May 2008 Letters to the Editor |
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New Letters to the Editor....05.27.2008
7:30 am
Guest Column: The consent decree and bad public policy
Dr. Berry makes many good and logical points. Where was he when all this began? I agree with him. The rights of humans are taking second place to the rights of birds and turtles. I, too, feel that I am environmentally sensitive and aware of the issues. However, this decree has already started to have negative effects on most aspects of Hatteras Island. Nancy Marsh Plantation, Fla. Excellent article. Dr. Berry should send a copy to every congressman and woman and to every major network and news group. This may be the time to contact Ted Kennedy and plead/beg him to introduce a bill to protect the public’s rights and ensure that this never happens again. It is obvious that the senator has a love for the ocean, because the first thing he did after being released from the hospital was to go sailing. A bill to protect the public’s beach rights could be his legacy, and if introduced, I can't imagine too many voting against it. Therefore, we need someone with good writing skills, tact, and knowledge of the situation to contact him. Unfortunately, that is not me. The only thing I would add to Dr Berry's article is that these are the same groups blocking the building of a new bridge, and if they are not stopped, they will eventually have blood on their hands. The bridge will collapse or someone will drown trying to get to the point. Tim Sacksteder Great Falls, Va. In answer to Dr. Michael A. Berry's excellent column in The Island Free Press, most all of us have contacted our congressman and our two senators from North Carolina with no response to help us with this beach closure. I suggest that if they do not do as Dr. Berry suggests and Congress does not pass legislation that restores full control of the park to the Park Service, that we should elect someone who will help us. Listen, Friends, we are fighting for our lives. Carol White Dillon Buxton For 50 years, I have been coming to the Outer Banks a couple of weeks a year for surf fishing. I always looked forward to the trips. Now it looks as if they are a thing of the past. So sad. I hope I can live long enough to drum fish on the south end of Ocracoke just one more night. T.L. Kilbourne Wilmington, Del. Well written! I've been trying to explain why we couldn't go to South Beach. South Beach area is a wonderful and safe family area for children to play without the threat of strong currents. The only people in the enclosures are the ones that caused them, so I say leave all God’s creatures alone. If we can't go, neither shall you. So much anger, pain, and despair for what? There will be more swimming accidents because people will be forced to more dangerous waters and not be prepared for the currents and rip tides. How shall we live with the cost of human life for a possible chance of six or fewer birds and maybe six turtles not eaten by marine life or gulls? Heaven help us. In this world human life should be as cherished. Regina Groves Buxton Dr. Berry seems to be one of the few people who look at the issue with an open mind. He is very informed as his background proves. This country needs a turn around fast because a few want to control it all. What transpired at the OBX is form of dictatorship. Hard to believe it can happen in a democracy. Paul Rudar Midland, Pa. I could not stop reading Mike Berry’s column on beach closing and found it very informative. I do have one question. Did the Park Service do anything to prevent the closing by furnishing any information in favor of keeping beaches open? I can remember the N.C. National Guard help haul sand for the dunes, and this how our state is paid back. I now understand why the National Rifle Association will not give an inch on banning any guns. I don't think we need fully automatic weapons, but you can see what happens when you give in just a little. CW5 Wayne A. Church North Carolina National Guard Pfafftown, N.C. Dr. Berry's column eloquently captures what many of us less gifted, but no less passionate, people feel about the current situation at Cape Hatteras National Recreation Seashore. Thank you for taking the time to give us the benefit of your experience and wisdom, and thank you to the Island Free Press for having the courage and good sense to publish it. Martin Calvert Newport News, Va. I would like to thank Dr. Berry for this very informative column and its suggestions of how to address being denied a role and the public's constitutional right to have a say in the management of its park environment. I agree that the settlement was only a "win" for the environmental activist organizations wanting to block the public from the beaches in the public's park and grants special rights to species and overlooks the fact that the Constitution grants rights to persons (the citizens and taxpayers of America) for the betterment of birds and turtles. I was saddened to hear of the adverse economic impact the April 30 consent decree is already having on the residents, communities, and businesses of the Outer Banks. My family (men and women and children), like many other families, has enjoyed vacationing each year. We’ve been surf fishing in the fall for 12 years, and before the women were included, the men made an annual trip and have been going for a total of more than 30 years. We feel the Park Service has done a wonderful job of managing the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. We have seen signs restricting areas on the beach and have never seen anyone going into these areas. We also treasure the environment of the OBX and I truly regret that there has now been vandalism to signs, forcing the Park Service to enlarge the restricted area. I plan to write to my congressman, asking for political support and legislation like Dr. Berry mentioned that related to Yellowstone National Park, so public participation will be required in all management for the park (including pedestrian and ORV use) and so the public won't be denied access to their park and to the access management decisions, and to ask for a review panel of senior government scientists to be asked to do specific tasks. I would like to thank The Island Free Press and Dr. Berry for this column. Jeanne York Salisbury, N.C. First I am for the environment. It’s something to think about. But all of nature becomes extinct at some point in time. If not we would be dodging dinosaurs. It bothers me that the environmentalists are not there when woodlands and wetlands are taken to build homes and shopping centers. The wildlife is forced to go into areas that they are not used to. Then they are destroyed because they are there. This is not right. Because of this, my children and theirs will not be able to enjoy this or any other park in the USA. We might as will put up cameras so that we might watch the wildlife on TV. Tommy Walls Raleigh, N.C. An excellent, well thought out and factual article. One of the best I have seen to date on this issue and the suggestions made by Dr. Berry should be taken to heart in your next round of letters to elected officials. Thank you, Dr. Berry, for your efforts. Doug Crumpton Burlington, N.C. What a great column. Thank you, sir. Bill Gawler Frederick, Md. Thank you, Dr. Berry, for this insightful and informative article. What has happened on the Outer Banks recently is just one more example of an activist judge misusing his power and removing all rights from the people affected by his decision. He is not following democracy. The people of North Carolina will not sit still, be silent, and allow this travesty to continue. The very sad thing is that while it is being sorted out, an economy is ruined, people lose their businesses, their homes, and their lives are ruined --to say nothing about the tremendous loss of tax revenue that is needed to support that beautiful part of North Carolina. Yes, I will call my congressman, because this cannot continue. Faye H Ruth Wilson, N.C. Wonderful article! It's time to stop the environmental extremists and activist judges from stripping citizens from their constitutionally guaranteed freedoms. I, for one, plan to heed Dr. Berry's call to reverse this horrible consent decree. Barron Housel Chapel Hill, N.C. Finally, a scientist with common sense and rational approach to solving the issue of beach access. This gentleman's voice needs to be heard by the politicians who have the power to intervene and give the people our beach back, while still looking out for the interest of wildlife in a reasonable way. David Allen Onancock, Va. Even from far away, Dr. Mike is being heard! I hope he can maintain his passion. His cause is noble. Peter Theis Greendale, Wis. Thank you for your well-written comments and insights, Dr. Berry. However, I just feel that we as voters and taxpayers have been abandoned by our elected officials on this issue. How long do Hatteras and Ocracoke have to twist in the wind before federal lawmakers challenge the Department of Interior and the National Park Service? Not only about beach access, but also the long-overdue replacement of the Bonner Bridge? I feel like writing any more letters is time spent on something I can't control if the elected officials do not respond. For the past 20 years, I've always eagerly awaited the two weeks I spend on the island, but this year, I just feel depressed and weary about the whole thing. I hate to say it, but I feel like I'm only going at this point because I can't get my rental cost back. I do not want to take my wife, son, and parents out on jammed-packed beaches under armed guard surveillance. I've always thought of myself as a sportsman and steward of the environment. But, I can honestly say that I no longer care about the environment if those who profess so strongly to protect and defend the environment do so by undermining democratic processes, twisting facts, backroom deals, and stealing the rights of all citizens. Derek Scott West Chest, Pa. This is a well written article by Dr. Berry. I truly believe this whole "process" we (Average American Taxpayer) have just experienced warrants a Congressional investigation and hearing. Would love to see a young investigative reporter research of how and why we're at the stage we are now – to completely document the big picture starting with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, the work of the CCC in the 1930s to build the dunes, that enabled the barrier islands to be "stabilized" in order to create the first national seashore. It started in 1937 and wasn't finalized until 1953 with World War II in the middle. During this period Conrad Wirth of the National Park Service stated in writing there would be free and open beaches. Then let’s go to the state-federal funding partnership that built the Bonner Bridge and paved roads on Hatteras and Ocracoke islands. Then the Endangered Species Act was created in 1969-1972. You also have Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, which was created inside the boundaries of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Recreational Area. Both areunder the Department of Interior. An Executive Order was issued in 1972 (election year) and again in 1976( election year) pertaining to ORV- Endangered Species Act implementation. Then in 1978, a plan was supposedly created by the local Park Service officials and sent to Washington, D.C., where it was never finalized. I have many questions about this process. Are the acts realistic in the present forms due to age and the fact that this is National Recreational Area and that the mission statements of the Park Service and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service are different? Why did the NPS biological opinion have to be approved by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? Why wasn’t the seashore grandfathered from the Endangered Species Act? Why wasn't this thought of or discussed? Judge Boyle was appointed in 1992 by President George Bush. He was never appointed to the Court Of Appeals. The present Bush administration has been in office for over seven years. Why do the average American taxpayers have to pay for the legal fees for the plaintiffs? Shouldn't Judge Boyle look out for the taxpayer also? Why hasn't his superior stepped forward to correct this wrong. Who does he answer to? This whole process could be an interesting case study of the Federal Judicial System, and if we don't question it now, it will continue to happen. This is an election year. You would think our elected officials would want to step up and investigate this whole situation. Someone please represent the average American taxpayer. Mike Martin Avon Great article. I would love for that article to be reprinted in its entirety in the Op-Ed section of Yhe New York Times and Washington Post. Maybe if the public knew how biased Judge Boyle and the Defenders of Wildlife and the National Audubon Society were, enough pressure would be put on Congress to act and step in. Jim McGettigan Lansdale, Pa. Things need to change or there will be no human access soon. Ralph Morgan Charlotte, N.C. It seems to me that these plaintiffs committed perjury and conspired to do so during the court proceedings over the OBX beach closing. Moreover, if the violator(s) of the closures was of the plaintiffs’ agents, they sure have a made self-fulfilling prophecy come true. What’s to stop them? It is what they wanted, what they predicted. Why wouldn’t they do it? They are the kind of sneaks that will do anything to win. This is obvious from their actions and statements prior to and during the meetings and consent negotiations. They most likely did it themselves, they sure had motive! There sure is reasonable suspicion for the belief the plaintiffs did it. Can it be we the people are being punished because the plaintiffs did the transgression themselves? Just take our constitutional rights without due process? In addition, a complaint under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) needs to be filed against the Park Service and all the participants in the consent arrangement! There are no considerations for disabled persons’ access along the whole beach. . Douglas Smith Engelhard, N.C. The guest column was well written. The fact remains that I, from Pennsylvania, will not risk a trip to Buxton to fish when at a moment’s notice the beach access will be closed. My vacation time, not to mention the cost of travel and hotel bills, is too valuable to risk. After 30 years of traveling to North Carolina from near Pittsburgh, my fishing group and I bid goodbye to Buxton. Charles Chappell Gibsonia, Pa. More about beach access issues I have been quietly following this for many months now. It seems to many of us that the National Park Service is finally doing what it should have done years ago in following federal laws. If the island businesses have fewer tourists this year, it will likely be from these high gas prices and poor economy than this issue. 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! My guess is because I disagree with the majority of what you are printing about the ORV issue, you will not post my e-mail to you. It seems a number of people on the "other side" of this issue never get their voices heard because the bullies are too busy drowning them out. The real enemy in all of this is the NPS for not following federal laws for more than 25 years. The enemy is not Defenders of Wildlife, Audubon, or any one individual. It is a real shame to see such misinformation being put out from the ORV groups, and the islanders know no better. A federal law is a federal law. The seashore is a "national" seashore and is federal property, and as Judge Boyle said, "This is not a Dare county pond." 