Jump to content

Paul Stanford: Difference between revisions

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Content deleted Content added
No edit summary
Citation bot (talk | contribs)
Removed parameters. | Use this bot. Report bugs. | Suggested by Abductive | #UCB_webform 1900/3849
 
(25 intermediate revisions by 14 users not shown)
Line 11: Line 11:
| nationality =
| nationality =
| other_names =
| other_names =
| occupation = Marijuana Activist
| occupation = Marijuana activist
| years_active =1984-present
| years_active =1984–March 2023
| known_for =
| known_for =
| notable_works =[[The Hemp and Cannabis Foundation]]
| notable_works =[[The Hemp and Cannabis Foundation]]
}}
}}
'''Paul Stanford''' is the founder of [[The Hemp and Cannabis Foundation]] (THCF),<ref>{{cite news|last1=Pitkin|first1=James|title=Mannix Drops Anti-Marijuana Ballot Initiative|url=http://cannabisnews.com/news/23/thread23904.shtml|accessdate=2 June 2015|publisher=Willamette Week|date=May 5, 2008}}</ref> THCF Medical Clinics,<ref>{{cite web|last1=Miller|first1=Jennie|title=State’s First Medical Marijuana Clinic Opens In Southfield|url=http://cannabisnews.com/news/23/thread23904.shtml|website=Marijuana.com|publisher=C & G Publishing|accessdate=27 May 2015}}</ref> and the Campaign for the Restoration and Regulation of Hemp (CRRH).<ref>{{cite news|last1=Willson|first1=Kate|title=Marijuana Legalization Campaigns in Final Push to Make November Ballot|url=http://www.wweek.com/portland/blog-31750-marijuana_legalization_campaigns_in_final_push_to_.html|accessdate=27 May 2015|publisher=Willamette Week|date=June 16, 2014}}</ref>
'''Paul Stanford''' is the founder of [[The Hemp and Cannabis Foundation]] (THCF),<ref>{{cite news|last1=Pitkin|first1=James|title=Mannix Drops Anti-Marijuana Ballot Initiative|url=http://cannabisnews.com/news/23/thread23904.shtml|accessdate=2 June 2015|publisher=Willamette Week|date=May 5, 2008}}</ref> THCF Medical Clinics,<ref>{{cite web|last1=Miller|first1=Jennie|title=State's First Medical Marijuana Clinic Opens In Southfield|url=http://cannabisnews.com/news/23/thread23904.shtml|website=Marijuana.com|publisher=C & G Publishing|accessdate=27 May 2015|url-status=dead|archive-date=30 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160630060139/http://cannabisnews.com/news/23/thread23904.shtml}}</ref> and the Campaign for the Restoration and Regulation of Hemp (CRRH).<ref>{{cite news|last1=Willson|first1=Kate|title=Marijuana Legalization Campaigns in Final Push to Make November Ballot|url=http://www.wweek.com/portland/blog-31750-marijuana_legalization_campaigns_in_final_push_to_.html|accessdate=27 May 2015|publisher=Willamette Week|date=June 16, 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160808125606/https://www.wweek.com/portland/blog-31750-marijuana_legalization_campaigns_in_final_push_to_.html|archive-date=8 August 2016}}</ref>


The Hemp and Cannabis Foundation was founded in the year 1999<ref name="auto1">{{cite news|last1=Dundas|first1=Zach|title=Garden of Weedin'|url=http://www.wweek.com/portland/article-6541-garden_of_weedin.html|accessdate=21 September 2015|publisher=Willamette Week|date=January 24, 2007}}</ref> by Paul Stanford in [[Portland, Oregon]]. To date THCF has helped over 250,000 patients obtain a legal permit to use medical marijuana in the states where it is legal and where THCF has clinics.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Abney|first1=Wes|title=The Fighter|url=http://issuu.com/nwleaf/docs/september2014|accessdate=27 September 2015|issue=September 2014|publisher=NW Leaf Magazine}}</ref> THCF is the largest chain of medical marijuana clinics in the U.S. with clinics operating in 12 states.<ref>{{cite news|last1=KATU Communities Staff|title=Salem to host cannabis tax act discussion on Sept. 28|url=http://www.katu.com/communities/salem/salem-to-host-cannabis-tax-act-discussion-on-sept-28-494760-198348031.html|accessdate=27 September 2015|publisher=KATU.com|date=September 19, 2012}}</ref>
Stanford founded the Hemp and Cannabis Foundation in 1999<ref name="auto1">{{cite news|last1=Dundas|first1=Zach|title=Garden of Weedin'|url=http://www.wweek.com/portland/article-6541-garden_of_weedin.html|accessdate=21 September 2015|publisher=Willamette Week|date=January 24, 2007}}</ref> in [[Portland, Oregon]]. The group claimed to have helped over 250,000 patients obtain a legal permit to use medical marijuana in the states where it is legal and where THCF has clinics.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Abney|first1=Wes|title=The Fighter|url=http://issuu.com/nwleaf/docs/september2014|accessdate=27 September 2015|issue=September 2014|publisher=NW Leaf Magazine}}</ref> THCF was the largest chain of medical marijuana clinics in the U.S., with clinics in 12 states.<ref>{{cite news|last1=KATU Communities Staff|title=Salem to host cannabis tax act discussion on Sept. 28|url=http://www.katu.com/communities/salem/salem-to-host-cannabis-tax-act-discussion-on-sept-28-494760-198348031.html|accessdate=27 September 2015|publisher=KATU.com|date=September 19, 2012}}</ref> The clinic has since been sold to outside investors and is now known as Empower Clinics. Stanford maintains the company was stolen and continues to fight in court to regain control.<ref name="prop tran">{{cite news
| author =
| title = Proposed Transaction Between SMAART Holdings Inc. and Adira Energy Ltd.
| quote =
| newspaper = Market Wired
| date = November 9, 2015
| pages =
| url = http://www.marketwired.com/press-release/proposed-transaction-between-smaart-holdings-inc-and-adira-energy-ltd-tsx-venture-adl-2071728.htm
| accessdate =
}}</ref>


