Laurie Botelho, a native of Puerto Rico, is a dedicated and passionate entrepreneur in the fishing industry. With a background in food-borne illness and a deep understanding of the fishing community, Laurie embarked on a journey to provide a vital product for fishermen. Her company specializes in manufacturing high-quality scallop bags, which play a crucial role in preserving the catch and ensuring fishermen adhere to regulations. Starting her business in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Laurie recognized the importance of creating a consistent and reliable product. She collaborated with skilled Portuguese women who possessed extensive knowledge of textiles and fishing techniques, blending their expertise with her own vision for quality control and product integrity. Laurie's company produces scallop bags in various sizes, ranging from 10 to 65 pounds. T

Scope and Content Note
This oral history interview with Laurie Botelho covers various topics related to her business and her involvement in the fishing industry. Laurie describes her business, including details about the bags used by the captains and the primary location of their customers. She also discusses the history of the business, mentioning the initial support from Portuguese women in the community and concerns about cross-contamination. Laurie shares her family history from the Azores and highlights the expertise of Portuguese women who assisted in developing business ideas. Laurie talks about her personal connection to fishing, sharing stories about her grandparents and second cousins who were fishermen. She reminisces about fishing with her family for scup when she was a child and admires her mother's strength. Although there are no fishermen in Laurie's immediate family, she considers her customers as family and feels a strong sense of belonging to the industry. Laurie discusses her close friendships, with the majority of them being involved in fishing. Other women in the conversation also share their experiences with friends in the fishing industry. The topic shifts to recreational fishing and balancing home and work life. Laurie expresses that it's easy for her but acknowledges the potential challenges for her boyfriend. Laurie emphasizes the need for laws to protect fishermen and ensure their safety. She also talks about the ebb and flow of the scallop industry, fishermen's efforts to protect stocks, and the impact of regulations on her business. Laurie discusses the advantages of using muslin material for the bags and staying updated on innovative and environmentally friendly options. The topic of health issues in fishermen is raised, and Laurie mentions strained relationships and communication challenges among fishermen. The role of fisherwomen, including their involvement in finances and their importance as the glue of the family during fishing seasons, is highlighted. The interview concludes with Laurie expressing her fondness for the women and their strong connection to the fishing industry.