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. Robert Jackson Asheville, N.C. The beach driving restrictions and closures do not surprise me. I have heard rumblings about the possible closures and restrictions for many years. I have been a homeowner for 18 years and knew beach driving restrictions would happen eventually. I respect the decision made by environmentalists and the National Park Service, but there are a few issues I would like to mention. To begin with, although I applaud the saving of the turtles, birds, and other wildlife, I have a difficult time with the closure of beach traffic for the surf fishermen. Surf fishermen are nature lovers, too. It is hard for me to believe there can not be a system put in place that would allow surf fisherman to continue to fish the Ocracoke waters from the beach. There must be a way. What about a permit system during the summer months during the height of the tourist season? There are so many avid surf fishermen, who for generations have handed down the art of surf fishing to their children and grandchildren. And where is CAMA with all this? How can it be that the Audubon Society, the National Park Service, and other interested parties can restrict and/or close portions of the Ocracoke beach to any kind of traffic, yet are unable to stop a bridge from being built over an established creek and through one of the many precious wetlands in the village of Ocracoke? Numerous turtles, birds, and other wildlife are currently being threatened in the same manner as they are on the beach. It baffles me to know that at this time there is not one person who can stop one individual from building a bridge across precious wetlands, yet they have the power to restrict beach driving and close other beaches to everybody. Where is the justice in this -- justice for the birds, turtles, and other wildlife that not only frequent the beach but also live in the marshes surrounding Ocracoke village? I do not understand this. If we are to close and/or restrict beach driving for the benefit of wildlife, why is it not possible to restrict or rather prohibit the building of a bridge across coveted wetlands. I beg those in power to not only consider the well being of our wildlife on our beaches, but to also develop policy that would restrict or prohibit future building of any kind on, over, or through the many marshes of Ocracoke Island. Edward Calvitti Harleysville, Pa. I lived on Ocracoke for five years and enjoyed driving and fishing on the beach when ever I wanted to. Despite my enjoyment, I always worried about the wildlife and whether the impact of my presence would disrupt their behavior. I am so very happy about the beach access limitations and restrictions. I will most likely apply for a beach driving permit when I return this September, and I welcome the education that will be required. Yes, I want to know what to look for when driving on the beach. I welcome any information you all will provide so that I can do my part to protect the wildlife on Ocracoke. Thank you so much to all who have “stepped up to the plate” to protect our fragile wildlife. Because my husband has two boats, I am sure we will be in the water more than on the beach, but this is okay with us. Again, I commend everyone who has had a hand with protecting our wildlife. Perhaps when I return I will have the good fortune of being able to volunteer my time to assist those who will continue to monitor the behavior patterns of birds, turtles, and humans. Thank you again for all you did and will continue to do. Cynthia Carver-Calvitti Harleysville, Pa. What have we done? We spent a lovely morning on some of our Avon beaches. Saw a lot of birds-oystercatchers, gulls, sandpipers, willets, whimbrels, terns, various plovers -- none in the bird closures. Bought an ice cream and went out to the Buxton beaches. Turned around on the cul-de sac of Ramp 43 and sat for awhile at Ramp 44, watching a few fishermen and families enjoying the beach. As we were leaving, I noticed a couple with a large leashed dog casually walking along the surf line – in a full bird closure. We waited until they left the closure and spoke to them about the ban on walking on one of the Top 10 Beaches in America. They were surprised, thought the ban was for ORVs. They spoke with an accent, had picked up several large whelk shells, and told us they had walked from the old lighthouse area through several full closures. Why no one at Ramp 43 said anything I cannot guess. We showed them the sign, told them how they could get back to their vehicle, and saw them leave the area. This innocent encounter haunts me. They are our guests -- to our country and our national park. And how did I treat them? With friendliness? No. I basically said “Get out of here.” I live in Cape Hatteras National Seashore Recreational Area and rather than welcome visitors, I am forced to discipline them. The beach is littered with signs and most of them say “Get Out. You are not wanted here.” This is my home, and today I am embarrassed by my government and my park management. We must change this. This is so wrong on so many levels. Dolores and Neil Swartz Avon For over 28 years, my wife and our family have enjoyed the beauty and delicate lifestyle of the entire area south of Nags Head on Highway 12. We saw a lot during our time -- the decision to put a go-cart track in Frisco and the relocation of the lighthouse, neither of which were popular on all fronts, and much more. However, the show went on. Consent decree or no consent decree, we decided that this summer will be no different for us than any of the previous. We will make our annual trek from the hills of West Virginia to Buxton and will continue to support the local economy there. If we want to fish, crab, clam, hunt seashells, etc. we will do so respecting the order. Unless the beachfront from the old lighthouse location to Avon is restricted to birds and turtles before we arrive, we will be there July 19. We will drive to Williamsburg and lay over for the night. We will have breakfast at the Candlestick Restaurant and drive to Buxton. Once at Buxton, we will have lunch at The Fish House, get groceries at Conner’s, then take a well-deserved, mandatory nap in a rental house. We will then have dinner every evening at restaurants from Avon to Ocracoke. Our trek is a family tradition unaffected by recent developments. Regardless of what the Audubon Society, the NPS, etc. agreed to, we will continue our family vacation to the place my wife and I mutually agreed upon nearly three decades ago, as being the best place on earth for a vacation. Our show will go on. Ron Cross Ravenswood, W.Va. My son and I have driven down from Massachusetts and have stayed in Ocracoke three out of the last four years. The point accessible at Ramp 72 is a remarkable beach that we absolutely loved, Now that it is restricted to ORVs, per the NPS Google Earth map, what is the point of going? There are places closer to Boston where I can go and have a similar experience. But in no way does it match Ocracoke. First the outrageous gas prices and now beach closure. We would have easily planned to go back even with the gas prices the way they are, but with the beach closure, there is no point to drive down. There will be no visit to beautiful Ocracoke and it makes me sad. Jonathan Magsino Boston, Mass. How unfair is this automatic expansion of the closed areas? What is to prevent the tree huggers who are promoting the closures from going out and vandalizing the boundaries? This only helps their side by expanding the boundaries when, in fact, they want the whole area closed anyway. The Park Service should be investigating the groups that support the closures. It is more to their advantage to create vandalism than it is for the side in favor of access. Dave Morris Charleston, W. Va. It’s very disappointing to experience the closures that have no advance notice. This makes it impossible to plan your day. Nothing like packing up the coolers, kids, pets and truck just to learn that the beach is closed when you arrive at the ramp or to be forced off the beach after you have unpacked everything and set up for the day. Please donate generously to the jars that have been set up at all the businesses. I have seen too many pennies and dollars in these jars. It is expensive to hire lawyers to fight these groups that are closing the Outer Banks beaches to the public. Do not let one more of your rights be taken away without a fight. Cheryl Allman Bluemont, Va. Well, I am glad to see that North Carolina no longer needs tourist money. By shutting down the beaches, you have officially decided you no longer need our vacation money, which is usually in excess of $5,000 to $6,000 in one week, spent on housing, shopping, fishing, and dining. Are these stupid birds that valuable to North Carolina? It’s a sad day when a few screw up everything for the many. Al Belfield Tappahannock, Va. We own a house in Avon and have been coming to vacation in Avon since 1990. Now that I have kids of my own (3 and 5), we come every June with my grandparents, parents, aunts, cousins, and friends. We love that we can drive out on the beach, and the guys can fish, the kids can play, and the women can relax. I think this whole thing is stupid. And who is to say that the damage done to the beach closurers earlier this month weren't the work of the ones that want the beaches totally closed? My family has already said they are coming this year because we already have it planned, but they will think long and hard about coming next year if things haven't changed. It’s very sad because I was looking forward to making memories with my kids, just as I have grown up with the memories of the Outer Banks. Heather Meredith Preston, Md. Since surf fishermen have to have a license, why don't birdwatchers have to have a birdwatching license? The state is taxing the fishermen. Why not birdwatchers? They are the ones who are having the beaches closed to fishermen. Tom Jones Galax, Va. My heart goes out to the locals who live on these islands. I have enjoyed Hatteras Island for more than 23 years. Surf fishing is something I was raised with and have raised my kids on. This truly might be our last year to Hatteras. Michelle Graham Beaver Falls, Pa. Comments: It is incredibly tragic and sad for this community that the beaches are no longer accessible for the flocks of people who come to enjoy them to relax, fish, kite, windsurf, kayak, shell, etc. I am certain many will not return. Let us all hope that Congress overturns this outrageous decree. It is truly for the birds! Howard Ruderfer (Dr. Rudy) Buxton I find it sad that a well-funded special interest group with no ties/connections to the Cape Hatteras National Seashore has seen fit to basically close it to those who live there and make their living from it, not to mention those who come from out of state to enjoy it as well. We bought property in Frisco three years ago with the plan to build a vacation house on it. If I can't get to the beach, what's the point? Do I now sell the property at a loss and walk away or do I wait until this is resolved? We are watching this very closely, and how much of the beach is open in August will dictate whether or not we vacation there this year. Anthony Hess Kintnersville, Pa. Dispatches from the beachfront is another informative post. Thanks for keeping those of us whose heart is there stay informed. I hope the holiday weekend is not too tough on everybody. Steve Spence Blackstone, Va. Dispatches from the beachfront is a good article, but it should have highlighted how the environmentalists circumvented due process in winning this ruling. What happened to the democratic process? Guess it is only valid when special interest groups say it is. Jim Kurz Chapel Hill, N.C. I have been coming to the Point for years and have followed the issue of beach closures over the Internet since the decree order was signed. I have yet to see any conclusive evidence that supports the environmentalists’ cause that shows the closures of the entire beach area verses roping off nesting areas as the NPS has done in the past will improve the population of the birds they are trying to protect. Is there any? Sounds like "guilty until proven innocent" to me. Tony Hudson Tappahannock, Va. Who's to say that it was a local doing all of this vandalism? Did anyone stop to think that it could have been done by one (or many) of the people that are trying to shut us down in the first place? Yes, I'm sure we all would like to tear it all down and burn it, but we've been educated about the consequences. If we know it makes things worse to tear it down, why would we do it? It may have been kids just acting out, but I think with the importance of the situation, most kids would be as passionate about this cause as the adults. So, if you really think about it, it leaves the beaches wide open, only to be closed by those who want it closed anyway. Most people, maybe even you, support some kind of cause. It might be global warming, animal testing, organic food, whatever. And then you have members of the Audubon Society, Environmental Defense, Defenders of Wildlife, and pretty much anything you can think of. These people live everywhere. They live next door, above you, below you, and all around you. You know how the saying goes, "You never know what goes on behind closed doors." Now it should be, "You never know what goes on when you close your door." Makes you wonder. Missy Quidley Buxton A bit of clarity on my position -- I disagree with the ruling and feel that this is just the initial step in obliterating the opportunity for one to enjoy what I feel is a well-deserved right. I think while Judge Boyle is working to solve all problems associated with ORV management on Hatteras Island, he should contact Mother Nature and pass legislation to get rid of the northeasters that cause the true demise of both sea turtles and plovers. This obstacle has been proven scientifically. I would welcome any e-mail response (vaughan202@aol.com) and the opportunity to respond to the lawmakers who pass rulings because of fear of those who scream they are environmentalists, yet also drive to beach access areas on a routine basis. I truly feel that most every sportsman is a conservationist who holds the welfare of the native wildlife species in high regard. Maybe decisions should be based as much on economics and revenue to an area that lives by the dollar of those visiting than on a bird or turtle that will never learn how and where to build nests in areas that are protected from the only elements we are unable to control. Wayne Vaughan Wendell, N.C. Man is not a threat to the survival of a few birds that are not endangered, but the Southern Environmental Law Center, National Audubon Society, and Defenders of Wildlife are a very real threat to the survival of the thousands of people on the OBX who make their living solely off of the tourism dollar. Scott Tyson Charlotte, N.C. It’s so terribly sad to see these closures. Our favorite thing to do when we visit Hatteras yearly, sometimes more often, is to drive out to the Point and fish. We have always had the greatest respect for the wildlife and took every precaution to steer clear of nesting birds. They are not that hard to spot and it was one of the first things we were taught when we started visiting the island many years ago. Looks as though the environmentalists will have to petition Mother Nature to keep her waves away from the nests. Wonder who the judge will be on that one? The birds have made their own way on the island for many years without the interference of the environmental groups and will continue to do so, in spite of beachgoers, fishermen, hurricanes, ORVs, high waves, etc. I have never, in over 22 years, met one disrespectful individual on the beaches of Hatteras Island. It seems as though that has all changed as the environmentalists have been exhibiting disrespectful behavior all over this beautiful beach. People are Gods' creatures too. Sheila Smith Parkersburg, W.Va. We have been coming to Buxton for almost 30 years. With the fishing off the Point stopped, we will never come back. C.A. Chappell Gibsonia, Pa. Please re-open the beach. My wife and I come down every year, sometimes for three to four visits a year, and we always enjoy driving out on the beach and spending the day away from the hotels, enjoying the beach and others. When we decided to buy a four-wheel-drive vehicle, Nags Head came into the discussion several times, since we could drive out on the beach with a four-wheel-drive vehicle. We are headed down tomorrow for Memorial Day weekend, and I just found out that the beach was closed. I cannot express how much we enjoy driving on the beach and how much it will be missed on this trip. House or hotel location never mattered to us because we spend the whole day out on the beach. Please don't take that away from out vacation. Sam Ikenberry Richmond, Va. We have been coming to Avon for 20 years, along with brother, sisters, children, and grandchildren. We rented a home twice a year, bought daily supplies, ate out, purchased lots of fishing tackle, and gifts. We enjoyed our daily trip to Cape Point for the day to enjoy swimming, fishing, walking, and the beautiful scenery. It would be interesting to add up all the thousands of dollars our family has spent in those 20 years on Hatteras and Ocracoke. Without being able to drive to Cape Point for our beach day, our trips to Hatteras and money spent there have ended. Tom Schmutz Concord, Va. Our hearts are saddened that our beaches are being "taken" away from us here on Hatteras Island, and certainly tempers are flaring as the situation broadens. We have lived here many years, run a business here many years, loved the beach and birds, fishing and the camaraderie that the beach provides. Yesterday, it saddened me to listen to a local business person having to explain after being asked what “save the beach" meant. A the visitors turned to leave, they remarked, "We'll never come here again!" We have lived here, co-existing with the wildlife and loving it since "way back when," and the birds are still here. We have a wildlife refuge (Pea Island) that has been groomed to attract the birds as a safe haven. We were appalled several years ago to learn, after the fact, that geese (after being lured there for years) had been trapped and gassed by authorities, instead of relocating them to other refuges or having a short hunting season. No wildlife organization made comment, nor did PETA. Where will it all end? Cathy Moir Buxton I have been coming to the Outer Banks for more than 25 years. It’s a beautiful place with good fishing and beautiful views, and some of the best folks on this earth either live there or vacation there. Once there, even the hardest of people seem transformed by the beauty of it, and it awakens within them an appreciation of nature. In my younger days, it would not matter if I had to lug coolers, rods, etc. over hundreds of yards just to access the beach to fish, because that was what I had to do, as a four-wheel drive was out of my budget then. But now as I am older, knee reconstructions have limited my inclination to traverse dunes and a mile or so of beach to get a good fishing spot, so now I was hoping to get a four-wheel-drive vehicle get to the fishing as I did when younger. But it looks like that is now in jeopardy. Yes, I can see both sides to the issues, and both have the right to express comments and concerns. I am hoping to see a fair and just solution to the issues of beach closures that can sustain the wildlife and keep the recreational fishermen and women still able to access the beach in a prudent manner. Steve Leith South Boston, Va. It is very sad to read about all of the families that are not going to vacation in Hatteras because of the beach access limitations. The sound access, boating, and fishing are all still there, as well as the beaches. We have always enjoyed