptoms. Lastly, PSNA shares concerns about the delivery system of smoking medication and, if this drug is approved, encourages the development of a more efficient drug delivery system.

Rationale
Marijuana has been used as a way to manage symptoms for chronic illness since ancient times. In 1999, The Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommended that marijuana have its drug schedule classification changed in order to allow for more rigorous testing. Despite a persistent federal ban on marijuana, claims regarding its efficacy for a host of illnesses and symptoms have soared. As a result, more than a quarter of the states in the nation have adopted laws to legalize the drug for medicinal purposes despite the continued federal ban. Marijuana may be an important therapeutic adjunct in hard-to-manage illnesses and for persistent symptoms. Detangling the argument regarding the legalization of marijuana for medicinal vs. recreational use may allow a more open weighing of the evidence for consideration of the appropriate schedule classification. Well-designed, rigorous research must be performed to truly assess the relative benefits and risks of medicinal marijuana.

References
American College of Physicians (ACP). (2008). Supporting research into the therapeutic role of marijuana. Retrieved July 11, 2013 from http://www.acponline.org/acp_news/medmarinews.htm Cohen, P. J. (2009).

Medical marijuana: The conflict between scientific evidence and political ideology. Part one of two. Journal of Pain & Palliative Care Pharmacotherapy, 23(1), 4-25. Johnson, B. L. (2013).

Medical marijuana. Mental Health Practitioner’s Guide to HIV/AIDS, 301-303. Joy, J. E., Watson, S. J. & Benson, J. A. (1999).

Marijuana and medicine: Assessing the science base. National Academy of Science, Institute of Medicine.ProCon.org. (2013, July 1).

Medical marijuana: 18 legal medical marijuana states and DC laws, fees, and possession limits. Retrieved July 10, 2013 from
http://medicalmarijuana.procon.org/view.resource.php?resourceID=000881

CMMNJ Hosts Martin A. Lee, Author of Smoke Signals and Acid Dreams

                       

  

WHO:     Martin A. Lee

WHAT:   Will sign books and discuss "Project CBD"

WHEN:   Monday, September 30, 2013, 7 – 9 pm

WHERE: Hamilton, NJ Barnes & Noble

WHY:    To educate the public about the emerging science of medical marijuana

The Coalition for Medical Marijuana—New Jersey (CMMNJ) will host Martin A. Lee, author of Smoke Signals: A Social History of Marijuana – Medical, Recreational and Scientific" at the Hamilton, NJ Barnes & Noble, 425 Marketplace Boulevard, Hamilton, NJ on Monday, September 30, 2013 from 7 - 9 pm. Mr. Lee's "Project CBD" website (www.projectcbd.org) has information about the medical properties of CBD, one of the non-psychoactive components of marijuana/cannabis.  Access to CBD was an issue in recent legislative action in New Jersey, the passage of S2842, which allows more strains of marijuana to be grown in the state’s Medicinal Marijuana Program. "Smoke Signals," is winner of the American Botanical Council’s James A. Duke Award for Excellence in Botanical Literature. It is available in paperback, as an eBook, an audio book and via I-Tunes. CMMNJ welcomed Mr. Lee with a pizza party on Sunday, Sept. 29, on his arrival in Central Jersey during his Northeast Book Tour. At the party, a local Princeton artist, Peter Stefferson donated an original artwork entitled, “Mary Jane’s High Chair” to raise funds for CMMNJ.  CMMNJ is a 501(c)(3) public charity that has been providing education about the benefits of medical marijuana for the past decade.  For information about “Mary Jane’s High Chair,” a unique, functional artwork, see: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/17/garden/mary-janes-high-chair.html?_r=0 We look forward to seeing you at the Hamilton Barnes & Noble!

For further information, contact: Vanessa Waltz at 505-670-8319 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 Meeting Agenda for September 10, 2013

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda,
Lawrence Township Library, Room #2
Tuesday, September 10, 2013; 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM.

Approve August 2013 minutes. Discuss:

S2842, the bill to improve access to medical marijuana, was conditionally vetoed by Gov. Christie on 8/16/13.  The governor insists a pediatrician and psychiatrist OK medical marijuana for minors, but he allows elimination of the 3-strain limit, and allows edibles, but for minors only. The Senate OK’d the governor's changes; the bill awaits a vote by the Assembly.

