Bait shops for us and against us

[DZ]

Originally Posted by Robert

This statement is completely false. The following is text from a post Steve Medeiros made today on SNESA responding to someone who suggested a boycott of shops that oppose the ban:


Let start a Boycott. I just sent a Email to Dave at Ocean State Tackle.
> Email address are ( Found on Web Page)
>

Suggest we slow down, Ed.

True, this is an important issue, but is it worth fracturing the recreational
fishing community? Is it worth hard feelings with our friends? Is it worth
hurting local bait shops?

I don't think so.

In a few months, this menhaden deal will be behind us. We may win, or we may
lose, but by summer I'll wager that everyone here will be talking about fishing
and other topics.

Let's NOT leave a trail of hurt, bitterness and broken friendships behind.

Thank the bait shops that have supported this issue.

Save the email campaign for our state legislators when this bill comes forward.
There will be plenty of work to do very soon.

Steve

Robert,
Glad you posted that response but the damage may have already started.
Owners of two of the bait shops are very good friends of mine - they had done a lot for RISAA, donating raffle prizes, bait and prizes for youth fishing clinics, etc. To get "Black Listed" on an email or web site is absolutely wrong. RISAA needs to apologize to all the shops involved.

I know there are many ways to get pogies and the shops I'm sure will find a way. But these other sources may not be as convenient. Shop owners spend a lot of time running their business never mind trying to track down fresh bait for their customers. Lot's of time and time is money.

I don't want to get bogged down in the pros and cons of the proposed legislation on this thread but if any one want's some constructive dialog on the issue start a new thread and I'll chime in.

DZ