June 2008 Letters to the Editor |
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New Letters to the Editor....06.30.2008
2:10 pm
Beach Access Issues Our family just returned to the mountains from our annual trip to Hatteras. We have been making the eight- hour trip for six years now. We were very concerned when we heard about the beach access. We are North Carolina born. My father-in-law is retired from N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. He helped to build the boat access area on Ocracoke. The Outer Banks are very special to our family. We enjoy the quiet, non-commercial aspect that we find there. We can be a family there and not have to deal with the craziness at other beaches. We respect the unspoiled beauty that OBX offers. We don’t drive on the beach, we surf fish a little or pier fish, but we do want access to the beach to walk, sunbathe, pick up shells or just watch the sunrise. There are a lot of people in N.C. who havent heard a thing about this. I think this is our state and the people should be able to decide the outcome of this, not just a few. It is a long trip for us to come there but it is worth every minute. If other people want to go to Myrtle Beach, I say, good. Those folks just can’t appreciate what we have here. We want to keep our beaches and we intend to let our local representatives know how we feel. Keep us informed. Brigitte Creson Marion, N.C. Thank you for getting the word out! The only credible information that I have been able to get is through your Web site! Keep up the good work and thanks again for presenting fair and reliable information. Rob Shay Frisco The proposed legislation (to set aside the consent decree and return to the interim plan) is legislation is thrilling! I am in the process of writing my senators and representative as I type this. Open access to Cape Hatteras National Seashore means more to me than words can express. I want to thank the staff of The Island Free Press for being on point on the access issue. Preserve and protect, not prohibit. Nathan Jones Portsmouth, Va. Since 1967 my family has traveled to the Outer Banks for at least one week per summer and usually one in September or October. Last week the 11 members of my family spent seven frustrating days trying to get to the most enjoyable areas on the Outer Banks -- Cape Point, Hatteras Inlet, and Ocracoke Inlet -- only to find these areas closed to use by people. Notice these most popular areas are adjacent to the highest residential density areas. Now the areas open to people are "small" strips on the straight beach where the most frequent user used to be the species being discussed, but now is a congested area of folks just trying for elbow room. The special interest groups’ focal species got the prime/majority of the acreage that is now and restricted from being used for the purpose the park exists - National Recreation Area for people. This is just the opposite of what a common-sense special case control and restriction should be. Designate far less frequented used (miles) of straight beach for species (breeding season only) controlled use and designate the most popular areas for use by the people who pay the bill for it to exist as a National Recreational Area to begin with. The past foolishness of a bureaucratic committee with far too many seats at the "all must agree" table has in fact guaranteed failure to apply common sense solutions. End that approach. Political correctness is not the goal for deciding use issues. Say what you mean and mean what you say and let common sense prevail. The public (me included) is getting short shrift due to the court being used to force the agenda of special interests following the National Park Service ineptitude to manage the facilities for public use. If I cannot use it, I want my tax money back. Robert Walker Pleasant Gap, Pa. I would like to share with your readers a perspective of the beach closure issue. I am a developer, so we deal with the environmentalists and their tactics on a daily basis. What they plan to do is to take away as much of the beach as possible. They first take little bites that don't seem too bad, then the take a big grab. Next they will back off a little then come back for another grab. They will continue to increase the regulations by bits and pieces until there is nothing left. The only people who will be allowed to access the beach will be the Park Service and the Audubon Society. Once they have established the habitat, then they will argue that these areas are permanent protected areas and will be protected forever under the permanent beach access plan that is supposed go into effect in the next couple of years. After they have established those areas for three years, then they are permanent. As I understand it, there is talk of “wintering areas” for piping plovers which translates into year round closures. The Audubon Society is a formidable foe with a national presence and lobbyists in Washington. I fear that Elizabeth Dole's bill is doomed to failure, since she will need votes from around the country. It will be very difficult to vote against the birds and for fishermen in pickup trucks. If her bill is defeated, then she will have saved face with her constituents and respond to the defeat with “I tried”. The only chance the island will have in restoring beach access is through mitigation. If the members of Congress can the vote on a fair compromise that helps the birds and restores access, then you have a win-win. Mitigation would include the following: In all other areas where development must destroy a habitat like a wetland, developers must mitigate the damage by creating new habitat elsewhere. In this case, we must create new wetlands or streams on a 2-1 basis, creating two acres for every acre destroyed. Here we can do the same thing. Out in the sound behind Buxton and Frisco is a long stretch of sandbar appropriately called the Bird Shoals. It is a long sandbar that is covered most of the time but exposed at low tide. This makes it a barren bar with no vegetation. The proposal is this: Hire a dredge to dredge the channel from Hatteras to Buxton and deposit the dredge material onto Bird Shoals, thereby creating an island 5 to 10 miles long. Since it is an island, it would create a nesting shoreline roughly three times that, 15 to 30 miles of shoreline. The birds would have an ideal place to nest undisturbed by human activity. Furthermore, it would protect the birds from the real culprit of nesting pressure, predators -- no people, no snakes, no raccoons, no cats, etc. Perhaps the Park Service could require a permit for beach driving that would help to pay for the cost of maintenance and repair of the island. Be prepared. The environmental people will not want to accept this option. The reason is that this is not about the birds. It’s about the people. Their real goal is to get people off of these areas and to restore it as a natural, undisturbed conservation area. They use the birds as a tool to accomplish their goal. They are anti-people. Once the people are removed, then they will be the only ones that are allowed to visit. I truly believe that something like this is your only chance. The environmentalists make their living doing this. They never sleep. They never stop, and they never give up ground that they have conquered. Mark Sowers (Credit for the idea to Doug Sowers) Midlothian, Va. My family and I have been vacationing on Hatteras and Ocracoke islands for the past 12 years and have recently found that our favorite beaches are closed to access. We understand the need to protect the nesting birds, but it’s a bit troubling that there has been a lack of documented science or even a requirement by the judge to require these documents be produced in support of the environmental groups’ arguments prior to any decisions being made. I’m also surprised that there has been no discussion of trying to find a solution that would support both the needs of the birds and the residents and business owners of Hatteras and Ocracoke. Given that the areas that were closed to ORV use are some of the most used areas (at least by my family), it would be nice if it were possible to redirect the birds to nest in other less used portions of the available beach, thereby supporting the birds and mitigating their impact to the local community. I realize that this may not be possible, but it would be nice to at least have someone discussing these types of solutions and determining if it is possible to implement. With that idea in mind I did a quick search on the Internet for redirecting nesting selection and found a study on that topic "Directing Nest Site Selection of Least Terns and Piping Plovers" by Jeffrey F. Marcus, John J. Dinan, Ron J. Hohnson, Erin E. Blankenship and Jeanin L. Lackey. These authors are from the School of Natural Resources, University of Nebraska, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Department of Statistics, University of Nebraska. This study showed that it was possible to redirect the nesting selection process of the piping plover, supporting the needs of the birds and that of the mining industry and recreational user. Although the findings of this study may not provide a solution to issues in Hatteras and Ocracoke at least it points out that there may be a solution other than closing the beaches. If we are going to use science to close the beach, perhaps a better solution is to use science to find an optimal solution that supports everyone’s needs and allows us to reopen the beaches. Jim Hood Fairfax, Va. About your editorial asking for civility, I don’t think relationships in the villages are too bad yet. Recall that two major wars impacted North Carolina --The American Revolution and the War Between the States. In both of these conflicts friends were pitted against friends, neighbors against neighbors, families against family, with homesteads burned, atrocities committed and innocents slaughtered. These wars were fought over loss of freedom and a way of life. Is there a similarity here? Regarding your call to respect the bird lawyers, I have a real problem respecting anyone who lies and distorts to further their goals and cause harm to others! Bob Davis Buxton I have been coming to Hatteras since the early ‘70s. There is no other place in the world that I want to spend my summer, fall, winter, or spring vacations. Where are the "special interests groups" when seagulls and other wildlife on the beaches are in distress or need help with an injury or broken wing, leg, etc? I was on Frisco Beach on Saturday, June 21. We noticed a bird that was moving slowly in the water, and then it sat on the beach moving very little. Some other people around us also noticed the bird and came down to check if it needed help. One of the people in the group called a number that she had been given by a "special interest group" to report problems. We were told that someone would be coming by to check on the bird. My friend and I waited until dark and no one ever came. The bird got up enough strength to make one last flight into the water and drifted away. It's the people on the beach, who love and cherish the beautiful beaches, wildlife and fishing at Hatteras, who want to preserve and maintain the peaceful co-existence of wildlife and mankind. I remember my kids growing up learning about the mating rituals and habitat of the shorebirds and catching their first bluefish on the Point. All this, because we were allowed to visit the beaches and partake of all their beauty! I can't bear the thought of my grandchildren not being able to enjoy the island's beauty "up close and personal." Kathy A. Harris Beaverdam, Va. About the trespassing and expansion of buffers for the birds, whoever was driving like a maniac on the beach should have his or her license taken away. No one who lives on the Outer Banks would go out to the beach just to kick up some sand. Everyone I know has more respect for the beach and its environment. It is a small percent of people who drive like idiots, and these are the people who give beach driving a bad image Trafford Hill Avon The trespassing and violation of the bird closure is really sad. Maybe we need a sand militia to keep watch. We may not like the new rules, but we must comply with them. I find it hard to believe that this being done by conservation-minded surf fisherman. It needs to be stopped....but how? Joe Roy Felton, Del. Since access to Cape Point and surrounding beaches is now in the hands of tree-hugging fools, I plan to spend my four weeks of vacation dollars in another state. B.K. Duvall Millersville, Md. I enjoyed reading your articles very much. I have a soft spot in my heart for Cape Hatteras. I was in the Navy there from 1956 through 1958. There are friends I wonder about -- Andy and Stocky Midgett, George Fuller, Leon Jennette, Mary and Sara Burrus. Also the Lighthouse Restaurant. I’d be interested to know if they are still around. Curt Murphy Bakersfield, Calif. I come to the Outer Banks four or five times each year. My in-laws own a place in Kill Devil Hills. I spend every day of my time on the Outer Banks on Oregon Inlet. I want to be able to drive on the beach. That's the reason I come. That's where I want to be! Please keep the beaches open to ORVs! Kenda Sovero New Market, Md. The vandalism of and trespassing in bird closures is a shame. Not only will the locals and visitors who obey the rules, no matter how much they personally disagree, suffer more limited beach access, but it just adds fuel to the fire for misguided enviros. They who want to shut down the beaches, regardless of the loss of access to those whom it was created for (all of us) and the financial ruin of the whole OBX community, will point to these vandalisms to press for nothing less than shutting the beaches down permanently. I hope they catch the egghead and hit him with the full $5,000 for each violation. Jeff Stebelton Lithopolis, Ohio Scotty the sea turtle goes home Now that story makes me smile. Thanks y'all. Beth Glaser Charlottesville, Va. Ocracoke’s July 4 celebration Sounds like the perfect day! I am a little sad though. My house rental starts on Saturday, July 5. Any luck on activities going on through that weekend? Happy Fourth of July everyone! Pam Null Goochland, Va. Villages get ready for July 4 fireworks displays The article was great, but the pictures were awesome. Joy Crist did an outstanding job with both. Barbara Madison Grahamsville, N.Y. Precious Memories I so love reading these stories. I knew many of the people mentioned in the stories. My grandmother was Kate Austin Burrus. My father was Decator Austin. My dad's sister was Minnie Burrus. My uncle, of course, is retired Sheriff Bert Austin. I try to get to Hatteras at least once a year now. My dad passed away eight years ago. He hadn't lived on the island since the early ‘40s. I feel like I can feel his presence every time I go there. Thanks for the great memories. Karen Hayes Virginia Beach, Va. New island skate park is a labor of love and faith My son is a huge fan of Three 1 Six! Since he is only 6, it is comforting to know that when he is there he is in a safe environment with lots of incredible older kids acting as role models. Thanks to all involved for providing the youth such a fabulous place. Kristin Gray Hatteras Hatteras Island Cancer Foundation is expanding its role Thank you for your article by Amberly Dyer on the Hatteras Island Cancer Foundation’s newest effort in providing information and education to the people of Hatteras Island. We are excited about this new venture and feel that it is one more service that we can provide to cancer patients and their families. We look forward to each month having a guest speaker that will share insight on services that are available and enlightening us on new treatments that are being considered. The Island Free Press is reaching thousands of people each day and we appreciate your helping us to spread the word. Donna Peele Secretary Hatteras Island Cancer Foundation. New island art gallery in Hatteras village Seaworthy Gallery has a beautiful looking building. Looking forward to the opportunity to visiting in July. Richard Fralin Richmond, Va. New Letters to the Editor....06.23.2008 3:45 pm Return the management of the seashore to the Park Service