NJ’s Medicinal Marijuana Program: Greenleaf ATC reopened with limited access. Egg Harbor ATC to open in September. Woodbridge ATC (CCC of A) given grow permit by DOH.
A hearing in the lawsuit against the DOH is scheduled for Superior Court, Appellate Div., Trenton, 9/18/13 at 10:00 am.

CNN chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta endorsed medical marijuana.

Upcoming Events: 

Marijuana Reform Rally: Statehouse, Trenton, NJ, Sun., 9/8/13, 3 pm https://www.facebook.com/events/600582749991970/
Boston Freedom Rally, 9/14 & 15, Boston Commons.
Martin Lee to sign copies of “Smoke Signals” at Hamilton Barnes & Noble 9/30/13, 7 – 9 pm. 
(Benefit dinner with Mr. Lee at Bonnie Waltz’s Princeton home Sunday, 9/29/13, 3-6 pm.)
Candidate’s Night, 9/25/13, 7:30 pm, Fields Center, Princeton U.; The Campaign to End the New Jim Crow—Princeton, NJ Chapter: https://www.facebook.com/events/511028342310465/
"Medical Marijuana: Legislation + Education = Blueprint for Change" NJSNA Convention http://www.njsna.org/, 10/9/13, Bally, Atlantic City. CEUs. 
Frank Fulbrook Memorial, 9/6/13, 2:30 pm, Sacred Heart Church, Ferry Ave., Camden.
Ed (NJ Weedman) Forchion, Evesham Court, 9/12/13 11:20 am (Brownie Day).
Amy Doherty, Medford Court, 9/19/13, 11 am, medical marijuana possession cases.
Ewing Community Fest: Sat., 10/5/13, 10 am to 5 pm at TCNJ.
Lawrence Community Day, Sun., 10/6/13, Lawrence Twp., NJ

Recent events:
Slightly Stoopid, Stone Pony, Asbury Park, 8/27. Thanks to our volunteers!
Homegrown Radio (WRNJ) Interview, 8/22/13. 
Smoke Down Prohibition VIII, Liberty Bell, Philadelphia, 8/31/13.

Treasury report: Checking: $4986; PayPal: $3611. Billboard raised $562; campaign continues.

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, (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
Tuesday, August 13, 2013; 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

7:00 PM: Call meeting to order. July 2013 minutes approved. Discussion:

Illinois is now the 20th medical marijuana state!

S2842/A4241 a bill to improve access to medical marijuana in NJ is now on Gov. Christie’s desk awaiting action by him by Aug. 19, 2013. Tell Gov. Christie to sign this important bill into law.

NJ’s Medicinal Marijuana Program: Greenleaf ATC in Montclair has been shut down most of June and all of July. No word from DOH on when Greenleaf will reopen. About 1200 NJ patients with ID cards are on a waiting list. Egg Harbor ATC is scheduled to open in September.

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, Stone Pony, 8/27/13.
NORML NJ Marijuana Reform Rally/Don DeZarn Legalize Marijuana Tour, Statehouse, Trenton, 
NJ, Sunday, 9/8/13 3pm: https://www.facebook.com/events/600582749991970/
"Medical Marijuana: Legislation + Education = Blueprint for Change" New Jersey State Nurses 
Association Convention http://www.njsna.org/, 10/9/13, Bally, Atlantic City. CEUs. 
Author Martin Lee will sign copies of his book “Smoke Signals” 9/30/13. Benefit dinner?
Candidate’s Night 9/25/13, 7:30 pm, Fields Center, Princeton U.; The Campaign to End the 
New Jim Crow—Princeton, NJ Chapter https://www.facebook.com/events/511028342310465/

Recent events: Lenny Frieling, LEAP, Millburn, NJ, 7/23: 
http://mmjnj.org/html/liveinvite.html
Over 2000 letters were delivered to Gov. Christie at the Statehouse, Trenton, on 8/1.

Mike Miceli—marijuana possession charges dismissed today!

Treasury report: Checking account: $4353; PayPal account: $3611. Billboard campaign raised $562, Larry to look into digital billboard.

