This year's annual meeting brought unity to the efforts of the medical cannabis patients in Ohio. The first portion of the meeting was a lively discussion on medical marijuana legislation and strategy led by lobbyist Penny Tipps of State Street Consultants. The second portion of the meeting included the annual elections. The vote was conducted by a show of hands from those present and proxy votes submitted by email were counted.

We are saddened to see two of our most valued members retire.

We would like to honor Mary Jane Borden for her selfless work on behalf of the cannabis patients in Ohio during her many years and various roles with OPN. As one of the co-founders of OPN, Mary Jane dedicated herself to improving the lives of patients. An accomplished speaker and writer, her words of truth and inspiration touched many. Educator, activist, and leader, Mary Jane contributed so much to OPN as an unsung hero. We wish her the very best and hope to see her continue her important work in drug policy reform. She will be sorely missed.

We would also like to honor the Zoretic family. We all mourn the tragic loss of one our co-founders and friend, Joe Zoretic. Dee Dee and Joe Zoretic were so instrumental in the growth and success of OPN/OPAN and the first introduction of the Ohio Medical Marijuana Act. Dee Dee is an RSD patient who is a powerhouse of empathy, energy, and action. As Director of Patient Advocacy, Dee Dee was always there, day or night to tend to the needs of the patients. One of our most powerful speakers, she could always bring the crowd to tears. We will always miss our friend Joe. We wish Dee Dee and Stephen the very best in all their endeavors and will miss them dearly.

Many thanks to all of our volunteers and board members, both past and present. Our volunteers are our most precious resource and we couldn't do it without you!

Here's to a productive year!

In Solidarity,
Brandy Zink
OPN President

Executive Director
Ohio Patient Action Network

Results of OPN elections:

OPN President - Brandy Zink

Vice President - Eleanor Ahrens

Secretary - Dawn Dunlap

Treasurer - Cher Neufer

Director of Patient Advocacy - Tonya Davis

Director of Public Health - Dr. Norman Jentner

Director of Development - Matt Fairfield


OPAN election results:

President - Rob Ryan

Vice President - Jayson Jones

Secretary - Brandy Zink

Treasurer - Tom Jackson

Legal Advisor - Dennis Day