CMMNJ Monthly Public Meeting Agenda for 9/8/15

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 

Lawrence Township Library, Room #3

Tuesday, September 8, 2015, 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM 

Approve August 2015 minutes.  Discuss:

About 50,000 all hemp wristbands and necklaces were donated to CMMNJ by Pete Christopher. The multicolored wristbands and necklaces were hand-rolled in Romania. Suggested: $3/apiece; 2 for $5.

A4587—Requires schools to permit medical marijuana use by qualifying patients.  Introduced on 6/22/15, passed the Assembly on 6/25; passed the Senate on 6/29; awaits action by Gov. Christie.

Unfavorable  response to Barbour lawsuit against LARC School & Maple Shade BOE on 6/25.

“CMMNJ TV”—taping 8/18: Next taping: Sept. 29, 2015, noon to 4 pm—all Spanish episode. 

Weekly Statehouse Podcasts: see Facebook “Friends of CMMNJ” or Sativa Cross for details. 

CMMNJ Patient Handbook 2015—photo of ATC “trademark” removed prior to further distribution.

Upcoming Events: NJWeedman’s event, Sat., 9/5/15, and March for Ganja, 9/4/15, Trenton.

"Higher Ground @ Asbury Spark" on 9/11, 12 & 13, Asbury Park, with Roland Ramos.

Septemberfest: on 9/13, 10 am to 5 pm (rain date 9/20) in Hamilton Twp’s. Veterans Park.

PicklePalooza, 9/19, Island Beach State Park.

Burlington Co. Library, Volunteer event, 9/19/15. 

Boston Freedom Rally 9/26 (noon to 8) & 9/27/ (noon to 6).

NJ Cannabis Freedom Rally, 10/17/15, 1pm, Trenton State House.

2015 Reform Conference, 11/18-21, Crystal Gateway Marriott, Arlington, VA.

Trial of Jon Peditto, Toms River; jury selection 10/19/15; jury nullification trial 10/20/15.

Treasury report: Checking: $3432; PayPal: $3772. 

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

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

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

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

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 

August 11, 2015 

Support for Marijuana Legalization Reaches New High in NJ in FDU Poll.  

NJWeedman’s marijuana conviction appeal was denied by Superior Court Appellate Div.  Courts remain openly hostile to marijuana.  Less than 1% chance that the NJ Supreme Court will review the appellate decision.  Ed Hannaman to check with Constitutional Law clinic at R.U.

Asbury Park Resolution in support of legalizing marijuana passed unanimously by city council and mayor on 7/8/15.  Now on to 564 other NJ municipalities.

A4587—Requires schools to permit medical marijuana use by qualifying patients.  Introduced on 6/22/15, passed the Assembly and the Senate by 6/29; awaits action by Gov. Christie.

Per aide from Sen. Scutari’s office, CC does not have to act until the next time the Assembly has a quorum, perhaps mid-September or later. Await response to Barbour lawsuit against LARC School & Maple Shade BOE (hearing 6/25).

Jim Ross case discussed; Jim faces charges in Palmyra Municipal Court for a having three year old medical marijuana bottle from an ATC.

Sue Livio to look into delay by DOH in adding qualifying conditions for marijuana therapy.

“CMMNJ TV”—taping canceled 7/23: Next taping: August 18, 2015, noon to 4 pm. 

Weekly Statehouse Podcasts: see Facebook “Friends of CMMNJ” & Sativa Cross for details. “Magic Butter Machine” raffled off monthly on the podcast--retail value $175 - $200

CMMNJ Patient Handbook 2015—no reply from DOH to 6/9 letter re: handbooks in ATCs.

Upcoming Events: Asbury Park Event Sept. 11, 12 & 13 by Roland Ramos & Sara Sensimilla.

Septemberfest application in for 9/6 (rain date 9/13) await approval by Hamilton Twp.

Boston Freedom Rally 9/26 (noon to 8) & 9/27/ (noon to 6) CMMNJ application sent.

Trial of Jon Peditto, Toms River; jury selection 10/19/15; jury nullification trial 10/20/15.

DPA Conference—2015 Reform Conference 11/18 to 11/21/15, Washington, D.C.

Treasury report: Checking: $2277; PayPal: $3258. 

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

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

Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:

Medical marijuana in NJ, nearly six years later

http://nj1015.com/medical-marijuana-in-nj-nearly-six-years-later/?trackback=tsmclip

Irish Legislature (Oireachtas) Urged to Reform Drug Policy

http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2015/08/irish-legislature-oireachtas-urged-to.html

Teen marijuana users turn out fine — major study finds

http://blog.sfgate.com/smellthetruth/2015/08/04/teen-marijuana-users-turn-out-fine-major-study-finds/

NJ Weedman taking marijuana conviction to high court

http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2015/08/nj_weedman_taking_marijuana_conviction_to_high_cou.html

NJ Weedman: I got punched in the stomach by the NJ Appeals Court last week

http://www.trentonian.com/opinion/20150812/nj-weedman-i-got-punched-in-the-stomach-by-the-nj-appeals-court-last-week