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:

Cannabis: The First-Line Medication For Treating Childhood Epilepsy
http://www.ladybud.com/2013/08/07/cannabis-the-first-line-medication-for-treating-childhood-epilepsy/

3rd NJ dispensary gets permission to cultivate pot
http://www.10tv.com/content/stories/apexchange/2013/08/07/nj--medical-marijuana-nj.html

N.J.'s medical marijuana program a scam on the sick: Editorial
http://blog.nj.com/njv_editorial_page/2013/08/njs_medical_marijuana_program_1.html

N.J. health officials give green light for Woodbridge dispensary to begin growing marijuanahttp://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/08/nj_health_officials_give_green_light_for_woodbridge_dispensary_to_begin_growing_marijuana.html

Hope Township mom: More time on kids' medical marijuana bill gives Christie no shot at ignorance 
http://www.lehighvalleylive.com/breaking-news/index.ssf/2013/08/hope_township_mom_added_time_o.html

Why I changed my mind on weed
http://www.cnn.com/2013/08/08/health/gupta-changed-mind-marijuana/index.html?hpt=hp_c4

South Jersey medical pot dispensary set to open
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/new_jersey/20130808_South_Jersey_medical_pot_dispensary_set_to_open.html#ZjkRok2QMzKe1Uib.99

How a 5-Year-Old Girl Gave CNN's Sanjay Gupta New Perspective on Medical Pot
http://www.alternet.org/drugs/how-5-year-old-girl-gave-cnns-sanjay-gupta-new-perspective-medical-pot?page=0%2C0

N.J.'s lone medical marijuana dispensary will reopen Thursday after seven-week hiatus
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/08/njs_lone_medical_marijuana_dispensary_will_reopen_thursday_after_seven-week_hiatus.html

Christie, confronted by Scotch Plains dad, says decision on kid medical pot bill due Friday
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/08/christie_ill_have_a_decision_by_friday_on_medical_marijuana_bill_for_kids.html

Letter: Gov. Chris Christie's regulations strangle N.J. marijuana law
http://www.nj.com/south-jersey-voices/index.ssf/2013/08/letter_gov_chris_christies_reg.html

Assemblywoman Stender urges Governor Christie to put policy before politics when visiting Scotch Plains today 
http://www.nj.com/suburbannews/index.ssf/2013/08/assemblywoman_stender_urges_go.html

'Don't Let My Daughter Die,' Dad Urges Gov. to Sign Medical Marijuana Bill for Kids
http://scotchplains.patch.com/groups/politics-and-elections/p/scotch-plains-dad-confronts-christie-about-medical-marijuana-bill_c06d5729

Christie seeks changes in New Jersey medical marijuana bill
http://edition.cnn.com/2013/08/16/politics/new-jersey-medical-marijuana/?hpt=he_c2

Governor Chris Christie Eases Access to New Jersey’s Medical Marijuana Program for Sick Children
http://nj.gov/governor/news/news/552013/approved/20130816c.html

Dem: Christie To Base Medical Marijuana Decision On ‘How This Is Polling In Iowa’
http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2013/08/15/dem-christies-medical-marijuana-decision-to-be-based-on-how-this-is-polling-in-iowa/

Christie should sign N.J. medical marijuana bill and save kids: Editorial
http://blog.nj.com/njv_editorial_page/2013/08/its_not_complicated_governor_e.html

Father of Sick Child Angry by Christie’s Conditional Veto of Medical Marijuana Bill
http://www.njtvonline.org/njtoday/video/father-of-sick-child-angry-by-christies-conditional-veto-of-medical-marijuana-bill/

Medical Marijuana Bill Sponsor Unhappy with Christie’s Conditional Veto
http://www.njtvonline.org/njtoday/video/medical-marijuana-bill-sponsor-unhappy-with-christies-conditional-veto/

Is medical marijuana OK for children?
http://www.nbcnews.com/video/nightly-news/52783367/#52783367

Is Sanjay Gupta Right About Medical Marijuana?
http://www.usnews.com/opinion/articles/2013/08/08/is-cnns-sanjay-gupta-right-about-weed

Senate Approves Amended Medical Marijuana Bill
http://www.njtvonline.org/njtoday/video/senate-approves-amended-medical-marijuana-bill/

Buono Criticizes Christie for…Conditional Veto of Medical Marijuana Bill
http://www.njtvonline.org/njtoday/video/buono-criticizes-christie-for-initial-reaction-to-conversion-therapy-conditional-veto-of-medical-marijuana-bill/

Christie Amends Medical Marijuana Restrictions
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/17/nyregion/christie-amends-marijuana-restrictions.html?_r=0

SENATE BILL NO. 2842 (First Reprint)
http://nj.gov/governor/news/news/552013/pdf/20130816c.pdf

