Posted on 12/07/2005 1:17:11 PM PST by Hammerhead
Clark Foam, like many other foam suppliers in California who deal in furniture, bedding and even aerospace have been facing increasing pressure from stringent California State and federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards. Rumors are running rampant as to the reason for the shut down, but none have yet been confirmed. Some are hearing the company voluntarily shut things down after being slapped one too many times by the EPA. Other versions are that federal agents actually came in and mandated it shut down. Sources closest to Clark Foam insiders say a letter came to Clark Foam headquarters from a government agency that triggered the shocking move. What the letter stated remains a mystery. (more in link)
Killed an entire industry and life style.
Surf's down.
The CA voters wanted this so this is what they get. I love these kinds of stories.
The most inspired part about Ghostbusters (yes I know this is slightly off topic) was to make the EPA goon the bad-guy. Brilliance!
First the paranormal investigation industry, and now the surfers. Where will it end.
Dude I'm like really feeling oppressed now!!Dude!!
Key quote:
Grubby Clark, founder of Clark Foam and unquestionably the single biggest mogul on the surfboard industry has repeatedly complained to sources close to him about the deteriorating business climate in California for manufacturers.
I already have been offered more for my boards from kids that know that I use them rarely.
The enviros have really gone and pissed in someone's pool, this time.
I'm pissed, too, but somehow I'm strangely happy.
Really? when did the California voters vote for this?
If this stuff's so dangerous then why do they allow people to literally throw it into the "pristine" ocean?
Hopefully some of these brainwashed surfers in Santa Cruz will start to see the light.
But, but, but...sputter, I just saw the Beach Boys(grin) on Imus last week.
Just like California has done everything possible to shut down the aerospace industry and military in that state.
California = EU
the EPA rumor is absurd IMO ... it was just a poorly run business that went Chap 7 or Chap 11. Even more absurd is the "I'm already getting bigger offers for old boards" claim below.
DUDE! That is SOOOOO BOGUS!
http://www.twsbiz.com/twbiz/features/article/0,21214,1138026,00.html
In a move that could have long-term repercussions on the domestic surfboard market, Clark Foam Founder Gordon Clark announced today in a faxed letter to shapers that “effective immediately Clark Foam is ceasing production and sales of surfboard blanks.”
Representatives from Clark Foam were unavailable for comment.
Clark Foam, based in the increasingly upscale town of La Niguel in Orange County, California, is the undisputed leader in the production of polyurethane foam blanks, a position it’s held since the mid 1960s. It’s estimated that more than 80 percent of domestic polyurethane surfboards use blanks from Clark Foam.
Clark’s letter, which opens with the sentence, “For owning and operating Clark Foam I may be looking at very large fines, civil lawsuits, and even time in prison,” goes on to say, “The short version of my explanation is that the State of California and especially Orange County where Clark Foam is located have made it very clear they no longer want manufacturers like Clark Foam in their area.”
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