==Activism==
==Activism==
Stanford has been active working toward ending marijuana and hemp prohibition since 1984.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Cooper|first1=Anderson|title=America's High, the Case for and Against Pot|url=http://www.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0907/24/acd.02.html|accessdate=2 June 2015|publisher=CNN|date=July 24, 2009}}</ref> He first attended a protest for [[Legality of cannabis|marijuana legalization]] at the White House in Washington, DC a week after his 18th birthday in 1978.<ref>{{cite news|last1=King|first1=Bonnie|title=Oregon Marijuana Activists Make OCTA 2012 Official|url=http://www.salem-news.com/articles/january142011/octa-stanford_bk.php|accessdate=30 July 2015|publisher=Salem News|date=January 14, 2011}}</ref> In 1984, he was instrumental in a now-famous Oregon political ballot initiative called the Oregon Marijuana Initiative (OMI),<ref>{{cite news|last1=Pitkin|first1=James|title=Joint Initiatives|url=http://www.wweek.com/portland/article-11500-joint_initiatives.html|accessdate=27 May 2015|publisher=Willamette Week|date=January 6, 2010}}</ref> which made the ballot and lost, but became the template for Stanford's later efforts. He helped [[Jack Herer]] research and write the first edition of ''[[The Emperor Wears No Clothes]]'' in 1985.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Elliot|first1=Steve|title=R.I.P.: Jack Herer, The Emperor Of Hemp|url=http://www.tokeofthetown.com/2010/04/rip_jack_herer_the_emperor_of_hemp.php|website=Tokeofthetown.com|date=15 April 2010 |accessdate=27 May 2015}}</ref>


Stanford has been active to end marijuana and hemp prohibition since 1984.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Cooper|first1=Anderson|title=America's High, the Case for and Against Pot|url=http://www.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0907/24/acd.02.html|accessdate=2 June 2015|publisher=CNN|date=July 24, 2009}}</ref> Stanford first attended a protest for [[Legality of cannabis|marijuana legalization]] at the White House in Washington, DC a week after his 18th birthday in 1978.<ref>{{cite news|last1=King|first1=Bonnie|title=Oregon Marijuana Activists Make OCTA 2012 Official|url=http://www.salem-news.com/articles/january142011/octa-stanford_bk.php|accessdate=30 July 2015|publisher=Salem News|date=January 14, 2011}}</ref> In 1984, Stanford was instrumental in a now-famous Oregon political ballot initiative called the Oregon Marijuana Initiative (OMI),<ref>{{cite news|last1=Pitkin|first1=James|title=Joint Initiatives|url=http://www.wweek.com/portland/article-11500-joint_initiatives.html|accessdate=27 May 2015|publisher=Willamette Week|date=January 6, 2010}}</ref> which made the ballot and lost, but became the template for Stanford's later efforts. Stanford helped [[Jack Herer]] research and write the first edition of ''[[The Emperor Wears No Clothes]]'' in 1985.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Elliot|first1=Steve|title=R.I.P.: Jack Herer, The Emperor Of Hemp|url=http://www.tokeofthetown.com/2010/04/rip_jack_herer_the_emperor_of_hemp.php|website=Tokeofthetown.com|accessdate=27 May 2015}}</ref>
Stanford has been called as an expert court witness on marijuana and medicinal cannabis issues.<ref>{{cite news|last1=King|first1=Bonnie|title=Washington State Marijuana Trial on National Stage|url=http://www.salem-news.com/articles/march222009/olson_032209.php|accessdate=30 July 2015|publisher=Salem News|date=March 22, 2009}}</ref> He has produced and hosted over 750 episodes of live TV programs for his public access show ''Cannabis Common Sense''.<ref name="auto">{{cite news|last1=King|first1=Bonnie|title=Oregon Marijuana Activists Make OCTA 2012 Official|url=http://www.salem-news.com/articles/january142011/octa-stanford_bk.php|accessdate=27 May 2015|publisher=Salem News|date=January 14, 2011}}</ref> He has also produced and announced radio shows and advertising.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Hardin|first1=J. Nayer|title=What is going on in the marijuana movement|url=http://hempnayer.blogspot.com/2014/03/what-is-going-on-in-marijuana-movement.html|website=Hemp Nayer|date=15 March 2014 |accessdate=30 July 2015}}</ref> Stanford produced the yearly [[Portland Hempstalk Festival|Hempstalk]] festival<ref>{{cite news|last1=Theen|first1=Andrew|title=Hempstalk Festival's lawyer: Portland is lying about drug use; festival is a civil-rights issue|url=http://www.oregonlive.com/portland/index.ssf/2014/11/hempstalk_festivals_lawyer_por.html|accessdate=27 May 2015|publisher=Oregonlive.com|date=November 17, 2014}}</ref> in Portland, Oregon, which was last held in 2016.