First and foremost I want to thank you for all you do to keep us island wannabes informed about what is happening on our beaches. As a visitor to the area for over 15 years, I truly enjoy being able to relax when in town. And this relaxation comes in the form of being on the beach. I support open and free access to all and hope one day it will be like it used to be for all citizens. Again, I cannot thank you enough for your efforts and you should be awarded the Pulitzer for your reporting of the facts. Jim Boggs Charlottesville, Va. As the old saying goes, "If it isn’t broke, don't fix it." Well, that is common sense. Common sense was thrown in the garbage when The National Park Service and all of those fine hardworking folks stood in federal court against a stacked deck. The consent decree is a prime example of legislation from the bench. It was designed in such a manner to guarantee the total closure of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and it tramples the Constitutional rights of residents and visitors alike. Then to add insult to injury and kicking someone when they are down, editors of certain newspapers feel that Congress has no business in this matter. When I was in school, I was taught that the legislative branch of government created laws and that the judicial branch made sure we abide by the law. (This is broken, since legislation from the bench occurs daily. That really needs to be fixed.) I also was taught that Congress represented the citizens of our great country. Surely that means individuals have the right to seek their assistance from those representing them. Taking that into consideration, I, like many folks, have wriiten to members of Congress urging the passing of the legislation recently submitted. Being a native of Hatteras Island I know for a fact that the folks of Hatteras and Ocracoke have weathered many storms and adversities. The unity shown by the recent events, such as the “Stand in the Sand” barbecue are prime examples of residents and visitors standing together to fight against the issues facing them. Thank you to everyone standing up for our beloved Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Jasper Williams, Jr. Hatteras Native I think it's very wrong to put animals over people. If these people love animals so much, why don't they help all the ones in shelters or stand on the side of roads to keep them from getting run over. It must be nice to have nothing better to do than stir up trouble for the good people of the OBX. Please give the beaches back. Enough is enough . Marhea Vines New Hill, N.C. Once again, you have written the best editorial I have seen on this issue. You have put it out there in such a plain and factual way that it is hard for me to imagine how any person thinking with a logical mind could argue these facts or not support this legislation. Please tell me that you have considered submitting this to other major newspapers across the state for publication! We need this type of information and clarity made public to the rest of the newspapers readers, considering the gross misinformation that they are fed from other editorial writers. Renee Tomberlin Burnsville, N.C. Nothing has lifted my heart more than reading about all the progress being made concerning beach freedom. I have been spreading the word to everyone I talk to and giving them the Web site to check out. Most are amazed that what I've been trying to tell them is true. Now they too are spreading the word -- not just to beach people but to all those caring about their freedoms. Some still don't believe until they read it, but they come back willing to help and contact politicians. I hope to be able to give to CHAPA every week, as the beach gives me my sanity and serenity two weeks out of every year. Jill Marshall Ashland, Va. Thank you for the clear and concise rebuttal to both editorials (News & Observer and The Virginian-Pilot). It was very clear from reading them that they only followed Defenders of Wildlife, National Audubon Society, and Southern Environmental Law Center press releases. What startles me is that the higher the level of exposure of the fraud, lies, and lack of science, the less likely it is that the true facts and sound science are relied on to make an editorial writer’s opinion known. Your courage to write the truth (and the supporting facts) about what is going on here, without the bitterness and acrimony we all feel toward the "dark side" helps us to grasp how very important each nuance matters to the whole of the problem. James Harris Southern Shores My family and I came to the Outer Banks several years ago to escape the Myrtle Beach atmosphere. We fell in love with the area and its people. I don't believe we would rather vacation any other place. My sons and I try to surf fish each time we are on the island. The key word here is “try.” Our fishing skills still leave a lot to be desired. As with most folks, we drive to the Point, South Beach and several other areas to fish and also allow our grandchildren a play area without the congestion of other popular beaches. We stand behind you folks in your ORV battle, and our hope is that this can be resolved in a manner that will return the beaches to the National Park Service where it should be before it ruins this beautiful island and its economy. Over the years we have stopped short of areas that the National Park Service has closed due to nesting birds, but never felt cramped because there were always other places to drive. With this consent order you don't know what's open and what's not. Seems to change day by day. We as a family have no intentions to stop our twice-a-year run to the Outer Banks, but hope that beaches will have the access of the old days. I am an avid outdoorsman and protection of species is important, but when it affects local and national interest and economies, a stand must be taken. We are the humans in this equation. Keep up the good fight . Ward Green Hurricane, W.Va. Very good article. Glad to get a balanced overview of the whole situation. The rhetoric on both sides has been rather confusing. I love the Outer Banks (family has been coming here since 1970) and want to see the beach open and free for all to enjoy, but couldn't agree more that actions like villianizing folks on the environmentalist side or intentionally disobeying closures will in the end do nothing but help shut down access. Hope all can keep their heads, work through the process, and support the introduced legislation to restore the status quo. Then working to complete a management policy will ensure everyone has access to these shores we love while taking reasonable steps to protect the wildlife that is part of them. Please, no more pulling up posts and tearing down barriers. No more daily special signs for boiled plover. Let the system work, and God bless Senator Dole and the others. Jeff Stebelton Lithopolis, Ohio Although all the beach management issues are so very important to us all in Hatteras, I think all the complaining and sending out negative messages to the rest of the world is keeping tourists away needlessly. They think the island is closed -- beaches and all. And that is not even remotely true. Karla Goodenough Hatteras I vacation here every year, and if the wildlife is in trouble, then something needs to be done about it. Becky Broome Reidsville, N.C. Fantastic editorial! In reality, I think you speak for at least 90 percent of the people with your approach to this subject. Personally, I have spent many spring, fall, and winter days on these beaches, flying my kites and enjoying the solitude. I long ago learned not to come in the summer. I intend to return this fall, probably for Thanksgiving. However, I think I will probably go to Davis Island, where the restrictions are fewer. It's harder to get there, much more primitive, and not a good restaurant in driving distance. But the consent decree has taken away the real reason I will burn the expensive gas in my four-by-four to get there. I will miss the excellent hotels and restaurants of the islands that I normally frequent, but at South Core Banks, I still feel free. Robert L. Wasson, III Statesville, N.C. Our family has enjoyed the Outer Bank beaches for many years. Campfires with cookouts under the stars at Cape Point. Shell hunting, sunbathing, relaxing using our four-wheel vehicles to get out there. We are careful not to disturb wildlife, respectful of mother earth by cleaning up after ourselves. It saddens my heart to know that our grandchildren will not be able to enjoy this. I understand the need to protect wildlife and respect our environment, but is there not a concern that these folks can also upset the balance of nature by having too many birds and not enough to feed them. We get overpopulation of deer in our area, and they starve to death. We must live in peace and harmony. We must teach our children well to protect, respect, and enjoy the wonders of this good earth. Lois Valencia Lewisberry, Pa. I enjoyed reading your recent editorial piece on Outer Banks beach closures as it does a good job boiling down the situation for those folks who might not be aware of all the facts leading to this mess we find ourselves in. I can also understand how you as a journalist would want to provide both sides of the story. While I appreciate your call for civility in this matter, and the position of The Island Free Press on beach access is made perfectly clear, your attempt to “humanize” the opponents of beach access fell flat for me. To be considered human is perhaps the best I can say for North Carolina Audubon, Defenders of Wildlife, and their counsel. The most charitable side of me thinks that they earnestly believe in their own misrepresentations. On the other hand, everything I have seen, read, or otherwise learned regarding the situation leads me to the conclusion that they represent a nefarious, outrageously selfish minority user group who seek to turn the best portions of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Recreation Area into their own bird watching arena, regardless of harm inflicted on local community and citizenry at large who are the rightful owners of the public lands in question. Further, press releases by these plaintiffs in the litigation resulting in the consent decree are so full of half truths, misinformation, and outright falsehoods (in that order as per good propaganda) that it is hard to believe any respectable media institution would repeat them. Unfortunately, they do. As a government environmental professional working in the resource management field, I am appalled at what is occurring at the CHNSRA. It is not only representative of bad public policy but an outrageous case in which a special interest has succeeded in dictating to a federal agency critical resource management decisions for public lands without public input or independent scientific review. In my estimation, the consent decree stands out as one of the worst of public lands policy directives in recent U.S. history. Given this, it should be no surprise that the plaintiffs declined to contribute to your publication. They hide behind a wall of self-righteousness, secure in the knowledge that they succeeded in imposing their special interest on the federal government, based on what amounts to a legal technicality. The expense of their action in terms of economic hardship inflicted on the community and the loss of cherished, environmentally sound public recreational opportunities seem totally lost on them. Also apparently lost in the self-righteousness of these individuals is any critical thought as to what the actual ecological benefit of the consent decree terms might actually be, if indeed there are any. Instead of providing biographical vignettes of these individuals, perhaps you should have challenged them to come meet the island community and listen and learn how the terms of the consent decree are affecting their lives. Better yet, one should challenge these people to present their positions and defend their statements before an independent panel charged with bringing to public light the facts about bird populations on the Outer Banks and the effectiveness of existing natural resource management strategies (formerly) being carried out National Park Service professionals. I doubt they would rise to these challenges. Chris Egghart Richmond, Va. I would like to thank you and your writers for the great job you are doing keeping everyone informed of recent events about the beach closures. Not everyone that is greatly affected and saddened by recent events lives on the islands and has access to the local news of the day by word of mouth. Some, like me, live hours away but still want to know the latest news and what we can do to help. Thanks for providing news and infomation for everyone who stands with the people of Hatteras and Ocracoke islands. Denise Simpson Mechanicsville, Va. Just found your site while looking for something else on the Internet and have got to say it's great. My family was originally from Hatteras village, and it's great to be able to keep up on changes that are going on in the village. I've got some great old pictures of life in the village that are pre-‘40s that I'll get together and send your way -- lot's of my Dad (Decatur "Tate" Austin) and all of the old family. Michael Desmond Austin Johns Island, S.C. Your masterful editorial thoroughly “nailed” the issues currently facing the Cape Hatteras Seashore and the issues and positions expounded by both sides of the controversy. You have expertly put into print (cyber print) every thought I have had concerning the two editorials you referenced, as well as the spin and also the sins of omission the bird people are feeding the press and the public in general. Thank you! I have had the thoughts but not the ability to verbalize. I have been concerned about our inability to reach the general public in any effective way to counter the strong emotional appeal the Audubon Society and their allies make in their presentations. Dr. Berry is a powerful ally, as is The Island Free Press, but the public masses are swayed by the print editorials you referenced and TV, which could echo the theme of the prints. I don’t think there is a lot of hope for the two bills in Congress to move out of committee without finding some way to get our story to the committee members. Your editorial would be one way if we could get them to read it. Perhaps a faxed copy to each committee member would help. . I think also that your editorial points to a national situation that perhaps newspapers across the country would be interested in investigating. That is the tremendous weight these non-profit, well-funded “green” organizations can wield in support of their causes and some of their methods which may involve half truths and other propaganda techniques. Congratulations on the wonderful information source with which you are providing us. It is the true voice of Hatteras and Ocracoke islands. Wayne Blessing Greensboro, N.C. I wonder what would happen if they found a piping plover nest with eggs in it at the Lost Colony theater. Kenny Brite Avon This is the best and most detailed information on the whole situation. Thank you for you dedication to this cause. Rick McClain Matthews, N.C. My husband and I have been going to Hatteras village for 35 years, where we now have a home and boat. I'm writing about the beach closings at Hatteras and the devastating effect this decision is having on the local economy. Surely there's a compromise between preserving the environment while allowing the people of the area to continue making a living. First of all, this effort by environmental groups insults the intelligence of the locals to the core. These people have an innate respect and knowledge of the land and sea that most of us will never be able to attain. The beach closings make a statement that some people somewhere in an office in Raleigh know more about what's best for Hatteras than the people who live in Hatteras. That's ludicrous to say the least! Secondly, there needs to be a clear understanding of the tremendous strain the beach closings are putting on the economy of Hatteras. All the locals want to do is work hard each day to support their families. This summer the future of many of the locals is very threatened because of an unstable national economy, the price of gas, and the beach closings. All of these factors are having a negative impact on tourism, the main livelihood of most Hatteras residents. While the powers that be are concerned with beach erosion, which all of us are, I think they should also be concerned with the erosion of the middle class. This is just one more example of this country losing its grip on democracy. This policy should be overturned immediately. Communication then needs to be established between state officials and Hatteras residents to find a compromise to this problem. Carol Cruikshank Martinsburg, W.Va. You are one of a few true reporters left in this country. This was a report that was unbiased with respect to both sides with true context. Great journalism! Paul Rudar Midland, Pa. Well done! Thank you. Dan Kramer Buxton My wife and I really enjoy reading all the news that you have been keeping up to date for us. This read is by far the most detail we have seen about the whole situation. Thank you for keeping us informed. Your research is second to none. Rick and Vickie McClain Matthews, N.C. Wonderful writing, as always, but especially in this case. Your call for civility, as is Frank Folb's, is a thoughtful and welcome comment on the entire matter. I am weary of the nastiness, Hollywood liberals, democrats, enviro-Nnazis, etc. All are labels that detract from the validity of the pro-ORV side of this discussion. Please keep up the great work as a sane voice in the face of a stupid situation. I hope we can get it changed. Joe Basilone Williamsburg, Va. I just returned from two weeks in Buxton with my wife, and we made reservations for the same two weeks next year. As well, I hope return this fall. Let's face it, "they" asked for a mile and got two. My wife was appalled that she could not walk the beach shelling while I fished and set up our little portable grill for lunch. We returned the next day and the ramp was closed -- period. What happened overnight? I went out with a local fisherman on Father's Day, and it was downright eerie to see only a Park Service truck and a blue beach umbrella on the Point. The week before, able-bodied men and women could walk to the Point. No more. Were they concerned about an ADA suit being filed on the behalf of those of us who are disabled? Don't think I could make the walk, in the water, with my cane. Yes, I'm upset but not at the people who are hired to do their job. I'm upset because the decision-making process has been taken away from those who know what they're doing and has instead been handed to an individual -- a federal judge. The answer is to let those who are paid to manage the recreational area do their job while the neg-reg process proceeds. Let those who know the beach, the birds, and the fish, and, most of all, the tax-paying citizens all have a voice. I was a medic during one of the most controversial wars in this nation’s history. I was willing to put my life on the line to support our nation and believe that I (we) have a right to walk on a land that I helped defend. John J. Sellers (aka Philly Jack) Harrisburg, Pa. I agree with you 99.99 percent of the time. I know full well that you know your stuff. I appreciate your airing of both parties points. I also do not condone threats, violence or vandalism. However, I do not suffer invading occupiers of our land with ease. By their own admission, with 400,000-plus members, Audubon has how many members here, supporting our economy and utilizing to their own gain and to the exclusion of humans in their realm? I guess about four at any given time! I, again, do not advocate threats or violence, but I want these people and their agenda gone from our beach and my life. I want to see NPS signs that say, as they should, "HUMAN USE AREA." Hawk Hawkins Mechanicsville, Va. I enjoyed your article. You dealt with the facts and put things into perspective, carefully considering both sides of argument. Well stated and factual! Well done! Bob Rehnlund Cary, N.C. This is the best write-up to date on this issue. Your assessment is spot-on! Thanks for sticking to the facts and presenting them so clearly and concisely. I have enjoyed several trips to Hatteras in the past four years and still look forward to more in the future with fishing companions and with my family on our annual vacations. I truly hope that a resolution will come to this issue soon. I also hope that the NPS will re-assume management of this park/seashore. Cape Hatteras National Recreation Seashore is one of the best places I have had the opportunity to visit and I have been to many of our national parks in my lifetime. Thanks for your voice and continued presence. Steve Harter Holtwood, Pa. Excellent article. I would only like to add that it is my opinion that the reason the plaintiffs did not push more for the injunction, which was clearly in their favor, but more for the consent decree, was because the injunction gave them no control over pedestrian access on the seashore, and the consent decree granted them almost as much control over pedestrian access as it did for ORVs. I personally feel that the greater injustice being done here was is the pedestrian restrictions. To not be able to walk in such large areas of national lands is a direct to our Constitutional freedoms. Carlton Blanks