Woodbridge medical marijuana dispensary owners vow to grow for sick kids
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/08/woodbridge_medical_marijuana_dispensary_owners_vow_to_grow_for_sick_kids.html

The Incredible Impact of Dr. Sanjay Gupta's Medical Marijuana Special
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/tony-newman/the-incredible-impact-of_b_3787326.html

"Piers Morgan Live, Rewind": Medical marijuana
http://piersmorgan.blogs.cnn.com/2013/08/20/piers-morgan-live-rewind-medical-marijuana-when-bears-attack-and-beau-biden-hospitalized/?hpt=pm_mid

"Pot for tots" controversy: Should some kids get medicinal marijuana?
http://www.sheknows.com/parenting/articles/1015223/pot-for-tots-controversy-should-some-children-have-access-to-medicinal-marijuana

N.J.'s failed medical marijuana law and other states eager to repeat it
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/philly420/NJs_failed_weed_state_and_the_other_states_eager_to_repeat_its.html#2FMcQthsx8xBGQ0g.99
Medical marijuana / A step forward
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/opinion/editorials/medical-marijuana-a-step-forward/article_8cc36a69-a72d-5db5-beb1-b03727905389.html

Christie is no supporter of medical marijuana in N.J.
http://em.gmnews.com/news/2013-08-28/Columns/Christie_is_no_supporter_of_medical_marijuana_in_N.html

HomegrownRadioNJ.org ~ Signpost To New Space - 8-22-13 - Ken Wolski - RN-ED - CMMNJ
http://www.mixcloud.com/djezywind/homegrownradionj-signpost-to-new-space-8-22-13-ken-wolski-rn-ed-cmmnj/

Extra:

The real dope on medical pothttp://www.nydailynews.com/real-dope-medical-pot-article-1.1431275

Gary Storck: Medical marijuana laws should include home cultivation
http://host.madison.com/wsj/news/opinion/mailbag/gary-storck-medical-marijuana-laws-should-include-home-cultivation/article_de9463ee-6b0c-548f-bc65-64d5a772dd38.html 

Mormon mom wants medical marijuana for her sick son
http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/news/56788108-78/marijuana-utah-medical-stockton.html.csp

Massachusetts: The Department of Health Receives 181 Dispensary License Applications
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/the-/massachusetts-the-departm_b_3826903.html

Voice for Camden Frank Fulbrook dies
http://www.courierpostonline.com/article/20130827/NEWS01/308270044
THE AMAZING HEALTH BENEFITS OF JUICING RAW CANNABIS (MARIJUANA) LEAVES
http://fitlife.tv/the-amazing-health-benefits-of-juicing-raw-cannabis-marijuana-leaves/

"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/

CMMNJ's August 2013 Public Meeting Agenda

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda
Lawrence Township Library, Room #2
Tuesday, August 13, 2013; 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

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

Illinois is now the 20th medical marijuana state!

S2842, a bill to improve access to medical marijuana in NJ, is now on Gov. Christie’s desk awaiting action by him by Aug. 19, 2013.  Tell Gov. Christie to sign this important bill into law.
Send a fax at: http://lettersforvivian.org/ 
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: 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 and all of July.  No word from DOH on when Greenleaf will reopen.  About 1000 NJ patients with ID cards are on a waiting list.  Egg Harbor ATC to open in September.

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: "Kickin' Up Dust Summer 2013" Slightly Stoopid, Stone Pony, Asbury Park, NJ, August 9, 2013,  https://www.facebook.com/events/431582343597002/
NORML NJ Marijuana Reform Rally Statehouse, Trenton, NJ, Sunday, 9/8/13 3pm: https://www.facebook.com/events/600582749991970/
"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: Lenny Frieling, LEAP, Millburn, NJ, 7/23: http://mmjnj.org/html/liveinvite.html
Over 2000 letters were delivered to Gov. Christie at the Statehouse, Trenton, on 8/1.

Treasury report: Checking account: $4353; PayPal account: $3611.  Billboard campaign on Facebook ended July 21 and raised $562, about 20% of total required. Campaign continues.