all of these things and are not going to let this beach access ruin our vacation this year. We will continue to support the local business people on the island and show our appreciation to all who are working so hard to keep the island running. Hatteras Island is, and always will be, a very special and beautiful place to us. Jan McCrystal Frisco and Point Pleasant, N.J. The groundswell of letters here and elsewhere deploring the beach closures --zillions of them -- reflect the widespread outrage at this legal betrayal. However, unless they are also directed to those who can correct the situation, they constitute little more than "preaching to the choir." I hope all these letters are being forwarded to local, state, and federal legislators, demanding more than a mere statement of helpless sympathy. Fred Westervelt Ocracoke How can it be all of a sudden the birds and turtles are at risk after all these years? I try to come every year with my family, rent a house, surf fish, go offshore fishing, and spend at least a week, as do a lot of people. We love it down there. It just seems to me there should be another answer rather than closing everything, I sure will miss it. Thomas White Amherst, Va. Why does the National Park Service get the right to tell the people that they can't use government property. The government is the people, not just a handful. I believe this system should have someone with a backbone to go to Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., to be heard concerning this matter, and we have qualified people that can do this. We need everyone in the United States who vacations and/or visits here to stand behind the people who are doing everything that they can to change what has been put in force. May God bless each and everyone of them. Dottie Robinson Frisco After reading about some of the behavior of the special interest groups you folks are up against, I wouldn't be surprised if one of their own is the vandal. That's one way of accomplishing their goal. We'll be visiting Hatteras Island next week, and I don't know what to expect. Tell me how someone from Pennsylvania can be of assistance. Dennis McIlhinney Warrington, Pa. Where is the outage that hundreds of animals, geese, raccoons, opossums, etc. are being trapped and slaughtered so that the birds have no natural predators on the beach? Why is the so-called Defenders of Wildlife not concerned about this? We just got back from a week at Salvo and it was so incredibly sad. The Outer Banks and its residents are resilient and have survived natural disasters. I'm not sure we can survive the man-made disaster we're now facing. Polly Moffatt Charleston, W.Va. My wife and I have been coming here in May for several years to fish and relax on the beach. It is evident that the Park Service is partly behind the beach closing. I don't live there, but it is plain to see that the birds are not the only matter driving the beach closures. I have always supported the business owned by locals, but if we can't drive on the beach, we will find another place for spring vacation. I will do my part in writing our politicians and supporting organizations trying to help open the beaches, but what really gets me is using my tax dollars to enforce the closure. I wouldn't even wave or smile at a Park Service employee this week and didn't understand how mean spirited these people are until now. Wayne Church Pfafftown, N.C. We have been faithful visitors to the Outer Banks for the past 15 years, ever since we honeymooned there. The draw to this area has always been its beauty, its nature, and that we were able to drive onto the beach to calmer waters where our children could swim and play all day because you could pack up an entire day’s worth of food and drink, chairs, toys, etc. It is sad to see in this country the continued interference of our government in placing restrictions on our freedoms. Yes, the wildlife should be protected, absolutely. But shouldn't our freedoms be protected too? Punish those who do not respect the wildlife but do not punish and take away the freedom to have access to the beach to those who have always and continue to respect its nature. Once again, the government is condemning the majority for the mistakes of the minority. We will be visiting this summer, for we have already made the plans, but we may consider staying closer to home next year where we can walk onto the Eastern Shore beaches with a much shorter trip. We will miss Hatteras should that come to pass. Monica Zittle Baltimore, Md. It is my opinon that a lot of people at Cape Hatteras will be losing a lot of money during the fishing season. This country is having a very hard time with people having jobs. Now you are going to put more people out of work over a bird? Closing the beaches to fishermen and costing the people at Cape Hatteras their livelihood is the dumbest thing I have ever seen. If I were in charge at Cape Hatteras, a birdwatcher would have to have a permit to watch the bird. I suggest $500 to help with the money that people are going to lose over this dumb bird. Maybe some day a judge will wise up and put people before a bird I sure hope so. Mike Livengood Clemmons, N.C. I can’t believe this. If the "critters" can’t get by on Portsmouth Island where there are no ORVs and no foot traffic to speak of, how the heck are they going to make it anywhere else? My heart goes out to the people who live there year round who depend on the seasonal vacationers and spring and fall fishing visitors to make a living for their families. Does the Audubon Society have plans for these them as well? I personally know a few people who will be canceling their plans for the summer and fall because of these new "rules," and if I could cancel without losing my 50 percent deposit, I would do so as well. The appeal and charm of the area has a lot to do with the fact that you are able to come and go as you like in a spot that is not only historic but quite beautiful with many forms of wildlife to be found and seen on every trip. The fact that these groups are taking advantage of the National Park Service because they didn’t "make any rules" is ridiculous, and I think the Judge may not have considered the long-term effects on the local economy. Don’t they count as well? So many people come to the area for the unspoiled beaches, views, fishing etc. I myself have been coming to the area for the last 14 summers for two to three weeks a year with my family and many friends as well. My husband and I had planned to one day retire down there because of the beach access, but not anymore. Please let me know how I may help! Jean Gransky Piscataway, N.J. This is just more proof that people have lost the ability to think logically. There are certain elements who would like for all people (except for their tree-hugging selves) to disappear from this earth. Yes, we must not abuse our earth and we must take reasonable measures to ensure the continuance of wildlife, but at what price? The loss of our freedoms as human beings to go where we wish to enjoy the earth God gave us? Diane Westermann Pittsburgh, Pa. We have been coming to the Outer Banks for 40 years. This is a sad ending for us. Patricia Metzger Lancaster, Ohio Welcome to the CSA – the Communists States of America. Thank goodness we have appointed officials who are in charge of interpreting the provisions that Congress set forth back in the ‘30s for the people’s wildlife refuge, formerly known as the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Recreational Area. If it wasn't for the all-knowing wisdom of these few, the mass public would be enjoying themselves on the beaches and shops on the island. All hail the ruling party! Bill Stavenger Chesapeake, Va. Today is Memorial Day, a day of remembrance and honor for those brave men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice to uphold our basic rights and freedoms as Americans, living in the "Land of the Free." And ironically enough, today at approximately 2 p.m., south of Ramp 30 on Hatteras Island's national seashore, yet another beach closure also took place, for a mere lone pair of "potential nesting" seabirds, who have yet to even drop a single egg in a nest that may or may not ever exist. With our American flag flying from behind our four-wheel-drive, this local family of three -- father, mother and 5-year old son with fishing rod still clutched in hand -- was asked to immediately vacate the beach by Park Service personnel who came in droves with stakes and signs in tow. So much for land of the free. So much for basic American rights on our country’s soil. On the very day of observance of such basic, undeniable rights as citizens of this United States of America, we were denied our access, denied freedom, denied the right to be on our own very beloved land. We have always followed the rules. We leash our dog, we clean up our trash, we only fish that which we will consume, we passionately respect all living creatures, and yet, we are outright denied the very basic rights those before us gave their very lives to uphold-- an open and accessible land of the free. When on earth is this madness going to cease? Lisa Sharp Manteo Recreational license sales are down I don't see the need to buy a fishing license that can't be used. The OBX is about fishing, but since they have ruined that, I guess I can stay home and save the gas. Way to go Judge Boyle. A big thumbs down for this whole mess. Tracy Spencer Newton, N.C. Island Cooking: Waiting for softshell crabs Fabulous! Lynne Foster has a wonderful way of making the recipes come alive. The descriptive writing makes me feel like I'm right there with her. Great job, beautiful writing, and delicious choices. Eileen Merlin West Palm Beach, Fla. Big waves, big problems at Mirlo Beach Regarding the parking "situation" at Mirlo Beach, I understand the situation that the homeowner mentioned in the article found herself under -- disraught -- and I empathize with the feeling that one can not do anything about it. However, I find it very presumptuous to believe, without proof, that it is the surfers who are defecating in showers, throwing rocks in the pool, and leaving footprints in yards. Whoever is defecating in showers needs to wise up or get out. That is totally unacceptable. But I don't see how it can be pinned on just surfers. As for the footprints, it is highly probable that footprints could have been left by the hardworking and praiseworthy DOT workers who are frequently working on this stretch of road to clear away sand. They could have been left by anyone for that matter, going to the beach for any purpose. The homes in that strip are more often than not inundated with tide and sand, and could it also not be these elements of nature that bring the rocks, sand, and debris into yards? (Take a look at archived Free Press articles with photos of these houses underwater and sand.) I do not hold the surfers blameless. I think too often that all of us disregard or disrespect the property of others, including our national park land. I think that given the situation surfers and beachgoers alike could have more consideration for those around them. Taking the liberty to use someone else's home or property is unacceptable. And it is a rare few that would do this. Take heed, guys, you are giving everyone a bad name. However, as pointed out by the owner of Rodanthe Surf Shop, there are no parking areas within miles of the surf at S-curves. I have lived on the island for seven years, and my husband his entire life. The S-curves has always been a surfing Mecca. Yes, it can get out of control the few times a year that the surf is good, but what one needs to take into consideration is the nature of the islands. People are always parking along side the road, be it bird watchers, surf seekers, beachgoers, or sightseers. It is the nature of the islands. Just as cars were lined on both sides of the road at Canadian Hole this month when the wind was right, there were cars at S-curves. It is the same when the birds are migrating and stretches of the roads bordering the sound are packed with birdwatchers on the side of the road. Also, the article emphasizes that surfers change with "makeshift" changing closets using their beach towels. So what's the big deal? Can you not find something better to write about? At least they are covered -- completely from waist to ankles, much more so than many beachgoers flaunting bathing suits that can certainly be considered "indecent." And lastly, I doubt you will find surfers urinating on the sand dunes. Have you not heard? "They love to pee in their wet suits." In the end, my hope would be that we can all find a way to live together on the islands -- surfers, kitesurfers, fishermen, beach lovers, birdwatchers, homeowners, tourists, and locals. Sometimes we forget that "This land is your land and it's mine." So, surfers, if you are disrespecting homeowners’ property, grow up and get a clue. Homeowners, know that if you build your house on the beach right in front of one of the best surfing spots in the Eastern U.S., the surfers will come. Kate Pullen Buxton Recycling on the islands Hoorah for Todd Phillips and his recycling program on Hatteras. From the moment I heard about his efforts, I was on board to cheer him on. Midgett Realty can be proud to have gotten behind this program by requesting its homeowners the option of "opt-out." That was strategic thinking at its best! Come on all of you other rental management companies. Don't give a "opt-in" to become successful. Follow the clear leader in the pack, Midgett Realty, by using the "opt-out" approach for a marked increase in participation. Thank you for being responsible stewards of our beloved island. Billi Haug Walnut Creek, Calif. New Letters to the Editor....05.20.2008 7:45 am Beach Access Issues I am saddened to witness this happening. My wife first discovered Hatteras 30 years ago and has been a strong advocate of its beauty and beach access. I am a biologist and firmly in favor of living in harmony with other living creatures. This is not harmony. To deny one in favor of the other is simply not natural justice. It will be an uphill battle as the deck is stacked, so to say. I am disappointed in my environmentalist friends, and frightened by the impact it will have on the economy of the area, as well as the recreational benefits to the many loyal citizens who love to fish and really never caused any harm to the environment. William R. Boone Inman, S.C. I have to ask myself why anyone would vandalize the closure signs. Would a fisherman or local do that? The answer is that they would not. We the fishermen and women know what we have to lose -- or should I say what we have lost. We don't want to lose anymore beach. Hopefully, the children who will suffer from the lost tax revenue will understand that saving a few birds is far more important than their health and well being. With all the beach closures there really is no place to fish. I guess I'll just spend the $8,000-$10,000 dollars I usually spend on vacationing on the Outer Banks somewhere else. James McConnell Richmond, Va. Is it possible that the vandalism is being done by someone who wants to see the beach closed entirely? I.D. Fuller Herndon, Va. Thanks for the excellent coverage of the unfortunate situation. Please keep up the good work. Mike Donaldson Silver Spring, Md. Thanks for publishing this beach access news. My family and I will plan to take annual vacation some where else this year. It would not be fair for those members who cannot walk if they cannot keep up with the group if we go to Hatteras. Nick Griffin Peachland, N.C. I can honestly say that my plans to come to Buxton, as I have every summer since I was born, may change this year. Coming to Hatteras has been a family tradition since my grandparents bought a piece of land in Avon the year that my father was born (1955). My father has vacationed on Hatteras Island every year since then, as have I every year since 1975, and my children since 1995. With the rising cost of gas, making the six-hour trip from Fredericksburg, Va., has been starting to look a little burdensome and financially stressful. And now with the same amount of vehicles enjoying less square footage of beach, where does that leave us? By “us” I mean the visitors who spend hard earned cash every year for 60-plus years on the islands local economy. We enjoy the quiet serenity of Hatteras Island that you cant get closer to home. Sure, there are several beaches within a two-hour drive, but not with the unspoiled beauty of Hatteras. It is certainly a shame that a few extreme conservationists could potentially spoil a dream vacation spot for so many people from all over the country. Isn’t there some other way to save the plover without ruining vacations? I might as well go to Virginia Beach, save myself some valuable gas, haul my family down the boardwalk, and plant myself and my cooler on some small square of unoccupied sand that will probably be bigger than the one I will be relegated to fit my vehicle into on Hatteras Island. But I certainly am glad that the plovers get 11 football fields worth of my vacation sand. The ruling in favor of more beach closures really is for the birds. Jennifer Bouchard Fredericksburg, Va. After reading “Dispatches from the beachfront,” it is obvious to me that negotiated rulemaking will never work if there has to be 100 percent agreement on all the decisions made. In any normal (and this is far from normal) situation, it is very hard for all sides to come together and agree 100 percent on something as divided as this is. The Audubon Society and Defenders of Wildlife have gotten what they want at the expense of many -- those who live on the island, visitors to the island, you name it - everyone but those groups and the birds. Who is to say that some of those groups didn't cause the vandalism? The areas