Editor’s note: Dr. Arthur Donart of Thomson, IL, submitted this report of a visit by U. S. Representative Cheri Bustos to a local business. His report follows.
On Friday, September 6, 2013, Congresswoman Cheri Bustos and her staff paid a visit to Shafer Fisheries, 21985 Waller Road, rural Thomson, IL, at 11:00 a.m.
They were given a tour of the operation by owner Mike Shafer. Also attending were Village of Thomson President Vicky Trager, five of the Village Trustees, and economic development officials. Shown left-to-right are Jeff Shafer, Jim Shafer, Representative Bustos, and Mike Shafer, owner.
Congresswoman Bustos asked, “How does the Federal Government hinder you? What can the Federal Government do to help you out?”
Mike Shafer explained that he thought his products should be listed in the Title Three Program for aid to disaster sites and for food aid. He was not able to accomplish this, because lobbyists from ADM and CARGO objected. It is an example of big corporations using their money and political muscle to keep the little guy from competing with them.
Shafer Fisheries does business in 19 countries around the world. Trade barriers make it difficult to expand to some others.
They have made a number of nourishing products out of Asian Carp. A prime example is a hot dog that is only 50 calories, has zero fat, and is without preservatives. This item can be purchased at their Fulton Market just off IL Route 84.
Another issue was the uncertainty of cost under the Affordable Health Care Act. Shafer Fisheries employs around 150 people. Unfortunately, stricken from the Affordable Health Care Act was a provision that would have allowed the Federal Government to offer a health care plan similar to Medicare, which has the lowest claims processing cost and can control cost.
Congresswoman Cheri Bustos left with the promise to help grow Illinois business as best she can.