Greensboro, N.C. Thank you for a well thought out and fact-filled opinion. Clayton, Diggs Lanexa, Va. Thank you for a wonderful piece. You’re right on. I saw the wanted posters for the first time on Saturday. They made me laugh at first, but I do understand that this is wrong. Matt Burleigh Spotsylvania, Va. Tremendous article. Keep up the great work! Mark Kennedy La Grange, N.C. What a wonderfully superb editorial and postscript. Thank you. Dottie Reed Avon Well said. Brandon Christie Winston-Salem, N.C. I have been following with great interest all of your beach access coverage, and I salute you. You have done a wonderful job with your reporting on this hot topic. This opinion is the icing on the cake! You go, girl! I hope people take your advice about being civil, too! Judy Krisukas Bangor, Pa. You make many good points about the whole issue. You have been, at the least, fair in the handling of the situation. I have read several pro-Defenders articles in the reader's response area. I am with you all the way concerning personal threats and wanted posters. I will defend to the death anyone's right to disagree with me on any issue, just as I will defend anyone's other rights under the Constitution. Free and open discourse is the foundation of our way of life. What really gets my goat, though, is that other people feel that the only way to get what they think is right is to make up "facts" to suit their purposes. I can't say that the people you know from the other side are the ones misrepresenting the facts, but someone over there is. Like many of the people in the Defenders group, I am well educated and have had several college courses in the sciences, although my degree is in music education. I am well aquatinted with the working of the scientific method as it applies to the natural sciences, astronomy, and several other disciplines. I have worked with Boy Scouts in several capacities and am a big supporter of real wildlife management and conservation. I have supported and been a member of the NRA for over 30 years and that is where my experience comes in with groups like Defenders of Animals, PETA, ELF, and the Southern Environmental Law Center. Good examples of their "science" abound in studies with no peer review, are not published, and contain claims made with no scientific backing at all, and all sorts of wild claims. This is not science. This is propaganda and is a dishonorable way to conduct one’s self in a civilized society. The SELC in on a new campaign to shut down the donation of game to feed the hungry, a program in many states, by quoting a study that claims that there are dangerous levels of lead in donated venison. When the study is looked at critically, it is found that the findings are almost completely untrue and in most cases represent mishandling of small portions of game by the processors. When I process game, I remove any "bloodshot" meat, where the bullet has passed through, with a good margin around it. I don't eat lead in my game. The NRA has had conflict with these people for years and has many lawyers on staff to deal with them and others. You people are new to the game and need to get up to speed quickly unless you want to get steam-rollered again like with the consent decree. The environmental group work by keeping everyone in litigation until you are financially drained and out of business. Make no mistake, whether the legislation fails or succeeds, the next day they will file another lawsuit to try to take more away. Their presence on the rule negotiation committee is only there to keep the government from completing the process, so they can whine that nothing is being done and that the sky is falling again. All this may sound cynical to you, but keep this little missive and take it out again in two years or five and see if what is here wasn't a good prediction of the truth. Bert Smith Richmond, Va. As usual, a well thought out and reasoned position. It is unfortunate that civility and reason are in such short supply. Al Scarborough Ocracoke I agree 100 percent. The management of the seashore should be returned to the Park Service. I am just a vacationer to this tranquil spot, and I find that on the island, I am at my most relaxed self. My family and everyone I have introduced to the Outer Banks agree that it is so relaxing they can't wait to return. The Park Service has done a wonderful job in the past they should be allowed to continue. Richard Snyder Old Forge, Pa. Rou forgot to mention that Cape Hatteras National Seashore Recreation Area was created to be a recreation area, and that once again the U.S. government is breaking a promise that it made -- this time to the island and American public. Tim Sacksteder Great Falls, Va. I was delighted to learn of the Senate bill and House bill introduced to nullify the consent decree and reinstate the National Park Service's Interim Management Plan. I have written to Sens. Elizabeth Dole and Richard Burr, as well as North Carolina Rep. Walter B. Jones, who introduced the House bill and his co-sponsors: North Carolina Reps. Virginia Foxx, Howard Coble, Robin Hayes, and Sue Myrick, as well as Virginia Rep. Virgil Goode to thank them for becoming involved and taking this action. I hope more people will do this. I also plan to write other North Carolina representatives who will have an opportunity to vote on this bill. One thing I don't understand, though, is that there are 13 miles of beach at Pea Island which were let aside as a wildlife refuge in 1937, the same year the Cape Hatteras National Seashore was authorized. Isn't this sufficient for the bird populations? Could the "species of special concern" possibly be taken there to be undisturbed? I enjoyed this article very much and because we vacation there every fall to surf fish. We were already aware that there have been beach closures for the birds and turtles. We didn't grumble about it and might add that we never saw a single person or ORV in an area they should not be in. If we were permanent residents who lost use of their beaches during the spring, summer, and fall, I would probably grumble, however. Jeanne K. York Salisbury, N.C. Your article referenced above is very well written and informative. As a patron of Cape Hatteras and Ocracoke (and ORV access), I applaud your efforts. Seth Johnson Statesville, N.C. Great news. Thanks to The Island Free Press, and especially to Irene Nolan, for the great job you have done to keep the people abreast of the situation and fighting for truth, justice, and the American way. You guys are real super heroes. Keep up the good work! Earl Buffaloe Wendell, N.C. Whoever orchestrated this ploy to remove the care of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore from the National Park Service, either has a personal agenda or has no regard for their fellow American. These are America's beaches. The Park Service was installed here to care for these islands, and they have done a very good job. If it were not for the Park Service, there would be no bird or turtle eggs. They have marked off areas to not be driven in. Most all residents and visitors have respected the order that the Park Service has brought. This whole action has taken a negative turn. Now people who usually come here for vacations with their families are going to other areas that have more recreation to offer. The beach with its wonderful access is what we have to offer. The American public should be the ones to make the decision on what government agency controls the seashores -- not special interest groups and one judge. Sharon Peele Kennedy Buxton I have been to the Outer Banks at least once a year since 1985. My first trip there was with the Biology Department. from East Tennessee State University. I was mostly interested in the birds I would see there, but I fell in love with the whole place. Soon after, I took my mother and other family members and friends. It was always the first place I wanted to go when I got out for summer break. It has always been a place where I felt like I was being healed from another year of work and the stresses of life. My mother also fell in love with the Banks and loved to just sit at Cape Point and watch the people, the birds, and me -- occasionally catching a fish. Even when we weren't there we always had reminders of why we wanted to be back there. Unfortunately, my mother will never be able to return there with me. We had planned on trying to make one more trip there for her, but the good Lord saw fit to take her to another paradise just before school let out. The only place I have wanted to go since her passing is Cape Point. I have dreamed of parking my truck there with the tailgate down and just remembering the times that she and I had there. The time she got stuck in the sand and had to be helped out, the time the bluefish flipped and set a hook in my finger, the time the seagull filled her binocular eyecup with poop. I just want to go there to do some healing. I want to take some new people there and let them feel the wind and experience the storms, let them feel the freedom that I felt there, more than any place I have ever been. I love birds, and I love nature, and I truly want to protect nature, but I also want to be able to be a part of that nature. Sensible use is the way to go here. In all the years that I have been visiting, I have never seen even one instance of disrespect for the birds or turtles or any other wildlife. There has to be a way to satisfy most everyone. I myself want protection for wildlife, but I also want access. I hope that before summer is over and a new school year starts, I can come and pitch my tent at Cape Point campground get up early and drive out to the Point. I miss being able to do that, and I feel stuck here in northeastern Tennessee, much like being stuck there when I didn't know to let the air out of my tires. In closing, I wish that I could be a part of the solution. I teach ecology and biology courses, so I do understand both sides of this issue. The thing I do want all those directly involved to realize is the need to work together. Neither extreme should have its own way. Common sense should rule the way. This includes timely closures of certain stretches, timely openings of certain stretches, alternating routes to and from protected areas, closures at night, more attention to predation, restoring, opening new, or maintaining neglected areas that do not get attention because they may be off the beaten path. A permit with an attached educational track that better explains what the goal and consequences may be if we neglect our responsibilities to nurture and protect. George Larkins Church Hill, Tenn. Stand in the Sand fundraiser Again you came though for Hatteras Island with a wonderful story and great photos. I almost licked my monitor at the sight of the chicken. Wayne and I would have loved to be with you all, but timing was just against us. Keep reporting the great work everyone is doing down there, and I'll keep forwarding it to my "owners - guests - politicians" list from up here. Physically we might not be with you, but we are doing everything we can from Jersey to help make changes! Thanks! Donna Thomas Mercerville, N.J. My greatest appreciation goes out to all those that sponsored and volunteered for "The Stand in the Sand BBQ." I am a nobody in all of this .I hear local businesses and residents comment on ways that would like to help, and I figure out a way to combine it all and then put the plan into effect. I am nothing more than a delegator of responsibility. Over the past few months, we have had two beach rallies, two civic meetings, and one barbecue, and not one of those events would have been possible without the local and visiting population's contributions. I have been humbled by the fact everyone of these events have gone off without a hitch. I would like to thank Lynne Murray for always being a solicitor of volunteers and a general overall secretary at times for me. Without her, I would be running these events by myself. I appreciate Hal from Finnegan's for managing all the bands, while Kim Mosher handled the arts and crafts contributors. Fran Folb was our side dish, bake sale, and overall food manager, and it was she who truly got this ball rolling for a barbecue. A special thanks to Jody Wilson, who has been a right hand woman in all the events and projects I have done for the last three years. I could eliminate all of the World Wide Web's bandwidth trying to type a full list of sponsors and volunteers for the past events, but I assure that all of you are in my mind and spirit, and I know who is truly responsible for these events. Please refrain from any type of thanks or gratitude towards me. Just "Get the Facts and Get Involved" and that will be the greatest appreciation you could show all of us. Rob Alderman Buxton Most excellent! My job prevented my being there physically, but I was there in spirit and donations and know that we are well represented by all involved. You are all the best folks on earth. Thank you, thank you, thank you! Hawk Hawkins Mechanicsville, Va. I just wanted to say "kudos" to Rob and all of the volunteers that made the "Stand in the Sand" such a wonderful and extremely tasty event. That pork was to die for, all of the food was amazing. The kids had a great time at the dunking booth and each of them won Outer Banks Angler DVD's for dunking the nice lady in the booth. Thanks so much for allowing us to be a part of such worthwhile event. It was a great afternoon. Angel Herrell Virginia Beach, Va. Legislation seeks to set aside consent decree Dustin Glasner of Williamsburg, Va., (Letters, June 16) is falling into the same trap that awaits people wanting to help in this situation. He has made the assumption that the playing field is level. Let me assure everyone it is not. The special interest groups are using pseudo-science, innuendo, and lies to push their point and are not bashful about doing it in court. His second mistake is applying soil and woodland dynamics to a sand environment. The only "soil" is that which has been created by man. Sand is the prime component of a barrier island and it, by nature, is movable. Barrier islands protect shorelines by just existing. They keep the worst storm surge off the mainland and ameliorate the effects of these storms. In return, the islands expand, contract, and gain new inlets and, in general, are all beach. The fact that vehicles have been driving on the edges since these vehicles have been invented has not, nor will in the future, have any effect of these beaches. One good nor’easter or hurricane has more effect that the entire history of cars has had. Bert Smith Richmond, Va. Here on the West Coast near Pismo Beach, Calif., self-styled "environmental" groups are trying to shut down ORV access at Oceano Dunes, calling us a special interest. Are humans, families, and our community economies a special interest? Just as we pave highways and cities, reserving a very few special places for human recreation, outings and interaction with nature are more than reasonable. Total closure by way of lawyers and outcry is an affront, perpetrated by sufferers of myopia, who in their enraged tunnel-vision only see ORVs. In fact, the real users are families and friends whose use of ORVs, fishing, volleyball, picnics, and sun centers around the social enjoyment of our outdoors and nature. At Oceano Dunes, many disabled and elderly also find that a drive-on beach is the only way to see the tide. Access to and enjoyment of our great outdoors belongs to all. Kevin P. Rice San Luis Obispo, Calif. We recently returned on June15 from our yearly vacation in Hatteras village and immediately contacted North Carolina politicians to voice our support for Senate Bill 3133 and House Bill 6233. As life-long supporters of environmental initiatives, it was immediately apparent to us that the "special interest groups" attempting to close/curtail the beaches are woefully misguided. We have seen the same (and, unfortunately, frequently successful) legal attempts made in other Eastern Seaboard states. For years now, large areas of the North Carolina shoreline have been made "off limits" to fisherman and bathers alike, based on questionable research by environmental groups attempting to regulate bird life. As a result, the limited areas left for summer visitors becomes more and more congested. Are there any sound studies that support what the SELC, Defenders and Audobon are doing? Kathleen and Richard Frost Carlisle, Pa. I have been going to Hatteras fishing for about eight years now. I could not imagine not being able to access the beaches. The fishing industry is the livelihood of many people who live on the island. The environment is very important to me, but shutting down a lot of the beach for birds is ridiculous. I understand roping off sections for sea turtles but shutting down a beach because of a bird doesn’t make any sense. I am not a biologist, but I don’t think the birds are going to nest where people drive and fish anyway. They are not going to build nests right close to the water. I think wildlife and humans can coexist together on the beach, and everyone will be happy. The Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a beautiful environment and should be enjoyed by the nature friendly people of Hatteras. Kevin Siler Stokesdale, N.C. This is great. Now the people can speak. Attorney Rylander was quoted saying that "the desires of a handful of special interests would do a disservice to the wildlife and natural resources." What does he think his special interest group is doing -- exactly what he claims the fishermen and beach lovers are doing. I would say there are more numbers of us than them, so that's why they had to try and sneak around and use the judicial system to their benefit. Those special interest groups need to realize that Mother Nature is their worst enemy, and they know they can't beat her. In the long run, they can't beat the people either. Also, based on his actions, the federal judge is a disgrace to the judicial system and hopefully will not be employed by the federal government much longer. Maybe the legislators from North Carolina should look hard at his reappointment when and if it ever comes up. Final point -- give the National Park Service the chance to do their job! R.M. Robinson Chesterfield, Va. I am so happy to see that everyone can still enjoy the fabulous Outer Banks. I think that the people who go to enjoy the beaches are the people who want to preserve it the most. It’s never a good plan to leave the fate of something so fabulous to people who never even spend the time to enjoy it. Ann Pierre Daytona Beach, Fla. More on beach access I am incredibly saddened by the actions on the beaches. The birds are a concern but have not been harmed by this tradition. I have visited the OBX and the islands all my life. I have never harmed a bird or their nest. I respect the beach and the wildlife it holds. It is evident