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, (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:

Families press Christie on medical marijuana for kids bill
http://www.myfoxny.com/story/23023568/families-press-christie-on-medical-marijuana-for-kids-bill

NJ Family Continues The Fight For Children’s Medical Marijuana
http://newyork.cbslocal.com/video/9155618-nj-family-continues-the-fight-for-childrens-medical-marijuana/

Editorial: Gov. Chris Christie has chance to show compassion by allowing medical marijuana for suffering kids
http://www.nj.com/times-opinion/index.ssf/2013/08/editorial_gov_chris_christie_h.html#incart_river_default

Letters4Vivian letter drop off at Governor's office. 8/1/13
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WFPgxceNJmQ&feature=youtu.be

Mother, son deliver letters to Christie requesting signature on kids' access to medical marijuana bill
http://www.lehighvalleylive.com/breaking-news/index.ssf/2013/08/hope_township_mother_son_deliv.html

Video: Parents of critically ill children deliver letters to Gov. Christie's office
http://videos.nj.com/star-ledger/2013/08/parents_of_critically_ill_chil.html

Is N.J. medical marijuana program the most expensive in nation?
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/08/is_nj_medical_marijuana_program_the_most_expensive_in_nation.html#incart_river

Families urge Gov. Christie: improve access to medical marijuana
https://www.facebook.com/ken.wolski/media_set?set=a.10151566029658657.1073741841.502598656&type=1

Egg Harbor Township-based medical marijuana CEO expecting failure
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/top_three/egg-harbor-township-based-medical-marijuana-ceo-expecting-failure/article_6628e71a-a79a-508b-bf15-520d2a2ff64c.html

The science of medical marijuana is hard
http://www.nashuatelegraph.com/news/1011407-469/the-science-of-medical-marijuana-is-hard.html

Christie pressed to OK medical pot for children
http://articles.philly.com/2013-07-18/news/40636856_1_lettersforvivian-org-medical-marijuana-christie

Medical marijuana momentum should be building, but isn't
http://www.mcall.com/news/local/carpenter/mc-pc-medical-marijuana-momentum-20130719,0,12651.column

Where's The Weed? Chasing New Jersey
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EzjorQmv7DU&feature=youtu.be

Ease N.J. regulations on medical marijuana
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/opinion/letters/more-voice-of-the-people-july/article_f4076594-435b-5303-83e3-c0b4eeac716e.html

The Scoop, Compassionate Use Act
http://vimeo.com/69631430

Cannabis Care: New Hampshire medical marijuana regulators urged to learn from New Jersey’s failures
http://www.nashuatelegraph.com/news/1011522-469/cannabis-care-new-hampshire-medical-marijuana-regulators.html

Who really benefits from illegal marijuana in New Jersey?
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/philly420/Big_Bucks_In_New_Jerseys_Illegal_Marijuana_.html#Yd1zAj1SdpMbaZUr.99

Joseph D’Souza Trial
http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2013/04/joseph-dsouzas-trial.html

NJ Tries to Upgrade Med MJ, but Gov. Christie Is Opposed
http://www.hightimes.com/read/nj-tries-upgrade-med-mj-gov-christie-opposed

New bill helps kids get relief without the high
http://www.phillyburbs.com/news/local/burlington_county_times_news/opinion/letters_to_editor/new-bill-helps-kids-get-relief-without-the-high/article_48510604-0395-5874-a7c2-c47435ceb4cb.html

Hope Township mother, son to urge Gov. Christie to sign kids' access to medical marijuana bill
http://www.lehighvalleylive.com/breaking-news/index.ssf/2013/07/hope_township_mother_son_urge.html

Families urge Gov. Christie to improve access to medical marijuana
http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2013/07/families-urge-gov-christie-to-ease.html

Christie: 'Quack Doctors' Won't Prescribe Medical Marijuana in New Jersey
http://brick.patch.com/groups/politics-and-elections/p/christie-quack-doctors-wont-prescribe-medical-marijuana-in-new-jersey?fb_action_ids=10151514005973657&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=aggregation&fb_aggregation_id=288381481237582

Parents want medical marijuana for young child
http://www.myfoxny.com/story/22690991/young-nj-girls-parents-want-medical-marijuan-for-child

Pot policy reveals a Republican rift
http://blog.nj.com/njv_paul_mulshine/2013/08/post_183.html

LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Christie fails to take his own advice
http://www.courierpostonline.com/article/20130805/OPINION01/308050010/LETTER-EDITOR-Christie-fails-take-his-own-advice

Christie has duty to ease children's suffering
http://www.mycentraljersey.com/article/20130803/NJOPINION0101/308030024/Christie-has-duty-ease-children-s-suffering