THCF prints a newspaper, ''Hemp News'',<ref>{{cite web|title=The Hemp and Cannabis Foundation (THCF)|url=http://www.cannabis.info/us/abc/10001635-the-hemp-and-cannabis-foundation-thcf|website=Cannabis.info|accessdate=27 May 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304140717/http://www.cannabis.info/us/abc/10001635-the-hemp-and-cannabis-foundation-thcf|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> which has also been online since 1991 and is the oldest online publication still operating today.<ref>{{cite web|title=Expo Cannabis|url=http://www.expocannabis.uy/#!conferencias/c2ho|publisher=Expo Cannabis|accessdate=27 May 2015}}</ref> It is also printed in Spanish.<ref>{{cite web|last1=News|first1=Hemp|title=Hemp News printed in Spanish|url=http://crrh.org/noticias/|website=crrh.org|accessdate=24 January 2016}}</ref>
Stanford has been called as an expert court witness on marijuana and medicinal cannabis issues.<ref>{{cite news|last1=King|first1=Bonnie|title=Washington State Marijuana Trial on National Stage|url=http://www.salem-news.com/articles/march222009/olson_032209.php|accessdate=30 July 2015|publisher=Salem News|date=March 22, 2009}}</ref> Stanford has produced and hosted over 750 episodes of live TV programs for his ''Cannabis Common Sense'' TV show.<ref name="auto">{{cite news|last1=King|first1=Bonnie|title=Oregon Marijuana Activists Make OCTA 2012 Official|url=http://www.salem-news.com/articles/january142011/octa-stanford_bk.php|accessdate=27 May 2015|publisher=Salem News|date=January 14, 2011}}</ref> He has also produced and announced radio shows and advertising.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Hardin|first1=J. Nayer|title=What is going on in the marijuana movement|url=http://hempnayer.blogspot.com/2014/03/what-is-going-on-in-marijuana-movement.html|website=Hemp Nayer|publisher=Hemp Nayer|accessdate=30 July 2015}}</ref> Stanford produces the yearly [[Portland Hempstalk Festival|Hempstalk]]<ref>{{cite news|last1=Theen|first1=Andrew|title=Hempstalk Festival's lawyer: Portland is lying about drug use; festival is a civil-rights issue|url=http://www.oregonlive.com/portland/index.ssf/2014/11/hempstalk_festivals_lawyer_por.html|accessdate=27 May 2015|publisher=Oregonlive.com|date=November 17, 2014}}</ref> festival in Portland, Oregon.


Another one of Stanford's businesses, which was founded over 25 years ago, is the Campaign for the Restoration and Regulation of Hemp (CRRH). Stanford helped draft [[Oregon Ballot Measure 80 (2012)|Oregon Ballot Measure 80]], and Stanford and CRRH placed Oregon's Measure 80 to legalize hemp and cannabis on the ballot in 2012,<ref>{{cite news|last1=VanderHart|first1=Dirk|title=Choices, Choices - November's Ballot Could Be Packed with Legal Pot Measures|url=http://www.portlandmercury.com/portland/choices-choices/Content?oid=12219905|accessdate=8 October 2015|issue=April 16, 2014|publisher=The Portland Mercury|date=April 16, 2014}}</ref> which obtained 47% of the Oregon vote.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Belville|first1=Russ|title=Oregon's Inevitable Pot Legalization in 2014|url=http://www.hightimes.com/read/oregon%E2%80%99s-inevitable-pot-legalization-2014|accessdate=27 May 2015|publisher=High Times|date=October 29, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007073358/http://www.hightimes.com/read/oregon%E2%80%99s-inevitable-pot-legalization-2014|archive-date=7 October 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2014 CRRH tried again, but failed to get their initiatives on the ballot. In the end, campaigners were complaining of late paychecks and picketing the campaign office.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Dirk|first1=VanderHart|title=Toking with the Enemy|url=http://www.portlandmercury.com/portland/toking-with-the-enemy/Content?oid=12778143|website=Portland Mercury}}</ref>
THCF prints a newspaper, Hemp News,<ref>{{cite web|title=The Hemp and Cannabis Foundation (THCF)|url=http://www.cannabis.info/us/abc/10001635-the-hemp-and-cannabis-foundation-thcf|website=Cannabis.info|publisher=Cannabis.info|accessdate=27 May 2015}}</ref> which has also been on-line since 1991 and is the oldest online publication still operating today.<ref>{{cite web|title=Expo Cannabis|url=http://www.expocannabis.uy/#!conferencias/c2ho|publisher=Expo Cannabis|accessdate=27 May 2015}}</ref> Hemp News is also printed in Spanish.<ref>{{cite web|last1=News|first1=Hemp|title=Hemp News printed in Spanish|url=http://crrh.org/noticias/|website=crrh.org|accessdate=24 January 2016}}</ref>