that the birds are not dying nor are they extinct. So what are we protecting? We are protecting an environmentalist group that has no real knowledge of the area, the traditions, and the way of life enjoyed. It is a sad day when a group that has no attachment to anything has the ability to get the courts to say they are correct about a situation they have not experienced nor are willing to experience. Too bad judges are appointed for life. I feel the judge involved has his head in the sand. Politics evidently do play in the courts, even though we are told they do not. I want my great country to stop trying to be politically correct. I really would prefer common sense make a comeback here in the U.S. I have not seen any for quite sometime. I am also not confident it will return. How about we try to teach respect for others and all of our differences? Talk about a concept… Tracy Stevens Mechanicsville, Va. We were very sad to see the access close down there, and we are hoping and praying that the beaches open back up soon. We go down there every summer and stay in Avon at the Sands of Time campground. We have been doing this for years with my family, and since I’ve been old enough to drive, I’ve been going down there. If there’s no beach to drive on, it will hurt business all over. Brad Winslow Elizabeth City, N.C. My first encounter with the Outer Banks was as a 2-year-old in a WWII surplus Army Jeep with my mother and father in 1947. That was when it was permissible to drive down the beach from Sandbridge to Nags Head. I lost touch with the Outer Banks in 1949 with the death of my father, and the sale of the jeep by Mother. But I never lost longing to return. I did in 1971 when my brother and I began the first of 35 annual Hatteras excursions. Back then it was possible to get on the beach at Oregon Inlet and, except for a detour around Buxton, drive the length of the island. Then you could take the ferry to Ocracoke and drive the beach from the top to Ocracoke village. A lot has changed since then. Remember when the first complaint concerning off-road vehicles was that the ruts created by driving in the sand was the cause of beach erosion? Anyone who has ever been on the beach on an incoming tide witnesses the ruts actually slowing down erosion. With that bit of logic, Pea Island Refuge beach access was cut off to vehicles. This fallacy can be overturned by going back a few years when the entire Pea Island area was washed over when a hurricane hit. As a matter of fact, the only areas of the island which were washed over were where beach access had been already prohibited to vehicles for years. An old friend, Clay Caudill, once told me while we were surf fishing just north of Avon, that the island was moving west, and there was nothing man could do to reverse this. To impress his point we went to the Hatteras Light (before the latest move) where he pointed out in the ocean to a spot where the first Hatteras Light had been located. Clay, an avid surf fisherman, had been a Park Service official on Hatteras many years ago. It's too bad that he is not still with us to defend those of us who appreciate Cape Hatteras as he did. As a retired Virginia state game warden, I protected wildlife for 20 years. There are a few bad apples on the human side, but the great majority of hunters and fishermen respect and appreciate this country’s wildlife inheritance far more than the average person who has never had the opportunity to witness nature close up and not just in pictures. Cameron Gray Burkeville, Va. There should never be a single group that has the power to close the beach access. The economic value of this given to one group should be unlawful. I do spend time on the beaches of North Carolina and can tell you that this group is a perfect example of giving an inch and they take a mile. These birds should be nesting back farther away from the shoreline or the tide will destroy their nest which happened here recently when this group closed off the entire area from the shore back to the dunes. This is a major move on the economy and the survival of this area. It worked out much better when they used common sense and fenced off sections that were closer to the dunes to protect the wildlife but left access around these areas that went from the shoreline back toward the dunes so people could drive on the beach to their favorite fishing / bathing spot. If they do close the beaches as they are trying to do now, who will come to stand on the dunes and just look at the water? Not me. I think we're just asking them to use some good common sense in their decision-making. There are ways to save the birds, turtles, and the residents’ livelihoods without closing the entire access to the beaches. Mike Stephens Winston-Salem, N.C. Cape Hatteras graduation Thank you so much for the beautiful slide show. What great pictures! I've told everyone I know to check this out. You've done a wonderful job and a very sweet thing to honor our children like this. Phyllis Hardin Buxton Ocracoke’s Community Store reopens This is wonderful. We visited that store for the past 20 years and always enjoy going in and looking for things. I remember the old cat that used to stay there. I am so glad. Enjoy and have a wonderful season. Beverly Vogel Manassas, Va. Congratulations to the residents of the village and the folks that have re-opened a landmark on Ocracoke Island. I still have black-and-white photos from our camping adventures to Hatteras and Ocracoke. Wow, 1960 has long past on Silver Lake, but it seems like yesterday on that porch and the docks. Good luck! Steve Fowee Maineville, Ohio Flightseeing with Dwight Burrus I can’t recommend enough taking a tour with Dwight Burrus. His knowledge of the island is tremendous. He is very personable and just a nice guy in general. My wife, 4-year-old son, and I took a ride with him on June 13 and had the most amazing views of the islands, dolphins, sea turtles, and other fish that you could possibly ask for. The converging of the Gulf Stream and Labrador Current is so defined that you have to see it to see what I mean. A trip to the island wouldn't be complete without a tour in my opinion. Brad Steele Jamestown, Ohio New Letters to the Editor....06.16.2008 9:00 am The evolution of a major in the general’s army (Editor’s note: Since I couldn’t stay all afternoon at the “Stand in the Sand” fundraiser, I asked my neighbor Lynne Murray to send me her impressions of the day. In addition to some helpful information,, she sent her thoughts on how she got involved in the beach access issue, which I think is a good lesson for all of us on Hatteras and Ocracoke about being involved – whatever the cause and whichever side you are on.) I volunteered to help organize volunteers at the “Stand in the Sand” fundraiser on June 14. I’ve never been involved in an event like this before. This was all new to me. After the fireworks ordinance last year, I said I was never getting involved in local politics again, as all those hours on the computer are tough on me with prior injuries from when I was a police officer. However, when my neighbor Wendy Eakes took me out to the Cape Point for the first beach access rally, I began to understand what was really going on. I was hooked, thanks to Rob Alderman whose main focus is to bring awareness to people about this issue. Many people on the island were not and are not paying any attention. They say, “It won't happen here. They won't close the beaches.” Well, guess what? I'm ashamed to say that prior to that time I was apathetic and uneducated. However, as I got to know Rob and what he was doing, I offered to e-mail to my prayer chain partners, who have rallied to the cause and to the call. I love them dearly. They care. They showed up at the second rally at the Point and to the awareness meeting at the Fessenden Center in March. And many of them were there working at the “Stand in the Sand” fundraiser for many hours in the hot sun. It was awesome and amazing! I am indebted to Rob Alderman and will always love him dearly for getting my attention on this issue and also the attention of so many others. He gives his heart, soul, and passion to our island. He works 24/7 for us, and when he tells you he's going to do something, he gives 100 percent of himself with no expected credit. Under his leadership, we've been able to accomplish a lot for awareness and getting the information out to folks who are not aware of what's going on. He's helped us raise a lot of money for the Cape Hatteras Access Preservation Alliance and the cause of beach access. All in all, it was one of the most memorable days I’ve ever had. Lynne Murray Frisco Legislation seeks to nullify consent decree Truth be told, I have not been following the beach closures and restriction news very closely. But from what I've been able to gather, people are quite upset by the fact that certain areas must be closed due to certain environmental factors. And their outcry is certainly warranted. Beach driving and beach access are obviously part of what makes Cape Hatteras National Seashore so great. It's a major part of island life and local history, and it’s a tourist attraction. Taking that away is like taking away access to Colonial Williamsburg here in Virginia. However, as a biologist, it's important to note the importance and urgency of wildlife/beach conservation. Also, part of what makes Hatteras so great is the abundant wildlife - both flora and fauna. It's imperative that we do our best to keep the environment intact. Without it, Hatteras wouldn't be such an amazing place to begin with. And as a former student of geology, I also understand the need to limit beach driving. Erosion is a real and concrete problem. From what I've observed, the beaches are in fact narrowing. Driving on the sand loosens the grains, allowing longshore drift currents to carry the sand away. Though it may not be an immediate result, over the next 50 years, constant erosion could very well lead to a total disappearance of beaches on the island. All of this, however, is not to say that the changes for conservation being made are right. As a scientist, I understand the need to preserve and protect that which makes nature what it is. But as a longtime visitor (1988) and soon to be resident of the island, I also understand how important history and tradition are. Without them, the charm and way of life I've come to know and love wouldn't be nearly as amazing as it is. But there must be a compromise somewhere. Between complete closure and total disregard for the environment, there exists a solution that will satisfy both islanders and scientists. Unfortunately, both sides have people that cannot understand or comprehend the other’s point of view. This is to be expected, but it represents a major road block on the path to compromise. Though it may not be so easy to make the government and other higher-ups listen to reason and try to understand the lifestyle, I feel that the residents of Hatteras Island would be much more open to understanding the position of the scientists and conservationists. There exists no easy solution to these problems. It's not something that will come overnight. Both sides of the coin need to do their best to understand the other. Absolute commitment to a single point of view will not help ease this situation. A willingness to listen and the ability to compromise, however, will. Dustin Glasner Williamsburg, Va. As owners of two Cape properties - in Frisco and Hatteras village - my wife and I couldn't be happier about the bills introduced to overturn the consent decree and restore sanity to beach access. I am also an environmentalist and a member of my hometown's Environmental Commission, but what Defenders, Audubon, and SELC have achieved is environmentalism run amok. They have made themselves the "special interest groups" in this case, and are on the wrong side of the decision. Their spokesman calling islanders and property owners like us - people who love and respect Cape Hatteras - "special interests" is ludicrous. My wife and I were formerly long-time members of the first two organizations, but resigned in protest, and with a letter of explanation included, over this issue. I still have a hard time believing that this is just about a few pairs of nesting birds, as this is the same excuse that has been used to close popular beaches up and down the east coast. I hope someone is "following the money trail" and perhaps can get to the bottom of why this has come up now. In the meanwhile, congratulations to the elected representatives for doing the right thing; at least someone in Washington "gets it." Let's have subdued cheering now, vigilance as the legislation moves forward, action on the part of us all, and a serious celebration when the interim rules are reinstated. (Hopefully it won't be too late.) I have already written to my local congresspeople as well as our NC ones - and to the two Presidential candidates, who will vote on this issue, too. Good luck to us all! Paul Payton Chatham, N.J. I am a retired wildlife law enforcement officer and life-long wildlife conservationist who wholly support the proposed legislation that will hopefully come before and be approved by the full United States Congress. During my career as a Virginia game warden, I witnessed misguided actions of well intended people on the behalf of wildlife. In my opinion, the recent injunctive court action is a classic example of the aforementioned. I have enjoyed surf fishing on the Outer Banks for the past 25 years and have never witnessed any act, either intentional or unintentional that I considered being detrimental to the well being of any protected species. If I had, I would have considered it my responsibility to have reported and sought prosecution of the same. Additionally, I can state I have never witnessed anything that I considered detrimental to wildlife in relation to the operation of ORVs while on the beach. Because the National Park Service has long taken actions to protect nesting areas, I believe that the mere presence and movement of ORVs (or people for that matter) along established corridors is sufficient to provide protection for the species of concern. I believe that severely limiting access in this fashion is simply not necessary. I am but one angler of the many thousands whose primary reason to go to Hatteras Island is the surf fishing opportunities. My first trip this year is scheduled for mid-October. If the restrictions remain as they are, I will not come there. To the citizens of the Outer Banks, I can only imagine what the economic impact of this misguided action will be if this is not changed. It is obvious to me that the viability of economic heart of Hatteras Island is gravely threatened. I hope this writing will provide a small portion of the support you will need to prevail. Herb Foster Richmond, Va. This is welcome news, but in my opinion doesn't go far enough. It's like being told you aren't being hung with a new rope but will be hung with an old one instead. It's impossible to understand the stupidity of this whole issue. Any reasonable person can see clearly that the wildlife already have huge restricted areas on the Outer Banks where they have virtual free reign. These include the whole of the Pea Island sanctuary, large chunks of Ocracoke, and all of Portsmouth Island on the Core Banks. Look at the map, for heaven's sake. For a very long time, humans have enjoyed walking and driving privileges only on the beaches in established towns, on the beaches between Salvo and Avon, on Cape Point around to Frisco (plus some smaller mostly already developed areas), and areas on the southern end of Ocracoke. The birds essentially have all the rest. I have been driving these beaches for 30-plus years and have never seen anyone violate posted nesting areas. In fact, on the way out to the Point it is common to see large areas with birds resting and nesting behind the security of the posted areas with little concern at all for the people or vehicles passing nearby. People have rights, too, and we need the right to continue the responsible enjoyment of one of the greatest natural resources available in the world today - a small portion of the North Carolina seashore. In this case, we have let a few enviro-snobs twist the nation's legitimate love and concern for the environment into something that makes little or no sense when looked at objectively. We need new legislation to set this whole thing right. I have asked our good Senator Byrd to look into this matter on behalf of the large number of West Virginians who travel to and dearly love this seashore area. His office has responded and I have no doubt that he will support the side of reason and common sense. Robert Keller Shepherdstown, W.Va. Great news! I live in Pennsylvania and will contact my senators and congressmen to support Bills 3113 and 6233. I was in Hatteras in May and was terribly disappointed that I could not get near the inlet. I'm going back next week with my family, and I hope the birds have left so I can get back to my favorite spot in the world (Hatteras Inlet). How about that Elizabeth Dole? Tony Warsavage Doylestown, Pa. As an avid island visitor to enjoy fishing and just getting away from the daily routine, this news gives us a little hope of one day returning to the relaxing surf-fishing of the Hatteras/Ocracoke beaches. For the past 20 years, we have traveled to the island at least once a month during the spring, summer, and fall months. We will continue to support our island friends and fellow fishermen and women in this legislation to come up with a compromise that works for all. Mike Hamby and Carol Fowler Montpelier, Va. Even though we cannot be there, my family and I celebrate with all those at the renamed "Celebration in the Sand," and we have sent a contribution earlier to OBPA to help with fundraisers for the "Stand in the Sand." I had already written to Howard Coble, U.S. Congressman for Rowan and neighboring counties, but will write to Sens. Dole and Burr and Rep. Jones and thank them for introducing this legislation in the Senate and House of representatives. I will also write to Coble and other congressmen encouraging them to support this legislation. I am so happy for the residents of the Outer Banks. Jeanne York Salisbury, N.C. It is about time that the people's voice is heard. This whole situation could have and still can be worked out so that an entire island doesn't go bankrupt to appease a small group of special interest folks. Pam Thomas Alex, Va. We have already contacted Sens. Warner and Webb and Rep. Thelma Drake to ask them to support these bills. Ray and Lisa Winebarger Hampton, Va. We live in a state that glorifies the "shore." We moved here five years ago from Nevada. Coming here, I was excited to show my children the East Coast beaches. I grew up in Virginia and visited North Carolina all of my childhood. I took my children to the Jersey shore and was saddened