NJ Weedman’s Passing the Joint: Trenton City Council needs to smoke a joint

http://www.trentonian.com/opinion/20150828/nj-weedmans-passing-the-joint-trenton-city-council-needs-to-smoke-a-joint

UPDATED: N.J. judge rules teen cannot have medical marijuana at school

http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/08/judge_rules_teen_edible_marijuana_at_school.html

Parents continue to fight for daughter’s use of marijuana

http://watch.njtvonline.org/video/2365555119/

Camden lawmaker, Maple Shade family fight to give daughter medical marijuana oil at school

http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/local/new-jersey/85322-maple-shade-family-fights-to-give-daughter-medical-marijuana-oil-at-school

State by state, medical marijuana rules are all over the map

http://www.philly.com/philly/news/nation_world/20150824_State_by_state__medical_marijuana_rules_are_all_over_the_map.html#GWGF54kgEHd72f3Y.99

Is There A Medical Marijuana Doctor Shortage In New Jersey?

http://patch.com/new-jersey/hoboken/there-medical-marijuana-doctor-shortage-new-jersey-0

This is How Much Marijuana Prohibition Costs You, the Taxpayer

http://mic.com/articles/54803/this-is-how-much-marijuana-prohibition-costs-you-the-taxpayer?utm_source=MarijuanaInfographics.com&utm_campaign=7b314f9564-

Anonymous Claims, The Federal Gov’t Has KNOWN Cannabis Cures Cancer Since 1974

http://thenationalmarijuananews.com/2015/08/anonymous-claims-the-federal-govt-has-known-cannabis-cures-cancer-since-1974/

The Endocannabinoid System: What Nurses Need to Know, An Introduction

http://nursemanifest.com/2015/07/14/the-endocannabinoid-system-what-nurses-need-to-know-an-introduction/?fb_action_ids=10153504495480970&fb_action_types=news.publishes

Why nurses are vital to the medical cannabis community

http://www.unitedpatientsgroup.com/blog/2015/07/13/why-nurses-are-vital-to-the-medical-cannabis-community/

Congress’ summer fling with marijuana

http://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2015/07/dea-marijuana-120674

CMMNJ TV - Randy Thompson "Help Not Handcuffs"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-jXhOqMJaKE&feature=youtu.be

CMMNJ TV - Mary Jane Bunker

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eWZyMSMT1tc

CMMNJ TV- Vanessa Maria

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OI47pi26lsA

D.A.R.E. Published an Op-Ed Calling for Marijuana Legalization [Updated]

http://nymag.com/daily/intelligencer/2015/07/dare-calls-for-marijuana-legalization.html

Irish Legislature (Oireachtas) Urged to Reform Drug Policy

Response to Public Comment Request by The Oireachtas Joint Committee on Justice, Defense and Equality

July 27, 2015

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen of the Committee:

My name is Robert Kane and I am writing this letter with the hope of effecting a change in the national drug policy of Ireland. As a citizen of both the United States of America and Ireland, it is an honor to address such an important issue.

My college years in the 1970s and 1980s were, like those of many young people, a time of experimentation with drugs and alcohol. It was only thanks to the discretion and compassion of a law enforcement officer, that I did not incur an arrest record for a small amount of cannabis.

As a parent, I feel that my ability to openly discuss drug-related issues with our children helps to keep our family close knit and well adjusted. It is unrealistic to expect that my kids abstain completely
from the use of drugs and/or alcohol as they grow older. I believe (as does my wife) that a harm reduction approach is what works best in our home. The last several decades have shown that the global “War on Drugs” cannot be won, and that the casualties include countless broken families left to struggle when a family member goes to jail for a drug related offence. Under current U.S. laws, even a small amount of cannabis can, in some states, result in lengthy prison terms and costs of $10,000.00 or more in legal fees. This is unacceptable.

Ireland has the opportunity to serve as a leader in drug policy reform. It is the moral imperative of any legislative body to preserve the integrity of the family unit, as this is the foundation of a healthy modern society.

The world is growing weary of the mass incarceration of those convicted of victimless crimes and non violent drug offences. Our prison population (in the U.S.) has quadrupled since the 1980’s; largely due to excessive mandatory minimum sentences.

I propose that Ireland adopt a policy similar to the Portuguese Decriminalization Model. Portugal should not be the only place where an E.U. citizen can go to live and not have to worry that they might be incarcerated for possession of a personal amount of any drug. I urge legislators in Ireland to adopt steering and oversight committees which could expand on the Portugal Model in several positive ways.

Bearing in mind the fact that drug use will likely not rise upon decriminalization, the Government of Ireland can and should take the progressive step of allowing addicts to legally procure prescriptions from doctors; and safe access centers be created with social workers, mental health and medical staff on hand for the usage of controlled substances. The goal would be to assist the addict through counseling, education, rehabilitation and ultimately re-introduction into society as part of a productive workforce. This concept could potentially reduce petty thefts and other crimes addicts commit to fund their habits; thereby enabling law enforcement to focus efforts on white collar and violent crime. If the government controlled the supply of hard drugs, these substances could then be closely regulated and dispensed via medical professionals. This approach would insure that quality and purity of various substances are held to pharmaceutical industry standards and are free of unwanted adulterants; while effectively displacing the criminal syndicates which now supply the demand. Cannabis should be legalized for personal use with regulations and taxation implemented. The revenue generated could be used for education similar to the U.S. State of Colorado.
 