Another one of Stanford's businesses, which was founded over 25 years ago is the Campaign for the Restoration and Regulation of Hemp (CRRH). Stanford helped draft [[Oregon Ballot Measure 80 (2012)|Oregon Ballot Measure 80]], and Stanford and CRRH placed Oregon's Measure 80 to legalize hemp & cannabis on the ballot in 2012,<ref>{{cite news|last1=VanderHart|first1=Dirk|title=Choices, Choices - November's Ballot Could Be Packed with Legal Pot Measures|url=http://www.portlandmercury.com/portland/choices-choices/Content?oid=12219905|accessdate=8 October 2015|issue=April 16, 2014|publisher=The Portland Mercury|date=April 16, 2014}}</ref> which obtained 47% of the Oregon vote<ref>{{cite news|last1=Belville|first1=Russ|title=Oregon’s Inevitable Pot Legalization in 2014|url=http://www.hightimes.com/read/oregon%E2%80%99s-inevitable-pot-legalization-2014|accessdate=27 May 2015|publisher=High Times|date=October 29, 2013}}</ref>. In 2014 CRRH tried again but failed to get their initiatives on the ballot. In the end, campaigners were complaining of late paychecks and picketing the campaign office.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Dirk|first1=VanderHart|title=Toking with the Enemy|url=http://www.portlandmercury.com/portland/toking-with-the-enemy/Content?oid=12778143|website=Portland Mercury}}</ref>


==Business==
==Business==
In 1988 Stanford started Tree Free Eco Paper, which arranged for the manufacture of hemp paper in [[China]] and [[Europe]]. He secured initial capital financing and received bank letters of credit for the import and export of shipments of hemp products to and from Asia, Europe and North America. Tree Free Eco Paper imported hemp paper and marketed to businesses and the public via mail order. The business failed, resulting in lawsuits from disgruntled investors.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Duara|first1=Nigel|title=For Portlan's Dope King, Love and Mistrust|url=http://archive.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2012/01/01/for_portlands_dope_king_love_and_mistrust/?page=2|accessdate=27 May 2015|publisher=boston.com|date=January 1, 2012}}</ref>


The Hemp and Cannabis Foundation has opened medical clinics in 12 states. 250,000 patients have gone through THCF's clinics.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Scott|first1=Tristan|title=Applying for relief: Missoula clinic helps patients fill out paperwork for medical marijuana|url=http://missoulian.com/mobile/article_25b931ba-ff3c-11de-8ba3-001cc4c03286.html|accessdate=27 May 2015|publisher=Missoulian|date=January 11, 2010}}</ref>
In 1988 Stanford started Tree Free Eco Paper which arranged for the manufacture of hemp paper in [[China]] and [[Europe]]. Stanford secured initial capital financing and received bank letters of credit for the import and export of shipments of hemp products to and from Asia, Europe and North America. Tree Free Eco Paper, imported hemp paper and marketed to businesses and the public via mail order. Unfortunately the business failed resulting in lawsuits from people who are accusing him of taking money while running up debts he had not repaid.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Duara|first1=Nigel|title=For Portlan's Dope King, Love and Mistrust|url=http://archive.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2012/01/01/for_portlands_dope_king_love_and_mistrust/?page=2|accessdate=27 May 2015|publisher=boston.com|date=January 1, 2012}}</ref>


The Hemp and Cannabis Foundation has opened medical clinics in 12 states. 250,000 patients have gone through THCF's clinics.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Scott|first1=Tristan|title=Applying for relief: Missoula clinic helps patients fill out paperwork for medical marijuana|url=http://missoulian.com/mobile/article_25b931ba-ff3c-11de-8ba3-001cc4c03286.html|accessdate=27 May 2015|publisher=Missoulian|date=January 11, 2010}}</ref> THCF's medical marijuana Gardens in Oregon have won many awards.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Dundas|first1=Zach|title=Garden of Weedin'|url=http://www.wweek.com/portland/article-6541-garden_of_weedin.html|accessdate=27 May 2015|publisher=Willamette Week|date=January 24, 2007}}</ref> In 2015 Paul attempted to expand the clinic by going public and accepting money from outside investors. <ref>{{cite news
THCF's medical marijuana gardens in Oregon have won many awards.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Dundas|first1=Zach|title=Garden of Weedin'|url=http://www.wweek.com/portland/article-6541-garden_of_weedin.html|accessdate=27 May 2015|publisher=Willamette Week|date=January 24, 2007}}</ref><ref name="prop tran"/> His stock was deflated and he lost controlling ownership of the company in a hostile takeover.<ref>{{cite news
| author =
| title = Proposed Transaction Between SMAART Holdings Inc. and Adira Energy Ltd.
| quote =
| newspaper = Market Wired
| date = November 9, 2015
| pages =
| url = http://www.marketwired.com/press-release/proposed-transaction-between-smaart-holdings-inc-and-adira-energy-ltd-tsx-venture-adl-2071728.htm
| accessdate =
}}</ref> Stanford's stock was deflated and he lost controlling ownership of the company in a hostile takeover. <ref>{{cite news
| author = Bonnie King
| author = Bonnie King
| title = Hostile Takeover of a Longtime Cannabis Icon
| title = Hostile Takeover of a Longtime Cannabis Icon
Line 52: Line 52:
| url = http://www.salem-news.com/articles/august302016/hostile-takeover-stanford-bk.php
| url = http://www.salem-news.com/articles/august302016/hostile-takeover-stanford-bk.php
| accessdate =
| accessdate =
}}</ref> The company is now known as Empower Healthcare.
}}</ref> The company is now known as Empower Healthcare.