for the birds get larger when any vandalism takes place. Isn't that what those groups want? I hope the rulemaking group can come to terms with this, but I will believe it when I see it. Throw into the pot Mother Nature - you know "she" rules above all. That is probably one of the big reasons that birds have had trouble nesting in those areas. Who knows when the next storm comes through and what nests will be washed away? . The long-term damage done by this lawsuit will not be seen now. Just check out the rental season next year. Will everyone rental for the next season? If you wait until the end of negotiated rulemaking, no telling what will be left on Hatteras Island. Betty Russell Martinsburg, W. Va. “Dispatches from the beachfront” is a well written and accurate account. So much heartache for a few birds. How sad that people rather than wildlife are not the primary concern of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Recreation Area. Dolores and Neil Swartz Avon How can anyone be sure that the "vandalism" is the act of someone who is pro-beach access? The environmentalists are the ones who must use underhanded tactics to get what they want. Why wouldn't they continue to publicize what the awful ORVers are doing and get the buffer expanded. Win-win for them. Bill Lankford Fairplay, Md. How can we be sure that it is not the environmental groups who are doing the vandalism? This agreement works right into their hands -- allowing them the opportunity to vandalize in the dark of night to have the end result being the expansion of the buffer zone. Great incentive for them. Barb Yingling Lancaster, Pa. My name is Bill Chilton, and I am resident of Black Mountain, N.C. My family and I have enjoyed visiting the Cape Hatteras National Seashore for years. I had heard of a lawsuit and some more significant beach closures this year. I contacted Midgett Realty this morning to inquire about rentals and more information on the beach closures, and I was directed to this Web site. I cannot begin to tell you how disappointed I am, not only for myself and my family, but also for all those who call Hatteras Island home. Even those of us who call Hatteras home, if only for one week out of the year. This is a sad day. How did this happen? From what I am reading, it looks like a set-up. I believe the Park Service has tried to close and or severely limit beach access for years. Did someone in the Park Service contact the Audubon Society and suggest the lawsuit? I can't believe the Park Service fought the lawsuit very hard. Did this happen because of apathy or did we all simply believe that they couldn't or wouldn't take our beaches away? I would love to help the people of Hatteras Island, but I do not believe that I will be renting a cottage from Midgett Realty this season – or buying groceries at the Food Loin in Avon, or tackle, beer, and ice fror the Red Drum in Buxton, or dinners at Buoy’s or Finnegan's in Buxton, or pastries from the Orange Blossom. I'm sure no one will miss me, but I bet I won't be the only one that doesn't make the trip down this year. Bill Chilton and family Black Mountain, N.C. Hurricanes do more damage than 20 years of beach driving. These closures are too big. The methods for determining the size of the closures will soon be under federal investigation. There is no way due process was followed to get us to this point. I have written letters to the governors of North Carolina and Maryland. I have written to the Department of the Interior twice. I took an hour and filled out the workbook and submitted it in time. I support the OBPA. I am currently requesting all files and documentation on this subject from the National Park Service through the Freedom of Information Act, and I urge everyone reading this to do the same. It is time for the silent majority to speak up. Like a normally passive animal I become furious and mean when backed into a corner. I currently feel that we all love the beach access with our vehicles, and I plan to fight it out until the end. Tim O’Neill Severna Park, Md. As a native of North Carolina and someone who travels from Florida twice a year to surf fish on the Outer Banks, I find the new regulations do not balance conservation and access. Elimination of ORVs seem to be the goal of environmental groups -- not protection of wildlife. Michael Bruce Ozona, Fla. What an absolute and total abuse of authority to enact and enforce such unreasonable restrictions on our beaches here in North Carolina. These so-called environmentalists who have brought this upon our park system have shown a complete lack of good faith and common sense in their demands. We have been fishing and shell collecting on these islands for more than 20 years and know that man has had minimal impact upon the creatures of these areas. We also know that the Park Service has been doing an outstanding job providing access and at the same time protecting these areas under the previous measures. We can only pray that enough public outcry will reverse this misguided abuse of power and return these areas back to the original public access for all to enjoy. David and Barbara Howell Wilson, N.C. The recent vandalism of closure signs and subsequent closure area expansion gets me thinking. What would our forefathers think? Our rights are being taken away left and right, yet we just stand by and allow it to happen. We all need to write our respective U.S. congressmen and force them to get involved in this issue. We all know that if this issue hit the November ballots, we would win in a landslide. This country was built on the idea of following the majority. It is obvious that we are the majority, so let's ban together and petition our elected officials to stand up for the majority. Let's stop pouting, and let's do something about this atrocity. Rob Adamson Akron, Ohio As a vacation property owner in Hatteras, I hope the bird lovers are not using this rule to their advantage. It would certainly be self serving for those who support a wider area of closure to act this way to further their cause. Taking away additional access without proof of the abuser seems biased and reckless. Let's just pick the signs up and put them back in the sand. Let's not let vandalism from whichever side it comes from drive change. I also hope the good people of Hatteras who make their living from the tourists and those who visit this great area are saving their money because people have choices for where they vacation. Take away their reason for going to a particular area, and they will choose other destinations. I had a cancellation e-mail from a renter stating, "Since the beaches are smaller, ORVs will be very close to each other. We may as well go to Daytona for that type of beach experience, where we can day trip to Disney for the kids." There are thousands of beaches in the U.S. where you can walk from your hotel room to a refreshing dip in the ocean, and all are vying for the American vacation dollar. Hatteras has been different in drawing tourists for decades. It's not an amusement park or a Ripley’s Believe It or Not. It's the open space on the beach, a drive at sunset, being able to load up everything you need for a full day at the beach for your family of five in the back of your vehicle and driving to that perfect spot. Please, I urge our lawmakers to consider why people visit the Outer Banks over other areas. Susan Beard Atlanta, Ga. I just cancelled my family’s two-week stay in Hatteras. Last year we spent more than $8,000 on the island with our rental, fishing guides, restaurants, etc. The National Park Service will be solely responsible for allowing the destruction of the economy for a few birds and trampling the rights of citizens to enjoy "public" beaches via ORV. Jeff Franklin Hickory, N.C. I feel I have to respond to what's happening down there. We have been enjoying your little piece of heaven for many years -- vacations and fishing tournaments twice a year in Avon. The beach driving closures are wrong. The fisherman don't hurt the birds, nature does. I also read in one article that the closures were to be expanded because of vandalism of signs. Maybe the fisherman didn't remove the signs. Maybe it could have been someone who wanted the closures larger. We clean the beaches when we're down there just because and to protect the natural inhabitants. Please don't let our beaches be closed... Donna Peel Hewitt, N.J. I think that the Parr family is onto something. I think that a class action suit on behalf of young children and senior citizens is in order. They are being deprived of their right to experience the wonder of this recreation area on the basis of age and mobility. When our kids were young, we would take the playpen, highchair, and all their accoutrements out with us in the Jeep and stay all day. Now that we are old and infirm, we need the Jeep to take us out there because we are not able to carry what we need because of the effects of cancer and congestive heart failure. If we can't hang the lawyers, we should use them to help us get our rights back. The birds have their recreation area guaranteed to them -- Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge. Why is it difficult to obtain use of our recreation area -- the Cape Hatteras National Recreational Area. It has been my experience that on the beach. the birds of all types almost completely ignore humans anyway. I don't see where driving a vehicle closer than 1,000 yards would disturb them any more that them walking and foraging right next to us on the beach does. It has always been a live and let live situation that all parties seemed comfortable with. It is only when self-appointed "defenders" get into the act that things go wrong and people get deprived of their rights. In the NRA we have seen the same thing, where special interest groups try to take our rights away and legislate through the courts and liberal judges and bypass the Constitution and the legislature. And if that doesn't work, they try making our ammunition illegal because they claim it poisons scavengers and predators. It is all the same people against whom we need to fight -- the pseudo-scientists, the "animal lovers" who are really people haters, and the "tree huggers" who create more paperwork to use up more trees than they save. Bert Smith Richmond, Va. I can't believe our right to beach access is being eroded to this point. I suppose the next compromise will be limited ORV access by number of vehicles on the beach like they do at Chincoteague and Assateague islands on Maryland and Virginia's Eastern Shore. For every article you publish, please include the names of congressmen and NPS officials we can write to in order to complain about this travesty. Andy McDonald Richmond, Va. I hope the people who are vandalizing and destroying markers will realize that this behavior is only making matters worse when time comes to finalize plans on down the road. People need to stay extremely vigilant and report anyone causing any disturbances, including friends and neighbors. Take a cell phone photo, get the license tags, whatever it takes so what little beach is left doesn't shrink into nothing. Keeping the fight legal is the only way to win -- or at least reach a more favorable compromise. Jim Marshall Ashland, Va. No driving on the beach from 10 a.m. until 6 a.m.? Does this mean that if you are already on the beach before 10 p.m. and do not drive your vehicle before 6 a.m., you still fish all night? We have a settlement. But mark my words. These bleeding hearts will be back wanting more restrictions. We do not need to give them anything else and probably should take steps to get back what we lost. Remember I said it. These people have nothing to do but push their own agenda, which is the opposite of the sports fisherman. Randy Cook Denton, N.C. I may be cynical, but it seems that those aligned with Audubon and the Defenders actually benefit from closure area infractions and acts of vandalism because the birds get more beach. If a surf fisherman observes and reports an infraction, the birds still get more beach. So who's really doing what out there? The enforcement methodology is as one-sided as the "consent" decree, itself. Alan Bartlett Chesapeake, Va. Well, here we go -- trouble already. I told my wife it won't be long before someone does something. We don't know who it was. It could have been a fisherman, but I don't think so because they know we will lose more beach. My idea is that it is someone who wants the beach closed for good. They vandals did not hurt the birds, nests, or eggs. We will never know for sure. I'm 60 years old and have fish the beach for 30 years, and now this. May God help us all who love his beach and take care of it. Richard and Brenda Young Elizabeth City, N.C. So, every time some individual decides to vandalize the bird enclosures, the rest of the beach using public will be punished by losing even more beach access? So how did this little gem find its way into the consent decree? This seems about as sensible to me as a law that says every time someone gets caught speeding on our highways, the posted speed limit will automatically be reduced by 5 mph. Was this bird enclosure vandalized by an enclosure protestor? Or perhaps by an environmental activist seeking to cause more beach to be closed? Who knows. All I know for sure is that, the way the consent decree is written, the big losers in all of this are going to be the general beach-going, law-abiding tax-paying public whose only desire is to continue to enjoy reasonable ORV and pedestrian access in this once wonderful national recreational park, now inexplicably turned into a barricaded wildlife refuge. And the real fallout from it all will be an economic disaster for the hardworking people of the Outer Banks. So sad for all that somehow common sense and reason have been kidnapped and stolen from this entire process. J.D. Ledbetter Virginia Beach, Va. Thanks for providing full details of this settlement. What concerns me the most is a big “what if.” Specifically, what if the management plan is successful and the various shorebirds, waterbirds, and sea turtles re-establish in more than small numbers. Under the provisions of this decree and any subsequent NPS plan incorporating its provisions, as the populations grow, the areas closed off will increase accordingly. Under the most successful scenarios, most or all of the beaches could still end up closed, in direct contradiction to the original intent of the acquisition of federal lands for a recreational seashore area. This inconsistency must be addressed in the Reg Neg committee to produce a balanced final plan. What would be desirable for many questioning the Draconian character of Judge Boyle's personal predilection is access to the actual "science" underlying the justification for this decree. This whole episode underlines the high concept/low common sense approach to those who, on one hand, want a managed environment when it suits their own purpose, but also want to embrace "wilderness rules" for the same reason when convenient. Intellectual arrogance and hypocrisy with little common sense -- what's not to dislike? The real solution is to teach the birds to adapt to human presence, just like all the other shorebirds have done quite successfully, as any regular beach dweller knows. I have no problem with protecting the nesting areas for any threatened or endangered species, but there needs to be reasonable limits to those accommodations, something that most environmental regulation sadly lacks. One of the most subversive notions in environmental law is that there exists some particular point in time that constitutes a sort of natural "Eden" and that all the plants and animals existing at that time have a special right to survive, to the extent that competing species from other locales must be reduced or eradicated, when everything we actually know about diversity indicates that habitat niches and species relocation due to natural forces and resultant environmental changes are the rule, not the exception. Survival requires adaptation, and as the most successful predator species in 60-70 million years, we are a major natural force. Consequently, we have a stewardship obligation as well as self-interest as a species to see that our impact on the planet's ecology is mitigated, but the notion that we can or should return areas of the planet to some previous wilderness state is logically flawed and inconsistent with the very "wilderness rules" it supposedly seeks to re-establish. If we want more piping plovers, then we should attempt to breed them in captivity on, say, Portsmouth Island, with the intent of releasing them into the environment, just like we hatch trout. The fact is, they are dying out because they have failed to adapt, and we need to help them to do so, not lock down our own activities in the vain hope that by creating enough natural nesting habitat that they will somehow hang on. Idealists will shudder, but better stewardship these days does not equal an embrace of "naturalism." The fact is that 99.9 percent of all species that ever have lived on this planet have been extinguished by natural events. We will be one of those events if we don't wake up and understand the implications of our own natural behaviors, as well as cultural assumptions, and the consequent world we are shaping. Mike Fahey Frisco I have vacationed down in Buxton since 1983. I have four-wheeled on the beach all those years. I respect the environment as all beach fishermen do and chose to build a house on Cape Point Way in Buxton in 2003, a rental property managed by Outer Beaches Realty. These drastic changes have left me no choice but to put my house up for sale. These changes will bring an end to businesses that have been there for years. I think the night fishing is one of the great features of the Point, and I have taught my two boys