For the next couple weeks, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission is soliciting public comment on Draft Amendment 7 to the Atlantic Striped Bass Management Plan. This is an amazing opportunity to improve several facets of management, leading to more striped bass in the water in the future. Today, striped bass are overfished, subject to overfishing (according to the most recent stock assessment), and at a 25-year low. It’s going to take all of us acting together if we want to improve striped bass management and restore the stock to abundant, healthy levels.

I’ve kept my ultimate goal in life simple and crystal clear. One day, I strive to become a wise old man. I haven’t a clue when that day will be but, at the very least, I expect to know when I get there. This immeasurable, intangible goal is my compass and guides my decisions as life unfolds. But wisdom doesn’t come by chance — it ‘s earned through listening, breathing deep when things get too fast, tuning in to the wind as it sweeps across the water, and trusting that there is magic in the present moment.

I’ve been lucky to have a diverse group of teachers in my life: philosophical teachings from business mentors in Colorado, environmental science professors at UNH, yoga instructors in Maine and the ever-present guidance from my loving family. I’ve been fortunate to surround myself with people that I highly respect, many which seem to move through life as if it were a rhythmic dance.