While many countries are undergoing a paradigm shift on this topic, the timing seems right for Ireland to transform its drug policy and become the standard to which other nations will aspire to replicate. The potential for medical and psychological clinical research is virtually unlimited once restrictions are eased. Studies presently underway in Israel, the Beckley Foundation in the U.K. and elsewhere show exciting promise with such diseases as Alzheimer’s, many cancers, digestive disorders and depression among others. Cannabis shows promise of alleviating opioid dependence and certain cancers. Easing restrictions on medical and clinical research of previously banned substances could pave the way for universities and corporations to develop new treatments and improve the public’s overall quality of life. This would involve U.N. restrictions to be relaxed, which may be plausible in the near future as evidence mounts in favor of decriminalization.

In summation, it is time for a change in our collective attitudes from that of a punitive culture of judgment, where those with illness and addictions are treated as criminals, to one of compassion and acceptance. When the mystique and allure is stripped from the drug, people may find that moderation is and always will be the key to a healthy and balanced life.

Sincerely,

Robert G. Kane
Ocean View, New Jersey

CMMNJ Agenda for Aug. 11, 2015 Public Meeting

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Twp. Library, Rm. #3
Tuesday, August 11, 2015
7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

Approve July 2015 minutes. Discuss:

Support for Marijuana Legalization Reaches New High in NJ in Fairleigh Dickinson University Poll.

Asbury Park Resolution in support of legalizing marijuana passed unanimously by city council and mayor on 7/8/15.  Now on to 564 other NJ municipalities.

A4587—Requires schools to permit medical marijuana use by qualifying patients.  Introduced on 6/22/15, passed the Assembly on 6/25; passed the Senate on 6/29; awaits action by Gov. Christie.
Await response to Barbour lawsuit against LARC School & Maple Shade BOE (hearing 6/25).

NJ State Senate support sought for bills that were OK’d by the Assembly: A-3726/S2898 – OK’s medical marijuana for PTSD; A-4286/S2899 - OKs transfer of marijuana between ATCs; CR224/SCR166 - Medical marijuana regulations are inconsistent with legislative intent.

“CMMNJ TV”—taping canceled 7/23: Next taping: August 18, 2015, noon to 4 pm.

Weekly Statehouse Podcasts: see Facebook “Friends of CMMNJ” and SativaCross.com for details.

CMMNJ Patient Handbook 2015—no reply from DOH to 6/9 letter re: handbooks in ATCs.

Upcoming Events:
Asbury Park Event Sept. 11, 12 & 13 by Roland Ramos & Sara Sensimilla.
Septemberfest application in for 9/6 (rain date 9/13) await approval by Hamilton Twp.
Boston Freedom Rally 9/26 (noon to 8) & 9/27/ (noon to 6) CMMNJ application sent.
Trial of Jon Peditto, Toms River; jury selection 10/19/15; jury nullification trial 10/20/15.

Recent events:
Weed & Greet Summer BBQ at NJWeedman’s “Joint” 8/1/15.
Hemp Heals, Philly, 7/31/15.

Treasury report: Checking: $2777; PayPal: $3772.

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

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

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

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
July 14, 2015

Asbury Park Resolution in support of legalizing marijuana was passed unanimously by city council and mayor on 7/8/15.  Now on to 564 other NJ municipalities!  See blog, below.

A4587—Requires schools to permit the use of medical marijuana for qualifying patients.  Introduced on 6/22/15, passed the Assembly on 6/25; passed the Senate on 6/29; awaits action by Gov. Christie.  (If CC signs, Ed gives CMMNJ $10; Nick owes Miller $5.)

F/U with head of Senate Health Committee re: bills that were OK’d by the Assembly: A-3726/S2898 - Authorizes medical marijuana for qualifying patients with PTSD; A-4286/S2899 - OKs transfer of excess medical marijuana between ATCs; ACR224/SCR166 - Certain medical marijuana regulations are inconsistent with legislative intent.

Print source for NORML’s “Emerging Clinical Applications’ booklet or put it on flash drives?

NJWeedman’s Joint Resolution by NJ Legislature in support of his Tenton restaurant & temple.

“CMMNJ TV”—taping 7/23 canceled; next taping 8/18, noon to 4 pm. Guests?

Weekly Statehouse Podcasts: see Facebook “Friends of CMMNJ” for photos and details.

CMMNJ Patient Handbook 2015--OK to put handbooks in ATCs? Letter to DOH to have Handbooks in ATC’s went out 6/9/15—over 60 days.

Smoke Down Prohibition 2.0: The Return, 7/10, Love Park, Philly, very successful; no arrests.
Slightly Stoopid, Stone Pony, Asbury Park, 7/11, with Ken, Eric & Amanda--$500 to CMMNJ.

Upcoming Events: Trial of Jon Peditto, Toms River; 8/3/15; jury nullification attempt.
Fundraiser for CMMNJ? CMMNJ needs to participate in more community events to raise funds and to collect more email addresses.

