The Lacey Act –
Its Substance and Its Impact on You and Your Customers
Friday, October 15 •1 pm • Sponsored by Hardwood Market Report
This panel, moderated by Ray Markley of Shorepoint Insurance Services will offer a clear understanding of this important wood industry regulation; how everyone in the supply chain from harvest to retail must comply with the law and practical tips to reduce the risks of trade within the U.S. and worldwide. The panel will also include John Chaffin and Jeffrey Grimson.
Moderator: Ray Markley, Shorepoint Insurance Services
Speakers: John Chaffin, Chaffin & Associates, Inc. | Jeffery Grimson, Mowry & Grimson PLLC
Ray Markley is President and a principal of Shorepoint Insurance Services, which has provided risk management counsel and insurance products to clientele since it's inception in 1962. Shorepoint has grown from servicing regional needs to worldwide exposures ranging from single location risks to complex multiple location risks worldwide with over one billion dollars in sales.
Ray has a background in the marine transportation industry, as a marine surveyor and claims manager, as well as risk management in two multi-national companies. A California State University, Long Beach graduate, he has achieved specialty designations in insurance, including the Certified Insurance Counselor, Associate in Risk Management and Certified Risk Manager. Ray has been involved as director of World Trade Centers Association of Orange County, National Fisheries Institute, as well as membership in the International Wood Products Association and other noteworthy associations. He has been published in several journals, including American Agents and Brokers, Insurance Journal and Seafood Business. In the past few years, Ray has taken up the torch to ensure protection for the business professional against the intricacies involved in The Lacey Act, and has become a regular presenter on the topic.
John Chaffin owns and manages Chaffin & Associates, Inc., operating offices in California, Malaysia and China. He provides Ongoing Quality Assurance and Grademark Management services as well as practicing law and international trade consulting services. He is an active member of the International Wood Products Association, serving on the Board of Directors.
John began his career as a Chemical Engineer, transitioning to law in 1978 after earning his JD degree from University of Houston, Bates College of Law. In 1990, John became Vice President and General Counsel for Liberty Woods International, Inc., where, under John’s active management in sales and operations, as well as legal and international matters, the company grew to become the largest importer of hardwood plywood in the U.S.
John speaks and advises on CARB regulations, The Lacey Act, trade finance, U.S. Customs and other aspects of importing. He also is active with his certification services for nearly 100 wood mills in East Asia.
Jeffrey Grimson, Mowry & Grimson PLLC, has nearly 20 years experience providing counseling and guidance to businesses worldwide on compliance with due diligence obligations and other aspects of U.S. and international trade regulations. He has had many opportunities to perfect his skills with particular focus in matters regarding to The Lacey Act due to continuing changes in implementation and interpretation of this legislation. Jeffrey has been a frequent speaker at industry events, law schools and other seminars on the Lacey Act and other trade regulatory issues. He is published in the American Bar Association International Practitioner's Deskbook Series.
Jeffrey has achieved groundbreaking rulings for his clients, throughout diverse industries, in the complex issues that arise in areas including nonmarket economy antidumping proceedings and resulting appeals.
Based in Washington, D.C., where he was first licensed to practice after receiving his JD at The American University: Washington College of Law in 1992, Jeffrey applies his vast experience and skills representing a variety of U.S. and international corporations and their customers worldwide.
2010 National Hardwood Lumber Association Annual Convention & Exhibit Showcase
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