to fish on the Point since they were young. People are what’s important to the island’s welfare, not a nest. Birds can adapt to changes, but the towns and the tourism will dry up and be lost forever. I chose to vacation and build a home, pay property taxes in Buxton from Ohio, but now you have forgotten us. John Romeo Willoughby, Ohio My family and I have enjoyed vacationing in Hatteras for the last five years. I planned on coming back year after year for many years to come. The obvious attraction to the Outer Banks is beach access for fishing and relaxing on the uncrowded beaches with family and friends. At this point, I can't see canceling my June reservations for this year. However, based on what I am reading with all the limited access issues, this will more than likely be the last trip we will make to the Outer Banks. I suspect many, many others feel the same. The OBX luster is gone. It’s very sad. I feel for the folks trying to make a living in these communities, especially the business owners. The economic impact will certainly be severe. Mark Harley Southampton, Pa. How convenient that the barrier signs were knocked down! Has anyone considered whether the environmentalists are the ones that knocked down the signs so the closure boundaries would be extended even further? Before they spread more rumors about the horrid ORV users again, let's consider what tactics they might use to push their cause a little bit further. I think most ORV users are not about to jeopardize their extremely limited use of the beach as it stands by doing something so stupid that would risk complete closure. But wouldn't the environmentalists love complete closure? Sharon Everette Mechanicsville, VA As a former resident of Hatteras Island (1999-2004), I can only say, "Thank God we're out of there." Doesn't anyone have the guts to stand up and say, “Wait a minute, this is a recreational park as it is chartered, not a refuge.” For years we were able to have reasonable limits for birds, and almost everyone respected the turtle nesting areas that were marked off and we all got to use the beach for fishing, swimming, or just lying in the sun. We drove on the beach, respected the limits, and all enjoyed the benefits of one of the most beautiful, tranquil places on earth. Now, it's gone -- ruined by a bunch of people on both sides of the argument who care nothing about balance and good sense. I, for one, will no longer come to Hatteras Island. A way of life is dead. Shame on all of you who have participated in this petty, vindictive war that has cost everyone far too much and will likely cost many people their life savings before it is over. Mike McAllister Yardley, Pa. I think it’s a shame that an agreement can’t be reached to resolve this issue. My family would gladly pay to drive on the beach for a week to pay for the staff needed to ensure no wildlife is disturbed. Every year my family has enjoyed the OBX. We are now considering not going back. We have always respected nature and cleaned up the beaches. We even recycle and bring it back to Pennsylvania! Hopefully a reasonable agreement can be reached. Would the conservation people consider having a paid beach pass? Melissa Smyth Landenberg, Pa. My family and I have vacationed on the OBX for many years. We love to surf fish and visit the historical sites and the many shops along the way. We will not be coming there this year unless we can fish the Point, South Beach, and some of the other areas that have been closed. I think the OBX are in for some tough financial times. I see a huge loss of income for the businesses and realty companies, and I expect property values to plunge. With gas prices so high now, I need no other convincing to change my vacation plans this year, and with the new rules for the OBX, I may not come back at all. There are other places well worth exploring, where a few don’t ruin it for all. Mike Saunders Roanoke, Va. My whole family vacations in Avon every year for all three major holidays and have been for the past 15 years just because we can drive on the beach. When you have a child with a disability and have to carry so many accessories just to make her comfortable and to be able to enjoy herself, it really takes the stress out of going to the beach to be able to unload from your vehicle. Maybe there should be a charge for a beach pass. Or maybe there should be a fine for the people who abuse the privileges, a really large fine, and maybe that would send a message out to the rest of the ignorant. Lori Cattano Fuquay Varina, N.C. I find it to be a sad state of affairs when we can put the welfare of small birds ahead of the welfare of our fellow human beings. I can't imagine the scope of the impact on the wonderful people of the Outer Banks who have for generations made a living on the surf fishing visitors. My husband and I have reservations for the weekend following Memorial Day and will be visiting as we do three or four times a year. But I fear if the beaches remain closed, we may not return again this year. I feel so badly for those involved in the tourist industry, and I can't believe with all the beaches that have been closed on the East Coast to humans in the interest of the birds that they are still endangered. Denise Oliff Warsaw, Va. How is it that a national organization has more power than the local community? Is it money? Because if it is, that is just wrong. Local people are making a living -- not pulling money from all over the country. Jeremy Payne Fuquay Varina, N.C. This is not right. Has there ever been a case of the fishermen or vacationers killing birds? You close the beach access for all for the good of a few. That is what are country is coming to. The sportsmen give more to conservation then most of those folks who are against them. David Baker Dunkirk, Md. I discovered the Outer Banks from Kitty Hawk to Ocracoke two years ago when I volunteered for six weeks for the National Park Service. My wife and I loved it, especially driving on the beach to fish. We had decided to buy a house, but now I don’t know? I hope they get this ORV thing returned to what it was. Daniel Wright Pax, W.Va. I am sorry that this situation has made a lot of people unhappy including myself and my family. We always enjoyed riding on the beach, but I suppose we won't be going this year to enjoy the ocean. I know it's not the only place to enjoy the ocean, but the scenery was on a totally different level. Mother Nature has a lot to offer, and I'm sure that's not the only place the birds nest on the beach or the turtles. Susan Powell Hampton, Va. I have been going to the Outer Banks for all three big weekends – Memorial Day, July 4, and Labor Day for 20 years. We go because the beach is not built up and we can enjoy the natural beauty. There is no reason why we can't co-exist with nature. Closure of the beaches is absurd. Paula Cattano Apex, N.C. This is the worst decision I have ever seen! Here is an idea: Let’s cut off the funding for these environmental groups, as well as the National park staff! I have been coming down to The Outer Banks for seven years. My family enjoys this vacation. So now a way of life which these folks do not understand is taken from us? My advice is to organize as a group and fight this, get the media involved, and investigate the individuals who are driving this. Remember one voice can make a difference. Do not give up the fight! Ted Schonbrunner Stewartstown, Pa. Ocracoke’s Community Store reopens I met the new owners this past week. They are great people to talk with. Thanks for great coverage for those of us who wish we could be there (OBX) all the time. Terrie Hart Wakertown, N.C. We, too, were so saddened at the "loss" of the store and so hoped that someone would be able to open it again. Thank you for being those special people. We look forward to getting over there soon! Debbie and Dwight Burrus Hatteras New family medical practice in Frisco I couldn't be more pleased with Alex's decision to open her new practice! She and Al have always shown genuine concern, consideration, and respect for their patients, so it is wonderful to see them offer a much needed addition to the already good medical services on the island. It is especially heartening to know that there will be real options for those who have been unable to get the diagnoses and ensuing care they need because of the expense of medical insurance. Lynne Foster Hatteras This and the other varied articles of importance to our community is a wonderful service you are performing. Thank you so much. Incidentally, I have already signed up there and will go to Alex Hodges for my annual physical soon. I do miss Carey though. Barbara Ackley Buxton Awesome article! I am sure this medical practice will become an essential part of maintaining health and wellness on the island. Ginger Powell Greenville, N.C. As Alex’s sister, I can tell everyone she was raised with the values and love that, with her education, will make this a giant success for Frisco. This family is behind her 100 percent. We are proud of you, Alex! Ellen Meeks Richmond Hill, Ga. My best wishes to Alex in this venture into the community on Hatteras Island. I am sure there are many here who will benefit from both the format and treatment she will provide. Good Luck, Alex! Lawrence Cullen Frisco New Letters to the Editor....05.12.2008 9:30 am Beach access issues These twin girls need your help. They are Kendal, left, and Krystle Woods, both 7 years old. They have an older sister, Heather, 18. The three girls are the daughters of Thomas and Anne Woods, and they are a family that depends on the tourist trade for survival. The Woods own and operate the Island-Hide-A-Way Campground in Buxton. These are just two of hundreds of children who will be hurt as a result of the action of those who desire to close our beaches.  Our total way of life, and the economy, is being destroyed on Hatteras and Ocracoke islands as a result of a the decision that was made on a motion filed in U.S. District Court by The Defenders of Wildlife and the National Audubon Society, requesting an injunction to stop beach driving in parts of the Cape Hatteras National Recreation Area. The National Park Service owns the total beach area on Hatteras and Ocracoke islands. From all appearances, the judge’s final decision on this injunction will eventually stop beach driving and foot traffic in all of the favorite areas frequented by islanders and tourists. At the present time in the Buxton area, you can no longer drive on the beach from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. or walk or drive to Cape Point and portions of the South Beach due to bird and turtle enclosures. There are similar situations at Oregon Inlet and Ocracoke. The results of this decision are already beginning to take its toll on the families on these islands who depend on the tourist trade and access to the ocean for their survival. What can you do to help? We can pray. We are told in the Good Book to “Pray for kings, and all who are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life, in all godliness and honesty.” Please help us by praying that our islands will be able to continue to be a place where people can come to find peace and quiet. Ask the Good Lord to touch the hearts of the leaders of these environmental groups to back off demanding more and more of the islands be closed to beach driving and walking. Pray that the members of these organizations will wake up to what they have done to the economy of these islands. It is hard for me to understand how anyone could support organizations like these that seem to have little concern for people. If members of these organizations had any consciences at all, they would be demanding their leaders stop the movement to make Hatteras and Ocracoke nothing more than a bird sanctuary like Pea Island. Pray that they will become aware of the hardships they have placed on the people on these islands. As a result of what they have done, businesses are beginning to suffer and individual families are feeling the results. Businesses have no other alternative but to cut back. Vacationers are beginning to have second thoughts about coming to Hatteras and Ocracoke. Many homeowners who depended on rentals to pay the mortgages are in trouble. Families, on and off the islands, are facing future hardships as a result of what has happened here at the beginning of the tourist season. Dare County will soon feel the effects. There will be less tax revenue to support the infrastructure and schools. There is no doubt property values will drop and foreclosures will increase. Pray that our senators and congressmen who make the laws in Washington will look into this matter and consider changing the law that has to do with the Endangered Species Act. Until those who govern come to realize that man was given dominion over the birds that fly and the animals that walk, there will be little or no hope left for free and open access to the beach that was promised to the islanders at the time the Cape Hatteras National Recreational Area was instituted. In my opinion the dye is cast. Hatteras and Ocracoke can only look for things to get worse. It is my feeling that the next thing coming will be a fee and limited number of vehicles allowed to drive what little is left of the beach. I can also envision the day will come when you will have to pay to walk the beaches of Hatteras and Ocracoke islands. Dewey and Mary Parr Owners of the Old Gray House Gift Shop Buxton I have been going to the South Point on Ocracoke for years. It's my piece of heaven. Being a single mom, I literally save my coins for my yearly trip. It's the only break I get. I can't begin to tell you how heartbreaking this closure is for me. I am also a NCBBA member and have made sure my son respects this wonderful area. He loves it as much as I do. I can only hope I never run into any members of the Audubon Society, the Defenders of Wildlife, or Judge Boyle. I don't have a mean bone in my body, but lord knows what I may do or say. These people have succeeded in taking away something very precious to me and my son and all for one nest. Mary Breeden Virginia Beach, Va. Everyone who is upset over the closure of the Cape Point, do not contribute any more money to politicians from either party until someone help us with these idiots. Carol Dillon Buxton How does the park service or the parties to this agreement know this vandalism was done by pro-beach driving parties. Might this be the work of those opposed to any beach use? How can one party to an agreement be punished without any evidence of wrongdoing on its part? It seems this agreement is wrought with problems. Mike Kaski Moseley, Va. All who breathed a sigh of relief that the recent settlement still allowed some ORV access and those opposed to ORV access should carefully note that these latest three closures also prohibit pedestrian access. Ted A. Hamilton Hampton, Va., and Salvo Three other fishermen and I were down on the Outer Banks the first weekend in May. We were fishing about 75 feet north of Ramp 34. We had been there about two hours, and we had noticed that the National Park Service started working on the beach behind us. After a while, the park ranger came down and told us we had to move 50 feet south to get below the signs they just installed. I talked to the ranger for a few minutes, and one of the points I made was if these piping plovers needed all these nesting sites, then there was no way they could be endangered. Also, there is no intent for humans to share the beach with the birds. I thought the national parks were for both to enjoy and use. I can tell you that we are going to come down in the fall (late October - early November). If the situation with the NPS has not improved, it will be our last trip to the Outer Banks. If enough folks stop their annual fishing trips, an entire economy is going to die. The Point is a beautiful place as well as a great fishing spot, and it is a shame for people not to be able to enjoy it. It would make sense for the NPS to split the available beach area with humans and wildlife, but not to completely deny human access. David Southall Charlottesville, Va. It's very sad that the beach is closing and that economic hardship for the merchants in the area is almost a certainty. I've been coming to Buxton off and on for about 20 years, and in 2001, I rented a lot at Buxton Oaks Park in order to spend more relaxation time on the island. I even talked my friends into buying RVs and placing them in Buxton Oaks. I'm now considering moving my RV, but I won’t make any rash decisions until I see the real effect of the regulations, at which point, I may leave for good. I intend to retire in a few short years and Buxton had been a consideration for relocation because of the beach access and outstanding recreational opportunities, but that appears to be changing and relocating to Hatteras after retirement may not be an option. For now, I'll do what I can in the form of letter writing, but it looks like even the elected officials are powerless in protecting the people against the SELC, Audubon, and Boyle machinery. Support the local merchants, it’s the least we can do. Bill Stavenger Chesapeake, Va. With the newest closures (as of 5/8/08) how many miles of beach are actually left accessible to ORVs and/or pedestrians? More importantly, how many miles of shoreline are left to access? I don't know about Mr. Rylander and Co., but when I go to the beach, it is to enjoy the ocean in some form, without which there doesn't seem to be much point in going. Imagine that -- a national seashore with no shore. Susan Garrett Frisco Not only is it necessary for the folks on Hatteras Island to get their congressman working for them, but each of us, regardless of where we live, all users of our beaches must start by contacting our own representatives in Congress. In my case, that