PA Medical Marijuana bill discussed along with opposition by PA Medical Society.

Jessie Sanders case in South Jersey discussed along with letter of support.

Treasury report: Checking: $2277; PayPal: $3258.

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

Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:

Support for Marijuana Legalization Reaches New High in NJ in Fairleigh Dickinson University Poll
http://publicmind.fdu.edu/2015/150731/

Resolution in support of legalizing, taxing and regulating marijuana for adults in New Jersey
http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2015/07/resolution-in-support-of-legalizing.html

NJ Weedman: Reefer Robberies — I salute the real 420 dealers
http://www.trentonian.com/opinion/20150802/nj-weedman-reefer-robberies-x2014-i-salute-the-real-420-dealers

Oh Hell Yes Smokedown Prohibition 2.0
http://phillydeclaration.org/2015/07/02/oh-hell-yes-smokedown-prohibition-2-0/

VIDEO: Weedney Houston Performs Throughout Gayborhood
http://www.phillymag.com/g-philly/2015/07/07/video-weedney-houston-performs-throughout-gayborhood/#more-2980904

10 Ways to Be a Responsible Cannabis User
http://greenflowermedia.com/article/10-ways-to-be-a-responsible-cannabis-user/

1 Statistic that demonstrates why the marijuana movement is so powerful
http://www.foxbusiness.com/investing/2015/08/02/1-statistic-that-demonstrates-why-marijuana-movement-is-so-powerful/

Pro-pot rally lights up in LOVE Park in Philly at 4:20 p.m. (VIDEO)
http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2015/07/love_park_rally_to_support_marijuana_decriminaliza.html

Philly420: Taxing Pa. medical marijuana the wrong approach
http://www.philly.com/philly/columnists/philly420/Philly420_Taxing_Pa_medical_marijuana_the_wrong_approach.html#i5fIlcVp0CzGKtmo.99

How ‘Medical’ Is Marijuana?
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/07/21/upshot/is-there-anything-actually-medical-about-medical-marijuana.html?emc=edit_tnt_20150720&nlid=17961243&tntemail0=y&_r=0&abt=0002&abg=1

What I Learned at the Weed Dispensary
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/07/28/opinion/what-i-learned-at-the-weed-dispensary.html?emc=edit_tnt_20150728&nlid=17961243&tntemail0=y

New York Senator Schumer Co-Sponsors Federal Medical Marijuana Legislation
http://www.theweedblog.com/new-york-senator-schumer-co-sponsors-federal-medical-marijuana-legislation/

New York State Awards 5 Medical Marijuana Licenses
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/08/01/nyregion/new-york-state-awards-5-medical-marijuana-licenses.html?emc=edit_tnt_20150731&nlid=17961243&tntemail0=y

Support for legalized pot in NJ reaches new highs
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/support-for-legalized-pot-in-nj-reaches-new-highs/article_d5ffe68e-3773-11e5-a348-2f41f1948875.html

'Don't Let My Daughter Die, Governor!' Drug Warrior Chris Christie Promises to Escalate the War on Weed
https://reason.com/blog/2015/08/01/chris-christie-medical-marijuana-child

The Scientist
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=csbJnBKqwIw

Chris Christie To Overturn Marijuana Legalization
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtHWAnm01b4

Resolution in support of legalizing, taxing and regulating marijuana for adults in New Jersey

City of Asbury Park
County of Monmouth
State of New Jersey

IN SUPPORT OF LEGALIZING, TAXING AND REGULATING
MARIJUANA FOR ADULTS

WHEREAS, New Jersey law currently makes possession by adults of small amounts of marijuana illegal; and

WHEREAS, based upon information available to the City of Asbury Park (the “City”), someone is arrested for marijuana possession in the State of New Jersey (the “State”) every 24 minutes, totaling more than 21,000 possession arrests each year; and

WHEREAS, based upon information available to the City, the State spent over an estimated one billion dollars in the last decade on enforcement of marijuana possession laws; and

WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of the City believe that the existing laws concerning small amounts of marijuana waste the enforcement resources of police, prosecutors and courts that could be better spent on keeping the City safe from serious crime; and

WHEREAS, based upon information available to the City, minorities in the State are nearly three times more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession than Caucasians, despite similar rates of marijuana use; and

WHEREAS, based upon information available to the City, an arrest for a single marijuana cigarette in the State can lead to up to six months in jail, loss of a job, a driver’s license suspension, up to $1,225 in fees and fines, immigration consequences, loss of student financial aid, and eviction; and

WHEREAS, based upon information available to the City, despite the prohibition of marijuana and the approximately 800,000 marijuana possession arrests that occur in the United States each year, federal government data estimates that 111 million Americans have tried marijuana and more than 30 million Americans use marijuana each year; and

WHEREAS, based upon information available to the City, in 2014 the New Jersey State Municipal Prosecutors Association, whose members are primarily responsible for prosecuting marijuana possession arrests, voted to publicly support the legalization of marijuana, subject to reasonable regulations; and

