March 05, 2010
Tuesday March 23: Statewide Day of Prayer for Compassion
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, March 5, 2010
Here is the latest event to help pass the JRMMA. Please join us, wherever you may be all day on Tuesday, March 23, 2010 and pray for compassion and the passage of the JRMMA.
Statewide Day of Prayer for Compassion
When a friend or loved one is fighting illness, we pray for them. The collective consciousness of prayer can be a unifying and healing force for those struggling with a medical condition and the people who care about them.
Just as prayer can be a therapy in healing and dealing with chronic illness, so can medical cannabis. At the 8 hours plus Dec. 15 combined Health Committee Hearings at the Capitol for AN445/SB368 the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, many patients testified how both cannabis and their faith got them through their personal ordeals.
With the JRMMA now needing the support of a majority of state legislators to become reality, it seems appropriate to call a Statewide Day of Prayer for Compassion and ask state residents, who are far ahead of their elected representatives in supporting the JRMMA, to pray for passage of this bill.
Tuesday March 23 will be that day. We ask people of faith to go to their churches in advance and ask them to participate and announce this date to their members.
Medical cannabis is not a new idea in Wisconsin. It has been languishing the legislature for decades. The sick and dying, seniors, disabled and now veterans in shocking numbers, need this medicine. No medical marijuana bill has progressed as far as the JRMMA, and we cannot let this historic moment to pass without passing it and protecting some of our most vulnerable citizens.
Please join us in for the Statewide Day of Prayer for Compassion, all day on Tuesday, March 23, 2010.
Posted by Gary at 01:26 PM | Comments (0)
February 06, 2010
Fox 11 Green Bay report on T.H.C. "Talking Hemp and Cannabis" expo in Berlin WI Feb 6, 2010.
Posted by Gary Storck
Saturday, February 6, 2010
The T.H.C. "Talking Hemp & Cannabis" expo drew dozens to the Berlin WI Public Library today. Below is a disappointing report from Fox11 in Green Bay, which had great footage of Jacki and me, but left most of it out in favor of some opponent with an illogical opposition to protecting the sick and dying from arrest and jail for treating themselves with a non-toxic plant.
Medical marijuana dispute
Updated: Saturday, 06 Feb 2010, 5:47 PM CST
Published : Saturday, 06 Feb 2010, 5:16 PM CST
(http://www.fox11online.com/dpp/news/medical-marijuana-debate)
* Kristin Crowley
Some area people are fighting to legalize medical marijuana.
Supporters of medical marijuana in Wisconsin are working to educate the public on its benefits. Some say it's a life saver.
“My doctor told me if you can't gain weight, if your body's not accepting the nutrients,” said Jacki Rickert. “He just looked at me and said you will die.”
Rickert founded the group "Is My Medicine Legal Yet?" or IMMLY. She said her body's inability to take on nutrients from food is helped with marijuana.
“This is medicine, we're talking about health care,” said Rickert.
In October, Wisconsin state senators introduced senate bill 368 to legalize medical marijuana. The people at a medical marijuana expo in Berlin are all for it, but not everyone in the area is.
“I think it opens up the floodgates to worse things, and I'm just, I'm not for it,” said resident Bill Brooks.
Some worry usage would get out of control, that it wouldn't be used for just treating the ill and that it could easily fall into the wrong hands.
“If it would pass, I'd be concerned about that. Like I said, it just opens up the gates for more things to happen,” said Brooks.
“People are already using it left and right,” said IMMLY member Gary Storck.
Storck said he relies on marijuana for his glaucoma and chronic pain. Since he can't obtain it legally, he must go through the black market, which he said is even more dangerous than just legalizing the drug.
“It makes it more expensive and it means that you might get cannabis of uncertain quality or it may be moldy,” said Storck.
The bill is in review, but there is no certainty when or if the bill will be voted on
Posted by Gary at 08:29 PM | Comments (0)
January 30, 2010
Feb. 6 Berlin WI THC EXPO hopes to help heal hurting economy and patients
Posted by Gary Storck
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Below is my latest Madison NORML Examiner article, which you can also read with all photos and links here.
Feb. 6 Berlin WI THC EXPO hopes to help heal hurting economy and patients
BERLIN: On Saturday, February 6, 2010, as the community rallies together in momentum for National Medical Marijuana Awareness Week, the Berlin Wisconsin Public Library will house supporters of hemp and medical marijuana as various organizations come together to put on an expo style event showcasing the cannabis plant, The T.H.C. Expo (Talking Hemp & Cannabis) will run from 12:00pm-3:00pm in the Berlin Public Library, located at 121 W. Park Ave., Berlin.
This region was once a leader in Wisconsin hemp cultivation. Today, the feral hemp plants growing along roadways or on old farmsteads are the only remnants of an era when farmers benefited greatly from hemp cultivation. Berlin's THC Expo will not only examine the history and potential future role of hemp in the local and state economy, but also delve deeply into the medical use of cannabis and current legislation before the Wisconsin Legislature regarding both medical cannabis and hemp.
Organizer Jay Selthofner promises the T.H.C. EXPO, will "openly and honestly discuss this misunderstood plant". In a recent interview, Selthofner told Madison NORML Examiner, "The driving force behind the expo is the community who supports hemp and medical marijuana, and the cost to bring this event together was donated by the people of the district."
Berlin is in the state legislative districts represented by State Sen. Luther Olsen (R-Ripon) and State Assembly Rep. Joan Ballweg (R- Markesan). As of this writing, neither lawmaker has yet taken a formal position on the bill, despite what local activists call "a ton of constituent letters, phone calls, emails, Capitol office visits, and in the case of Sen. Olsen, not one but two public listening sessions".
The Expo will also include representatives of organizations including Is My Medicine Legal Yet? (IMMLY), Wisconsin NORML, Madison NORML, Americans for Safe Access (ASA), MJ2 Media, American Civil Liberties Union of Wisconsin (WI-ACLU), Law Enforcement Against Prohibition (LEAP) and Wisconsin Veterans for Medical Marijuana Access (WIVMMA).
IMMLY Founder Jacki Rickert, namesake of the Wisconsin medical cannabis bill is expected to be in attendance along with state and regional activists including Gary Storck, Ben Masel, Teresa Shepherd, LEAP's James Gierach and others.
For more info: List of qualifying medical conditions included in the JRMMA. Jacki Rickert MMJ Act Hearing Recap & Action Alert. Report on Jan. 20 Mary Powers Memorial and JRMMA Lobby Day. For additional details on the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, info on the Dec. 15, 2010 combined Health committee hearing, bill text and status, how to donate, all the latest news and how you can help, visit JRMMA.org, IMMLY.org or MadisonNORML.org. Visit my Madison NORML Examiner articles archive. Photos courtesy IMMLY/WI NORML and friends except where otherwise noted. Photo of Berlin Library courtesy Berlin Library http://www.berlinlibrary.org/. Photo of Rep. Ballweg courtesy WI State Legislature.
To read entire original article with links and photos: (http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-30194-Madison-NORML-Examiner~y2010m1d29-Feb-6-THC-Expo-to-bring-Hemp-back-to-Berlin-WI)
Posted by Gary at 09:55 AM | Comments (0)
January 23, 2010
Smokin' Medical Cannabis Benefit at High Noon Saloon Sunday Jan. 24!
Posted by Gary Storck
Saturday, January 23, 2010
IMMLY/Madison NORML is having a Jacki Rickert MMJ Act Benefit Show Sunday Jan. 24, 2010. Here is a text version of my Madison NORML Examiner blog article about the event!