Advocates Ask for Easier Access to Medical Weed for Kids
http://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/politics/NJ-Child-Pot-Christie-217905051.html

Medical marijuana activists ask Christie to sign law that would ease access for kids
http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/8d610ce940654050bb02643482baa035/NJ--Medical-Marijuana-Kids

The Pathos Of The War On Drugs
http://www.ladybud.com/2013/08/01/the-pathos-of-the-war-on-drugs/

New bill helps kids get relief without the high
http://www.phillyburbs.com/news/local/burlington_county_times_news/opinion/letters_to_editor/new-bill-helps-kids-get-relief-without-the-high/article_48510604-0395-5874-a7c2-c47435ceb4cb.html#.UfJ0XxoyjBk.facebook

Leonard Frieling L.E.A.P. / Colorado NORML
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dz270vaTxBI&feature=youtu.be

New Bill Helps Kids Get Relief Without High
http://www.ahherald.com/opinion-mainmenu-30/letters-to-the-editor/15950-new-bill-helps-kids-get-relief-without-high

Lift 3-Strain Limit on Medical Marijuana
http://www.ahherald.com/opinion-mainmenu-30/letters-to-the-editor/15938-lift-3-strain-limit-on-medical-marijuana

Extra:

Illinois now the 20th medical marijuana state!
http://www.mpp.org/states/illinois/

What Legalizing Pot In Uruguay Means For the World
http://ideas.time.com/2013/08/02/what-legalizing-pot-in-uruguay-means-for-the-world/?iid=op-main-lead

DoseNation 26: Ken Wolski, Coalition for Medical Marijuana New Jersey
http://www.dosenation.com/listing.php?smlid=8771

Smoke Down Prohibition VII Remarks, July 26, 2013
https://www.facebook.com/notes/ken-wolski/smoke-down-prohibition-vii-remarks-july-26-2013/10151798761194808

Marijuana Legalization Advocates Return to Independence Mall This Friday for Smoke Down Prohibition VII
http://blog.norml.org/2013/07/24/marijuana-legalization-advocates-return-to-independence-mall-this-friday-for-smoke-down-prohibition-vii/#sthash.JxP6sCwd.gbpl

Cannabis Induces a Clinical Response in Patients With Crohn's Disease: A Prospective Placebo-Controlled Study
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23648372

Needless Suffering of Medical Marijuana Patient Embodies Federal-State Conflict: A Prison Extraction
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/sunil-kumar-aggarwal/medical-marijuana-patient_b_3619067.html?view=screen%3Fshow_comment_id%3D270753158#comment_270753158sb=131006b=facebook

Marijuana legalization is inevitable in Indiana, rest of nation
http://www.indystar.com/article/20130606/OPINION03/306060032/Marijuana-legalization-inevitable-Indiana-rest-nation?fb_action_ids=10151474431628657&fb_action_types=og.recommends&fb_ref=artsharetop&fb_source=aggregation&fb_aggregation_id=288381481237582

Dr. Sanjay Gupta talks aabout his new marijuana documentary with Craig Ferguson
http://vimeo.com/67957753

Small Amounts Of THC Can Defend Against Heart Attacks
http://www.medicaljane.com/2013/07/22/thc-is-beneficial-for-brain-heart-health/

Can Marijuana Cure Cancer? 5 Reasons Why It (Probably) Could
http://www.truthonpot.com/2013/07/30/can-cannabis-cure-cancer-5-reasons-why-it-probably-could/

D.C. records its first legal pot deal in at least 75 years
http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/dc-politics/dc-records-its-first-legal-pot-deal-in-at-least-75-years/2013/07/29/17521b42-f889-11e2-b018-5b8251f0c56e_story.html?tid=pm_local_pop

Cannabis for Elders: A Precarious Stat
http://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2013/07/cannabis-for-elders-a-precarious-state/278004/

Medical Marijuana: Clearing Away the Smoke
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3358713/?tool=pubmed

Federally Sponsored Marijuana Study Backfires: Scientists Conclude DEA Should Reclassify Cannabis
http://www.marijuana.com/news/2013/07/federally-sponsored-marijuana-study-backfires-scientists-conclude-dea-should-reclassify-cannabis/

California pot research backs therapeutic claims
http://www.sacbee.com/2012/07/12/4625608/california-pot-research-backs.html

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/