is Randy Forbes, who is actually very near this problem himself. He lives in Chesapeake, Va. There is safety in numbers, and it will take numbers of congressmen to get anything positive accomplished. Its time to start being a pain in their butt, just like this whole closing thing has been a pain in ours! Support Hatteras Islanders. Bill King Prince George, Va. Many people here on the northern beaches thought the settlement allowed ORV use to continue with limited restrictions during the day and a night-time ban only during the summer. Maybe now those who have been saying that they are on the fence will realize what is at stake. Carol Garris Kill Devil Hills This is why so many people hate environmental groups. Out of the hundreds of miles of beaches and bay areas in Carolina, they have to close the beaches that most people like to fish on, and have been fishing on and driving on for the last 50 years! The Ocracoke area has over 50 miles of beaches and bay areas for nesting, and they close the point area where it is the best fishing and everyone likes to drive out and fish. Environmental groups have just lost any support from me on any issue. Tony Jones Raleigh So long, beautiful nights. So long, beautiful days. Having come to OBX for 20 years now and spending my hard earned money in the area, I am greatly disappointed about all the closures. Cape Point is definitely a must for all respectful tourists. And never have I seen in 20 years, people invade bird nesting areas. Furthermore, when a turtle nest is found, ORVs tend to go around leaving more space than allowed by the National Park Service barricades. As for the 10 p.m. closures, let’s weigh the economic realities. We are a group of five families from all over the East Coast that always have a bonfire into the night during our stay. We make sure we are below high-tide line and enjoy the beach past 10 p.m. How does Judge Boyle intend to inform all visitors about these new closures? I do have to feel bad for OBX residents and cottage owners, since they are the ones who will suffer. There will be fewer people visiting and more crowded beaches. I find these decisions hard to swallow, since ORV drivers clean the beaches and leave only footprints. Tell that to campers and cottagers who destroy the beaches at night by leaving their trash and embers all over the beach. Richard Michaud Ottawa, Ontario This decision for limitations in keeping the beaches open is, on the one hand, wonderful, but on the other, it is truly a shame to have such limitations. As the economy is at an all-time low, I believe this could be the demise for the area. Gas prices are continuing to get higher, which, in turn, puts the American people in a real crunch. Yet for the sake and love of fishing, they are still willing to come to the area to fish and experience the camaraderie among other fishing people. This could very well end with this type of restriction. I love nature, and I believe in wildlife, but in reading and listening to the evidence given, it just doesn't seem that there is enough evidence to show just cause for such drastic measures. I sincerely hope that someone really listens to all the evidence given and not just from the side that has the most power and the most money. This would indeed be a real injustice in our justice system which boasts "innocent until proven guilty." T. Bean Front Royal, Va. My grandparents must be rolling over in their graves. Our beaches were their playground, as they are now for many of our youths and adults alike. Be careful because if your house pets get news of the power a handful of birds have on your beach access, you just may find yourself sleeping on your porch. Ray D. Gray, Jr. Buxton My family and I have been coming down to the OBX for over 20 years. We have always been attracted by the multiple opportunities for beach access. My aged parents have always come with us. Without being able to drive on to the beach, they will be deprived of something they have enjoyed over the years. I can't believe that the authorities would allow such a blatant disregard for citizens’ rights. The fact that three of the most popular areas have been closed (The Point, Oregon Inlet, and Ocracoke Inlet) tells me that there are some mind games going on here, at the expense of us citizens. Are there any legal counter measures that are being attempted? Dan Porter Mount Orab, Ohio This is crazy. We have been coming to Hatteras for years. Closing down some of the beach is insane. We all love this beach, and to close it would hurt revenue and business on all of Hatteras. This needs to be re-thought in a very big way. If no one can ride out on the beach, then eventually no one will come to Hatteras anymore -- including all the fisherman. Shannon Kusterer Aylett, Va. Thank you for your very clear accounting about what is going on in this fiasco. I did not want to go overboard in my comments to another article, but I really wanted to say that wars have been fought over these types of issues -- freedoms taken away from the many by the few. As a daughter of a World War II Marine veteran, Hitler came to my mind. Thank you for making me realize I was not being melodramatic in my thinking. Shirley Miller Sellersville, Pa. Closing ORV beaches for a few birds over the economy of OBX is outrageous. Birds have much, much more beach area than ORVs on the coast. This will close down the fishing trade and put many people out of work in the OBX area. These ORV fishing areas were created as a playground for people to use not a bird sanctuary. It’s what made OBX what it is today. Let us not forget. Harry Michalik Canton, Mich. This really burns me up! If I had not already paid for the house that I am staying in, I would not be coming down this year. I will not be coming down in the future. I live and breathe for my vacation all year long -- from the time I come home from it until it’s time to go again. There is not a day that goes by that I don't think about it. This was a week or two that my daughters and I could spend together, no worries, no jobs, and, best of all, no watches. Time is not in issue down there. I would spend about $4,000, including the house rental, food, gas, souvenirs and so on. This is really carrying it too far. I, too, love nature and all, but this is ridiculous. Those birds are not going to lay eggs out in the "open" -- where we drive. They go where they will have some type of protection. If anything, like I and other readers have stated, they lose their life by way of bigger birds and the fox and stray cats. I think this whole matter is just disgusting! Annette Stokes Colonial Heights, Va. Let me start with a paraphrase of an old 60's song - "First we hang all the lawyers." There is a criminal conspiracy afoot in these United States. It goes by many names and comes in the guise of being environmental or pro-animal. The fact is that these groups are human-haters and their goal is to do an end run around the legislative process, which is the will of the people, and substitute their will through the courts, hence the quote about the lawyers. Don't let them win! Bert Smith Richmond, Va. I have been going to Hatteras Island for 37 years. I have always respected the beach and its wildlife as I drove my vehicle out for a day of surf fishing. It appears that this May will be my last trip to Buxton. You have ruined a great thing and cost the state of North Carolina billions in revenue. I hope everyone is pleased. C.T. Smith Richmond, Va. Instead of hurricane insurance, the realty companies need to offer bird insurance. My family is presently locked into two weeks at Ocracoke, and if the South Point is closed to fishing, I don’t need two weeks to sightsee on the island. I hope the lost of revenue in years to come is worth the effort to save the birds. I’m taking my money elsewhere! Tim Hernandez Clayton, N.C. It’s sad that the voice of a few uninformed environmentalists, most of whom have never stepped foot in our state, are now making rules on how many of us live and make our livelihood. I’m really disappointed in Judge Boyle even entertaining the idea of completely shutting the beaches down. Then again he probably doesn't rely on tourism for his livelihood like most of us do. Hope he never steps foot in my shop. He won't be welcome! Johnny Marlin Kitty Hawk I have been a beach visitor to the island of Ocracroke since 1966. I can accept the rules and regulations which apply to saving the birds. But to close the beaches to the public is unacceptable. The economy of the Outer Banks will suffer greatly. Without the income which comes with tourists, the local population will not survive. This decree will now make the recreational population extinct. As a result jobs, businesses, and the locals will be the ones to feel the loss. Again this is another example of the government failing to use common sense in this matter. An economic study should have been done to show how the loss of tourists will destroy the economy for those folks who reside there. I have always loves the Outer Banks and am saddened that my family will no longer spent our two weeks there. For those that have never been on the South Point of Ocracoke during sunrise and sunset, it’s a sight to behold. Victor R. Hernandez Hampton, Va. I just wanted to say that I've been on Hatteras for three years now, and this is the most devastation that anyone could put on the island. It's not bad enough that the economy is down the tubes, but now someone has just taken the "wind out of the sails," so to speak. How does wildlife take precedence over human life? I know that the business is way off from other years. There are a lot of phone calls asking about the beach closure. The biggest thing is that that the beach is why the visitors come here. So by closing them as much as you have, might as well put an elastic band around Oregon Inlet and suffocate the two islands off from the rest of the world. Hope the people involved with the decision of the closing some day will get the same thing happen where they live! Remember "Do unto others that you would want done onto you." So try to not let this destroy your vacations this year. Kathy Beeman Frisco My family has been eagerly planning a fishing trip to your area. It was going to be the first one with my in-laws, husband, 2 1/2-year-old son, and myself. We have never vacationed as a family with them at all. The perfect vacation -- we could surf fish, play with my son on the beach, look for shells, and fry up the fish, and eat them fresh for dinner that night. Now with the beach closing, it looks like there's no point in coming. Why spend all that money to not be able to fish, stroll on the beach, or look for shells? If you can get there, everyone else is on top of you. How do tell your son the beach is closed? Two-year-olds don't understand. I don't understand. Jennifer Recktenwalk Vanceboro, N.C. My family loves nature and loves to fish. We have enjoyed and respected our coast for many years and several generations. I believe there is a smarter answer to our problem. Instead of the animals just randomly picking a part of the beach to nest, why can't we plant or prepare a certain area of the beach that attracts the animals. I mean something they can't resist. This would allow all those involved to get what they need. Let’s say this works and the birds over populate. At that point, we could go back to the old methods of the past or distribute the animals elsewhere. You don't really want to affect an animal population either way too much – that’s nature’s job. Just a thought. I bet NC State would love to disover\make a plant or food that would make this possible. I have met many NC State professors on the islands. Mike LaBounty Sanford, N.C. It seems there are more and more closed areas each year. We have been vacationing there for 13 years, and one of the reasons we drive all that way is because we can pull right up to a spot that is good to fish for my husband while I walk, swim, and play with the kids. The trip is ideal for our family and we spend two weeks there. If that area is closed off, there is not really that many other place I feel comfortable taking my 5-, 7-, and 12-year- old children. I would like to continue our tradition of coming each year, but it seems rather pointless to travel all that way when we can stay right here in Virginia. While we understand that there is a need for certain wildlife on the Island, we also feel that the island needs the income from the tourists to survive. While the birds and wildlife may find other areas or locations to survive, unfortunately the residents and business owners of the Outer Banks have no choice other than to suffer. I hope this does not affect the families that live there year round, but can't imagine how it won't. I can't say I have ever met a local that I did not like, and I certainly wish them the best of luck with this new obstacle they now are forced to deal with. Lissa Turner Alexandria, Va. Just great! The taxpayers get to reimburse the lawyers for the plaintiffs. This is a great country. David Rhodes Chesterfield, Va. Everything was fine until the environmentalists got involved. May we keep the freedoms all American's were promised. Jennifer Hobbs Catonsville, Md. Much as I hate it, I guess I'll have to rent one of those big houses on the beach north of Corolla. Seems that is the only place left that I can ride on the beach 'til I find a spot I want to stop for a while. Bob Wasson Statesville, N.C. As one of thousands Ohioans that claim OBX as our second home, this is difficult to read about. As an outsider, we can only say this has not been reasoned out. As the birds multiply -- and they will on all beach -- then what? This newspaper has been useful to see both sides. Fred Dombrowski Aurora, Ohio I am not at all happy with the recent beach closures. I don't think it was handled properly or within the rule of law. This coming November would be my 37th straight year of spending two weeks in Buxton fishing. No more due to this. The entire island will collapse due to lack of business, and this isn't right over a few pairs of birds, some of which are not endangered or threatened. When the Enviros are allowed to dictate what we will and will not do on public federal land, we have a major problem. Is this what America is coming to? I think so, and it's sad at best. I hunt and fish all over this country and do not abuse the right. I certainly have never done anything on the beaches of Hatteras, day or night, that was against the law and never will. This is the thanks I and many others get? I will say this: This situation is not over, only starting, and there will be heads that roll for not following the correct procedures. I realize we all have bosses and rules to follow but there comes a time when common sense has to prevail. Pete Trickey Greeneville, Tenn. It is a travesty to close any of the public access down simply because of the way we get there. We made trips there several times a year to relax in a couple of what we called "our spots" along the beach. My family loves the beach and all it has to offer, including driving to our favorite spot to fish and swim. We always left the beach cleaner than it was when we got there. What a shame to lose that access and privilege. Steve Moore Midlothian, Va. My wife and I, who have been visiting Cape Hatteras at least annually since the mid-1970s, own two rental properties, one each in Hatteras and Frisco. We have already resigned our long-time memberships to Audubon and Defenders and explained to them the reason for our action: It is ecologically extreme and unnecessary and it goes against our financial and personal interests. Thus, I read your news story with dismay. I simply can't believe the only motivation for such draconian beach closures is the altruistic wishes of the two organizations, although both are powerful lobbies. Over many years of political observation and activity, I have regretfully come to believe that little happens in the U.S. today without a financial element. So, who is enlisting the aid of these lobbyists? Has anyone tried to "follow the money" and see what might be behind such tactics at this time? I have heard three theories, all plausible, and I offer them for your consideration and comment: 1. Insurance companies are tired of paying storm damage claims. Moving to effectively cripple usage of the beaches will at minimum reduce the attraction of Hatteras, driving down property values, reducing their expenses, and increasing their profits; and at maximum lead to abandonment of high-risk properties which they will no longer have to cover. 