Couldn't have said it any better than dales529. As the saying goes it feels like "The worm is definitely turning". When Frank Pallone was at the podium, he said something I think is very telling. Paraphrasing he said "This is without doubt one of the best showings I've ever seen when it comes to a recreational fishing community event and I've been to quite a few". That's a comment everyone who attended this morning's meeting should be proud of because it means elected officials, industry and association leaders are starting to take notice and when that happens they realize there's something very much worth fighting for. There's been a tremendous amount accomplished in a relatively short period of time but what made this meeting this morning even more unique as one of the speakers eluded to is it wasn't just recreational anglers. There was a great mix of party boat and charter captains, recreational anglers, elected officials, industry representatives, commercial operators, tackle shop owners and probably a few marina and restaurant owners. Our collective unified voice is growing and while we shouldn't take that for granted we also need to realize this is the very beginning of a much longer journey. Hard not to get excited about the energy, passion and conviction today from all the speakers and people in attendance but we need to stay diligent and committed to have our voices heard.

Wanted to give Gerry a special THANKS for his attendance at Galloway and today's meeting and for using the site to promote participation. Our opinions and concerns matter only if they're heard and today was validation that our voice is finally being heard. GREAT job by all the speakers, in particular a big THANK YOU to NJDEP Commissioner Bob Martin for his words and being the impetus behind today's press conference, as well as the Christie Administration for their support. I know Angler Paul posted a video of today's event, everyone should listen to Bob Martin's speech as well as others who spoke today. There words were more than political rhetoric, they spoke passionately about the concerns and plight we all face if the status quo prevails. They touched on all the right issues and in my opinion did an outstanding job articulating the key points needing to be addressed. Kudos to everyone who took the time to attend and a bigger thanks for the people who endured a brutally windy and cold day to help us carry this message to Washington!

Progress is being made but we need to keep the pressure on our elected officials who today in a big way showed their support.