Smokin' Medical Cannabis Benefit at High Noon Saloon Sunday Jan. 24!
MADISON: Sunday's Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act Benefit Show at the High Noon Saloon has taken on added urgency as supporters step up efforts to move the JRMMA as the legislative session progresses.
The grassroots effort behind the bill took a huge step forward with the Jan. 20 Memorial for Mary Powers and JRMMA Lobby Day at the Capitol.The moving tribute to the beloved late activist Mary Powers included Ojibwe singer Al Baker performing traditional music and drumming, Jacki Rickert and other activists speaking, as well as Rick Harris performing his song, the Wisconsin medical cannabis anthem inspired by Jacki, "Legal Medicine Blues" in the Wisconsin State Capitol for the first time. A webcast of the entire one-hour Memorial can be viewed here.
The benefit comes at a critical time. With the JRMMA still in committee in late January, state medical cannabis supporters are playing offense. Television ads are now in the works, and funds from the benefit will go towards having these broadcast as soon as they are ready. Please join us, if only long enough to drop off a donation to get this effort rolling strong!
The event runs from 3-7:30pm on Jan. 24 at the High Noon Saloon at 701 East Washington Avenue on Madison's East Side just a few blocks east of the State Capitol (at Blount St.). Local favorites Boo Bradley will kick off the festivities at 3:15. After a 4:20 Announcement/Speech break, Madison area musician David Sewell, often found playing outside the Willy St. Coop, will play a short solo set of acoustic country, bluegrass and delta blues music
Jacob Green from Milwaukee will also be performing his brand of outlaw-folk-rock from 5-6, and the Fox Valley rockers Ifdakar will headline and close out the event in the 6-7pm slot.
Full Schedule: 3:15-4:15: Boo Bradley 4:20: 4:20 announcement and a update on the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act 4:30-5: David Sewell 5-6: Jacob Green 6-7: Ifdakar
Full Article including links:
(http://www.examiner.com/x-30194-Madison-NORML-Examiner~y2010m1d23-Smokin-Medical-Cannabis-Benefit-at-High-Noon-Saloon-Sunday-Jan-24)
Posted by Gary at 01:00 PM | Comments (0)
January 18, 2010
Three upcoming Events to Help Pass AB554/SB368, the Jacki Rickert MMJ Act
Posted by Gary Storck
Monday, January 18, 2010
The JRMMA needs your help, and the coming week offers a number of ways to help the JRMMA. There is an URGENT need now for more calls, letters and emails, and office visits! It is up to all of us to motivate ourselves and others to do whatever it takes to change the law and protect patients by passing the JRMMA.
Three upcoming Events to Help Pass AB554/SB368, the Jacki Rickert MMJ Act
January 16, 2010
Looking for some ways to help out with the medical marijuana bill?
Is My Medicine Legal YET? (IMMLY), Wisconsin NORML and Madison NORML are organizing a lobby day in support of The Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act on Wednesday, January 20, from 12-3pm at the WI State Capitol in the first floor rotunda. Those unable to come to Madison are requested to make calls to their legislators and ask others to do so. For more information, or to participate in this event, please visit here. http://www.immly.org/
On Sunday, January 24, from 3-7pm, Madison NORML is hosting a Jacki Rickert MMJ Act Benefit Show at the High Noon Saloon on East Washington Ave. just east of the Capitol. A $4.20 donation gets you in the door and eligible for drawings for cool stuff. Four great Wisconsin artists: Boo Bradley, David Sewell, Jacob Green and Ifdakar will provide the music, Jacki Rickert, Gary Storck, Ben Masel and others will speak, and there will be a NORML merchandise/information table.
On Tuesday, January 26, Gov. Jim Doyle will give his final State of the State address to Wisconsin legislators and the public. The Address will be given in the State Capitol's Assembly Chambers at 7pm on 1/26. Members of Madison NORML and IMMLY plan to have a presence at this event, and they are asking for your help.
Last October, Gov. Doyle publicly voiced his support for SB 368/SB 554: The Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act. http://capwiz.com/norml2/issues/alert/?alertid=14115736
Please take time today to thank the Governor for his past support, and ask him to urge lawmakers during his State of the State address to move expeditiously in favor of the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act.
Tell him: "I believe it is unconscionable to criminalize patients who find therapeutic relief from medical marijuana. I urge you to ask your fellow lawmakers during the State of the State address to support the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act."
You can call or write Gov. Doyle here:
http://www.wisgov.state.wi.us/section.asp?linkid=59&locid=19
Thank you for supporting medical cannabis law reform efforts in Wisconsin.
Sincerely, The JRMMA Team
P.S. There is also a Madison NORML meeting Monday, Jan. 25, 2010 at the Wil Mar Center, 953 Jenifer St. at 7pm! Please join us!
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Posted by Gary at 10:33 AM | Comments (0)
January 14, 2010
Capitol Memorial and Lobby Day to support WI MMJ bill
Posted by Gary Storck
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Please attend our Lobby Day and Memorial for Mary Powers and other patients who ran out of time on Wed. Jan. 20, 2010 in the Wisconsin State Capitol.
Capitol Memorial and Lobby Day to support WI MMJ bill
MADISON: Wisconsin medical cannabis supporters, waiting anxiously as two health committees consider AB554/SB368, the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act (JRMMA), have another opportunity to help. The JRMMA is sponsored by Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Madison) and Sen. Jon Erpenbach (D-Waunakee).
On Wed. Jan. 20, 2010, Is My Medicine Legal YET?, Jacki Rickert's grassroots advocacy group leading the effort to pass the JRMMA, will be coordinating a two-part event at the Wisconsin State Capitol along with Madison NORML and Wisconsin NORML, as well as other groups.
The first, from 12-1pm in the first floor rotunda (one floor up), is a tribute to the late Mary Powers and other patients who ran out of time as well as a call for a change in legislative spirit as it pertains to compassion, the JRMMA and the Wisconsin way.
Following the ceremony, attendees will visit legislative offices to lobby for the JRMMA. Those who cannot attend in person are strongly urged to participate from afar by organizing local phone slams and enlisting as many supporters as possible to call their State Assemblyperson and State Senator. Look up who represents you here: Who Are My Legislators? Contact Lawmakers directly via the Toll-free Legislative Hotline: 1-800-362-9472 (M-F 8:15a-4:45p).
Posted by Gary at 12:41 PM | Comments (0)
January 09, 2010
Jacki Rickert MMJ Act Benefit: High Noon Saloon Sunday Jan. 24, 2010
Posted by Gary Storck
Saturday, January 8, 2010
Coming up quickly is this benefit for the JRMMA on Sunday, Jan. 24, 2010. We'll also be at the Capitol on Wed. Jan. 20, 2010, for a Memorial for Mary Powers and a JRMMA Lobby Day, and on Tues. Jan. 26, for a vigil outside Gov. Jim Doyle's final State of the State Address, scheduled for 7pm in the Assembly Chambers. We'll be there after 5:30pm. . Gov. Doyle is a supporter of the JRMMA.
Jacki Rickert MMJ Act benefit
Host: Madison NORML
Date: Sunday, January 24, 2010
Time: 3:00pm - 7:00pm
Location: High Noon Saloon
Street: 701 East Washington Avenue
City/Town: Madison, WI
This Bill, This Time!
Join Madison NORML, WI NORML and IMMLY for a medical cannabis benefit with Boo Bradley, Dave Sewell, Jacob Greene and Ifdakar at the High Noon Saloon!
In addition to Ifdakar headlining the event, Jacob Green from Milwaukee (myspace.com/jacobgreenius) will also be performing his brand of outlaw-folk-rock, as well as some other 'side show' entertainment! Boo Bradley leads off with their great sound!