2. The state secretly (or maybe not so secretly) could be trying to avoid replacing the Bonner Bridge with anything but a ferry, a savings of millions of dollars. But to do that, the population and tourist use here needs to recede to ferry-era levels. What better way to go "forward into the past" than to eliminate the attraction that brings people here? 3. And one I heard today: Land speculators, by closing he beaches, could drive property values down far enough to be scooped up for a song, so that Cape Hatteras can be re-developed as a higher-profit, high-end resort area (think Hilton Head, etc.). I don't know if any of these scenarios are true, but I and many friends were victims of the first beach closure for piping plovers in the early '80s -- Moonstone, in South Kingstown, R.I., a college town that peaceably shared its town beach for 45 years with a naturist (clothing-optional) section. The piping plover was invoked to "keep those naked people away," a move initially supported by the town. But when their own section of the beach was closed, too, and they figured out the capital losses of not having the naturists around spending $2 million annually in South Kingstown alone, it was too late. U.S. Fish and Wildlife had already "taken the ball" and scored their own touchdown with it. To this day, the entire stretch of beach remains completely off-limits to the benefit of just a few pairs of nesting plovers, nowhere near the large number that were "promised." This plover ploy was so successful that a fair number of Cape Cod and Nantucket beaches have also been closed "on behalf of" the plovers. And now, it's come to roost here. So why do these closures happen? As I said, I can't believe it's all altruism. Where is the money trail? Is someone on "our side" following it? If not, why not? And if so, where does it lead, please? In the meanwhile, let's continue to call and write our congressional representatives, both in North Carolina and nationally, and let them know that it is indeed time for a change -- a change onward, respecting both the ecology and the citizenry, and not one at the expense of the other, as is happening here now. Paul Payton Chatham, N.J. Closing these beaches is ridiculous. My family has been fishing on these beaches for as long as I can remember. This is getting out of hand! My first son is expected next week, and someday I would hope that he would be able to carry on the family tradition of surf fishing on Hatteras beaches. Jason Turner Mechanicsville, Va. I am very disappointed in the outcome. We as a family have been coming to Hatteras Island for 20 years. We come every chance we get. It really is putting a damper on fishing Susan Colvin Gordonsville, I have vacationed in the OBX since the 1970s. Typically, I spend one week on Ocracoke and another to the north annually. If you are keeping tally, I will be canceling both trips this year. Richard Trickett Finksburg, Md. Here we go again. We've been fighting the Sierra Club over closing the trails in the national parks in Virginia, and now we have to fight the Park Service on Hatteras Island just to save too many spaces for the piping plover to mate, hatch, and live. What about the people (pedestrians) who cannot walk over the dunes to get to the ocean? These could be people in wheelchairs, and people using oxygen to breathe. How are they going to ever stand at the water’s edge and watch the sunset, one of the most beautiful sights I've ever seen? Are the pedestrian crossovers on Highway12 wheelchair friendly? How far must you walk to get to the water? I am intelligent enough to know that we must exist with these birds, but can we do it in a less intrusive way for the true ORV fishermen? Karen Phillips Sandston, Va. I feel sorry for all of the local business owners who will be affected by this mess. I usually vacation on the OBX for two weeks each summer and spend an average of about $5,000 while there. Regretfully, I will be spending my money elsewhere this year. If I can't drive on the beach, I'm not coming to the OBX. The hardest part of this decision for me was having to tell my kids. It breaks my heart! William Turner Chesapeake, Va. I am not as educated as I would like to be about the original "purchase" of the Outer Banks beaches in the Hatteras area. From what I have been told, Hatteras was guaranteed access to the beaches in the contract. Have the islanders become the Cherokees of the new millennium? It seems our government is forcing the people to leave the island little by little. My extended family has been coming to Hatteras for many years, and I have been coming down for over a decade. I will still go to Hatteras, but I know that some will not. Are the "bird people" going to subsidize the incomes of all the lost businesses in the area? John Knowles Richmond, Va. Closing national parks to ORVs is wrong and shows our federal government as no back bone, giving in to bird lovers and throwing our state’s fishermen and all Outer Banks businesses in the surf. Need to reverse this ASAP. Fisher Jones Beasley III Mooresville, N.C. The recent reply to a business person by the representative of the Cape Hatteras Bird Club on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Recreational Area negotiated rulemaking committee concerning the suffering of business people and islanders as a result of the beach closures was an insensitive and cruel statement. For him to say, “Keep talking, sir. There’s nothing I enjoy more than being bored to tears,” shows how little he and his environmental friends care about people. The suffering I am now seeing on this island is not boring me to tears but is causing me to have tears in my heart and eyes. I am seeing families worried about how they are going to survive because of the lack of work as a result of beach closures. I am witnessing not only a decline in our business but a drastic reduction in business for many others. It is doubtful many businesses will survive the summer. The first cutbacks businesses are facing is in their employees. I also feel sorry for the many who have invested in homes to rent to tourists. Many had dreamed of using these homes for their retirement. Some of these homeowners are soon to face foreclosures because they can not maintain two mortgages. The sad thing is that our children are beginning to feel the effects also because mothers and fathers are finding it harder to provide for them. There are cases where our young people have put their dreams of going to college on hold because of what the environmental groups have done to these islands. No matter how Mr. Neal Moore might try to explain away what he said, it reflects the true sentiment of those who have elected to turn these islands into a bird sanctuary without regard to human suffering. If the present representative of the Cape Hatteras Bird Club on the negotiated rulemking committee is an example of the feelings of the rest of the Bird Club members, then I feel Hatteras Island would be better served if they all would fly away. Dewey Parr Buxton My family has been going to the beaches on Hatteras and Ocracoke islands to fish for more than 15 years. During that time, I cannot remember one time that we saw anyone ignoring or bothering any nesting area. People, especially fisherman, have been very respectful of the environment and wildlife. We go all times of the year for fishing. These strict regulations are going to be detrimental to the economy in the local area. It is yet another overreaction that is not necessary. Fishermen are some of the most respectful of the environment. My husband and I have saved birds several times that have gotten tangled in big fishing nets that washed ashore. I hope that a satisfactory agreement can be worked out. As far as I see, the regulations that have been enacted for years have worked just fine. To me northeasters and hurricanes constantly changing the sand is the real reason here, not the fishermen. Linda Sthreshley Richmond, Va. My family and I have been going to the Outer Banks beaches and Hatteras Island beaches for at least 30 years. By closing the points, the fishers will now probably overcrowd the areas where we swimmers like to be. Unfortunately, we cannot afford to forfeit the $1,200 already paid for our rental cottage at Buxton on the soundfront. But if the beach situation is as adverse as it appears it will be, we will not be returning. I would suspect that all your cottages, except the oceanfront, including the sound, will be empty, as the only beach access is by vehicle. It seems there are plenty of areas on the beaches in that area where the birds, turtles, etc. can live. The bird population seems every bit as plentiful, if not more so, as it was 30 years ago. I guess the island will literally go to the birds, as your residents and visitors will be gone, along with your revenue. Robert Williams Petersburg, Va. What a sad state of affairs. I can't believe the people of the USA have lost such a wonderful recreation area. We have been coming to the Outer Banks for over 40 years, and I doubt if we will be back until someone gets enough guts to throw the people that did this out of the state. They should remember that the national seashore belongs to the people of the United States, not to some radical fringe group with a grudge against human beings. My prayers go out to the good people of the Buxton area. I hope you can survive this and still be in business when it comes back to reality. Gary Taylor Findlay, Ohio This is so upsetting! We come to Ocracoke because we love to fish and take our Jeep out on the beach. I am sure these areas that are closing down will greatly impact these islands. This is just what the economy doesn't need. I hope the ones who made this ruling don’t get a bit of sleep at night. I am praying that our congressman can step up to the plate and overrule this mess. This is so crazy! Terry Cole Asheboro, N.C. Wow! This didn’t take long (to close some beaches). Does it not appear strange that The National Audubon Society, the Defenders of Wildlife, and the Southern Environmental Law Center people stated that the different species were almost non-existent here? May I ask from where all these birds that are causing all these closures came? Perhaps their premises were incorrect, or worse still their science flawed? Oh, I get it! The birds told each other that the beaches were open (for them alone), and they decided en mass to flock here and nest, or scratch, or whatever else they do to cause mayhem for the humans, Seems to me the environmentalists cried “wolf” and the judiciary was had. Don't they all look foolish now? Lawrence Cullen Buxton This is a truly sad and disgraceful time for everyone who enjoys and respects our natural resources and our rights as Americans. Bill Cranford Concord, N.C. I am now 54 and have been coming to the Outer Banks since I was born. You see my Dad was a lifer in the Coast Guard, and he was stationed off and on there and in Elizabeth City. I can remember when there was nothing down there. I sure am going to miss pizza at Finnegan’s in Buxton. It is some of the best pizza I ever ate. I’ll miss breakfast at the Gingerbread House and the bakery in Buxton. You see, if I can't get to the Point to fish when I come down for two weeks like I have been doing since I grew up, I don't want to come at all. My dad is retired Coast Guard and lives in Elizabeth City, and when I came down, I didn't stay with them. I rented a place in Buxton for the two weeks. Now all that is gone. My wife's first look at a beach was the Outer Banks, and her first swim in the ocean was at Avon 35 years ago. I wonder how many vacations will never be because of all these stupid decisions. I am really going to miss the Outer Banks. Terrell Talkington New Martinsville, W. Va. We have been coming down there for 42 years and access to the beach was a priority. What a shame for this to happen. We are still coming down this summer with our daughter and son and their combined five children. However, I'm not sure about the following years. I always enjoyed night fishing. Can't even do that now. I hope something can be done to redo this mess. Bob Walker Pleasant Gap, Pa. I signed the petition on www.gopetition.com to try and save the ORV trails. If you go there, look at how far and wide these closures will affect everyone, from the local shop owners in The Outer Banks region, to the family that drives from a 1,000 miles away, wanting to be able to have toys for the kids, chairs for everyone, a cooler, and a few fishing rods. Or for even the beachcomber looking for one of many great finds you see on the beach first thing in the morning. With the information at hand, I don't see how it is possible to give a recreation area that was given and signed over to public use, to a few birds that aren't there in any great number. If the Park Service would trim back the vegetation area, the point and inlet areas like they used to, if would give the birds a lot more of the original area they used to mate back many years ago. Matt Bean Front Royal, Va. I feel bad for the business owners and homeowners who rent their properties. Tourists who come down for the fishing and beach access will rethink their vacation plans. I hope this consent decree didn't just force an even worse economic slowdown to occur on the island. Cate West East Hampton, Conn. It appears that a small group of birds will bring down the economy of Hatteras Island. Perhaps a few politicians will get more involved if they were told that their salaries were being suspended due to lack of funding through decreased tax revenue from cancelled tourist vacations. Michael Grover Rodanthe Driving on the beach to your favorite spot is what makes a trip to the Outer Banks. It's a shame a few can ruin it for everybody else. Thomas Anderson Crystal Hill, Va. I bring my family, and we spend about $3,800 dollars a trip. A lot of that is on tackle, bait, and food. We do a lot of surf fishing and fishing at night. There are never too many rigs on the beach after 10 p.m. – only a few of us. I can't believe we have that much impact. No beach driving, no more trips. Maria Dawson Annapolis, Md. We the people who love Hatteras cannot give up. Look at the community that fought the outlying landing field. Let's stay on top of this. Can we appeal this or counter sue these so-called special groups. We finally got our entire family together for a week in June and now this. I am so angry. I hate to feel this way. Every summer was like going home to Hatteras to fish and drive on the beach. I'm tied of others getting into our business where they don't need to be. Let's not give up! Debbie Cooper Washington, N.C. I still think Judge Boyle caters to the special interest groups too much for him to seem to be unbiased in this matter. I have written others about his past record and can only hope that we who are most affected by this decision can get real justice somewhere. Johnnie Baum Frisco Reopening of Ocracoke’s Community Store I'm thrilled that the store is reopened! I've been coming to Hatteras and Ocracoke for at least the last 25 years and the store was definitely missed. Ocracoke is whole again! Sue Lattanzio Reading, Pa. Student Video on the Bonner Bridge We enjoyed viewing the students' video concerning the Bonner Bridge. It is a very creative production that I hope will have an impact on the decision to replace the bridge before a disaster occurs. As frequent visitors to the Outer Banks, we have had a concern as to the safety of the bridge for many years. We were there when the bridge was damaged and had to cross by ferry. What can a concerned out-of-state vacationer do to influence the decision makers? Don and Patti Simmons Ridgeley, W. Va. You've convinced me. Great job First Flight High. Where can I get a bridge sticker? Tonya Byrum Kill Devil Hills What a great video. Congratulations to the students on a job well done. Colleen Victor Hopwood, Pa. Great film! You get an A-plus from us! Where can we get those stickers? Jim and Paula Brown Baltimore, Md. New Letters to the Editor....05.05.2008 12:00 pm Beach Access Issues
Again, Island Free Press has done an outstanding job of keeping this issue factually before the public. Thank you very much. To say the least, the April 30 hearing in Raleigh was tremendously disappointing. After sitting through that fiasco of a one-hour hearing, I think its time to quit talking and to start legal action. It was very sad day for the beach-using public and the Outer Banks community. I am sure this is just the beginning of lots of litigation. Courts interpret and render opinions on the law. They do not run parks. Courts are established to protect the public interest, which did not happen on April 30. The judge acknowledged about five different times the need for public participation and review but then completely ignored public participation and input, let alone science-based facts. He signed off on what is essentially a federal regulation contracted between special interest environmental groups and the federal government where, in actuality, the federal government agrees to answer to two special interest groups for the next three years, forgetting about scientific facts and the needs and desires of the general public. The intervenors had no choice but to go along with the agreement or have the beach shut down completely. The court knew that and could have at least opened the settlement to include public hearings. I advise the following needs to be done. 1. Full control of the Park must be restored to the Park Service, which answers to the entire public and just not special interest groups. 2. Public comment and review must be demanded for all regulations related to beach access by ORV. 3. There must be the identification and hard review of the science of all technical content of the ORV management plan. Absence of fact is the root cause of the current problem. 