by what I found -- unkempt, overcrowded beaches you had to pay for and little to no chance to ORV. I then told my husband we must go to Outer Banks, the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen and where you can still enjoy using your ORV and spending the day fishing without being overcrowded and bombarded with boardwalks. The rest of my family was sold and would rather spend a day driving to go to OBX than to drive an hour to the shore. Our family would be sad to see the loss of the beaches of OBX. We love everything about it -- the fishing, the ORVing, the not so many people compared what we see up north. I also have family down there that would suffer a loss if they lose access to the beaches. Please let’s agree on something that can protect the animals, and one of the few traditional beaches left. Kathy Norcutt Erial, N.J. I'm thrilled that our Senate and House of Representatives are here to help us with this matter. Was it ever brought up that a lot of the NPS land was given to the Park Service by people who wanted the public to enjoy the land? Birds and turtles were not mentioned. In Ocracoke, at one time, the only way off the island northward was down the beach. I know the traffic has increased, but I have been on the beach and watched the "turtle lady" do her job, keep the nests roped off, and checked every day. We can be and have been harmonious on the beach! My gut tells me somebody with a huge pocketbook is behind the environmental issue. It’s not about the birds and the turtles. What do they really want to do with this land? We all know the true environmentalists do not have money, not the kind to hire the lawyers they hired, not to bring such a horrific lawsuit to change the lives of very ordinary people who grew up and live on this land and work the sea, who are here to serve and share their homeland with visitors. Norma Dennis Nags Head This is excellent news, and it is very gratifying that our elected officials who can make a difference are taking the actions to do so. Chuck Stanley Fuquay Varina, N.C. It is about time someone teaches the Defenders of Wildlife and friends why America is so great. This hopefully will serve as the final time we need to prove that Democracy works over money and loosely proven evidence. You would think the “special” interest groups like Defenders would have figured out by now that 40 birds is no match for thousands of lives. Matt Stubbs Richmond, Va. The press release from Jason Rylander of Defenders of Wildlife is unbelievable. The perfidy of that man is beyond belief. How can he look at himself in the mirror? Talk about special interest groups -- his special interest groups forced a consent decree that did not consider the rights of the general public. He and his group violated the trust of the NPS and other members of the negotiated rule-making group and the group members that represented the citizens of the USA that through their taxes support our National Park System. Our parks are the property of the general public, and access to the beaches is a vital part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Recreational Area. These are not "special interests." The special interests are the radical environmental groups who place birds and animals above people and have no ethics. Donald Delwiche Fairport, N.Y. I’ve been planning a summer surf trip to the Cape Hatteras area for the longest time -- until I read an article in the latest ESM magazine stating that no more ORVs are allowed on the most popular spots. What’s going on here? Or should I say, what’s going wrong? I haven't been to Cape Hatteras yet and all of the amazing surf stories that I hear about are what attracts me, but now I am very upset because I finally got the time off from work and also saved enough money to make this trip possible with a couple of friends of mine. Now I have to turn around and go somewhere else. Hatteras is known for its great surf, and I can only hope that things will change for the better and not for the worse. I want to visit Hatteras, but I can't until things go back to the way that they used to. Craig D’Aragone Palm City, Fla. Does the spokesperson for Defenders of Wildflife know how ironic his statement "Basing the management of Cape Hatteras on the desires of a handful of special interests would do a disservice" sounds? Is this not what the Consent Decree does? Michael Porter Indianapolis, Ind. The passing of this proposed legislation can not come soon enough. I am so happy to hear this news. I will be writing to my senators and congressmen urging them to support this legislation. Michele Papp Fairless Hills, Pa. Thank you for you very complete reporting on this issue. I and my extended family have been coming to Hatteras each summer since the mid ‘70s and will be back again next week. We have been following this issue closely, and I can say without hesitation that your reporting has been the most complete and well balanced I've come across. Thank you! Jane A. Kelly Charlottesville, Va. This is the best news I’ve heard in awhile. It has me excited about going to the OBX again. My family and I looked forward every year to going to OBX for our family vacation, but it was this past year when all this happened that had my family and I so upset that we were going to back out of our trip to OBX and find somewhere else to go for our family trip. But it wouldn't be the same as being on the beach at the OBX because we love it down there. Let’s hope and pray that the right thing gets done right. Remember that it’s our freedom too. Chip Illian Millsboro, Del. “This attack on the laws that safeguard our parks and seashores could set a dangerous precedent," said Jason Rylander, attorney for Defenders of Wildlife. "Basing the management of Cape Hatteras on the desires of a handful of special interests would do a disservice not only to the wildlife and natural resources the seashore was created to protect, but also to the thousands of visitors who travel to the seashore to enjoy those same resources each year." Wait a minute. Is he referring to the good citizens wanting control back or is he talking about his special interest groups usurping control from the NPS? He should be carefully tossing phrases around like that. I sent a message to both my senator and representative here in Virginia. How about the rest of you concerned citizens? Let us see what a "groundswell" of grass roots opinion can do! Bert Smith Richmond It’s too late for us this summer, and the wheels turn slow in Washington, D.C., so the fall trip may also be in jeopardy. We did have a good time, but last week but fishing was just not the same. The confusion about the closures kept a lot of out-of-town people like us from exploring. We applaud these politicians for caring. Allen Guynn Galax, Va. That is great news Thanks so much for all the updates and hard work that goes into saving our beaches. I have to say "ours" because my husband’s family has been coming down to the Outer Banks for 40 years and since I have been married - 21 years - we have taken our kids down there and now we have a place at Cape Woods Resort. A place were we can play, fish and have fun, a little piece of heaven. The closure of the beaches was a dissapointment and we are excited about the new news. Thanks again! Dawn Karnes Chesapeake, Va. Anybody know which committees these bills have to go to and whether there a list of members of said committees? These members need to be contacted to insure that these bills do not languish and die, but be put out to be voted on by the entire membership of both chambers. Also congress needs to know of and block the unlawful attempt to declare major areas of Cape Hatteras National Seashore Recreation Area as critical habitat. Tim Sacksteder Great Falls, Va. Great move on the new legislation to allow recreational use of the North Carolina beaches. The tree huggers are going too far all over the country, and it is about time to stop them in their tracks. Five percent of the population band together, and the result is Judge Boyle's ruling. Let's keep up the good work of banding together, since this was a close call and the huggers will be back. Jim Hartley Denville, Va. I am very glad to see our elected officials acting in the best interest of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. We should write and call them to let them know we support their efforts in getting our beach driving back. These are America's beaches. I find it offensive to look over the dunes to see all the post, string, and signs that are not natural to the beach. The Defenders of Wildlife are the special interest group. The Outer Banks are world famous for the beautiful beaches. Driving to Cape Point or beach of choice is one of the things that have made us the vacation destination. This whole issue has shed a very bad light on anyone who might care to protect any animal. The beach closure is very extreme and unnecessary. Sharon Peele Kennedy Buxton I have two rental cottages, one in Buxton and one in Frisco. Without shoulder season fishermen coming to fish the Point, their value will drop significantly. Dare County raised the tax basis significantly two years ago and will have to roll that back, so county tax income ought to decline significantly, especially if the county lets the beaches stay closed. I had a great retirement planned until this whole fiasco surfaced. Let's get it right and play fair with each other, please. And please remember it is the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and Recreational Area (not bird sanctuary -- they are in other places, such as Pea Island). And who can prove the birds are no longer there due to ORVs? Plus there are already other barrier islands without any vehicles at all for the birds to breed on. And how about the idea of raising them like pheasants and releasing them into the wild? Bet more than four or five per year (the optimistic Piping Plover fledging rate at Cape Point) would survive such an effort. Henrik Suhr Great Falls, Va. I started going to the Outer Banks in 1948. My children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild have enjoyed every vacation we've had there. They come as far away as Salt Lake City, Utah, and look forward to spending the day on the beach near the Hatteras Lighthouse. We have a shade house and grill, and we spend the entire day enjoying the ocean, whether it be swimming or fishing or just reading a book. We feel there is plenty of room for the birds, turtles, and people, so why can't we make it work for all concerned? What can we do? Janice B. Denton Hopewell, Va. Jason Rylander should be disbarred. Cape Hatteras was not created for the protection of birds, but as a Recreational Seashore for fishing, camping, picnics, family outings, and to enjoy the outdoors for humans! James N. Price, Sr. Buxton This is the best news we've all heard in a while, and it's wonderful. The fight for free and open beaches is far from over, but this was a major turning point for all of us who love the Outer Banks. I have contacted my state representatives to ask for their support because I know we need all of the help we can get. I hope that others will do the same. Oh, and another thing, I want to shake Frank Folb's hand! This news today brought tears to my eyes as well. Only this time it was happy tears. Angel Herrell Virginia Beach, Va. I am disgusted that environmentalists with big money can use the courts to close the beaches to the public. I wholeheartedly support Senate Bill S3113 and House Bill HR 6233. I have contacted my senators and congressman and asked for their support. And I hope everyone else will do the same Alfred Rader Shawsville, Va. Jason Rylander, attorney for Defenders of Wildlife, said, "Basing the management of Cape Hatteras on the desires of a handful of special interests would do a disservice not only to the wildlife and natural resources the seashore was created to protect, but also to the thousands of visitors who travel to the seashore to enjoy those same resources each year." Can he not see that is exactly what has happened? J. Graves Clinton, Ohio I sent an e-mail on May 16 to Senator Dole. I also used the same letter slightly modified and sent to Senator Burr and Representative Price. I got responses, good ones too, from Burr and Dole. Not a peep from Price. Perhaps Price doesn't share my opinion on this matter? Anyway, I may be sharing my vote with the other side come November. This issue is that important to me. Bill Zavetsky Raleigh, N.C. The people who use the beaches and contribute the conservation of the park, through such things as the recreational saltwater fishing license and sales and occupancy taxes, need to have a say -- not just a federal judge looking for notoriety. George Simpson Sanford, N.C. Here come Carter, Rylander, Canfield, now changing their cries from saving the beaches for the birds and closing them to the public over to the future loss to the public of their beaches. Huh? The sad part is that many people who are not used to the diatribes and pseudo-science claims of these apostles of the half truth are sucked in by the smooth talk of these folks. Whatever sides they need to espouse for their ideology, that's the one they use. The talking point of the day! Keep those cards, letters, and e-mails flowing to the Congress and perhaps sanity can be returned to the Islands. Lawrence Cullen Buxton More on beach access We live in King William County. We love and respect the Outer Banks. We have piping plovers nesting in our fields. Maybe we should quit farming. Larry Kidd Aylett, Va. I’ve been surf fishing Hatteras since the early ‘50s. It was all open then. I thought it was about to be all closed. Glad to hear the good news G.E. Stadler Oak Island, N.C. I feel it is important for everyone to understand the need to maintain the bird ecosystem on the North Carolina shorelines, while understanding it is not the intentions of the Park service to take away every square inch of ORV beach access from the public. It is not too much to ask the public to "sacrifice," or even share areas of the beach that are crucial areas of biodiversity for our birds. Compromises can be made, but people need to be objective and open-minded. As a regular visitor to Hatteras and Ocracoke, I do not want to see ORV access closed entirely. However, I am willing to make comprises and sacrifice areas of the beach that are more important than my "fun day at the beach." Diana L. Hueschen Charlottesville, Va. I have been going to the Outer Banks for 35 years and do not plan to return unless the ORV plan is changed back to open access. Unfortunately, the many houses my family has rented and the many stores that have had our business will be a thing of the past thanks to Judge Boyle. Our nation’s economy alone is hard enough on the Hatteras people. This will put many out of business. Joseph Mury Mayetta, N.J. As a property owner, I am very concerned about limiting beach access. Rents for my beach house are down 20 percent this year already. Jason Harvard Holly Spring, N.C. Finally, some sense has come to the politicians! Congratulations to all who have voiced the opposition to the insane consent decree. A big win for the little guy! I guess I have to send an apology to Sen. Burr now. Cameron Butler Suffolk, Va. I am so glad that we are finally getting some leeway. I think it is absolutely ridiculous that they are closing as much beach as they are for birds that are not even endangered. Only one is threatened. After visiting since the closures were in place, I could see what a mess it was creating, leaving us only one ramp to exit rather than three. It caused a super long back up because of several cars and trucks getting stuck in the sand. I am doing my part in writing Congress. I hope everyone else will too! Megan Ahles Virginia Beach, Va. My family comes to the Cape Hatteras National Seashore every year for 2 weeks. We eat in the restaurants and shop in your stores, but we come for the beach and the fishing. If the beaches close, we simply won't come at all. We would be very sad if that happened. We have vacationed there for 15 years. Catana Lambertson Stockton, Md. I am 60 years old and have been coming to Hatteras for fishing and vacationing with my family for 40 years. In all those years, I can’t recall seeing vehicles or fishermen causing destruction of bird or turtle nesting areas that have been roped off. I have, however, seen tide and erosion damage. That is a natural part of nature. What the environmentalists need to understand is that we (man) are as much a part of nature as any sea bird or turtle, and we deserve to enjoy and coexist on this magnificent stretch of sand as much as the birds do. There is simply no way that an effective plan to accommodate this coexistence can not be put into place and be successful, Everyone involved needs to put out a concerted effort to accomplish this goal for all of us “animals,” so that our grandchildren won’t ask us someday, “What was it like fishing on the beach at Cape Hatteras. Randy Hutto Midlothian, Va. It's about time that we see some common sense! Steve Botelho Fall River, Mass. I am sending this information out to members of the retired association to which I belong. The members cover several states, and I hope they will respond favorable. I will continue with my Virginia and your North Carolina elected representatives to try and correct this mess the animal lovers call an agreement. Keep up the pressure and the fight. Richard Journee Portsmouth, Va. This concerns me personally because it is the only place to ride horses on the Outer Banks in the summer season. We fall under the rules for ORV use and are as aggravated as everybody else that this has affected. It is hard to understand exactly what the problem is when all you hear is "nesting birds"… blah, blah, blah. Are they endangered? Do they nest and feed under water? Are we killing them? Are the same birds nesting in gravel parking lots miles inland? Are these birds considered a problem in the Hampton and Bay area of Virginia? This makes as much sense as outlawing trash cans in a city because a pigeon might get sick. It is almost sick to think of the control we giving people not to mention the money being wasted. Tracy DeJarnette Wanchese, N.C. I absolutely love the Outer Banks. And I believe that when God created men and women, he meant for them to be over the animals. Please keep beach access open to all. Teresa Megginson Roxboro, N.C. We just left Hatteras Island on Saturday, June 6. We went to the beach one day out of seven because of the new restrictions. We have been vacationing in the Outer Banks for over 25 years, and we will probably not return. It breaks our hearts, as we have had so many memories. And now our grandchildren are here, and we must find another place to create our family stories. So sad. Is it true that the bird that is being protected is not even on the threatened list of endangered species? This is a fine