In addition Madison area musician David Sewell (Willy St. Coop) will play a solo set of acoustic country, bluegrass and delta blues music between Ifdakar and Jacob Greene.
State activists including Jacki Rickert, Gary Storck and others will be speaking during breaks in music.
There will be an informational/vending table for Madison NORML/WI NORML/IMMLY.
Affordable suggested donation for entry.
Full Schedule:
3:15-4:15: Boo Bradley
4:20: 4:20 announcement and a update on the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act
4:30-5: David Sewell
5-6: Jacob Greene
6-7: Ifdakar
Event Poster in color
Event Poster in bw
Event flier in color
Event flier in bw
Posted by Gary at 12:08 PM | Comments (0)
November 19, 2009
Dec. 15, 2009: Combined hearing for Jacki Rickert MMJ Act AB554/SB368
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, November 19, 2009
The date/time/location for the hearing has been set: Tuesday, December 15, 2009, 10am in Room 412 East, State Capitol: Combined Senate/Assembly Health Committee Hearing on AB554/SB358, the Jacki Rickert MMJ Act (JRMMA)
There will be a combined public hearing of the Senate Committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue and the Assembly Committee on Public Health on Tuesday, December 15, 2009 at 10am in Room 412 East at the State Capitol.
Interested parties who attend the hearing may register in support of the JRMMA, submit written testimony, and/or testify in person. Arrive early to complete a hearing registration card. A tally will be made of those registering for and against. Written testimony will be made available to all members of both committees. Please dress respectfully of the situation, business casual or even a suit and tie or your best outfit.
Testifying in person: If you plan to testify personally, while there will likely be no time limits, testimony that is shorter and to the point holds legislators attention better. It may be helpful to prepare a brief statement that you can read in a few minutes. You can expand on your remarks in written form to include additional information.
Here's what our friend Jim Miller has to say: "I like to tell potential tesimonialists that if they plan on saying something that someone else could say, then probably someone else should say it. Stick to what is personal to you! When you say how marijuana helps you are saying something nobody else can. THAT is what committee members need to hear. Leave the policy wonk stuff to policy wonks. I hear that there will some in attendance."
How to Submit written Testimony: You may submit written testimony to Kelly.Johnson@legis.wisconsin.gov in State Sen. Jon Erpenbach's office. The mailing address is Room 8 South State Capitol P.O. Box 7882 Madison, WI 53707-7882. Sen. Erpenbach's office will make all submitted written testimony available to all members of both committees.
This does not mean each member will make the time to review all submissions. Concise and easy to read submissions with a narrow focus on your personal connection to the issue will likely get read more than long submissions that stray off topic into things like the total legalization of cannabis. Please stay on topic. The bill is not about marijuana legalization, but creating a narrow exemption for the sick and dying. Legalizing marijuana overall is not covered by the bill, and is not pertinent to this discussion.
Posted by Gary at 07:03 PM | Comments (0)
September 30, 2009
SAFER's Mason Tvert at MATC Truax Campus Thursday night
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
In addition to speaking at other Harvest Fest events this weekend, SAFER's Mason Tvert will be discussing his new book at the Madison Area Technical College (MATC) Truax Campus this Thursday.
Thursday October 1st 7pm- 8:30pm in room 142 C
Madison Area Technical College 3550 Anderson St, Madison, WI - (608) 246-6100
Google Maps - http://maps.google.com/maps?q=matc%20truax%20&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&hl=en&tab=wl
Posted by Gary at 09:52 AM | Comments (0)
August 25, 2009
Latest updated schedule: 39th Annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival
Posted by Gary Storck
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Here is the most recent updates for Harvest Fest weekend!
October 1-4, 2009 - Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun.
Madison NORML presents
39th Annual Great Midwest
Marijuana Harvest Festival:
North Coast, Underwater Productions, & Madison Norml presents:
The 39th Annual Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival
Thursday 10/1
The Alchemy
1980 Atwood Av
608.204.7644
http://www.alchemycafe.net/
Featuring music by:
Insomniac Gypsy (bluegrass from the Fox Valley)
http://www.insomniacgypsy.com/
event starts at 9:30p
Free Admisssion / no cover charge
Friday 10/2
The Frequency
121 W. Main St.
608.819.8777
http://madisonfrequency.com/
7th Annual IMMLY benefit show
Featuring music by:
Brok’n Arrow (jam rock, experimental from the Fox Valley, WI)
http://www.myspace.com/broknarrow
Mark Shanahan’s Kirby Molar All Stars (blues folk rock Americana from Madison)
Food from Glass Nickel Pizza
Event time: 5:00 – 8:00p
Admission: suggested donation of $10
http://www.immly.org/
Saturday 10/3
Library Mall
11:30 – 12:15a Kronic Jones (reggae, roots rock from Madison/surrounding area) http://www.myspace.com/kronicjonesband
12:45 - 1:45p Adam Isaac & The People (funk, rock, soul from Madison, WI) http://www.myspace.com/adamisaacandthepeoplemusic
2:15 - 3: 15p Bill and Dan’s Excellent Adventure (rock ‘n roll from Eau Claire, WI)
3:45 - 4:45p Nama Rupa (reggae, dub from Madison, WI) http://www.myspace.com/namarupaband
5:15 - 6: 15p – Elf Lettuce (psychedelic jam rock from Madison, WI) http://www.elflettuce.com/
Also featuring speakers including NORML Daily Stash's Russ Belville, CMMNJ's Jim Miller, Ben Masel, Jacki Rickert, Gary Storck, Mary Powers and more, vendors, food, admission FREE all ages.
High Noon Saloon
701 E. Washington Av
608.268.1122
http://high-noon.com/
Featuring Music by:
Natty Nation
http://www.nattynation.com/
Blue Island Tribe
Tropical Riddims Sound System
Event time: 9:30p
Admission: $10 cover, $8 in Advance
Ages: 18+
Sunday 10/4
Library Mall
1:15 - 2:15p The Dave Band (rock ‘n roll from Gays Mills, WI) http://www.thedaveband.com/
2:30 – 3:30p – Moon Boot Posse (rock, reggae, jam from LaCrosse, WI) http://www.myspace.com/moonbootposse
Parade: Library Mall to State Capitol
3:40p
State Capitol Steps
4:20 – 6p
Featuring Music by:
Baghdad Scuba Review (progressive jam rock from Madison, WI) http://www.baghdadscubareview.com/
Speakers:
http://www.immly.org
Jacki Rickert
http://www.myspace.com/ben_masel
Ben Masel
http://madisonnorml.org/blog/index.php
Gary Storck
http://cmmnj.org/
Jim Miller
http://stash.norml.org
Russ Bellville
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E83cNAYJ1ME
Mary Powers
more coming...
Posted by Gary at 01:13 PM | Comments (0)
August 10, 2009
Winning Harvest Fest logo contest entry!
Posted by Gary Storck
Monday, August 10, 2009
Here is the winning entry!
Posted by Gary at 09:46 PM | Comments (0)
August 03, 2009
Recap: Madison NORML 5th Birthday Party at Escape!
Posted by Gary Storck
Monday, August 3, 2009
Despite a few technical issues and Chalice in the Palace not showing up, Madison NORML's 5th birthday was a great night for those who attended. With music delayed we went to speakers first, hearing from Ben Masel, Mary Powers, Peter Steinberg, myself and Linda, who recently attended Oakstersdam U in Michigan and gave a report. Videos of most of the speeches are below.