In 2012, Stanford helped [[Willie Nelson]] obtain his Oregon medical marijuana permit. THCF also helped other members of Nelson's entourage obtain their Oregon medical marijuana permits.<ref name="auto2">{{cite news|last1=Crombie|first1=Noelle|title=Willie Nelson throws his support behind proposed Oregon marijuana initiative|url=http://www.oregonlive.com/health/index.ssf/2012/03/willie_nelson_throws_his_suppo.html|accessdate=21 September 2015|publisher=The Oregonian|date=March 20, 2012}}</ref> It was during this same visit with Nelson that Paul Stanford asked the singer to publicly support a proposed initiative to legalize marijuana in Oregon that was being sponsored by THCF. Nelson appeared in a 30-second public service announcement in support of the [[Oregon Cannabis Tax Act]] ballot initiative.<ref name="auto2"/>
In 2012, Stanford helped [[Willie Nelson]] obtain his Oregon medical marijuana permit. THCF also helped other people associated with Nelson to obtain their Oregon medical marijuana permits.<ref name="auto2">{{cite news|last1=Crombie|first1=Noelle|title=Willie Nelson throws his support behind proposed Oregon marijuana initiative|url=http://www.oregonlive.com/health/index.ssf/2012/03/willie_nelson_throws_his_suppo.html|accessdate=21 September 2015|publisher=The Oregonian|date=March 20, 2012}}</ref>


== Legal issues ==
== Legal issues ==
While attending [[Portland State University]], Stanford was arrested twice for selling marijuana.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news|url=http://www.wweek.com/portland/article-8161-king-bong.html|title=King Bong|newspaper=Willamette Week|access-date=2016-11-18}}</ref> In 1991, after starting Tree Free Eco Paper, Stanford served a five-month prison term for violating the terms of his probation by traveling outside the country.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://archive.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2012/01/01/for_portlands_dope_king_love_and_mistrust/?page=2|title=For Portland's dope king, love and mistrust|newspaper=Boston.com|access-date=2016-11-18}}</ref>
While attending [[Portland State University]], Stanford was arrested twice for selling marijuana.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news|url=http://www.wweek.com/portland/article-8161-king-bong.html|title=King Bong|newspaper=Willamette Week|access-date=2016-11-18}}</ref> In 1991, after starting Tree Free Eco Paper, he served a five-month prison term for violating the terms of his probation by traveling outside the country.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://archive.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2012/01/01/for_portlands_dope_king_love_and_mistrust/?page=2|title=For Portland's dope king, love and mistrust|newspaper=Boston.com|access-date=2016-11-18}}</ref>


In 1999, a judge ordered Stanford to repay $39,000 to Microsoft millionaire Bruce McKinney as part of a failed marijuana legalization campaign in [[Washington state]].<ref name=":0" /> In 1999 and 2000, Stanford filed for bankruptcy multiple times and his house was foreclosed on in 2001.<ref name=":0" />
In 1999, a judge ordered Stanford to repay $39,000 to Microsoft millionaire Bruce McKinney as part of a failed marijuana legalization campaign in [[Washington state]].<ref name=":0" /> In 1999 and 2000, Stanford filed for bankruptcy multiple times, and his house was foreclosed on in 2001.<ref name=":0" />


Stanford has lost several battles with the [[Internal Revenue Service]], including a judgement for $200,000 in 2009.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://archive.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2012/01/01/for_portlands_dope_king_love_and_mistrust/?page=4|title=For Portland's dope king, love and mistrust|newspaper=Boston.com|access-date=2016-11-18}}</ref> In addition, the State of Oregon has filed more than $33,000 in tax liens against Stanford.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://archive.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2012/01/01/for_portlands_dope_king_love_and_mistrust/?page=4|title=For Portland's dope king, love and mistrust|newspaper=Boston.com|access-date=2016-11-18}}</ref> In 2011, Stanford pleaded guilty to tax evasion, agreeing to 18 months probation and 160 hours of community service.<ref name=":1">{{Cite news|url=http://www.wweek.com/portland/blog-27132-cannabis_activist_paul_stanford_pleads_guilty_to_t.html|title=Cannabis Activist Paul Stanford Pleads Guilty to Tax Evasion|newspaper=Willamette Week|access-date=2016-11-18}}</ref> Stanford claims these legal issues are as a result of persecution for his political beliefs.<ref name=":1" />
Stanford has lost several battles with the [[Internal Revenue Service]], including a judgement for $200,000 in 2009.<ref name="archive.boston.com">{{Cite news|url=http://archive.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2012/01/01/for_portlands_dope_king_love_and_mistrust/?page=4|title=For Portland's dope king, love and mistrust|newspaper=Boston.com|access-date=2016-11-18}}</ref> In addition, the State of Oregon has filed more than $33,000 in tax liens against Stanford.<ref name="archive.boston.com"/> In 2011, he pleaded guilty to tax evasion, agreeing to 18 months probation and 160 hours of community service.<ref name=":1">{{Cite news|url=http://www.wweek.com/portland/blog-27132-cannabis-activist-paul-stanford-pleads-guilty-to-tax-evasion.html|title=Cannabis Activist Paul Stanford Pleads Guilty to Tax Evasion|newspaper=Willamette Week|access-date=2016-11-18}}</ref> He claims these legal issues are as a result of persecution for his political beliefs.<ref name=":1" />


