THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Friday, December 23, 1994 TAG: 9412230013
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A12 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 49 lines
Writing for the Lower Eastern Shore Waterman's Association, we are offended by ``Imprison Poverty Cycle'' (editorial, Dec. 15). We dispute that of 13,000 residents of Northampton County, 10 percent are ``seasonal workers, primarily farm hands and watermen'' who ``make their living'' part of the year on welfare and unemployment.
Did you investigate these facts? There are about 150 watermen in Northampton County. Most farm hands who work here seasonally are migrant laborers who are brought here under contracts by crew leaders and then return to Florida or Texas when the season is over.
We admit there is a heavy burden on our local welfare programs, but we disagree with the insinuation that seasonal workers drain funds. If watermen are seasonal workers, it is by no choice of ours.
Increasing government restrictions and regulations are making our livelihoods as extinct as the seafood we are trying to put on someone's supper table. Still, we are ridiculed if we seek government aid.
Speaking personally, I have been a self-employed commercial fisherman, or ``waterman,'' for 25 years. My occupation entails 10-14 hours a day, six or seven days a week, 12 months a year.
Although it could be said a waterman's work is ``seasonal,'' we also work in all seasons. From April through August, I harvest crabs by crab potting. From August through September, I fish gill nets. October through December, I harvest crabs again by potting. From December through April, I crab dredge. I consider my occupation a full-time job.
I am proud that in 25 years I have raised three children, bought two homes and several motor vehicles, and paid my taxes, all without any assistance from ``public benefits.''
I take offense with the speculation that Northampton County watermen work only during particular periods, then survive the rest of the year on welfare or unemployment compensation.
It eludes me how those ``across the Bay'' can advise as to what's best for our community.
MARSHALL B. COX SR., president
Lower Eastern Shore
Waterman's Association
Cape Charles, Dec. 19, 1994 by CNB