Many thanks to Escape Coffee, Nama Rupa, and our volunteers who helped make this event so special!
The excellent birthday cake! Thanks Julie!
Ben Masel kicks off the festivities!
Mary Powers: "I will not stop!"
Gary Storck exhorts attendees to get on the train to legal medical cannabis in WI!
Peter Steinberg says a few words:
Mary Powers' speech from a different angle.
Posted by Gary at 02:04 PM | Comments (0)
July 18, 2009
Madison NORML's 5th Anniversary Party is Sunday, August 2nd at Escape Coffee!
Posted by Gary Storck
Saturday, July 18, 2009
I was among a group of about 8 folks who gathered around a table on the Memorial Union Terrace on August 1, 2004 and decided at about 4:20 pm to form a Madison NORML chapter. Five years and over a hundred meetings and events later, Madison NORML continues to move forward.
Madison NORML's 5th Anniversary Party
celebrate 5 years of sticking up for Madison's cannabis consumers!
Join Madison NORML for a 5th anniversary party at Escape Coffee! There will be live music from Nama Rupa and other artists, speakers, NORML table and Birthday Cake! Free event, donations encouraged.
Date: Sunday, August 2, 2009
Time: 4:00am - 9:00am
Location: Escape Coffee
Street: 940 Williamson St.
City/Town: Madison, WI
Phone: 6083015665
Email: madison@winorml.org
RSVP to Event on Facebook! click here
Posted by Gary at 04:20 AM | Comments (0)
July 15, 2009
39th Annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival schedule taking shape!
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
The 39th Annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival's schedule is coming together, with a special emphasis on passing Wisconsin medical cannabis legislation now in final drafting stages.
Harvest Fest entertainment director Erik Riedasch has been busy booking bands for this year's festival, scheduled for various downtown locations from Oct. 1-4. Bands playing this year include Baghdad Scuba Review, Nama Rupa, The Individuals, Adam Isaac & The People, Kronic Jones, Elf Lettuce and Natty Nation, with more TBA.
As far as speakers, some exciting names are already confirmed. New Jersey medical cannabis activist Jim Miller is returning to Harvest Fest following a 2-year absence. Joining Jim will be NORML’s Russ Belville, who does the NORML Daily Stash podcast. Additional speakers will be added. Wisconsin-based speakers will include Jacki Rickert, Ben Masel, myself, Mary Powers and others TBA.
News that Madison’s Cardinal Bar will not be closing after all means the annual IMMLY/WI NORML Friday evening medical cannabis benefit returns to the Cardinal for a 7th year! The festivities run at the usual 5-8 pm on Friday Oct. 2.
With associated events, this year’s fest will stretch over 4 days, from Thursday, Oct. 1 to Sunday, October 4. Sunday will feature the traditional parade up State St. and around Capitol Square. Jacki Rickert and other medical cannabis patients will lead the parade. On arrival at the State St. steps after circling the Square, a rally for the upcoming Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act will commence, featuring the above referenced speakers and more TBA, and live music.
Also, there is still time to enter your design in the Harvest Fest logo design contest! Click here . Deadline is August 10th.
Print your own fliers Download 4 to a sheet flier.
Download 8.5 x 11 poster click here
Posted by Gary at 12:02 AM | Comments (0)
July 07, 2009
39th Annual Great Midwest Marijuana Festival first fliers
Posted by Gary Storck
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Below are the first fliers for the 39th Annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival, scheduled for Oct. 1-4, 2009 at various locations in downtown Madison.
Posted by Gary at 10:40 AM | Comments (0)
June 10, 2009
Videos of IMMLY's June 7 medical cannabis vigil at WI State Capitol
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Here are videos from Sunday's vigil at the State Capitol from IMMLY.org.
IMMLY's "candlelight" vigil for victims of Medical Cannabis Prohibition on June 7 at Wisconsin Capitol a resounding success!
Longtime Wisconsin medical cannabis patient/activist Gary Storck speaks at IMMLY's medical cannabis vigil at the Wisconsin State Capitol on Sunday, June 7, 2009. Gary talks about the vigil then introduces IMMLY Founder Jacki Rickert in this clip from the vigil.
Is My Medicine Legal YET? Founder Jacki Rickert speaks about Cheryl Miller and medical cannabis at IMMLY's medical cannabis vigil at the Wisconsin State Capitol on Sunday, June 7, 2009.
IMMLY's Gary Storck introduces Wisconsin medical cannabis patient/activist Mary Powers at IMMLY's medical cannabis vigil at the Wisconsin State Capitol on Sunday, June 7, 2009.
Wisconsin medical cannabis patient/activist Mary Powers speaks at IMMLY's medical cannabis vigil at the Wisconsin State Capitol on Sunday, June 7, 2009.
Wisconsin singer-songwriter Rick Harris performs his song, "Legal Medicine Blues" for Jacki Rickert and other attendees of an LED "candlelight" vigil for medical cannabis at the State Capitol in Madison that was organized by IMMLY.
Another view of Rick
playing Legal Medicine Bues at the vigil:
Posted by Gary at 07:54 PM | Comments (0)
June 07, 2009
Tonight! Sunday June 7: Vigil for Medical Cannabis patients at WI State Capitol
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, June 7, 2009Hope to see folks at tonight's vigil!
Tonight! Sunday June 7: Vigil for Medical Cannabis patients at WI State CapitolJoin IMMLY’s Jacki Rickert and Gary Storck, “Legal Medicine Blues” singer-songwriter Rick Harris click here, and others Sunday night to honor Cheryl Miller and all victims of medical cannabis prohibition!
On Sunday, June 7, 2009, Is My Medicine Legal YET? (IMMLY.org), will host a vigil to remember victims of medical marijuana prohibition, past and present, at the Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison. The vigil will be held on the landing at the top of the State St. steps, just outside of the Capitol building, beginning around 8:00 pm and continuing past sunset. Candles with open flames are prohibited, but a limited number of battery-powered LED candles will be available to participants.
Attendees can gather before and after the event a block away at Michelangelo's Coffee House, 114 State St., Madison, WI 53703 (608) 251-5299. As the Capitol building is closed Sunday nights, Michelangelo's likely offers one of the nearest public rest rooms to the vigil site.
This "candlelight" vigil is one of several being held nationwide at this time on June 7 to remember medical cannabis patients, including the Statehouse in Trenton NJ.
For more information contact Gary Storck at 608-241-8922 or visit IMMLY.org or the IMMLY Vigil event page on Facebook: (http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=80078284874).
Posted by Gary at 01:12 PM | Comments (0)
May 30, 2009
June 7 WI Capitol Medical Cannabis vigil start time pushed back
Posted by Gary Storck
Saturday, May 30, 2009The start/end times for the Sunday, June 7, 2009, Is My Medicine Legal YET? (IMMLY.org), vigil at the Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison have been pushed back a half hour.
The vigil will be held on the landing at the top of the State St. steps, just outside of the Capitol building, from 8:00-10:00 pm. Candles with open flames are prohibited, but a limited number of battery-powered LED candles will be available to participants.
This "candlelight" vigil is one of three being held nationwide at this time on June 7 to remember medical cannabis patients, with others held at the Statehouse in Trenton NJ and the federal building in Peoria IL.
For more information contact Gary Storck at 608-241-8922 or visit IMMLY.org or the IMMLY Vigil event page on Facebook: click here.
Posted by Gary at 10:02 AM | Comments (0)
May 27, 2009
Vigil for Medical Cannabis patients at WI State Capitol June 7, other vigils in NJ & IL
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, May 27, 2009On Sunday, June 7, 2009, Is My Medicine Legal YET? (IMMLY.org), will host a vigil to remember victims of medical marijuana prohibition, past and present, at the Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison.