==Award-winning marijuana cultivation==
==Award-winning marijuana cultivation==


Stanford has won awards for his medical marijuana<ref>{{cite news|last1=Dundas|first1=Zach|title=Gaden of Weedin'|url=http://www.wweek.com/portland/article-6541-garden_of_weedin.html|accessdate=27 May 2015|publisher=Willamette Week|date=January 24, 2007}}</ref> and has given away over 200 kilos of free marijuana a year to sick and dying patients over the last 12 years.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Abney|first1=Wes|title=The Fighter|url=http://issuu.com/nwleaf/docs/oregonleafseptember2014|accessdate=27 May 2015|issue=September 2014|publisher=Northwest Leaf Magazine|date=September 2014}}</ref> Stanford won the top three places at the 2008 Oregon Medical Cannabis Awards.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Pitkin|first1=James|title=Stanford Rolls to Victory at Medical Cannabis Awards|url=http://www.wweek.com/portland/blog-5664-stanford_rolls_to_victory_at_medical_cannabis_awards.html|accessdate=31 May 2015|publisher=Willamette Week|date=December 14, 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Oregon Medical Cannabis Awards 7th Oregon Medical Cannabis Awards|url=http://www.cannabiscupwinners.com/cups-and-awards/omca.html?start=5|website=Cannabis Cup Winners|accessdate=3 June 2015}}</ref>He took first place with his version of a strain known as Lemon Pledge, second with a strain called Train Wreck, and third with his Dynamite. Stanford also won an honorable mention for best flavor with his Green Lantern.<ref>{{cite web|title=Oregon Medical Cannabis Awards 7th Oregon Medical Cannabis Awards|url=http://www.cannabiscupwinners.com/cups-and-awards/omca.html?start=5|website=Cannabis Cup Winners|accessdate=3 June 2015}}</ref>
Stanford has won awards for his medical marijuana,<ref>{{cite news|last1=Dundas|first1=Zach|title=Gaden of Weedin'|url=http://www.wweek.com/portland/article-6541-garden_of_weedin.html|accessdate=27 May 2015|publisher=Willamette Week|date=January 24, 2007}}</ref> and has given away over 200 kilos of free marijuana a year to sick and dying patients over the last 12 years.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Abney|first1=Wes|title=The Fighter|url=http://issuu.com/nwleaf/docs/oregonleafseptember2014|accessdate=27 May 2015|issue=September 2014|publisher=Northwest Leaf Magazine|date=September 2014}}</ref> Stanford won the top three places at the 2008 Oregon Medical Cannabis Awards.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Pitkin|first1=James|title=Stanford Rolls to Victory at Medical Cannabis Awards|url=http://www.wweek.com/portland/blog-5664-stanford_rolls_to_victory_at_medical_cannabis_awards.html|accessdate=31 May 2015|publisher=Willamette Week|date=December 14, 2008}}</ref><ref name="cannabiscupwinners.com">{{cite web|title=Oregon Medical Cannabis Awards 7th Oregon Medical Cannabis Awards|url=http://www.cannabiscupwinners.com/cups-and-awards/omca.html?start=5|website=Cannabis Cup Winners|accessdate=3 June 2015}}</ref> He took first place with his version of a strain known as Lemon Pledge, second with a strain called Train Wreck, and third with Dynamite. Stanford also won an honorable mention for best flavor with Green Lantern.<ref name="cannabiscupwinners.com"/>


==Other marijuana-related projects==
==Other marijuana-related projects==


Stanford has an on-line museum of antique medical cannabis bottles and containers.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Stanford|first1=Paul|title=Paul Stanford's Antique Cannabis Bottle Collection|url=http://paul-stanford.info/|website=Paul Stanford's Antique Cannabis Bottle Collection|accessdate=27 May 2016}}</ref>
Stanford has an online museum of antique medical cannabis bottles and containers.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Stanford|first1=Paul|title=Paul Stanford's Antique Cannabis Bottle Collection|url=http://paul-stanford.info/|website=Paul Stanford's Antique Cannabis Bottle Collection|accessdate=27 May 2016}}</ref>


==References==
==References==
{{commonscat}}
{{reflist|30em}}
{{reflist|30em}}
{{Dual|source=http://paul-stanford.com/index.php/about-paul-stanford/|sourcepath=http://paul-stanford.com/index.php/about-paul-stanford/|date=30 December 2019|author=Paul Stanford}}


==External Links==
==External links==
{{commons category}}
* [http://www.Paul-Stanford.com Paul-Stanford.com]
* [http://www.Paul-Stanford.com Paul-Stanford.com]
* [http://www.DPaulStanford.org DPaulStanford.org]
* [http://www.DPaulStanford.org DPaulStanford.org]
* [http://www.THCF-News.com THCF-News.com]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20160131105731/http://www.thcf-news.com/ THCF-News.com]
* [http://www.THCF-News.org THCF-News.org]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20160131111305/http://www.thcf-news.org/ THCF-News.org]

{{Cannabis in Oregon}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Stanford, Paul}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Stanford, Paul}}
[[Category:American activists]]
[[Category:Year of birth missing (living people)]]
[[Category:Year of birth missing (living people)]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:American cannabis activists]]
[[Category:Cannabis in Oregon]]