WHEREAS, based upon information available to the City, the editorial boards of the New York Times, Star-Ledger, Times of Trenton, and Daily Targum have endorsed the legalization, taxation and regulation of marijuana; and

WHEREAS, based upon information available to the City, the State could potentially receive hundreds of millions of dollars per year in new revenue from the taxation of regulated marijuana sales; and

WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of the City believe that tax revenue can be used to reinvest in our communities, schools, drug prevention and education programs, re-entry and job training programs and in programs to strengthen community-police relations; and

WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of the City believe that regulating marijuana in a State-controlled system will limit access to marijuana to adults aged 21 and over in licensed locations; and

WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of the City believe that regulation will ensure strict controls over marijuana advertising, labeling, and quality, preventing access to youth and controlling quality and potency; and

WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of the City recognize that driving under the influence of marijuana will remain illegal in the State, and regulating marijuana will not change that; and

WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of the City are aware that marijuana has been legalized, taxed, and regulated in the States of Colorado, Washington, Alaska, and Oregon, as well as in Washington D.C.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE AND IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the City of Asbury Park, in the County of Monmouth and State of New Jersey, as follows:

1. That the Mayor and Council of the City hereby support fair and effective criminal justice and drug policies; and

2. That the Mayor and Council of the City hereby urge the New Jersey State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, legislation to legalize, tax and regulate marijuana for adults; and

3. That a certified copy of this Resolution shall be provided to each of the following:

a. Members of the New Jersey General Assembly;
b. Members of the New Jersey State Senate;
c. Office of the Governor;
d. Anthony Nuccio, Acting City Manager;
e. Deputy Police Chief Anthony Salerno;
f. Frederick C. Raffetto, Esq., Municipal Attorney.

I, CINDY A. DYE, City Clerk of the City of Asbury Park, Monmouth County, New Jersey, DO HEREBY CERTIFY the foregoing to be a true and exact copy of RESOLUTION NO. 2015-XX, which was finally adopted by the City Council at a meeting held on the 8th day of July, 2015.

CERTIFIED BY ME THIS _______ DAY OF _____________, 2015.

______________________________
CINDY A. DYE
CITY CLERK

Record of Council Vote on Final Passage
COUNCIL PERSON AYE NAY N.V. (Not Voting Abstain)
Mayor John Moor AYE
Deputy Mayor Amy Quinn AYE
Council Member Yvonne Clayton AYE
Council Member Jesse Kendle AYE
Council Member Joe Woerner AYE

Indicates vote N.V.-

CMMNJ Agenda for July 14, 2015 Public Meeting; June Minutes & Media Update

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Township Library, Room #3
Tuesday, July 14, 2015, 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM 

Approve June 2015 minutes.  Discuss:

Asbury Park Resolution in support of legalizing marijuana up for a vote on 7/8/15, 7 pm at One Municipal Plaza, Asbury Park, 07712

A4587—Requires schools and developmental disability facilities to adopt policies permitting the use of medical marijuana for qualifying patients. Introduced on 6/22/15, passed the Assembly on 6/25; passed the Senate on 6/29; awaits action by Gov. Christie.

NJ State Senate support sought for bills that were OK’d by the Assembly: A-3726/S2898 - Authorizes medical marijuana for qualifying patients with PTSD; A-4286/S2899 - OKs transfer of excess medical marijuana between ATCs; ACR224/SCR166 - Certain medical marijuana regulations are inconsistent with legislative intent.

“CMMNJ TV”—taping canceled 6/30: Next taping: July 23, 2015, noon to 4 pm.
Weekly Statehouse Podcasts: see Facebook “Friends of CMMNJ” for details.
CMMNJ Patient Handbook 2015--$10 donation suggested—OK to put handbooks in ATCs?

Upcoming Events:
Smoke Down Prohibition 2.0: The Return, Friday, 7/10/15 at 4 pm in Love Park, Philly.
Slightly Stoopid, Stone Pony, Asbury Park, 7/11/15—Eric & Amanda volunteered.
Trial of Jon Peditto, Toms River; jury selection delayed to 8/3/15; jury nullification attempt.
Fundraiser for CMMNJ?

Recent events:
Barbour lawsuit against LARC School & Maple Shade BOE hearing 6/25/15.
Asbury Park officials agree to pass resolution urging state lawmakers to legalize marijuana.

Treasury report: Checking: $2277; PayPal: $3758.

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

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

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

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

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
June 9, 2015 

The NJ Senate Health Committee is scheduled to hold a hearing and take testimony on the following bills on Monday, 6/15/15 at 1:00 pm in Committee Room #1 in the Statehouse Annex.
CMMNJ encourages public testimony in support of these bills:
S2898 - Authorizes medical marijuana for qualifying patients with PTSD.
S2899 - OKs transfer of excess medical marijuana between ATCs.
(Note: the bills were pulled from the committee's agenda at the last minute on 6/15.)

“CMMNJ TV”—episode taped 5/27, next taping: 6/30, noon to 4 pm. Guests?
June Thursday demonstrations at the Statehouse continue 6/11, 18 & 25, 11 am to 2 pm.

News: Gov. Christie vows to eliminate legalized marijuana if elected president.