The vigil will be held on the landing at the top of the State St. steps, just outside of the Capitol building, from 7:30-9:30 pm. Candles with open flames are prohibited, but a limited number of battery-powered LED candles will be available to participants.
This "candlelight" vigil is one of three being held nationwide at this time on June 7 to remember medical cannabis patients, with others held at the Statehouse in Trenton NJ and the federal building in Peoria IL.
For more information contact Gary Storck at 608-241-8922 or visit IMMLY.org or the IMMLY Vigil event page on Facebook: click here.
Posted by Gary at 08:41 PM | Comments (0)
May 26, 2009
Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival poster/shirt design contest!
Posted by Gary Storck
Tuesday, May 26, 2009Madison NORML is having a contest for the design of this year's Harvest Fest poster/shirt design!
Madison NORML presents the 39th Annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival poster/shirt design contest. Submit your entries by August 9th to contests@winorml.org.
Madison NORML will vote on the entries at their August 10th meeting and meets the Second and Fourth Monday of each month, except major holidays, at 7:00 p.m. at Escape Java's, at 940 Williamson St (behind La Rocca's) on Madison's East Side.
Madison's Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival began as a marijuana smoke-in in 1971. Now in its 39th year, Harvest Fest has a long history of promoting cannabis hemp legalization and free speech while providing an annual celebration for like minded people to join together.
Details:
13"x9" poster size 600dpi minimum/T-shirt designInclude:
39th Annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival
October 1-4, 2009
Madison, WIRoom for event details: Bands, speakers, and any other details will be added to final proofs/designs for T-shirts (back) and posters when finalized. No need for blank space, just somewhere for the text to go on the poster.
www.madisonhempfest.com
Winner must provide a 600dpi copy for printing. A compressed (jpg) version can be sent to contests@winorml.org for selection.
Contest winner will receive a framed poster on a special paper stock and a T-shirt with their design. Winner will also receive assorted NORML "schwag" including a Madison NORML shirt of their preferred size.
Disclaimer: All designs submitted become property of Madison NORML to be used for promoting said event. Any additions or modifications will be done with artists consent.
Questions can be sent to contests@winorml.org
Posted by Gary at 04:50 PM | Comments (0)
May 25, 2009
Live Legal Medicine Blues from 2007 IMMLY/Madison NORML benefit at Cardinal Bar in Madison
Posted by Gary Storck
Monday, May 25, 2009Here is a video from the IMMLY/Madison NORML medical cannabis benefit at the Cardinal Bar in Madison on Friday, October 6, 2007. The Riddiough-Shanahan Band plays the traditional singalong version of Rick Harris' "Legal Medicine Blues". Rick Harris was inspired to write LMB after meeting Jacki Rickert while playing IMMLY's first benefit at Mother Fools Coffee in 2001. Read more about this great song click here
Posted by Gary at 12:35 AM | Comments (0)
May 01, 2009
Saturday, May 2, 2009: Global Cannabis March: Madison
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday. May 1, 2009Happy May Day everyone, and don't forget the Global Marijuana March: Madison, this Saturday, May 2, beginning at noon at the State Street steps of the Capitol, proceeding to the Mifflin St. Block Party!
Global Cannabis March: Madison
Madison and over 257 other cities worldwideDate: Saturday, May 2, 2009
Time: 12:00 noon
Gather at State St. steps of Wisconsin State Capitol, March to Mifflin St. Block PartyThe Global Cannabis March returns to Madison after a several year absence. Join Wisconsin NORML, Madison NORML and MATC Students for Sensible Drug Policy (SSDP) and other groups for this event. Gather at State St. steps of WI State Capitol at noon, march route TBA, concludes at Mifflin St. Block Party.Facebook Event Page:
(http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=656790912&ref=name#/event.php?eid=67650113261)
Posted by Gary at 12:30 AM | Comments (0)
April 17, 2009
Time change for cannabis talk at Saturday LPWI convention in WI Dells
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, April 17, 2009Just wanted to let folks know that my talk on WI cannabis laws at the WI Libertarian Party Convention is now scheduled for 2:00-2:50 pm, Saturday, April 18, 2009, at Monk's at the Wilderness, WI Dells, WI. Further info LPWI.org.
Posted by Gary at 11:33 AM | Comments (0)
April 14, 2009
Madison NORML at the Wisconsin State Libertarian Convention this Saturday 4/18 in WI Dells
Posted by Gary Storck
Tuesday, April 14, 2009Just wanted to let folks know that I'm on the bill as a speaker at the Wisconsin Libertarian Party convention this Saturday, April 18, 2009, in WI Dells.
I'm scheduled for the 1:30-2:15 pm slot, and will be speaking about Wisconsin's cannabis laws as well as Q&A:
1:30 - 2:15 p.m. Gary Storck Wisconsin's Marijuana LawsGary Storck is the head of the Madison, Wisconsin chapter of NORML (the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws). He has worked tirelessly over the last 30 years to get medical marijuana legislation passed in Wisconsin.
The full lineup is below:
Libertarian Party of WisconsinCommon Sense for State Government
State Convention
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Monk's at the Wilderness, Wisconsin Dells
8:00 a.m. Registration9:00 - 10:15 a.m. Executive Committee Meeting
10:15 a.m. Break
10:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. General Membership Meeting
12:30 - 1:30 p.m. Lunch
12:30 - 5:00 p.m. Speakers
12:30 - 1:20 p.m. Richard V. Campagna Libertarianism & Judicial
Realism
Richard Campagna is a multi-disciplinary professional with a long and distinguished record in public and community service. He is also an attorney and businessman, university instructor, and counselor. He was the official 2004 Libertarian Party Candidate for Vice President.
1:30 - 2:15 p.m. Gary Storck Wisconsin's Marijuana LawsGary Storck is the head of the Madison, Wisconsin chapter of NORML (the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws). He has worked tirelessly over the last 30 years to get medical marijuana legislation passed in Wisconsin.
2:15 - 3:10 John Witte Education and the Market
John Witte is Professor in the Department of Political Science and the Robert M. La Follette School of Public Affairs at the University of Wisconsin - Madison.
His research has focused on educational choice. He has written, The Market Approach to Education (2001) and his current research is on charter schools; his new longitudinal study of the Milwaukee voucher program is slated to go through 2011.Break 3:10 - 3:30 p.m
3:30 - 4:15 p.m. Gene German The Right To Bear Arms
Gene German is the founder of Wisconsin Patriots whose mission is to restore, exercise and preserve individual rights, including the right to be safe. He is also an AACFI Senior Firearms Instructor and his permit to carry training is certified by both the Minnesota Department of Public Safety and the Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification.
4:15 - 5:00 p.m. Ben Manski Bring the Guard Home Campaign
Ben Manski is the Executive Director of Liberty Tree Foundation for the Democratic Revolution as well as a Wisconsin attorney. He served as co-chair of the Green Party of the United States from 2001 through 2004. He was employed on the staffs of a number of environmental, social justice, pro-democracy, and education advocacy organizations throughout the 1990s.
Posted by Gary at 04:50 PM | Comments (0)
April 11, 2009
Madison NORML hosting Global Cannabis March Saturday May 2, 2009
Posted by Gary Storck
Saturday, April 11, 2009Madison NORML will be among about 250 cities worldwide participating in the Global Marijuana March click here.
Madison's march will begin at the State Street steps of the Capitol and end at the Mifflin St. Block Party. The exact march route is still TBA. Gather at the State St. steps beginning at noon!