Latest revision as of 14:23, 12 August 2023

Paul Stanford
OccupationMarijuana activist
Years active1984–March 2023
Notable workThe Hemp and Cannabis Foundation

Paul Stanford is the founder of The Hemp and Cannabis Foundation (THCF),[1] THCF Medical Clinics,[2] and the Campaign for the Restoration and Regulation of Hemp (CRRH).[3]

Stanford founded the Hemp and Cannabis Foundation in 1999[4] in Portland, Oregon. The group claimed to have helped over 250,000 patients obtain a legal permit to use medical marijuana in the states where it is legal and where THCF has clinics.[5] THCF was the largest chain of medical marijuana clinics in the U.S., with clinics in 12 states.[6] The clinic has since been sold to outside investors and is now known as Empower Clinics. Stanford maintains the company was stolen and continues to fight in court to regain control.[7]

Activism

[edit]

Stanford has been active working toward ending marijuana and hemp prohibition since 1984.[8] He first attended a protest for marijuana legalization at the White House in Washington, DC a week after his 18th birthday in 1978.[9] In 1984, he was instrumental in a now-famous Oregon political ballot initiative called the Oregon Marijuana Initiative (OMI),[10] which made the ballot and lost, but became the template for Stanford's later efforts. He helped Jack Herer research and write the first edition of The Emperor Wears No Clothes in 1985.[11]

Stanford has been called as an expert court witness on marijuana and medicinal cannabis issues.[12] He has produced and hosted over 750 episodes of live TV programs for his public access show Cannabis Common Sense.[13] He has also produced and announced radio shows and advertising.[14] Stanford produced the yearly Hempstalk festival[15] in Portland, Oregon, which was last held in 2016.

THCF prints a newspaper, Hemp News,[16] which has also been online since 1991 and is the oldest online publication still operating today.[17] It is also printed in Spanish.[18]

Another one of Stanford's businesses, which was founded over 25 years ago, is the Campaign for the Restoration and Regulation of Hemp (CRRH). Stanford helped draft Oregon Ballot Measure 80, and Stanford and CRRH placed Oregon's Measure 80 to legalize hemp and cannabis on the ballot in 2012,[19] which obtained 47% of the Oregon vote.[20] In 2014 CRRH tried again, but failed to get their initiatives on the ballot. In the end, campaigners were complaining of late paychecks and picketing the campaign office.[21]

Business

[edit]

In 1988 Stanford started Tree Free Eco Paper, which arranged for the manufacture of hemp paper in China and Europe. He secured initial capital financing and received bank letters of credit for the import and export of shipments of hemp products to and from Asia, Europe and North America. Tree Free Eco Paper imported hemp paper and marketed to businesses and the public via mail order. The business failed, resulting in lawsuits from disgruntled investors.[22]

The Hemp and Cannabis Foundation has opened medical clinics in 12 states. 250,000 patients have gone through THCF's clinics.[23]

THCF's medical marijuana gardens in Oregon have won many awards.[24][7] His stock was deflated and he lost controlling ownership of the company in a hostile takeover.[25] The company is now known as Empower Healthcare.

In 2012, Stanford helped Willie Nelson obtain his Oregon medical marijuana permit. THCF also helped other people associated with Nelson to obtain their Oregon medical marijuana permits.[26]

[edit]

While attending Portland State University, Stanford was arrested twice for selling marijuana.[27] In 1991, after starting Tree Free Eco Paper, he served a five-month prison term for violating the terms of his probation by traveling outside the country.[28]

In 1999, a judge ordered Stanford to repay $39,000 to Microsoft millionaire Bruce McKinney as part of a failed marijuana legalization campaign in Washington state.[27] In 1999 and 2000, Stanford filed for bankruptcy multiple times, and his house was foreclosed on in 2001.[27]

Stanford has lost several battles with the Internal Revenue Service, including a judgement for $200,000 in 2009.[29] In addition, the State of Oregon has filed more than $33,000 in tax liens against Stanford.[29] In 2011, he pleaded guilty to tax evasion, agreeing to 18 months probation and 160 hours of community service.[30] He claims these legal issues are as a result of persecution for his political beliefs.[30]

Award-winning marijuana cultivation

[edit]

Stanford has won awards for his medical marijuana,[31] and has given away over 200 kilos of free marijuana a year to sick and dying patients over the last 12 years.[32] Stanford won the top three places at the 2008 Oregon Medical Cannabis Awards.[33][34] He took first place with his version of a strain known as Lemon Pledge, second with a strain called Train Wreck, and third with Dynamite. Stanford also won an honorable mention for best flavor with Green Lantern.[34]

[edit]