U.S. House votes to stop DEA & DOJ from interfering with state medical marijuana laws, 6/3.

HUD’s policy “guidelines” for medical marijuana patients—evict them even if no conviction!

Former head of NJ’s MMP, John O’Brien, is now compliance officer at Pallia Tech in NY.

National Geographic and Time both have very positive cover stories on marijuana.

CMMNJ Patient Handbook available--$10 donation suggested.  Handbooks should be in ATCs—letter sent to DOH asking permission for this today.

Upcoming Events:
Smoke Down Prohibition 2.0: The Return, Friday, 7/10/15 at 4 pm in Love Park, Philly.
Slightly Stoopid, Stone Pony, Asbury Park, 7/11/15—Eric & Amanda volunteered.
Oaksterdam Certification Class, Washington, D.C., 6/27 & 6/28 ($600 for 13 hours).
Barbour lawsuit against LARC School & Maple Shade BOE.
Fundraiser for CMMNJ? CMMNJ needs to participate in more community events to raise funds and to collect more email addresses.
Trial of Jon Peditto, Toms River; 8/3/15; jury nullification attempt

Recent events:
"Patients Out of Time" conference, W. Palm Beach, Florida, 5/21-23/15.
NJWeedman’s appellate court oral arguments, 5/27, Hughes Justice Complex. Trenton.
NJ United for Marijuana Reform Conference Call, 5/7/15. https://www.njumr.org

Treasury report: Checking: $2401; PayPal: $3749.

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

Recent Media Coverage and Blogs

Legislature Approves Greenwald & Lampitt Bill to Ensure Students with Debilitating Illnesses & Disabilities are Not Denied Medical Marijuana Relief while at School
http://www.assemblydems.com/Article.asp?ArticleID=9935

Asbury Park backs legalization of marijuana
http://www.app.com/story/news/local/eatontown-asbury-park/asbury-park/2015/06/29/asbury-park-backs-legalization-marijuana/29491579/?fb_ref=Default

Good Housekeeping: Medical Marijuana Saved Our Daughter's Life
http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/a33066/genny-barbour-medical-marijuana/

Marijuana saved this mother's life
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8hyRgN8pQXk

PalliaTech hires former New Jersey pot czar as compliance chief
http://www.newsday.com/business/palliatech-hires-former-new-jersey-pot-czar-john-o-brien-as-compliance-chief-1.10499446

N.J. medical marijuana activists annoyed
as dormant nonprofit pushes for N.Y. dispensary
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/06/nj_medical_marijuana_activists_annoyed_as_dormant.html

Medical Marijuana Feeds Familiar Hopes of Renewal Around New York State
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/02/nyregion/medical-marijuana-feeds-familiar-hopes-of-renewal-around-new-york-state.html?emc=edit_tnt_20150604&nlid=17961243&tntemail0=y&_r=0

Would you break the law to help a sick relative if medical marijuana is not approved? PennLive poll
http://www.pennlive.com/opinion/2015/06/breaking_the_law_to_help_a_sic.html#incart_story_package

Legalized marijuana would be eliminated under a Christie presidency
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/06/recreational_marijuana_would_get_turned_off_under.html

7 States Where Medical Marijuana Is Legal But Barely Accessible
http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/news/7-states-where-medical-marijuana-is-legal-but-barely-accessible-20150609#ixzz3cg9pyklH

PTSD sufferers should have medical pot access, says NJ lawmaker
http://nj1015.com/ptsd-sufferers-should-have-medical-pot-access-says-nj-lawmaker/

Companies Can Fire Workers for Marijuana Use, Colorado Court Rules
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/16/us/companies-can-fire-workers-for-marijuana-use-colorado-court-rules.html?emc=edit_tnt_20150615&eml_thmb=1&nlid=17961243&tntemail0=y&_r=0

'NJ Weedman's Joint' opens in Trenton with $4.20 specials
http://www.nj.com/mercer/index.ssf/2015/06/nj_weedmans_joint_opens_in_trenton_with_420_specia.html

NJ Weedman opens Trenton restaurant
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/NJ_Weedman_opens_Trenton_restaurant.html

Medical marijuana laws don't influence teens to light up, study says
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/06/medical_marijuana_laws_dont_influence_teens_to_lig.html

Study: medical marijuana laws don't influence teens to smoke
http://www.phillyvoice.com/study-medical-marijuana-laws-nfluence-teens/

NJ's medical marijuana patients in danger of losing jobs
http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/local/new-jersey/83123-njs-medicial-marijuana-patients-in-danger-of-losing-jobs

Parents: Let our teen take medical marijuana
http://www.courierpostonline.com/story/news/local/south-jersey/2015/06/16/maple-shade-parents-suing-medical-marijuana/28804985/

Poll: Should N.J. tax and legalize marijuana use by people 21 and older?
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/06/poll_should_nj_tax_and_legalize_marijuana_use_by_p.html

Study: Scant evidence that medical pot helps many illnesses
http://www.my9nj.com/story/29387273/study-scant-evidence-that-medical-pot-helps-many-illnesses

The American Legion: The Cannabis Question
http://www.legion.org/magazine/228290/cannabis-question