way to keep tourists out and close many local businesses. Linda Lobley Oxford, Pa. What a sad situation. It’s hard to believe that people who should be working for the tax paying people of the USA and not for the special interest groups would even be a part of this. I think Mr. Murray and his entire staff should be removed from their jobs and have charges filed against them. The judge who started this should be barred from ever sitting on a court for the rest of his life. This area does not belong the birds. It belongs to the people of the United States of America. Gary Taylor Findlay, Ohio As a North Carolina coastal property owner who spends his vacation on the Outer Banks to surf fish, I think this stinks! The beaches should be opened to ORVs. Creating trails is probably a good idea, but this restriction may cause my group to stop vacationing there in the fall. We rent a house and spend lots of money on food and tackle. We see and watch out for the turtle nests and respect the dune areas as off limits already. The Park Service has done a great job over the years managing the area. I am totally disappointed in this resolution. Rob Shelton Hot Spring, Ark. I have been coming to the Banks for 22 years. It’s almost home to me and my wife, a place where we can go and get away and enjoy nature at its best (right here in NC). Most years we've come twice, and it’s such a joy each time we come. I think it was back, in 1988 or 1989 was the only time that we really got into the fish, but to my wife and me, that’s just not a big deal. The big deal is coming to the Banks, meeting new people, driving on the beach, and not being confined in one spot. To me nothing compares with being on the beach at night, watching the waves come in and fishing (just peace and quiet) and being there in the morning when the sun comes up. I'm not a very good fisherman, so that’s not what it’s all about. We love it so much this that our family spent this past Christmas it at Buxton. What a time we had! If they stop driving on the beach, it will be like all the other beaches. This would be a sad day for all the people who love the Banks. You have something there that is very great and that everyone love. I'll be praying for all of you there and may God bless. Steve Auton Lenoir, N.C. Nights in Rodanthe: The movie We were there during the filming in Rodanthe, just five houses down from where they were filming at Serendipity. I guess they thought three retired police officers from Maryland and one retired Virginia State Trooper were harmless. We were not ask to move, Thanks for the thrill. Not only will we see the movie, we will buy it! Rodanthe is our home away from home... Linda H. Orebaugh Greenville, Va. Bigger and better Hatteras Library As a lover of books myself, let me congratulate Hatteras village on its new and wonderfully inviting library. In all my years of visiting the island, I am sad to say that I have never been inside the library, but I plan to change that in a couple of weeks. I can't wait to visit. Renee Tomberlin Burnsville, N.C. Precious Memories I have so enjoyed the wonderful “Precious Memories” short stories from Buddy Swain's childhood summer years on Hatteras Island. I have read those already published many, many times. They are just as good on the subsequent read as they are the first time. My favorite is “Going to the Landing” -- what a fishing story! Have all of the stories been published? I am hopeful that some new ones will be forthcoming. I would like to see an article in the Island Free Press on Mr. Swain, bringing all of his readers (those who do not know him) up to date on what his life has been like as an adult and what he is doing now. And, if he does not plan to write any more stories, how could we get in touch with him to try to convince him to do so? Thank you. P.S. Great job with your newspaper and thanks for the e-mail alerts to remind me to check in for news. Janet Pitts Richmond, Va. (Editor’s Note: Buddy Swain and his business partner, Jim Boyd, of Hatteras Designs designed The Island Free Press Web site and continue to be involved with our newspaper. Buddy contributes many photographs and slide shows, but he hasn’t written another article. We have published all of them that he has written. He lives full time in Hatteras village now, and we will try to get a story on his life here now. You can contact him at Buddy@HatterasDesigns.net. Maybe you can convince him to do more writing.) Wildfires on the mainland Excellent news coverage and pictures. Darryl Porter Granite Quarry, N.C. New Letters to the Editor....06.09.2008 8:30 am Guest Columns on critical habitat and the consent decree Fantastic column on critical habitat! I also read the first one you published from Dr. Berry. Thank you to Dr. Berry and The Island Free Press. Jan Ellis Eldersburg, Md. Great Article on critical habitat! I have been employed seasonally here and have a limited income, and I rely on being able to eat fish caught off our local beach in order to live. If access is closed, we will not be able to stay in my village and catch fish to eat. Some people don't just fish for sport, they fish to eat. I'm not alone in this practice. Many folks here do the same. After all, historically, this is a long sandbar of fishing villages. This is our critical habitat. Martha McCullough Buxton Dr. Berry has continued to be the voice of reason throughout these recent beach closures. He knows the history of the issues at hand. He is aware of the misrepresented studies that have taken place and the numerous flaws they contain. The general public cannot continue to be locked out of input as to the economic and life threatening (i.e. Bonner Bridge) conditions that will occur if these beaches continue to be closed, whether it be seasonal or due to critical habitat winter nesting. The economic impact to Hatteras Island (not the entire Outer Banks in general), plus the dangerous conditions that exist with the Bonner Bridge have to be brought to and put on the table before any further decisions are made to beach closures, seasonal or otherwise. The constitutional rights of the residents, property owners, and visitors of Hatteras and Ocracoke islands are being violated by special interest groups and our own United States government. Our elected officials have to get involved and put an end to this insanity. Robert Eichert Boyertown, Pa. Dr. Berry’s column should be required reading for everyone associated with Cape Hatteras National Recreational Seashore. Finally, a voice of reason. Mary Williams Buxton This comment is the most logical and common-sense review of this event at the Outer Banks I have seen. I wish government would read it and listen to the people. There better be some real changes coming soon. Wayne Crenshaw Mooresville, N.C. That guest column on the consent decree is the best article I've read to date on the whole beach access/ORV issue. William Denton Springport, Ind. Another great and informative column by Dr. Berry. After reading his earlier column of May 23 and this one, I have written to my congressman, Howard Coble, and plan to write others and sent a submission to the Fish and Wildlife Service. After reading the column today, my thought is: why do they need to designate 215 more acres of the park to wintering wildlife when Pea Island is already a National Wildlife Refuge. Couldn't they just relocate the threatened and any endangered species to the National Wildlife Refuge? Jeanne York Salisbury, N.C. Excluding the use of the national recreational area's most popular spots (inlets and points) based on faulty data is pandering to the special interest groups’ agenda. The small special interest groups should be prepared to foot the bill of restitution if, as it seems now, there has been very high economic and public use encroachment based on bad data. Does anyone remember the spotted owl ploy and the impact on all of us, also based on bad data? Robert Walker Pleasant Gap, Pa. I think we need to put property owners, business owners, and anyone who drives over the Bonner Bridge on the Endangered Species List. David Mobley Vandalia, Ohio Piping plovers are not endangered! This area was set aside for the recreation of people. The beach area that is available for the non-endangered birds is huge. This whole closure thing is merely a group of zealots enforcing their will on the public. Ben Braswell Alexandria, Va. So, why is our government still listening to these special interest groups in this type of situation? Why wouldn't someone such as Mike Berry have more influence on what is going on up there? And, last but not least, how did a federal court make such a decree, which is not transparent? It looks to me like the people who are opposed to the "special interest groups" should file suit in the Supreme Court and have the environmental groups be made to reimburse the local businesses for lost revenues due to the decision, which was made behind closed doors. I also think that some of the locals from back in the day actually gave the land to the Park Service. Why can't that gift be reversed, so that these people can never take your constitutional rights again? I love the islands, but I hate that the locals are facing such an uphill battle. I have contributed money, bought T-shirts and talked about these problems with people as far away as California. I think Judge Boyle should be investigated, as it looks like someone may have received some sort of favors for something like this to ever have taken place. I think similarities may be found in several court cases in the past, so I feel as though you folks have a leg to stand on and should definitely pursue countersuing . Good luck, and we hope to get back up there soon. Kevin Gause Conway, S.C. It's nice to know our park has been overrun by special interest groups that would rather feed a fat monkey then a starving child. These people do not have enough common sense to rationally think. The Audubon Society, Defenders of Wildlife, and SELC only care about "wildlife and habitat" when it's convenient for them. The Department of the Interior should remove this bunch of hypocrites from the Reg/Neg meetings and put them to doing something more useful -- like watching paint dry! Jesse Justice Topsail Island, N.C. The thought for today: Who funds these environmental activist lawyers? What terrorist can't do, they can. Our nation is under stealth attack that paralyzes us against lower energy cost and access to property. Environmentalism is a political movement with a purpose. That purpose doesn't give a flip about nature. They have an agenda with help from lazy or accommodating judges. Wake up, dear people, and realize what you are dealing with here. You can't fight something until you define it. Hint: Follow the money. Rita Derrick Star, N.C. Very good article on critical habitat. Dr. Berry makes his point with facts and figures, rather than just ranting. I hope his arguments, common-sense approach, and, most of all, Dr. Berry himself will be used to continue to fight this. What kind of rebuttal could the FWS possibly have to this without admitting their bias, non-scientific, outdated information argument? Charles Mason Charlottesville, Va. Great Article. Maybe it will get some onto the federal comment site. I just checked (1330 on 2 June) and only 96 comments so far. Other than U.S. Mail or hand delivery that is the only way to comment. E:mail and faxes are not accepted, so it would appear this is getting little attention, even though it has been posted on many sites since 15 May. Ted A. Hamilton (aka Salvo Jimmy) Hampton, Va. and Salvo More on beach access issues From the signs, flyers, commentary, and local conversation we’ve observed during our stay on Hatteras Island, there’s a real danger that residents will create a self-fulfilling prophecy regarding the consequences of beach closures. The rhetoric may convince tourists—perhaps already has—that there is virtually no access to the beach. The economic consequences of that are far more serious than from the current approach to resource protection and beach access. Further, the argument that a decline in revenue over the Memorial Weekend is due to beach closures is mostly poppycock! Nationally, the volume of gasoline sales on the eve of this holiday weekend was 7.6 percent lower than last year, suggesting many people stayed home because of a sagging economy and $4 a gallon gas prices, not beach closures. It’s unfortunate that some closures to protect nesting birds block access to prime surf fishing locations. But many communities here and abroad have learned that tourists are increasingly “green.” Canada, Europe, Costa Rica, and several U.S. states are among those who already recognize the economic gains to be achieved from eco-friendly tourism. It would seem wise for islanders to catch this wave. For goodness sake, even Detroit is working to make its biggest SUVs “green!” Relatively few of us who come down this far on the Outer Banks do so with the goal of cruising the beach in our vehicles. Try to find a photo of SUVs on the beach in a travel magazine—or even in real estate brochures promoting the virtues of Outer Banks living. Yet, bird closures notwithstanding, much beach remains open to vehicles, and additional beaches are open to pedestrian traffic. This seems a rational and balanced approach. Those concerned with the economic future of the Outer Banks would be wise to explore eco-friendly strategies—and discard the “no plover” stickers. The sophomoric “but-I-wanna!” approach currently dominating the rhetoric isn’t likely to be successful in achieving either unfettered beach access or economic growth. Paul Goldberg Green Cove Springs, Fla. The Island Free Press is a good sounding board for opinions and comments on the present "dire straits" circumstances concerning the beach and ORV access, providing our leaders with a wealth of opinions, while re-establishing that the intent of the seashore recreational area is all about people. All the letters and comments however don't seem to be having the much desired effect of getting our legislators to take any positive corrective actions. We are only as strong as our elected leaders will let us be. They have to listen to us, and use their voices to speak for us, affirming to the judicial branch of the government that they are only to interpret and not create policies or laws. In this case, the legislative voices seem to be remaining silent, giving the judges and corporate-financed lawyers (i.e., donations from foreign automakers and recording artists) control of the lawmaking process. It's not how it's supposed to work in a democracy. Bill Stavenger Chesapeake, Va. Thanks to The Island Free Press for giving us far off visitors to Hatteras and Ocracoke the news of the awful situation you all are being forced to live with. Your Web paper is very informative, and I’m glad to know that you and the local people are not surrendering to the outsiders who have initiated the restrictions that are threatening your livelihood. I will be bringing my family to Buxton twice this summer as planned, and I can’t wait to enjoy the trails and beaches allowed, as well as renew old acquaintances at all the wonderful Hatteras Island businesses we love to patronize. That being said, here’s my two cents worth. I hope your current local crisis is only a temporary nightmare. In the meantime, I can’t stress enough the need for all who love to visit to not cancel our trips to Hatteras and Ocracoke. If anything, add extra days or even an additional visit. The beauty of the place is more than enough reason to keep coming. If beach driving is restricted, we should not give up by leaving or canceling our visits. Canceling your trip is a surrender to the enemy of the place we love so much. This place has more to offer than beach driving and fishing. We could instead take more time to visit other areas, spend more time visiting and talking to locals while frequenting their wonderful businesses. Hatteras is all about driving the beach and fishing, but that is not all there is. Hatteras is a feeling, a peaceful place, a place where time stops, cares disappear. Hatteras is its people, loving and caring, rich in history, culture, the arts and the art of conversation, a family place. They can put up fences, signs, rules, restrictions, but they cannot take away the many blessings of the beauty that is Hatteras and its people. My family and I look forward to seeing you all in July. Michael Letso Chadwick Beach, N.J. We have been coming to the Outer Banks for many years, and Ocracoke in particular for about 10. We were just there the week before Memorial Day, and the fishermen in our group were very disappointed at not having access to the South Point in Ocracoke. That's also a nice place to pull up if you have kids or people that don't want to be in the surf. We are very concerned about what is happening with the beach closures, and wonder when "nesting behavior" or "breeding behavior" is cited, who exactly are the people seeing this behavior? In all the years we have been coming to the Outer Banks, we have never seen anyone in an ORV do anything to disturb a nest or harm the wildlife. That's part of the beauty of the area! We really feel it’s not about the birds. It’s about the SUVs. Its time for common sense to take over. Anything we can do to support you to get the beaches reopened, we'll do. Susan Napotnik Powhatan, Va. Thanks to all at The Island Free Press for carrying the torch on this issue. I'm driving around with a "savehatteras.com" sign on the tailgate of my truck, but when I talk to people, I tell them to go to your site to find out what's going on. I think I need another sign. Jim and Paula Brown Baltimore, Md. Something has gone terribly wrong on Hatteras Island! The wife and I visit annually, and we were shocked last year at beach closures on Ocracoke, and now this year on Hatteras. Although we don't fish, we enjoy driving to the water's edge and along the beach. The abundance of wildlife certainly cannot possibly be affected by the few of us law-abiding taxpayers wishing to enjoy the freedom and natural wonders of these magnificent beaches. Show us the math and science, not just some "theories" and hypotheses. If someone is indeed violating nature, they can surely be prosecuted under statute law. To prohibit such broad accesses seems to be a very extreme measure to protect a few birds which apparently were unaffected by humans until someone "decided" there is an arbitrary environmental hazard. This is ridiculous. Why not close ALL beaches to humans in ALL of America? What about China, Australia, the Mediterranean, India, Africa, etc. Surely they too have environmentally sensitive areas to be "protected." It's painfully obvious that the "few" have imposed knee-jerk rules and regulations upon the populace without science to substantiate their claims of environmental destruction. Al and Cindy Holt Winder, Pa. I have been coming to Hatteras and