Posted by Gary at 10:51 AM | Comments (0)
September 13, 2008
6th Annual IMMLY/Madison NORML Medical Cannabis Benefit to kick off 38th Annual Harvest Fest
Posted by Gary Storck
Saturday, September 13, 2008Up until a few years ago, Madison's annual "Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival" was a one-day affair. Then in the last few years, it has not only expanded to two days, but a Friday night event was added to help kick off the festivities, the IMMLY/Madison NORML Medical Cannabis Benefit. Now in its 6th year, the benefit is adding an Awards segment for the first time.
6th Annual IMMLY/Madison NORML Medical Cannabis Benefit
1st Annual IMMLY Medical Cannabis Awards
Friday, October 3, 2008
5:00pm - 8:00pm
Cardinal Bar
418 E Wilson St.
Madison, WIThe IMMLY/Madison NORML Medical Cannabis Benefit is the opening celebration of the 38th Annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival.
Kick off Harvest Fest weekend at the Sixth annual IMMLY/Madison NORML medical cannabis benefit featuring the First Annual IMMLY Medical Cannabis Awards presented by IMMLY Founder Jacki Rickert.
$10 suggested donation includes Glass Nickel pizza and blues/roots music from Mark Shanahan
--------
More Information:
Is My Medicine Legal YET? www.immly.org
Madison NORML www.madisonnorml.org
Facebook IMMLY Benefit Event Page: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=26316871660
Harvest Fest on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=22473707971&ref=mf
Harvest Fest on MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/madisonhempfestPosted by Gary at 09:56 AM | Comments (0)
September 02, 2008
Final Lineup: 38th annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival
Posted by Gary Storck
Tuesday, September 2, 2008Here is the final musical lineup of Harvest Fest 38, and what a great group of arrtists we have this year! Big thanks to Harvest Fest musical director Erik Riedasch and all the bands and musicians who give their time to make Harvest Fest special year after year, decade after decade.
38th annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest FestivalOctober 3,4 & 5, 2008
Madison, WisconsinSunday October 5
2 pm: Gather at Library Mall.
2:00 - 3:30 pm: Concert with Ifdakar (jam rock from Appleton)
3:40 pm: Parade to State Capitol with Stink Tank and the Harvest Fest Sound System
4:20 pm: Rally and Concert at State St. steps of the Capitol with Special Dank Midnights (former members of Groovulous Glove and The Green Situation playing harvest fest themed songs).Saturday October 4
12-6 pm: Library Mall
12:00 - 1:00 pm: Not On Mars (louder than jazz, smarter than rock)
1:30 - 2: 30 pm: Bu.r.p! (funk/jam rock trio)
3:00 - 4:15 pm: Baghdad Scuba Review (progressive thinking modern classic rock)
4:45 - 6: 00 pm: Reverend Eddie Danger (cosmic folk with a tribal twist of jazz)
Plus speakers, vendors, informational tables and displays and food carts.
Library Mall is at State and Lake Streets in downtown Madison adjacent to the UW-Madison Library and campus.Friday October 3
5-8 pm Cardinal Bar
Kick off Harvest Fest weekend at the Sixth annual IMMLY/Madison NORML medical cannabis benefit featuring the First Annual IMMLY awards.
$10 suggested donation includes food and blues/roots music from Mark Shanahan
Cardinal Bar 418 E Wilson St, in downtown Madison 53703.HF 38 is sponsored by The Onion and Lakeside Press.
More info: www.myspace.com/madisonhempfest
www.MadisonNORML.org
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=22473707971&ref=mf
Posted by Gary at 11:04 PM | Comments (0)
July 27, 2008
38th Annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival: October 3, 4, 5, 2008
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, July 27, 2008History will be made once again the first weekend of October when the 38th Annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival returns to Madison. Harvest Fest, now far into its foutrth decade, will once again celebrate the harvest and bring the Wisconsin and Midwest cannabis community together again.
Marchers work their way up State St. in 2007 parade.Here's the lineup so far:38th annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival
October 3,4 & 5, 2008
Madison, Wisconsin
Jacki Rickert speaks at the Capitol in 2007.Sunday October 5
Gather at Library Mall 2 pm
Parade to State Capitol 3:40 pm
Rally and Concert with the Special Dank Midnights at State St. steps of the Capitol 4:20 pm with speakers including Ben Masel, Jacki Rickert, Gary Storck, Gatewood Galbraith (KY) and more .Saturday October 4
Library Mall from 12-6 pm
Live Music including Baghdad Scuba Review, BUrP, Rev. Eddie Danger and others TBA plus speakers including Ben Masel, Jacki Rickert, Gary Storck, Gatewood Galbraith (KY) and more TBA, vendors, informational tables and displays and food carts.
Library Mall is at State and Lake Streets in downtown Madison adjacent to the UW-Madison Library and campus.Friday October 3
Cardinal Bar 5-8pm
Kick off Harvest Fest weekend at the 6th annual IMMLY/Madison NORML medical cannabis benefit.
donation includes food and blues/roots music from Mark Shanahan
Cardinal Bar 418 E Wilson St, in downtown Madison 53703.More info: myspace.com/madisonhempfest or
MadisonNORML.org
Event Flier: Download file
For vending info, contact Madison NORML via the contact link on the lower right of the home page of MadisonNORML.org.Harvest Fest Sponsors include:
Lakeside Press
The Onion
Posted by Gary at 10:16 AM | Comments (1)
March 02, 2008
Help send medical cannabis patients back to school!
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, March 02, 2008Madison NORML and IMMLY are throwing a party to celebrate the impending return of Spring, as well as raise funds to help Jacki Rickert and other WI patients attend Patients Out of Time’s upcoming "Fifth National Clinical Conference on Cannabis Therapeutics" at the Asilomar Conference center in Pacific Grove CA click here.
This cutting-edge accredited conference on medical cannabis features international experts representing the latest research. In other words, exactly what Jacki and other WI patient-lobbyists need to impart to powerful opponents like Assembly Health and Healthcare Reform committee chair Rep. Leah Vukmir (R-Wauwatosa), whose blockade of the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act looks even more foolish now that the second-largest physician group in the U.S., the American College of Family Physicians, recently came out in support of medical cannabis click here.
IMMLY/ Madison NORML Spring medical cannabis silent auction fundraiser
Thursday, March 13, 2008
7 - 11 pm
Glass Nickel Pizza (downstairs)
2916 Atwood Ave.
Madison WI 53704
*Free admission!Join Is My Medicine Legal YET? and Madison NORML for a benefit featuring a silent auction, live music from the Special Dank Midnights, snacks and medical cannabis info. Cash bar available. Bid on many unique items including signed posters, pictures, art and books, along with gift certificates for goods and services from local businesses.
Many of the auction items may be viewed in advance online at immly.org or madisonnorml.org. Items are being added daily. Some items will be on ebay only with others available only at the event.
How you can help:
Become a sponsor of our event by making a donation of items, goods, services, funds or other assistance. All donors will be listed as sponsors, if desired. Monetary donations may be made at the event, through the PayPal link on Madison NORML's home page click here, by mail to Madison NORML PO Box 3132, Madison WI 53704-0132, payable to "Madison NORML patient travel fund".
Bid on auction items on Ebay or come to the Glass Nickel on March 13. Links to ebay items will be posted when they are online.
For more info: Call 241-8922 or visit immly.org or madisonnorml.org.
