Nouwen on trust, love and forgiveness
August 10, 2016
Shrimp season dates set
August 10, 2016
A Houma attorney with long-standing ties to the seafood industry, who is also an avid recreational fisher, is Gov. John Bel Edwards’ latest appointment to the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission.
Jerri G. Smitko made her first appearance as a commission member last week, at the board’s regular August meeting. Her term runs through 2022.
“As a lifelong sportswoman, a licensed commercial fisherman and an attorney with more than 30 years in practice, I understand how important the law is in protecting our natural resources,’’ said Smitko, who has one son, Maxwell Smitko, recently admitted to the practice of law. “I also have a deep appreciation for those who rely on those resources for their livelihood, sustenance and enjoyment. I am eager to champion the causes of our commercial fishermen and trappers who have served as the backbone of the bayou communities for generations.’’
A Tulane University Law School graduate, Smitko was chair of the Louisiana Indigent Defense Assistance Board from 2006-09, was on the board of directors for the Terrebonne Parish Indigent Defenders Office from 2000-06 and on the board of commissioners of the Terrebonne General Hospital Service District No. 1 from 1997-2009.
She was also special legal counsel to Terrebonne Parish Consolidated Government from 1992-98 and the assistant parish attorney for the same body from 1988-92; Smitko also served in the Louisiana Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserve until her honorable discharge in 1985.
The Wildlife and Fisheries Commission makes vital policy decisions regarding the state’s natural resources, including season dates for hunting and fishing, and approves various regulations.
State Rep. Tanner Magee, R-Houma, sent a letter to Edwards recommending Smitko to the seat. The nomination was also supported by Terrebonne Parish Councilwoman Arlanda Williams and State Sen. Karen Carter Peterson.
In addition to many ties with commercial fishermen in Terrebonne and Lafourche’s bayou communities, Smitko is involved in the industry herself as part owner of the double-rigged shrimping trawler Angel Annie.
“I have represented so many fishermen over the years,” said Smitko, who hopes to model her service in a manner similar to the late Mike Voisin, who was an industry icon.
“I have a connection for over 30 years with hardworking families who make their livelihood in the commercial fishing industry. I want to protect those people and also protect our resources. I have been praying for the abilities, the knowledge, common sense and compassion to serve as well as Mike Voisin did.”•