Ocracoke for some time now, many times a year for fishing and pleasure. I had the opportunity to bring my brother this time. He is an avid fisherman and one who has never been to the Outer Banks. I wanted him to enjoy the experiences that I have had before there were more closures. I was there on the island when the proverbial door was slammed in our face and beach driving was severely limited for birds. We were on the island again recently when the rug we were standing on was pulled from us when the National Park Service enlarged a closure at Ramp 44. We fielded many questions from beachgoers over the closures as some were not even aware until they arrived on the beach. I would also like to add that the NPS officials that I had the chance to talk to need to get their act together regarding public information. One in particular stated to us that "Unfortunately, the National Park Service had nothing to do with this." That’s entirely untrue, as the NPS through the Department of Interior decided not to fight for the people of these United States. I certainly hope that all the parties involved can come to terms and work an "about face" on this problem before an entire community in North Carolina is shut down. Ryan Young Wilmington, N.C. Our beaches being closed is an unnecessary precaution. I have lived here all my life, and my ancestors and everyone have always respected the beaches. We were promised rights to the beach at all times by the Park Service back in the ‘50s. It the Park Service’s mistake, not ours. The beaches being closed will ruin the economy Hatteras Island. Gwen Murphy Frisco I am a North Carolina native and visit the beaches yearly. I rarely go to the areas affected by this ruling but want to ensure the radical views of a few do not over come the God given right of others. I have read many things about the justification for this closure and have concluded all the evidence to be fraudulent and unscientific. If allowed to stand, this will be one of the greatest travesties I've witnessed in my 53 years on this planet. The actions taken by the groups forcing their views on the general public will certainly not be forgotten. I for one will support any legal method to challenge this in a court, or though political venue. Ben Braswell I am not a native of North Carolina nor am I a resident of the Outer Banks, but I try to keep abreast of the surreptitiousness of those individuals who under the guise of environmentalism are systematically causing economic havoc for Hatteras Island, as well as other areas of the Outer Banks, by destroying longstanding rights of the people in regard to beach access. For those in authority, lest you forget, we as Americans respect the rights of the people first. We love the birds and turtles as you do but not more than we love you, our neighbors, and the tourists. We are the dominant society and can co-exist with men, birds, or beasts. We cannot and will not play second fiddle to birds or beasts. Andy Toth West Mifflin, Pa. My group of about 15 fishermen have traveled to Hatteras to fish for the last 25 or so years. I'm sorry to say we'll take our money elsewhere until this mess is over. Harvey Warren Browns Summit, N.C. Our brave men and women are fighting in the Middle East, trying to establish freedom for those that have and are being oppressed, while our rights are being taken away. Shame on you! To those who are taking away our rights and livelihood, I have an idea. Give us your land, home, money, employment, and retirement -- if you people are serious about protecting the piping plovers. But don't ask us to do what you aren't willing to do. I am outraged and disgusted with you bunch of bureaucrats and whinners! Sgt. John Ochs, USMC Ret. Frisco As I have seen it, too many of the islanders are being detached on the beach closures! I don’t know if they are unaware of the implications or what is going on, but we need to revolt against this injustice to our islands. When the Navy designated an area in North Carolina as an outlying landing field, there were signs out in the front yards. The people banned together to fight this, and they won. And we can too! What has the Hatteras Village Civic Association done? Where is the outrage? Our very way of life and our livelihoods are being threatened. Whatever happened to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness? Where the heck has our freedom gone? Do we actually think that if we stick our heads in the sand, that this will go away? I think not. Come on, locals, let’s put our heads together and don't let these environmental groups prevail! Instead of the Boston Tea Party, lets have a “Dammit, it’s ours party!” Darlene Ochs Frisco My family and I have been coming to the Outer Banks for over 30 years. We enjoy the driving out on the beach, spending the day fishing, swimming, and cooking lunch. The kids and grandkids love this and looking forward to it. My wife and I love the Outer Banks so much that we brought property in Kitty Hawk. I just find it hard to believe that some groups want to stop this kind of activity and the Interior Department is going along with it. What is this country coming too when can't enjoy a day at the beach? Evan Elkins Owings, Md. It is a great disappointment to have these beaches close just as the vacation season is starting without warning to those who have already paid for vacation houses. People come to Hatteras for the explicit purpose of driving on the beach and fishing. Those of us who drive on the beach relish the solitude and privacy these beaches offer - which is unique to Hatteras. Is the state of North Carolina refunding us our vacation money for the hassle and dissappointing vacation? Lori Wilkinson Richmond, Va. If the fisherman don’t come down to Hatteras, I am going to lose the income from my house that I planned on for many years for retirement. Ronald Ganance Troy, N.Y. I have been going to Hatteras since the early ‘60s. I have seen it change from a sleepy strip of sand to a traffic jam on Highway 12 every Memorial Day to Labor Day. As a child, we walked across the dunes every day and spent the entire day on the beach. At night we either hiked back out to beach to join in or build a beach fire, relaxed at the campsite, or went to a Park Service program. Most of the time we cooked our food at the campsite but always went out one or two nights of the week to Lighthouse, Channel Bass, or Quarterdeck restaurants for some fried seafood. I even remember the sandy Kentucky Fried Chicken in buckets at the campsite when the there was a franchise in Buxton. With our most recent trips of the past 20 years, I recall the growth into a “vacation destination” of rental houses, supermarkets, restaurants, gift shops. Days can now be spent in a variety of ways -- walking, shelling, kites, sun worshiping, fishing or driving on the beach, windsurfing, miniature golf, shopping, jogging, bike riding, watching videos, shopping, swimming in pools -- pretty much the same as at any Atlantic Ocean beach location, USA. Hatteras remained unique and relaxing for me because of the beach -- being able to walk on undisturbed beach for miles uninterrupted, just as I had done as a child. We have not been down to the island for a couple of years, but were thinking it was time to get back down next spring. If I have to fight traffic on Highway 12 from walk-over to walk-over to find some of my favorite spots, I might as well save gas and find a strip of sand closer to home. I guess we could save on lotion and swimsuit costs by coming to visit for a couple of nights in January or February, when we could walk the beaches and coexist with nature uninterrupted. Just maybe with this ruling, Hatteras will again be a sleepy strip of sand after a few decades of declining visitors -- or maybe that is what the Defenders of Wildlife and the National Audubon Society and the Southern Environmental Law Center are really hoping for. Jeff Chambers Lititz, Pa. Every night I continue to read the outpouring letters from each and everyone with their hearts broken. I still cannot believe this has happened. I guess I am hoping that I will see a news report that things are about to turn around for us. The beach was a place to go and let the worries of the world roll off my back and think how lucky I was be there as my husband cast another line into the ocean. All kinds of wars being fought for freedom, and now we have this war of the beach in our own little corner of tranquility. Let's ride the waves to free our beaches. Debbie Cooper Washington, N.C. The bigger and better Hatteras Library Congratulations on the new digs! The numbers in the article cannot convey the friendliness, superb customer service and over-the top help provided by Miss Helen and the ladies. They have helped me for work and pleasure, on community projects, promoting reading, and conducting research. They are a tremendous asset to our community, so I hope anyone who can get to the library will stop in! Amberly Dyer Frisco The people enclosure at Midgett Realty I love it. Bravo, Midgett Realty. Michele Papp Fairless Hills, Pa. New Letters to the Editor....06.02.2008 9:30 am Guest Column: The consent decree and bad public policy
This is an excellent and non-biased article regarding the recent unreasonable and unjustified restrictions placed upon our nation's recreational assets at Cape Hatteras National Seashore. I commend Mike Berry for his common sense approach at evaluating these issues and only hope that Congress passes legislation soon to restore full control of the park system to the Park Service. I also hope that we then can continue with good environmental policies, based upon sound science for the benefit of both man and environment so that our children's children can enjoy this valued treasure. David and Barbara Howell Wilson, N.C. This is a very well written article. I completely agree that the latest “rules” for ORVs should be questioned and rewritten immediately. I think that most people agree that protecting the beach and wildlife is very important. The system that was in effect until this year seemed to be working. Close off the area that have the bird nests, but, let us use the rest of the beach. The recent closures are outrageous! David Stoudt Kill Devil Hills I have been remiss in writing about reading this column. Please tell me that a copy of this letter has been sent to all North Carolina state and federal representatives and congressmen. If it has not, let me begin the e-mail flood to their offices. Charles Hall Elizabeth City, N.C. I couldn't agree more with Dr. Berry's logic. Why wasn't the judge's decision appealed? It seems that any reasonable person would see how ridiculous this consent decree is to all people who enjoy the park. Tom Burke Nags Head What a great article Dr. Berry! Before it is too late and election year is over, we had better bombard our politicians about this situation and get the beaches back. I am wondering at this point: Has anybody checked Judge Boyle's bank accounts lately? He certainly does not seem to be "for the people.” Has he been brainwashed and entertained top much by the special interest groups? The people own and pay taxes on these beaches, not the birds. We have been working around and with the birds for years. What is the big deal now? Herb Craddock Charlottesville, Va. Thanks to The Island Free Press and Dr. Berry for this work. The unfairness shown to local business owners and employees is a sin. I feel that they may have been tricked into agreeing to the consent decree, and almost wish they hadn't. Judge Boyle should not have signed it, either. He is the most to blame. He caved to the pressure of the current trend of blind agreement with anything claiming to be helping the environment. Such ignorance is unacceptable. The governor, senators, and congressmen of North Carolina must start to do their jobs and serve the interests of their people. Michael Letso Chadwick Beach, N.J. An outstanding article! Maybe this gentleman can be consulted for a challenge to this disgusting decree. Having been under several consent decrees here in Pittsburgh, I can say from experience that they are useless. Politics will dominate and rule. Appointed "overseers" for implementation will constantly try to justify their jobs to keep them, and very little of value will be accomplished. I've noticed that there has been some vandalism of the newly posted buffers. Could this have been from some of the more radical "environmentalists" pushing this issue? Maybe to further their cause and justify their reasoning? Using information from this article, public input, and a lot of determination, I'm sure that this ridiculous decree will go away. The more I've learned about its circumstances, the more obvious that it should never have been implemented in the first place! Tracy Lynne Pittsburgh, Pa. Based on the significant comments made by Mike Berry, I believe a class action response on behalf of the citizens of Dare County against the consent decree and the unappropriate actions of the U.S. District Court and Judge Terrence Boyle will get these results corrected. This sounds like another "Duke Lacrosse Team" nightmare! Where is CNN? FOX? CBS? Keith McCabe Newport Beach, Calif.  More Beach Access Issues Mr. Robert Jackson of Asheville, N.C., wrote in the letters published on May 27: "You are doing yourselves no favor by making it appear that the world has ended. There are still many miles of beach open to ORVs. Stop lying to get what you want! It would be nice if your paper could point out the real problem and stop all of this in-fighting and threats to good people and what they do. They feel as strongly about what they do as we do. But some leaders on Hatteras do not know how to ‘lead’ they just know bully tactics and threats. It's a shame-- makes you look ignorant!” In response to Mr Jackson's comments, I invite him to come to the island and see for himself how many miles of beach there is left on which to drive. I would not use the word that there are "many." In my opinion, The Island Free Press has done a professional job in presenting the facts of the entire proceedings about beach access. The writers maintain a high degree of integrity and honesty in reporting all the facts of the issues. As for leaders on Hatteras Island, they are among the finest people you will meet, and I know of no bullying tactics or threats or lying by any of them. All of us on the islands of Hatteras and Ocracoke live with a love of and deep appreciation for our environment, for it is our heritage that we live within the balance of nature. That balance is being upset by outsiders who have little first hand knowledge of what daily life is like in the villages of a barrier island and are using their money, political clout, and lying to achieve their ends -- to deny us access to the beaches where we fish and swim and surf and walk to appreciate our connection to nature. For us here, the beach and the ocean are all we have. We are, after all, on an island. So yes, it appears to us our world has ended. I think you would understand if someone from outside of your community came into your life space and took away your access to your places of sanctuary. Martha McCullough Buxton Thank you very much for the information (in Dispatches from the Beachfront, May 27). The rumors up here in Maryland sound dire but after reading this, I'm sure my planned September vacation will still be great. Do the fish know about the closures? Please don't tell them because if they know, they will never leave the Point! Rick Schreiber Pasadena, Md. I feel it is important for everyone to understand the need to maintain the bird ecosystem on the North Carolina shorelines, while understanding it is not the intentions of the Park Service to take away every square inch of ORV beach access from the public. It is not too much to ask the public to "sacrifice," or even share areas of the beach that are crucial areas of biodiversity for our birds. Compromises can be made, but people need to be objective and open-minded. As a regular visitor to Hatteras and Ocracoke, I do not want to see ORV access closed entirely. However, I am willing to make comprises and sacrifice areas of the beach that are more important than my "fun day at the beach." Diana L. Hueschen Charlottesville, Va. As I appreciate all the comments of those concerned and "floored" with the outcome of the Consent Decree and I understand their regrets of not returning here, I would ask that if at all possible, everyone commenting would write and call their representatives and tell them their concerns. Ask them what their position is and how they will help you as a taxpayer and supporter of our recreational park. Donate any money you can to any of the organizations in support of free and open beach access to all, even if it's a mere dollar. Money is desperately needed for legal funds to go forward. Support one of the organizations that are in favor of beach access. And, last but not least, know that most of us here on the Outer Banks are not sitting idly by watching our rights slip away from us! We are supporting local organizations, we are donating, we are writing and calling our representatives. Thank you to all who are concerned. Ali Kerekes Kill Devil Hills Dispatches from the Beachfront was another very, very informative article. Your reports are the best updates on the ongoing situation on The Banks. Our thanks for job well done. Pete and Robin Jorlett Newport News, Va. You did not dodge the bullet (on Memorial Day weekend). Word is just getting out on the closures. You will see a steady decline in dollars as fewer people visit the island, and I fear a slow death for many livelihoods. I love that island, and I've been coming down for a week for 15 years. I fish in the Gulf Stream and on the beach. If I cannot fish the points, spits, inlets, rips, why should I come down? I was thrown off the beach two years ago because some bird might want to feed where I was (Cape Point). I'm coming down in June because it is too late to cancel my house. I have written to the President, Vice President, governors of North Carolina and Maryland, The National Park Service in North Carolina and Atlanta, the Department of the Interior (Barna) four times. I filled out the workbook and submitted it in time. I have donated to the cause online. I proudly display OBPA on my vehicle, and I'm getting madder and madder every day. I'd love to come face to face with one of the closure supporters. I think the only way to get the beaches back is to sue the NPS for not developing the beach as needed for the needs of recreational users as per the original intent. Use the threat of development and loss of acres of habitat to parking lots and roads to get the ORV access opened again. Tim O'Neill Moonfisher1 Severna Park, Md. When I heard about the news, I cried. Ever since I was a little kid, my father used to quiz me on what part of the beach we were on. Now I can't even do that for my younger cousins because we can't even see the beaches from where we are allowed to go. This is so upsetting to my entire family which has been going down to Cape Hatteras Island for 30-plus years. Late night surf fishing was one of the highlights of my trips down there -- the way the ocean looked when the skies were so clear you could see the stars on the ocean. This is horrible that it would come to this conclusion. The people who are very responsible shouldn't have to suffer by not being about to drive on certain areas of the beach during the day or at night. Something has to be done about this. Tiffany Peca Hampton, Va. I have been coming to Hatteras Island all my life. I have never harbored any ill will for any of the wildlife. I believe that the environmental groups have intentionally negotiated in bad faith in order to gain power over areas of land that also belong to human inhabitants. Holding animal rights over human interests to this extreme has perverted the historical traditions of this area and other areas all over the United States. After this incident, I will never support any causes promoted by any of the groups involved in the closure of these or any other areas – national, state, or local nature preserve. All politics are local. Glenn Stevenson Virginia Beach, Va. I am a strong advocate for wildlife preservation. However, nature and man have cohabited for many, many years in these areas. Fishermen have come to these areas for many, many years. It is truly a shame that this has been taken away. Many future generations will not get to experience the handed-down thrill of fishing off the Outer Banks. Truly a shame! Why can't we find some way to continue co-existence? Jenny Barker High Point, N.C. It was with sadness and incredulity that I read the letter from Mr. Jackson of Ashville (in the letters posted on May 27). It seems that his comment on ignorance is self directed, rather than at this forum. If he would take the time to read the background presented by The Island Free Press, he too would, perhaps, see the error of his logic concerning the beach closure issue. A few points Mr.Jackson made either point out his misunderstanding of the facts or his ignorance of the same. They are: 1. Yes there are "many miles" of beach open, but access to them is impeded by the closures, and they are, therefore, rendered closed despite their being listed as open. Cape Point is an example of the "not open really" group. 