Posted by Gary at 12:05 PM | Comments (0)
January 17, 2008
State of State Patients Vigil at Jan. 23 State of the State Address @ Capitol
Posted by Gary Storck
Thursday, January 17, 2008State medical cannabis supporters are not prepared to see Assembly Bill 550, the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, go down without a fight. To that end, sick and dying Wisconsin patients and supporters will be making our way to the Capitol next Wednesday evening, Jan. 23, to hold a silent vigil outside the State of the State Address, per below...
State of the State Address medical cannabis vigil Wed. Jan. 23 @ Capitol after 5:30 pm
Dear Wisconsin medical cannabis supporters,On Wednesday Jan. 23, 2008 at 7 pm, Governor Jim Doyle will be delivering his "State of the State" Address in the State Capitol's Assembly Chambers to the full legislature, most ranking state government officials and the press.
Beginning at 5:30 pm, medical marijuana activists and supporters will be holding a vigil outside the Assembly Chambers to dramatize the urgent need for legal access to medical cannabis for sick and dying Wisconsinites, and to call attention to Assembly Bill 550, the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, currently stalled in committee. Through this vigil, patients hope to send state lawmakers and Gov. Doyle the message that the state of state patients is not good, and that AB 550 needs to be passed and signed this session, because patients need medical cannabis today, and many will not live until next session.
Please join Jacki Rickert, myself and other Wisconsin patients and supporters Wednesday evening at the Capitol. Small signs are allowed and will be provided.
Gary Storck
IMMLY, Madison/WI NORML
Posted by Gary at 12:05 AM | Comments (0)
November 07, 2007
LECTURE: Cannabis and Cannabinoids in 21st Century Medicine: Medical Marijuana in the Clinic
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, November 7, 2007Thanks to Dr. Bearman extending his stay several days, he is now scheduled to give a lecture at the UW-Madison Medical School on Tuesday, Nov. 13, the day before the hearing.
Download Event flier: Download file
LECTURE: Cannabis and Cannabinoids in 21st Century Medicine: Medical Marijuana in the Clinic· Who: David Bearman M.D., Santa Barbara, California
· When: Tues., Nov. 13, 2007, 12:00-1:00 PM
· Where: Room 1335, Health Sciences Learning Center
Dr. David Bearman, a Santa Barbara, California physician and surgeon with Wisconsin roots, will be speaking at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health on Tues., Nov. 13. Dr. Bearman's presentation is entitled, "Cannabis and Cannabinoids in 21st Century Medicine: Medical Marijuana in the Clinic". Dr. Bearman will be speaking from 12:00-1:00 PM in room 1335 of the Health Sciences Learning Center, 750 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705.
Dr. Bearman is one of the leading physicians in the U.S. in the field of medical marijuana. He has spent 40 years working in substance and drug abuse treatment and prevention programs. Dr. Bearman was a pioneer in the free and community clinic movement. His career includes public health, administrative medicine, primary care, pain management and cannabinology. He is on the Board of Advisors for the group Patients Out of Time [http://www.medicalcannabis.com/] and worked closely with them to present the Fourth National Clinical Conference on Cannabis Therapeutics in Santa Barbara, CA in April 2006.
Dr. Bearman is also scheduled to join two other medical marijuana experts testifying at a hearing of the Wisconsin State Senate Health and Human Services committee at 10:30 AM on Wed. Nov. 14 at the State Capitol Room 411 South. On Mon., Nov. 12 at 7:00 PM, Dr. Bearman will talk about medical marijuana and sign copies of his new book, "Demons, Discrimination and Dollars," at Escape Coffee, 916 Williamson St., on Madison's East Side.
Contact Information for David Bearman, M.D. 805-961-9988, 7394 Calle Real, Suite C Goleta, CA 93117, http://www.davidbearmanmd.com/.
For further information, contact 608-241-8922.
Posted by Gary at 10:29 AM | Comments (0)
November 06, 2007
WI State Senate Committee Hearing on medical marijuana to be held Wed. Nov. 14th
Posted by Gary Storck
Tuesday, November 06, 2007It has been a long time, over 25 years, since any kind of hearing on medical marijuana was held in the State Senate. Next Wednesday, November 14, 2007, State Sen. Jon Erpenbach will hold a hearing on medical marijuana in the Senate Committee he chairs, “Health, Human Services, Insurance, and Job Creation.”
The hearing will not be on any specific piece of legislation, such as AB 550, the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, but will be on the issue itself.
In comments published in the October issue of the Appleton monthly, The Scene, Sen. Erpenbach said this about the hearing:
“I think there are a lot of misperceptions out there about medical marijuana. This is the first time I’ve actually chaired the health committee, but I’ve always wanted to hold an informational meeting on it.”“The whole idea is to get the idea out there. I think if we just introduced a bill without shining some light on it first, it would be a little more difficult to pass legislation.”
The hearing will feature three invited guests; George McMahon, who has received legal medical marijuana from the US government since 1990, Dr. David Bearman, a Rice Lake WI native and UW Alum who specializes in medical marijuana in his California practice, and Dr. Chris Fichtner, an Illinois psychiatrist and former head of Mental Health for the State of Illinois Dept. of Human Services.
Following their testimony, the public will be allowed to testify.
Link to Original Notice: click here
SenateINFORMATIONAL HEARING
Committee on Health, Human Services, Insurance, and Job Creation
The committee will hold an informational hearing on the following items at the time specified below:
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
10:30 AM
411 South
State CapitolThe Committee will hear testimony on the use of medical marijuana. The following individuals have been invited to speak: George McMahon- A legal medical marijuana recipient. Since 1990 Mr. McMahon has received a monthly prescription for medical marijuana from the federal government for the treatment of a rare, painful medical condition called Nail-Patella Syndrome. Dr. Christopher G. Fichtner, Associate Professor of Clinical Psychiatry-University of Chicago, President of WellMindHealth, former Director of Mental Health for the Illinois Department of Human Services. Dr. David Bearman-California physician who operates a medical practice specific to medical marijuana patients.
Public Testimony will be allowed following the three invited speakers.
Senator Jon Erpenbach
ChairPosted by Gary at 02:15 PM | Comments (1)
October 23, 2007
California physician, cannabinologist David Bearman MD to speak at Escape Coffee on Nov. 12
Posted by Gary Storck
Tuesday, October 23, 2007The upcoming informational hearing on medical marijuana by the Wisconsin State Senate's Health and Human Services Committee, chaired by Sen. Jon Erpenbach (D-Middleton), on Nov. 14, will bring three leading experts on medical cannabis to Madison.
Two of the experts, 5th legal federal IND medical marijuana patient George McMahon and Dr. Chris Fichtner, a psychiatrist and former Director of Mental Health for the State of Illinois, Department of Human Services, will only be in Madison for the Nov. 14 hearing.
The third, California physician and surgeon David Bearman, a UW alum and Rice Lake native, will be spending a few extra days in Madison.
To take advantage of this opportunity, Madison NORML's next scheduled regular meeting will instead be a lecture by Dr. Bearman on California's 11-year old medical marijuana law and how cannabis figures in his medical practice in Santa Barbara CA. Dr. Bearman will also be discussing and signing copies of his new book, Demons, Discrimination and Dollars.
What: Lecture, Reception and Book Signing for David Bearman MDWhen: Monday, November 12, 2007, 7:00 pm.
Where: Escape Java Joint & Art Gallery 916 Williamson Street Madison, WI 53703
Posted by Gary at 11:18 AM | Comments (0)
August 19, 2007
37th Annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival is just around the corner!
Posted by Gary Storck
Sunday, August 19, 2007Summer's waning days in Madison means that Harvest Fest must be just around the corner. The 37th Annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival will be held the weekend of Fri-Sun October 5, 6 & 7, 2007. The schedule appears below!