Bill permitting edible medical marijuana in N.J. schools up for final vote
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/06/bill_permitting_edible_medical_marijuana_in_nj_sch.html

Allowing kids to get medical marijuana in NJ schools now up to Christie
http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/local/item/83620-allowing-kids-to-be-given-medical-marijuana-in-nj-schools-now-up-to-chrisitie

N.J. lawmakers send bill to Christie allowing students to use medical marijuana in school
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/06/nj_lawmakers_approve_bill_allowing_students_consum.html

Dr. Jahan Marcu, The Biochemical System Controlling the Effects of Cannabis: An Introduction
http://www.safeaccessnow.org/the_biochemical_system_controlling_the_effects_of_cannabis_an_introduction

Dr. David Allen the discovery of the Endocannabinoid System - 420InSight
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0eDy5zdAt9o

'Weedman' case proves religious discrimination in Burlington County
http://www.burlingtoncountytimes.com/opinion/letters/weedman-case-proves-religious-discrimination-in-burlington-county/article_83776f68-b607-53c4-a28d-04f35963f491.html
and:
https://www.facebook.com/notes/ken-wolski/njweedman-proves-religious-discrimination-in-burlco/10153379365674808

CMMNJ Minutes for June 2015 Public Meeting

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
June 9, 2015

A NJ Senate Health Committee hearing is scheduled for Monday, 6/15/15 at 1:00 pm in Committee Room #1 in the Statehouse Annex to take public testimony on the following bills that CMMNJ supports:
S2898 - Authorizes medical marijuana for qualifying patients with PTSD.
S2899 - OKs transfer of excess medical marijuana between ATCs.

“CMMNJ TV”—episode taped 5/27, next taping: 6/30, noon to 4 pm. Guests?
June Thursday demonstrations at the Statehouse continue 6/11, 18 & 25, 11 am to 2 pm.

News: Gov. Christie vows to eliminate legalized marijuana if elected president.
U.S. House votes to stop DEA & DOJ from interfering with state medical marijuana laws, 6/3.
HUD’s policy “guidelines” for medical marijuana patients—evict them even if no conviction!
Former head of NJ’s MMP, John O’Brien, is now compliance officer at Pallia Tech in NY.
National Geographic and Time both have very positive cover stories on marijuana.

CMMNJ Patient Handbook is available--$10 donation suggested.  Handbooks should be in ATCs—letter sent to DOH asking permission for this today.

Upcoming Events: Trial of Jon Peditto, Toms River; 8/3/15; jury nullification attempt.
Smoke Down Prohibition 2.0: The Return, Friday, 7/10/15 at 4 pm in Love Park, Philly.
Slightly Stoopid, Stone Pony, Asbury Park, 7/11/15—Eric & Amanda volunteered.
Oaksterdam Certification Class, Washington, D.C., 6/27 & 6/28 ($600 for 13 hours).
Barbour lawsuit against LARC School & Maple Shade BOE.
Fundraiser for CMMNJ? CMMNJ needs to participate in more community events to raise funds and to collect more email addresses.

Recent events: "Patients Out of Time" conference, W. Palm Beach, Florida, 5/21-23/15.
NJWeedman’s appellate court oral arguments, 5/27, Hughes Justice Complex. Trenton.
NJ United for Marijuana Reform conference call, 5/7/15. https://www.njumr.org

Treasury report: Checking: $2401; PayPal: $3749.

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

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

CMMNJ Public Meeting Agenda for 6/9/15

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Township Library, Room #3
Tuesday, June 9, 2015, 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

Approve May 2015 minutes.  Discuss:

National Geographic and Time magazine both have very positive cover stories on marijuana.

NJ State Senate support sought for the following bills that were OK’d by Assembly floor votes and are now in the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee:

• A-3726/S2898 - Authorizes medical marijuana for qualifying patients with PTSD. 
• A-4286/S2899 - OKs transfer of excess medical marijuana between ATCs.
• ACR224/SCR166 - Certain medical marijuana regulations are inconsistent with legislative intent. 

“CMMNJ TV”—episode taped 5/27: Next taping: late June TBD, noon to 4 pm.

Weekly demonstrations at the Statehouse, (see Facebook Friends of CMMNJ for details) with live Podcasts.

CMMNJ Patient Handbook 2015--$10 donation suggested—OK to put handbooks in ATCs?

Upcoming Events:
Trial of Jon Peditto, Toms River; jury selection delayed to 8/3/15; jury nullification attempt.

Recent events: NJWeedman’s appeal of his conviction in Trenton, 5/27.
"Patients Out of Time" conference, W. Palm Beach, Florida, 5/21-23/15.
NJ United for Marijuana Reform Conference Call, 5/7/15.

Treasury report: Checking: $2401; PayPal: $3749.

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

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

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

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

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
May 12, 2015

CMMNJ testified at NJ Assembly Committee hearing on 3/16. Two bills & one resolution were approved by an Assembly floor vote. Jim P. posted phone scripts on CMMNJ website to get Senate support for:
A-3726 - Authorizes medical marijuana for qualifying patients with PTSD.
A-4286 - OKs transfer of excess medical marijuana between ATCs.
ACR-224 - Certain medical marijuana regulations are inconsistent with legislative intent:

SB3 passed in the PA Senate today; now to the house; poll shows 92% OK with MM in PA.