Stanford has an online museum of antique medical cannabis bottles and containers.[35]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Pitkin, James (May 5, 2008). "Mannix Drops Anti-Marijuana Ballot Initiative". Willamette Week. Retrieved 2 June 2015.
  2. ^ Miller, Jennie. "State's First Medical Marijuana Clinic Opens In Southfield". Marijuana.com. C & G Publishing. Archived from the original on 30 June 2016. Retrieved 27 May 2015.
  3. ^ Willson, Kate (June 16, 2014). "Marijuana Legalization Campaigns in Final Push to Make November Ballot". Willamette Week. Archived from the original on 8 August 2016. Retrieved 27 May 2015.
  4. ^ Dundas, Zach (January 24, 2007). "Garden of Weedin'". Willamette Week. Retrieved 21 September 2015.
  5. ^ Abney, Wes. "The Fighter". No. September 2014. NW Leaf Magazine. Retrieved 27 September 2015.
  6. ^ KATU Communities Staff (September 19, 2012). "Salem to host cannabis tax act discussion on Sept. 28". KATU.com. Retrieved 27 September 2015.
  7. ^ a b "Proposed Transaction Between SMAART Holdings Inc. and Adira Energy Ltd". Market Wired. November 9, 2015.
  8. ^ Cooper, Anderson (July 24, 2009). "America's High, the Case for and Against Pot". CNN. Retrieved 2 June 2015.
  9. ^ King, Bonnie (January 14, 2011). "Oregon Marijuana Activists Make OCTA 2012 Official". Salem News. Retrieved 30 July 2015.
  10. ^ Pitkin, James (January 6, 2010). "Joint Initiatives". Willamette Week. Retrieved 27 May 2015.
  11. ^ Elliot, Steve (15 April 2010). "R.I.P.: Jack Herer, The Emperor Of Hemp". Tokeofthetown.com. Retrieved 27 May 2015.
  12. ^ King, Bonnie (March 22, 2009). "Washington State Marijuana Trial on National Stage". Salem News. Retrieved 30 July 2015.
  13. ^ King, Bonnie (January 14, 2011). "Oregon Marijuana Activists Make OCTA 2012 Official". Salem News. Retrieved 27 May 2015.
  14. ^ Hardin, J. Nayer (15 March 2014). "What is going on in the marijuana movement". Hemp Nayer. Retrieved 30 July 2015.
  15. ^ Theen, Andrew (November 17, 2014). "Hempstalk Festival's lawyer: Portland is lying about drug use; festival is a civil-rights issue". Oregonlive.com. Retrieved 27 May 2015.
  16. ^ "The Hemp and Cannabis Foundation (THCF)". Cannabis.info. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 27 May 2015.
  17. ^ "Expo Cannabis". Expo Cannabis. Retrieved 27 May 2015.
  18. ^ News, Hemp. "Hemp News printed in Spanish". crrh.org. Retrieved 24 January 2016. {{cite web}}: |last1= has generic name (help)
  19. ^ VanderHart, Dirk (April 16, 2014). "Choices, Choices - November's Ballot Could Be Packed with Legal Pot Measures". No. April 16, 2014. The Portland Mercury. Retrieved 8 October 2015.
  20. ^ Belville, Russ (October 29, 2013). "Oregon's Inevitable Pot Legalization in 2014". High Times. Archived from the original on 7 October 2015. Retrieved 27 May 2015.
  21. ^ Dirk, VanderHart. "Toking with the Enemy". Portland Mercury.
  22. ^ Duara, Nigel (January 1, 2012). "For Portlan's Dope King, Love and Mistrust". boston.com. Retrieved 27 May 2015.
  23. ^ Scott, Tristan (January 11, 2010). "Applying for relief: Missoula clinic helps patients fill out paperwork for medical marijuana". Missoulian. Retrieved 27 May 2015.
  24. ^ Dundas, Zach (January 24, 2007). "Garden of Weedin'". Willamette Week. Retrieved 27 May 2015.
  25. ^ Bonnie King (August 30, 2016). "Hostile Takeover of a Longtime Cannabis Icon". Salem-News.com.
  26. ^ Crombie, Noelle (March 20, 2012). "Willie Nelson throws his support behind proposed Oregon marijuana initiative". The Oregonian. Retrieved 21 September 2015.
  27. ^ a b c "King Bong". Willamette Week. Retrieved 2016-11-18.
  28. ^ "For Portland's dope king, love and mistrust". Boston.com. Retrieved 2016-11-18.
  29. ^ a b "For Portland's dope king, love and mistrust". Boston.com. Retrieved 2016-11-18.
  30. ^ a b "Cannabis Activist Paul Stanford Pleads Guilty to Tax Evasion". Willamette Week. Retrieved 2016-11-18.
  31. ^ Dundas, Zach (January 24, 2007). "Gaden of Weedin'". Willamette Week. Retrieved 27 May 2015.
  32. ^ Abney, Wes (September 2014). "The Fighter". No. September 2014. Northwest Leaf Magazine. Retrieved 27 May 2015.
  33. ^ Pitkin, James (December 14, 2008). "Stanford Rolls to Victory at Medical Cannabis Awards". Willamette Week. Retrieved 31 May 2015.
  34. ^ a b "Oregon Medical Cannabis Awards 7th Oregon Medical Cannabis Awards". Cannabis Cup Winners. Retrieved 3 June 2015.
  35. ^ Stanford, Paul. "Paul Stanford's Antique Cannabis Bottle Collection". Paul Stanford's Antique Cannabis Bottle Collection. Retrieved 27 May 2016.

As of 30 December 2019, this article is derived in whole or in part from http://paul-stanford.com/index.php/about-paul-stanford/, authored by Paul Stanford. The copyright holder has licensed the content in a manner that permits reuse under CC BY-SA 3.0 and GFDL. All relevant terms must be followed.

[edit]