2. The correct name of the area is THE CAPE HATTERAS NATIONAL SEASHORE AND RECREATIONAL AREA. Check it out. The Park Service, conveniently, leaves out the RECREATION portion of the official name. 3. The issue of ORV use was initiated by Presidential fiat. No votes were involved, except (perhaps) those won by the special interest groups with contributions to election campaigns. Even so, the people of Hatteras did work on compliance to these mandates and their efforts were "lost" in Washington and never registered. A year ago Judge Terrence Boyle invited the conservation groups to avail themselves of the sympathy of his court, and they came running, despite their pledge not to use the courts while allegedly negotiating a settlement of the issue. No, Mr. Jackson, This forum is far from ignorant, and it dispenses no lies. The exaggerations and false statements come from those who are denying the public of the use of their beaches by unproven statements in court, to the public and even their paying membership. So, Mr. Jackson, The Island Free Press printed your letter. It was read by the public and has received a reply. No ballyhoo, bluster, or recriminations. The facts, sir, just the facts. Lawrence Cullen Buxton This whole thing saddens me. I have been going to Hatteras Island since I was 3 years old. Memories of seeing the moon dancing on the water and seeing the lighthouse from the beach at night are instilled in my mind. I have presented the same experiences to my children but, this lawsuit has cut these memories short for my family! I hope these environmental groups are happy. Cheri Hand Norfolk, Va. I have been going to the island for many years, and I have got to know some of the locals. I hope that this issue (beach closings) will be resolved soon and not at the expense of the local community. Brian Landi Mechanicsville, Va. Thanks for your continuing coverage and information on this tragic situation. I continue to pray for all involved now and hope that my children and their children, etc. will have a beautiful beaches and fishing in their future. Herb Craddock Charlottesville, Va. Our family will be back down again next week since we booked back in January. We won't be bringing the four-by-four, however. This looks like it may well be the end of our many years on the OBX. We're reluctant to pay $4 a gallon for gas to drive 1,400 miles roundtrip and not be able to drive on the beaches to fish. We are very sad, and we feel for the tackle shops and all who are associated with the OBX experience. I fear that the summer of 2009 could be very, very bad. Rick Evans Canton, Ohio Eleven Football Fields for this bird to hatch a couple of eggs the size of a quarter? I had a nine-pound baby on a twin size mattress and was quite comfortable. People do not try to make sense of these peoples’ decisionmaking. If you live to be 100 hundred years old, you will not be able to figure it out. They are void of good decisionmaking. But they tell us they are educated. But not knowledgable. They are just able to twist the situation to benefit their policies. After all the NPS's thoughts are if you don't put out trash can, there will be no trash. Go figure. Judy Basnett Buxton With the beach closures to the public access, I can only feel sorry for the property and business owners. Why build a new Bonner Bridge? I imagine people will travel to different locations other than Hatteras in order to fish ,surf, play, relax. The government is messing up things again. I've been going to Cape Hatteras and Ocracoke since I was 9 years old. That’s been almost 40 years. All good things come to an end. David Waller Virginia Beach, Va. You have got to be kidding! We come for vacation every year and go to Cape Point every day. I guess we will be canceling this year between the gas prices and this news! What a shame. Carol Wharton Springfield, Pa. I am sitting here fighting back the tears, as the realization sinks in that we have come to the end. My family has been vacationing in the Outer Banks since I was pregnant with my now 15-year-old daughter. We thought our kids would continue the tradition when they had families of their own. The only reason we go to Cape Hatteras is because of the heart-stoppingly beautiful beaches we could drive on to, set up camp for the day, and just relax. We live at the Jersey shore. We could walk onto a crowded beach any day of the week. We live(d) for our one week a year in Hatteras - driving over the Bonner Bridge gave us goose bumps. Now, I have to call the realtor to cancel my reservation. Guess we'll go to Maine. Diane Eaton Brick, N.J. I learned about the closures yesterday and am very sad. I wonder when will the federal government will step in and place restrictions on God and the weather. From reading this article, it is apparent that nature's high winds and storms can do as much damage to the bird's nests as man can. Hopefully by the time we arrive Aug. 2, we will be allowed to drive out, park, and read. Mary Kay Downes Centreville, Va. I was down over the holiday and did not see the crowds that I expected. Usually trying to pull out from Orange Blossom or Red Drum can take a while, but last weekend just seemed like a good summer weekend. Saturday evening I was fishing the south end off 43 when I hooked a 5 to 6 foot hammerhead. I fought it about 30 to 45 minutes but could not stay in front of the fish because of the beach closures on both sides. I finally beached it 20 yards inside the enclosure between 43 and 44. I had to sit and watch my catch flail around in the sand, tangling itself in my line, without the chance to de-hook it. Eventually it washed back out with hook and 10 feet of shock line. Thanks to Defenders of Wildlife for not getting my photo opportunity with my first big shark Chris Turner Richmond, Va. We have been coming to the Outer Banks since 1977, but it looks like things have changed. My brother usually has already been down there at least four times by July 4. He hasn't come down all this year. We usually plan a two-week trip in September , but now that’s out. I'm not hauling beach chairs across a mile of beach. If I want crowds, I'll go to Myrtle Beach. And I like my fishin’ holes. We also plan a at least four weeks of fishing in the fall with other groups, but they all have worries about whether we can drive on the beach, and not just in certain areas. We have put that on hold and have only planned a November trip and that’s a maybe. I'm all for conservation, but it’s those manmade dunes that are causing the problem and making the beach thin. But unfortunately my tax dollars will keep them up so as the beach owners can keep their houses up front. I feel for you locals, but you had to see it coming. And you can tell them to cancel the Bonner Bridge project. We will not need a new bridge. Call us when you all get it all straightened out. Gone to the North Carolina mountains. Steve Easter Kernersville, N.C. One of the last bastions of freedom from all of the bull everywhere else and this is not even sacred. Politicians, judges -- they are all the same, always catering to everyone except for the people they are supposed to represent. My family has been coming to the Outer Banks for the last 15 years. We have slowly seen the changes, but it never changed the beach experience for us. Ocracoke is one of the most beautiful beaches we have ever been to, and the thought of not being able to spend time there ruins my summer before it even begins. Besides all of this, I just went out and purchased a brand new truck expressly for the purpose of our vacations down there. With gas prices the way they are, I will have to very carefully consider canceling my vacation plans, as well as the $1,000 to $2,000 I spend every year while I am there. This whole situation and the way it is being handled is for the birds (no pun intended).Where is the sanity, I ask? Wally Eaton, Brick, N.J. “No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws. ” Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The Fifth Amendment: forbids punishment without due process of law. It is appalling the way our rights as citizens of the United States are being violated. The closures are taking away our right to use our seashore. Additonally, increased areas have been closed because of unknown violators encroaching in closed off areas of the beaches. This is punishment without due process.The persons who intruded are unknown and the innocent are expected to take on penalties for the guilty? Unconstitutional! The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking expanded protections for wintering populations of piping plovers. Areas of the beach from the lighthouse groin, to Cape Point, and all the way down the South Beach are proposed as critical habitat. . I have been going to the lighthouse beach very close to daily for years for sunrise and sunset, through all seasons and weather, good and bad. I have been a resident of Hatteras Island for more than 20 years now. It’s where I seek religious sanctuary and refuge and has been and is currently my salvation for mental, spiritual, and physical health. I cannot imagine that it would be possible for it to be illegal for me to walk, pray, meditate, fish, swim, surf, sit, stand, or meet with friends on that stretch of beach, but that is what the FWS is seeking. It is distressingly sad that so much of our beaches is being closed for our citizens' access. The beach is our only source of recreation on the island. It’s all we have here. Increasingly, I can see that our rights as citizens are being ignored for the sake of animal rights, which are not guaranteed under the constitutional laws of our country. I am all for conservation, but not in the unbalanced way this situation is being handled on Hatteras and Ocracoke islands. Pea Island was established for the purpose of a wildlife refuge. Cape Hatteras National Recreational Seashore was established as a citizens' refuge, and it should stay as one. Martha McCullough-Moir Buxton Art imitates life: People are enclosed at Midgett Realty Beth Midgett had done an outstanding job concerning beach access and the Bonner Bridge. We are all praying for both concerns and everyone that has put their energy into the beach access project. God Bless each and everyone. Dottie Robinson Frisco What an inventive idea. My family owns property in Avon that I have visited for 30-plus years, and it was a family tradition to drive out to the Point to swim, boogie board, relax, etc. We're appalled by the judge's decision and can't get over the fact that our July 4 vacation won't be the same this year. We'll be sure to stop by and support the enclosed human area. I'm sure this is going to hurt the homeowners/rental properties this year. Maybe someone should tell the judge that he can't use golf courses anymore because ducks live there. What has this country come to? G.L. Madison Gambrills, Md. We weren't able to make it down over the weekend because our home was rented. But if we had, we would have been sitting on a nest! Shell Moore Richmond, Va. Good Show! One criticism only -- the area is too small. You need the 1,000 yard radius to make it look real. If you can see the nest, you are too close. Keep biting their ankles -- that is how the mosquitoes survive. Bert Smith Richmond, Va. Human enclosure? I did not know humans had any more rights on Hatteras Island. But I love the idea. Also like the Big Bird idea. I’m coming the last week in August. But now I will not be surf fishing or enjoying the beach but will be fighting for the rights of my grandchildren. Tony Ingram Sandston, Va. I’m not sure I get it. Are any, say but a few locals, against the beach closures? Is it only a handful of business owners who are afraid of an even smaller handful of tourists that can't get to their favorite fishin' hole that they have been coming to since they were kids? This is my first time to Hatteras, and I enjoy the unspoiled beaches down here (Emerald Isle my whole life prior) and would cringe at the idea of vehicles on the beach. The whole thing is silly. If it's locals that are worried about tourism dollars, they should not worry. Either the old guard will get over it and fish in designated areas or a new bunch of tourists will come because of the wonderful peace and quiet Hatteras beaches offer. I must claim ignorance because I'm not sure where the resistance is coming from -- locals or a bunch of self-serving dopes from places far away. Tom Beaty Cary, N.C. Cape Hatteras beach makes Top Ten list As long as the National Park Service has ruled over Cape Hatteras, we will never be able to compete for the National Healthy Beaches Campaign. NPS was to protect and preserve Cape Hatteras Recreational Area for future generations. Has anyone looked around--especially from the Old Coast Guard Station/Ranger Station out to Ramp 43 and 44. It is heartbreaking to see how the trees have been destroyed. Someone open the drains and let the water out of there. Can't you see what you are doing and creating out there? If the water is backed up and the septic system at the Cape Hatteras Campground is not up to snuff, where do you think all that pollution is going on park property? There are homes north and south of that ditch. Does anyone care about human life or is it all about the guy with the most money and contacts who is heard? Has anyone noticed that the sea gulls are now drawing back from the ocean looking for all the unused bait that the fishermen used to throw to them. They just might find some eggs around the point if they look carefully. I don't know. Maybe it is just the park and biotechs who see speckled eggs. As for me, the only time I have seen anything close to being a plover was on Highway 158 at Eckerd Drug Store in the storm drain. If there is schooling to be given for driving on the beach, let’s start with NPS law enforcement. I have seen them and the Deptartment of Agriculture driving like they were at Charlotte Motor Speed Way. No regard for the animals that they are trying to protect. Well I could go on for ever, but I think my blood pressure is on the increase. Does that a lot these days. Judy Basnett Buxton Recycling in Dare County I am writing with dismay and disappointment regarding the Dare County decision to no longer offer convenient recycling to the residents of Avon. Since I typically save my recyclable materials for two weeks, it was not until this week that I was reminded this service is no longer available. This action on Dare County’s part is so shortsighted that it borders on being absurd! Environmental concerns are in the forefront of most citizens’ conscience in today’s world. While I do not consider myself a fervent environmentalist, I do like to think of myself as a good steward of the earth for future generations. Various municipalities within Dare County are addressing recycling. Local businesses are going green in their efforts to save energy costs. It appears that only Dare County wishes to remain oblivious to the public’s interest in recycling and the environment. Furthermore, I understand from informed sources that Dare County chooses to pay for almost all our trash to go to landfills. I also understand that there are companies willing to pay for recyclable goods while creating few demands on the county. It appears that we, as a county, would prefer to pay, rather than be paid for our recyclable goods. Dare County officials have gone on an unprecedented building spree in the last several years. We now have a number of new governmental centers. The necessity for such extravagant expenditures escapes me, and I have not met one ordinary citizen who felt that there was a compelling need for such governmental growth. Yet, we cannot find public money to spend on recycling? To paraphrase Dare County, their decision was made because of abuse by the business community. The county’s punitive knee-jerk reaction speaks volumes for the merit of their decision-making process. Does the landfill differentiate between commercial and residential recycled goods? Should not any effort to reduce landfill use be applauded? The Avon recycling center was so successful that Dare County made the decision to close it after several short winter months. We are now approaching the high season when our summer population will generate mountains of recyclable goods. I hope that someone within our county government looks into this ridiculous decision and decides to immediately reconsider their actions. Pete Groom Avon |
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