All can we keep this to the issue of Gibson and their use of imported wood and if a law was broken.

I think the point of the whole post was too make sure everyone knew what happened and why with out pulling in politics.

I'm sure Brad will lock this thing if it keeps up!

_________________
1985 Fender Squier Bullet
1987 Kramer Striker
1983 Fender Strat Elite
1995 Fender Strat Plus
2001 Carvin DC127
1999 G&L Legacy
2002 Melancon Classic Artist
2009 Paul Reed Smith SE Singlecut
2010 Fender Deluxe American Strat
2006 Fender MIM Fat Strat

steve martin rules


honestly i am surprised it hasn't been locked...... but it really hasn't gotten out of hand yet though
my intention in this thread was to discuss the laws involved, politics is not a good thing to start debating....... that's a can of worms that I want no part of

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I had to edit my original post right away per Brad's request because a previous thread had been locked due to it getting too political.


Guitars and politics almost collide here so it's a fine line to walk.

_________________
1985 Fender Squier Bullet
1987 Kramer Striker
1983 Fender Strat Elite
1995 Fender Strat Plus
2001 Carvin DC127
1999 G&L Legacy
2002 Melancon Classic Artist
2009 Paul Reed Smith SE Singlecut
2010 Fender Deluxe American Strat
2006 Fender MIM Fat Strat

With all respect,

I understand the limits set by Fender, and that it's their call. But I have seen nothing about these "political debates" that is any nastier than some of the arguments that go on about guitar topics. For instance try having a calm polite discussion about tone wood. If civility is the goal, let it reign across the board.

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I remember when we were free!

I think on my original post on this thread i asked for everyone to contact their representatives on behalf of Gibson, I did.
Check this out just got it:





September 14, 2011

Mr. Michael Chartres
204 Canaan Lane
Jeanerette, LA 70544-6040

Dear Mr. Chartres:

Thank you for contacting me with your concerns over the recent Department of Justice (DOJ) raid on Gibson Guitar Corporation. I am glad to hear from you and appreciate having the benefit of your views on this issue.

Gibson Guitar Corporation is a great American company. Based in Tennessee, the company is an integral part of the vibrant music scene in Nashville, and its cultural contributions are immense. Moreover, Gibson provides dozens of jobs to workers at its locations across the state of Tennessee.

As you may know, DOJ recently raided three different Gibson Guitar factories alleging that the company's practices of importing rosewood and ebony are in violation of the Lacey Act – a Federal statute that forbids the importation of any animal or plant product if the export of the product is forbidden by law in the country of origin. This legislation was originally passed in 1900 and specifically designed to prevent the trade of illegally obtained plant and animal products.

Although I am reluctant to comment on an ongoing federal criminal investigation, I share your concern about laws being interpreted and applied on an overly expansive basis. According to Gibson, the wood in question was legally cleared for export by authorities in India, leaving many wondering exactly what the pretext for the raid was. Gibson has also gone to great lengths to ensure that all of their wood is obtained from environmentally sound sources. Currently, the DOJ has yet to file criminal charges against Gibson; however they have noted that a criminal case is possible.

As a vocal member of the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources – which has jurisdiction over concerns related to the Lacey Act – I look forward to monitoring the new developments in this case. Should Congressional action become necessary or appropriate at any time, please rest assured that I will approach this situation with your thoughts and opinions in mind.

Again, thank you for contacting me. It is an honor to serve as your Representative in Congress. If there is ever anything else I can do to be of service, please do not hesitate to contact me again.

Respectfully,

Jeff Landry
Member of Congress

_________________
1985 Fender Squier Bullet
1987 Kramer Striker
1983 Fender Strat Elite
1995 Fender Strat Plus
2001 Carvin DC127
1999 G&L Legacy
2002 Melancon Classic Artist
2009 Paul Reed Smith SE Singlecut
2010 Fender Deluxe American Strat
2006 Fender MIM Fat Strat

Whoops, I actually meant to lock this after that last posting ... doing so now.

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Director at Fender. Guitarist & guitar collector. All views/opinions expressed here are my own and not Fender’s.

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