Looking back at 2013, there are many highlights - we could go beyond the 13 captured in this newsletter. We have spent the past five years cultivating relationships and networks within fishing and eating communities at the intersection of marine conservation and social, environmental, and economic justice. The highlights of 2013 really capture a moment in time where this intersection began to take life.

Among the first to arrive at this intersection are the next generation of fishermen and women, and young activists from diverse backgrounds all working on food justice, access and sovereignty on land and at sea.

The coming together of these worlds can create a powerful force that we are about to experience. In 2014 and beyond I look most forward to seeing the vision of the next generation materialize; to seeing the young leaders in our network of Fish Locally Collaborative take the helm with even more authority.

Our thanks to all of the networks, organizations and individuals who made 2013 fertile ground for a thriving movement that protects and rebuilds the ocean while supporting healthy, just and sustainable food systems fed by communities that make a living from the sea.

Best wishes for the holidays and a healthy, happy New Year. Here's to ringing in the new!

-Niaz

So without further ado, we present our 13 greatest hits of 2013.

1.Our collaborators. We celebrated our 5-year anniversary with the Fish Locally Collaborative (FLC). What started in 2008 with 30 people from Maine has grown to include over 300 people from hundreds of fishing communities spanning from North Carolina to Maine to Alaska, British Columbia, Mexico, Nova Scotia, Italy, France, Oregon, the Gulf of Mexico, South Carolina, California, the UK and beyond. Thanks FLC!

Fruits of our Oceans kickoff at Egleston Square Farmers Market

2. More Seafood Throwdowns than we can count. What a year. New partners, new chefs, and new audiences - we were energized by all of it. Thanks to everyone we worked with.

3. Refreshing diversity. Our "Celebrate the Fruits of our Oceans" partnership with the Boston Collaborative for Food and Fitness brought us to neighborhoods throughout Boston - Eastie, Bowdoin-Geneva, Dudley Square - where we met new folks from all walks of life, all of whom were interested in eating more fresh local seafood. Thanks to those who met us for the first time!

4. Let's just call it Cape shark. Promoting the underutilized species also known as dogfish was just one way NAMA called attention to the challenges New England fishermen are feeling

these days. Thanks to our network of fishermen who are working hard and smart to bring all kinds of seafood to the table.

5. Our board rocks! We're proud of the work our board members do on their own and on our behalf. From handmade Christmas ornaments to panel discussions in Europe, we're proud to have such a dedicated crew helping to steer NAMA's ship. Thank you, board members!

The NAMA crew at Farm Aid

6. Willie and company. In September, we took the Road to Farm Aid with our Fishing in the Red campaign. It was great fun, but more importantly, we were able to bring our message to a whole new audience. Thanks Willie (et al)!

7. Fishermen's voices. Over 100 people joined five community workshops for our Who Fishes Matters tour this past February and March. The clear message that emerged was this: New England fishermen are not alone in facing the problems associated with consolidation and loss of access - and we are not alone in developing solutions. Thanks to all of the community members who turned out to these workshops, showing again that who fishes matters.

8. Energetic youth. This year's events were filled with the energy of young people - from young children tasting fresh fish to the first-ever youth-organized Seafood Throwdown at Portsmouth's Fishtival this fall. Thanks to the young people who connected with us!

Portsmouth Fishtival

9. Slow Food spreads the word. This year we had the chance to go to New Orleans to help launch Slow Fish, an international campaign for good, clean, and fair fishing practices and policy that's making waves worldwide. We felt privileged to be there. Thanks Slow Food!

10. Making high impact. We were honored this year to be named by the Center for High Impact Philanthropy as one of the most effective organizations working at the intersection of environment, vibrant communities, rights and equity, and health and hunger. Thanks to those funders who have recognized our work!

11. Our steadfast staff. From organizing events to organizing campaigns, volunteers and more - we have a lean and mean staff who gets it done. Thanks guys!

12. Friends like these.

13. Solid support. That's right, we're talking about you. Thanks for everything you do to keep NAMA focused on our work to transform markets, influence policy, and build a sustainable community for the future of fishing.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

BEST WISHES FOR A PRODUCTIVE, COLLABORATIVE NEW YEAR!

NAMA works with community based fishermen on market and policy alternatives that protect and maintain marine biodiversity.