NC Fisherman Testifies Before Senate Small Business Committee 

Commercial fisherman and NCFA Board member, Hubert Potter of Hobucken, NC testified before the Senate Small Business Committee on Tuesday, April 24 in Washington, DC. The Committee conducted an oversight hearing to determine how well some federal agencies adhere to the requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

Mr. Potter discussed the impact that Summer Flounder regulations have had on his family, his community and other communities in North Carolina. Mr. Potter quoted Federal District Court Judge Robert Doumar, and answered questions from Committee Chairman Kit Bond from Missouri.

Chairman Bond was notably impressed with Mr. Potter's humble, down-to-earth comments on the impact of regulations. The Chairman especially took notice when Mr. Potter said: "Mr. Chairman, the Government has forever. A fisherman only has a lifetime."

According to NCFA President Jerry Schill, "Hubert did North Carolina proud."

While it was quite obvious that Chairman Bond was attentive and impressed with Potter's testimony, the Association is saddened and somewhat angered to report that our own NC Senator John Edwards, a member of the Small Business Committee, did not attend the hearing. Nor did he send a staff member to attend.
After returning home, Mr. and Mrs. Potter received a letter of regret from the senator for his inability to greet them in Washington.

 North Carolina Fisherman and NCFA Board Member Hubert Potter (center) of Hobucken, NC.  To Mr. Potter's left and right are Foam Supplies, Inc. VP Tim Kalinowski of Earth City, MS and Paul J. Corey Painting and Decorating owner Paul Corey of Dedham, MA.

Senate Small Business Committee Chairman Senator Kit Bond (Right Front) and Senate Small Business Committee staff member John Stoody (Back Left).