Download Harvest Fest 37 event flier here.
37th Annual Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival Fri-Sun October 5, 6 & 7 Madison WisconsinHarvest Fest 37 is dedicated to Tod Mikuriya M.D. (1933-2007)
Sunday October 7
Library Mall
12:30 pm: Sloppy Joe (bluegrass, jamgrass)
Parade to Capitol 2pm
Music and Speakers on the State St. steps of the Capitol
Little Marsh Overflow (swamp funk)Saturday October 6
Library Mall
12-6 pm12:00 Logarhythm (rock)
1:00 Pistols at Dawn (surf rock)
2:00 Elf Lettuce (jam rock)
3:00 Tate and the 008 Band (blues)
4:00 Baghdad Scuba Review (progressive rock)
5:00 Nama Rupa (reggae, dub)Between bands & speakers:
Special Dank Midnights (acoustic pot songs)Plus vendors, informational tabling, likeminded people and more!
Library Mall is at State and Lake Streets in downtown Madison near the UW-Madison Library and campus.
Friday, October 5
Madison NORML presents the 5th Annual IMMLY medical cannabis Benefit
5-8 pm
Cardinal Bar
418 E. Wilson in downtown Madison.More info: madisonnorml.org or http://www.myspace.com/madisonhempfest
Posted by Gary at 10:14 PM | Comments (0)
April 27, 2007
Global Marijuana March in Stevens Point on Saturday May 5
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, April 27, 2007Because of the Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival click here, the 37th annual scheduled for Oct. 6 & 7 this year, there has not been a lot of energy put into the Global Marijuana March, timed for the first weekend in May. This year, in fact, the ONLY Global Marijuana March in Wisconsin is happening up in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, staged by the good folks of the BR Family click here.
When? Saturday May 5, 2007 at 2 p.m.
Where? Gather K-Mart parking lot on N. Division at Maria
Bandshell Festivities after the March @ Pfiffner Park featuring speakers and music!More info: click here
Posted by Gary at 10:49 AM | Comments (0)
April 03, 2007
Two days to go until Ord. 23.20 Birthday Party at Escape Coffee!
Posted by Gary Storck
Tuesday, April 03, 2007Just two days to go until Madison NORML’s Madison Ordinance 23.20 Birthday Party at Escape Coffee! Say what? For the uninitiated, Madison Ord. 23.20 is the second oldest municipal marijuana decriminalization ordinance still on the books in the U.S. It is also the oldest medical marijuana law on the books anywhere.
So, it is fitting that the old girl finally gets a party, and the folks who helped make this happen three decades ago definitely deserve some acknowledgement for their efforts way back when cannabis freedom was in the air and legalization seemed just around the corner.
This unique event will take a look back at how, 30 years ago, Madisonians saw a pressing need for change and by the thousands, signed petitions to put the issue before voters, and won at the polls. The testament to that effort is Ord. 23.20, still on the books today providing some common sense around an issue that is too often the subject of hysteria. And although 23.20 has taken some lumps over the years, the recent “change in policy” by the Dane County DA to charge cases involving less than 25 grams as an ordinance violation is evidence that Madison voters were on the right track when they went to the polls 30 years ago and passed 23.20 by a 60/40 margin.
After a discussion, we’ll listen to the mellow sounds of the Special Dank Midnights, presenting some acoustic cannabis tunes, as we enjoy birthday cake and the delicious beverages served up by the good folks at Escape.
So come on down to Escape Coffee on Thursday night, April 5, 2007, at 7pm!
Posted by Gary at 10:21 AM | Comments (0)
March 19, 2007
Madison NORML to throw Ordinance 23.20 a Birthday Party on April 5th!
Posted by Gary Storck
Monday, March 19, 2007Thirty years ago this April 5, Madison voters passed Madison General Ordinance 23.20, click here the nation’s second oldest municipal cannabis decriminalization law. It also legalized medical use with a doctor’s note, making it the oldest medical marijuana law still in the books in the world.
23.20 factoidOn April 5, 1977, Madison voters passed Question 6, "Regulations concerning marijuana and cannabis," which became Madison General Ordinance 23.20, dealing with personal and medical use of cannabis, with over 60% of the vote.
FOR: 40,681 -- 60.6%
AGAINST: 26, 432 -- 39.4%
TOTAL: 67,113 -- 100 %To both commemorate and celebrate this historic event, Madison NORML is planning an event that promises to be unique, educational and fun. A commemoration of the effort that went into passing Ord. 23.20 in April 1977 and its two sister advisory referendums in Nov. 1976 ballot. A celebration that it remains on the books today, a tribute to an era that while simpler, was much wiser when it came to cannabis. So, on Thursday, April 5, 2007, we’ll be throwing a party at the Escape Java Joint & Gallery at 916 Williamson St. on Madison’s near East side!
Hosted by Lee Rayburn, ex of the Mic 92, now with WillyStreetMedia.Com click here, the event will kick off at 7pm. We’ll start things off with a quick overview of how 23.20 and its companions got on the ballot and were passed, followed by a short community discussion. Then, we’ll celebrate with some cake and the music of the Special Dank Midnights, playing some acoustic cannabis tunes. SDM, composed of members of the late band, Groovulous Glove, will be making their debut. This is a free event, and we hope you’ll enjoy some of Escape’s fine beverages and snacks while you are enjoying the event.
Some of the major players from that time are unavailable, such as the late County Supervisor Dean Kaufler, who led the signature drives along with former Madison alder Roney Sorensen, who we have been unable to reach. Others, were invited but unable to attend, including former Police Chief David Couper, now an Episcopal priest, former State Rep. David Clarenbach, both who said they would attend "in spirit", and former Mayor Paul Soglin. We are hoping that other members of the community who lived in Madison during the 1970’s will attend and share their recollections of this historic time.
Here’s a link to the event flier Download file! See you at Escape on April 5th.
Posted by Gary at 11:26 AM | Comments (0)
February 09, 2007
Second Concert for Medical Cannabis to rock Tripp Commons this Sunday Feb. 11th
Posted by Gary Storck
Friday, February 9, 2007Tripp Commons in the UW-Madison Memorial Union will once again be the location of the Concert for Medical Cannabis, this Sunday Feb. 11, from 4:00 pm to 11:30 pm. The event is presented by Students for Sensible Drug Policy UW Madison (SSDP) in association with Madison NORML.
The musical lineup is as follows (in order of appearance)
* Disliking Silence (rock)
* Digital Dose (electronic)
* Hanah Jon Taylor (jazz)
* Elf Lettuce (jam rock)
* Baghdad Scuba Review (progressive rock)
* Nama Rupa (reggae, rock)Many thanks to these artists for donating their time and services for this worthy event!
In addition, the event will feature several speakers, medical cannabis informational tabling, videos and vending. Madison NORML's Madsterdam Fair Trade Coffee from Just Coffee will also be available for purchase as well as Madison NORML t-shirts and other merchandise. Chair massages will be offered for a donation.
Please join us Sunday in Tripp Commons, Memorial Union 800 Langdon Street Madison, WI 53706. Free admission.
Posted by Gary at 03:12 PM | Comments (0)
January 24, 2007
Second Annual Concert for Medical Cannabis Sunday Feb. 11th in Madison
Posted by Gary Storck
Wednesday, January 24, 2007On Sunday, February 11, 2007, from 4-11:30pm, Students for Sensible Drug Policy UW Madison (SSDP) and Madison NORML are presenting our second free concert for medical cannabis.