Sen. Folmer wants stories of NJ patients; issues with MMP; send to kimbetesh@yahoo.com

Genny Barbour story from Maple Shade, NJ made PEOPLE magazine.

“CMMNJ TV”—episodes taped 4/28: Next taping: 5/27, noon to 4 pm. Jim M. to host vets.

Weekly Thursday demonstrations at the Statehouse resumed 4/2/15.

CARERS Act gains momentum in U.S. Congress--the first-ever such bill in U.S. Senate.

CMMNJ Patient Handbook available--$10 donation suggested.  Handbooks should be in ATCs—check with DOH first.

Sharon, a researcher from the ACLU NJ, is looking to tell the stories of adults who have been busted in NJ for small amounts of marijuana (no growers, no DUIs):  call her at 973.519.2847.

Upcoming Events: Trial of Jon Peditto, Toms River; delayed; jury nullification attempt.
NJWeedman’s appeal of his conviction: oral arguments scheduled for 5/27, Trenton.
"Patients Out of Time" conference, W. Palm Beach, Florida, 5/21-23/15.

Recent events: CNN’s “WEED 3” with Dr. Sanjay Gupta, 4/19/15 at 9 pm.
Connie’s Ric Rac 420 event with PhillyNORML, 4/18, S. Philly.
4/20 & 4/25 Protest, March & Concert, 8am– 8 pm, Trenton’s Mill Hill Park to the Statehouse.
Million Marijuana March, 5/2, 2pm – 5pm, Camden, NJ.

Treasury report: Checking: $2840; PayPal: $3681.
More info:  Ken Wolski, RN, (609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com
http://www.cmmnj.org

Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:

“We have just scratched the surface,” (Dr. Raphael Mechoulam) says, “and I greatly regret that I don’t have another lifetime to devote to this field, for we may well discover that cannabinoids are involved in some way in all human diseases.”

Science Seeks to Unlock Marijuana’s Secrets
As the once-vilified drug becomes more accepted, researchers around the world are trying to understand how it works and how it might fight disease.
http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2015/06/marijuana/sides-text?sf9354478=1http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2015/06/marijuana/sides-text?sf9354478=1

The Great Pot Experiment
http://time.com/3858353/the-great-pot-experiment/

Teen Battling Epilepsy Fights for the Right to Take Medical Marijuana at School
http://www.people.com/article/new-jersey-family-appeals-ban-preventing-teen-medical-marijuana-school

Vets with PTSD call for medical marijuana expansion
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/20150510_Vets_with_PTSD_call_for_medical_marijuana_expansion.html

Poll: Should students be allowed to use medical marijuana in school?
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/05/poll_should_students_be_allowed_to_use_medical_mar.html

Medical marijuana at school – Should it be allowed? – Poll
http://nj1015.com/medical-marijuana-at-school-should-it-be-allowed-poll/

CBS2 Exclusive: A Look Inside New Jersey’s Cannabis Factory
http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2015/05/14/medical-marijuana-factor-nj-seen-at-11/

Medical marijuana's sky-high price in New Jersey
http://www.cbsnews.com/news/medical-marijuanas-sky-high-price-in-new-jersey/

Substance abuse risk not greater in those using medical marijuana with prescribed opioids
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2015-05/joso-sar051115.php

An Open Letter to Those Who Oppose Cannabis Clothes
http://www.ladybud.com/2015/05/19/an-open-letter-to-those-who-oppose-cannabis-clothes/

Philly420: Surprises at Gov. Wolf's Medical Marijuana Forum
http://www.philly.com/philly/columnists/philly420/Philly420_Surprises_at_Gov_Wolfs_Medical_Marijuana_Forum_.html#P7DbAJLxuDEOrl37.99

NJ Weedman opens restaurant, sanctuary across the street from Trenton City Hall http://www.trentonian.com/general-news/20150525/nj-weedman-opens-restaurant-sanctuary-across-the-street-from-trenton-city-hall

NJWeedman still fighting Burlington County marijuana conviction
"Our best hope now is NJWeedman," (Wolski) said.
http://www.burlingtoncountytimes.com/news/local/njweedman-still-fighting-burlington-county-marijuana-conviction/article_55015b7a-05d6-50a9-a617-8df976eaf420.html?mode=jqm&m=featuredspot

Medical Cannabis Conference 2015 Highlights
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yJAZvQVshfk&feature=youtu.be

NJ Weedman’s Passing the Joint: Now we wait for court’s decision in NJ v Forchion http://www.trentonian.com/opinion/20150529/nj-weedmans-passing-the-joint-now-we-wait-for-courts-decision-in-nj-v-forchion

NBC10 @ Issue: Medical Marijuana in PA:
http://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/video/#!/news/local/NBC10---Issue--Medical-Marijuana--Part-1/305638261

Medical marijuana – criticizing the cost of cannabis in New Jersey
http://nj1015.com/medical-marijuana-criticizing-the-cost-of-cannabis-in-new-jersey/