4. There must be an analysis of trade-off and unintended consequence. For example, if ORVs cannot access the beach, where do they go or park. Then what? Thousands of people track through the fragile dunes and wreck ecosystems on their way to the beach? There are countless questions like this. 5. We need a full-blown economic analysis of the impact of this regulation. Dr. Mike Berry Chapel Hill Defenders of Wildlife and the National Audubon Society, represented by the Southern Environmental Law Center, need to get a clue and most of all get a life! David Rusevlyan Bath, N.C. My family has enjoyed Hatteras Island for almost 30 years, and my wife and I have owned property in Avon since 1997. Two of my sons have lived on Hatteras Island for periods of time. ORV use on the beaches to fish in areas like Cape Point and Hatteras Inlet are truly special. As a result of the processes leading up to and including the alleged "settlement,” I feel very personally violated and that something special has been taken from me. In my opinion, the National Park Service has been inept in meeting its responsibilities (both short- and long-term). Allegedly, the attorney representing the NPS was totally outclassed and unprepared. I also believe that these alleged "protectors of the environment," including the Southern Environmental Law Center, Defenders of Wildlife, and National Audubon Society, have longer term objectives and agendas that will continue to represent a real threat to the very economic survival of the area, including ultimately total restriction of ORV beach access (sooner rather than later) and continuing objection to replacing the Bonner Bridge over Oregon Inlet. Certainly emotions have been and will continue to be high. Certainly many people are affected and are losing something special that has become a way of life. Economic loss may well be significant, whether it relates to the viability of local businesses or declines in property values. A special thanks to Frank Folb and others who continue to lead the local effort for fairness and the rights of citizenry and visitors. I also fail to understand or comprehend the perspectives of Judge Boyle and the lack of responsiveness by the governor of North Carolina. Tom Trice Salisbury, Md. I am totally opposed to this "settlement", including, in particular, the restrictions on access for night fishing, and find the allowance of unrestricted expansion of restricted areas because of potential illegal or irreponsible actions of a few as being totally contrary to the "American Way" and individual rights. This "settlement" is unjust, perhaps illegal, and just plain wrong, and, in my opinion, must continue to be challenged both legislatively and in every way possible through whatever legal means are available. Many of us are fed up and sick and tired of various special interest groups hedging our freedoms, little by little. I have been surfing and fishing Hatteras beaches with an ORV for more than 40 years. It is part of my heritage. My younger sons and I have many fond memories of Hatteras vacations spent surfing and fishing. My oldest son, 29, is physically disabled and Hatteras is the only beach I can take him to by vehicle and put him in lawn chair and be able to pick him up so he can enjoy the beach and the ocean water in an inner tube. If they want to know special interest, have one of them set their butts into an electric wheelchair, tie their legs and one arm to it, and then tell them to go and enjoy whatever beach I can. This is a tragedy for our American life and beliefs. This type of government intervention at the hands of special interests is not what our forefathers envisioned. Ed Monroe Virginia Beach, Va. I would rather see no restrictions, but I can live with these. Ricky Holsclaw Elkin, N.C. See what happens when you use a government provided attorney? John Graham Chesapeake, Va. With regard to the following: The request to Murray to dismiss the environmental groups, said Rylander, is an “unnecessary and divisive delay tactic that will impede the work of the committee.” It is, in fact, the lawsuit brought by Rylander and the environmental groups that was unnecessary and divisive. These people must be removed from the negotiated rulemaking committee. In fairness, the environmental interests could still be represented but NOT by the individuals and groups that violated the rules in the first place by not negotiating in good faith, by bringing suit in violation of the process, and by their arrogance throughout the brief life of the committee. The Park Service must insist on new representation. Compromise is a word that is not in the vocabulary of Defenders of Wildlife. The Audubon Society is little better. Mr. Rylander is perhaps the biggest hypocrite of the bunch. Mike Murray, rid the scoundrels from your midst! Donald Delwiche Fairport, N.Y. My wife and I come down twice to three times a year -- seven hours each way -- because of unfettered beach access. My wife is an amateur astronomer, and we spend most of these evenings, sometimes through sunrise, with our truck and telescope on the beach. To discover that driving is not allowed on the beach at night 13 days before our next vacation is deflating! Glad this is happening before we made the unfortunate mistake of buying property on the Outer Banks. If what sets this area apart is taken away, I will (like others) be driving less and spending my money (about $5,000 per week) elsewhere. Please reconsider the ban on night-time driving. Ed Morton Charlottesville, Va. Why do the environmentalists always get their way and spoil something that people have been enjoying for centuries? Since they are mostly liberals, the following joke may help to explain their thought process. Do you know the difference between a Communist and a liberal? The Communist knows what he's doing! Glad the beaches are staying open, even if restricted. What a blow to your economy this could have been. We enjoy coming down in the fall and summer and might have changed our plans if the full ban had taken effect. Good luck to the negotiated rulemaking committee. Keep hanging in there. Nadine Culver Trappe, Md. I'm temporarily relieved that at least for the present, ORV access has only been reduced and restricted, not summarily shut down. I am, however, most disturbed about the future, having knowledge of the mindset of certain environmental groups that have no clue (beyond a computer monitor) about how huge ORV access is to so many locals and visitors, the vast majority of whom are responsible stewards of the Hatteras-Ocracoke seashore. Rick Neumann Bethesda, Md. I have been vacationing on the Outer Banks for more than 40 years. I, like all the year-round residents of the Banks, have noticed the drastic increase in ORV traffic on the beaches. In my opinion, what is worse than being too close to nesting birds and turtles is the sheer amount of traffic and the trash the people leave behind. I spend time every day picking up trash when I walk the beach. While I support protection of the wildlife on the Banks, as I'm sure most fishermen do, I think it is more important to limit the traffic on the beaches. By making the available beach space more restricted to ORVs, you are pushing the massive amounts of vehicles into a smaller space. From my last vacation there in May, 2007, I noticed more and more non-fishing people pulling up and parking for the day. It made fishing impossible because there were so many children in the water. I feel that beach access passes of $125 a week for non-residents would help cut down on the casual traffic on the beach. There are plenty of parking and walk-though areas available for swimming. I’m sure this will not be a popular suggestion. I would have no hesitation paying, if it will help curb the "Myrtle Beach" feeling on the beaches. Cindy Garren Spartanburg, S.C. At what point do we allow Darwin his say? Adapt or die -- that's nature's law and these ridiculous birds clearly cannot adapt. Why should so many people be lose their incomes, businesses, and summer retreats to protect an animal too stupid to move away from the open areas where they are easy prey for any number of predators - and none of them are Fords. Paul Pantano Old Bridge, N.J. First, although I do not live on Hatteras Island, I have been going there since the late 1950s. I also have always driven the beach for fishing and surfing. With my family, I also own a trailer that we keep on a campground lot year-round in Buxton. I do not see anywhere in the decree if you can go out on the beach in an ORV during the day and then just park and camp and fish for the night. It seems to me as long as the ORV was not driven that would be fine. Also what about in a emergency, such as someone driving in an ORV to get back off the beach before curfew and it gets stuck out on the beach after the nightly curfew because of injury, ORV breakdown, or just getting stuck? What happens then? This will happen because ORVs break down, and especially since the only place to drive is down near the water on the tide line. In fact, all of us who drive the beach know that driving all the way down near the water below the tide line is not a smart idea. Many more people will get stuck and what if this happens with an incoming tide right near curfew time? Will a tow vehicle be allowed on the beach after curfew to pull the stuck ORV out or will the stuck ORV have to be left to the incoming tide and destroyed? There are many other scenarios that would lead to the same thing, such as a medical emergency right near curfew. As you know, this plan is nothing more than the first step to complete beach closure of all the seashore beaches in Dare County to all human activities except those "approved" by these extremist wildlife groups. I think we all need to hire the most politically connected law firm and take any and all legal means to challenge this judge and these extremist wildlife groups on every legal front. This includes taking all legal means to limit or eliminate all donations to these wildlife groups, including public advertising in major donor areas and putting all legal pressure on lawmakers who take any donations from any of these groups. Also, we should challenge on all legal fronts the obvious prejudice that this judge has for these wildlife groups. Finally we need to pursue the legal fact that when the land on Hatteras Island was signed over to the federal government, the agreement was that beach access would always and forever be free and open. It is not under this agreement. Willie Munden Williamsburg, Va. Is it just us or is the National Park Service beach access report complicated? Looks like we will need a Park Service guide when we walk on the beach! Ann Ianuario Jefferson, Ga. I suppose this settlement is a whole lot better than it could have been. There is no way we would ever even consider not going to Hatteras at least once during the year. If there are fees imposed, permits to obtain or whatever, then those will be figured in to our budget no matter what. As long as there is still communications taking place, then a ray of hope still exists. People that are canceling vacations need to realize they could be playing into the hands of the three environmental groups. There is still a lack of information reaching the public unless they try to look for it. Word of mouth and forwarding The Island Free Press Web site seems to work the best in this conservative area of Richmond. Please don't give up this worthwhile effort, as I believe that as the weather changes and the season begins, more visitors will become involved and hopefully open their wallets to help pay legal expenses or whatever it takes to stay on track. Thanks for all you are doing. Jill Marshall Ashland, Va. For the many years, my family and I have come to the Outer Banks, and we have always respected the pristine area and restrictions for the birds and turtles. Keeping ORV in the OBX is necessary for the economy. Not allowing ORV access to continue will greatly affect how the residents live. The area needs to keep the tourists coming during the season, so that the people who live there can survive through the winter. We have always thought we were very fortunate to come down Highway 12 and enjoy the beauty and quietness of Hatteras Island. There is nothing like going to the beach in our four-wheel drives and spending hours fishing, playing and relaxing. Keep it open. Betty Herring Aylett, Va. What a shame. This will eventually put a hurting on Outer Banks recreational fishing. I am not going to spend a lot of money, gas, etc. in North Carolina. I'll take that hard earned money, buy a boat, and fish the Chesapeake Bay. I have spent a lot of money in North Carolina over the last 25 years. What a shame -- thanks to the judge and his bird-loving friends and Toyota for putting up $20 million. Johnny Huffman Richmond, Va. Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station opens for the 2008 season I had the opportunity to participate in a breeches buoy re-enactment at the lifeboat station back in the early ‘90s while serving as executive petty officer of Hatteras Inlet Station. The Life-Saving Service was one of the foundation blocks of the U.S. Coast Guard, which I was proud to serve for over 20 years. These historical buildings must be preserved lest we not forget the significant history of the Outer Banks Life-Saving Services and the roles played for those who "had to go out, but didn't have to return." Steve Thompson Ellsworth, Maine Homecoming: A return to Portsmouth Island This is a beautiful presentation of Portsmouth Island. I was a Coastie in the ‘60s and used to visit Portsmouth Island when stationed on Hatteras Island. Really touching. Rod Tozour Beachwood, N.J. New Letters to the Editor....05.01.2008 11:00 am Beach Access Issues I think it's a shame that the future of the entire population of the islands hinges on the whims of the National Audubon Society and the rulings of a federal judge. The livelihood of everybody on Hatteras Island is tied into the fishing/tourism industry. They might as well force them to leave their homes by government mandate. I have visited the OBX for 25 years. Everyone who fishes knows the friendships made in just one day on The Point, or wherever, are endless and rewarding. Plus the pristine beauty of the seashore could be lost to firsthand observance by our future generations. We must all join together and agree on a plan to protect the islanders and our right to enjoy what nature put here for us. I know my next trip will include joining the North Carolina Beach Buggy Association, the Outer Banks Preservation Association, or both. Maybe stricter policing of litter, irresponsible driving (on the beach), and fishing licenses, could help protect the wildlife and keep proper ORV use intact. Hatteras is now known to many as the "Fishing Capital of the East Coast.” Let's keep it that way instead of seeing the island become a ghost town like Portsmouth Island. In fact, let the National Audubon Society capture these "precious" birds and relocate them to Portsmouth and Cedar Island. Not a sermon, just a thought." Glenn Poston Winchester, Va. In the chart for closure violations (in the Park Service weekly resource management report), it would be nice to know what reason pedestrians are giving for being inside closure areas – shell hunting, bird watching, etc. If we knew this, maybe we could stop violations by pointing out signage and warning signs in a friendly manner. The result may be fewer violations that will be used against ORV operators. Alexander Brody Buxton I served in the Coast Guard at the old Oregon Inlet and Buxton stations in the ‘60s and have been in the environmental field for over 30 years. I frequently visit Hatteras and enjoy and respect my rights to drive, fish, and surf on the beach. I have to say that these radical environmental groups -- Defenders of Wildlife and the National Audubon Society and the Southern Environmental Law Center -- are out to destroy all of our rights and ruin the lives of the good people of Hatteras. It is time that we unite and file our own lawsuit against them. Rod Tozour Beachwood, N.J. I write this letter with a heavy heart and great concern. I've just learned of the proposed injunction against off-road-vehicles (ORVs) on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. My first thought was: I can't get a refund back on the house I just rented there in May. My second thought was: Would I even consider going in May if I could not access the beach? I don't know the answer to that one. But I do know that if an injunction against beach driving is implemented, the May trip may very well be my last. The child-like excitement, anticipation, and appeal for this area would be gone for me. My husband and I are enthusiastic, dedicated, environmentally-responsible fisher-persons. (No, we don't catch a lot, but there's no prettier place to be when the fish aren't biting.) You could say our whole year revolves around the few weeks we spend on the Outer Banks. Last year we spent three weeks at Ocracoke. This year, two trips are already planned with talk of a third in October. These are not cheap trips for us. Besides the cost of owning a four-wheel-drive vehicle year round, there's all the fishing gear, state required licenses and related items that one must have to go to this special place in North Carolina. In addition to that, during our stay on the island, our accommodations, meals, bait and tackle, groceries and other purchases can run us well over $2,000 per trip. This is income from just one ORV visit going directly into the economy of this small village. Until we discovered the Outer Banks, we had never spent that much on a single vacation! But the desire to be back on those lovely shores makes cutting back elsewhere easy and as soon as we return home, we start dreaming of our next trip. To show you our exaggerated enthusiasm for this area, we live 3 1/2 hours from the beach in South Carolina. But yet, we drive 12 hours one way three times a year just to get to the Outer Banks and its unique beauty and atmosphere. The draw for us is fishing this remote, edge-of-the-Earth setting. As lovely as Ocracoke is, we would probably never return to this area again if beach access is denied. The charm and enjoyment for us centers around fishing on the beach. And there are many others that feel the same. The fishermen we've met during our trips come from every walk of life. All of them have exhibited the greatest respect for this fragile strip of sand. We all realize that the only things we should leave on the beach are our tracks and our hearts. The wildlife in this area, whether in the sea, on land, or in the air, is observed from afar and enjoyed while we are there and treasured in pictures when we are back home. It's the whole package that makes this place so unique and wonderful to so many. None of us wants to be responsible for causing irreversible damage to a place we dream of daily. We hold our breath and hope Mother Nature won't either. If the injunction is implemented, I see an end to a long, treasured tradition for those that travel there to fish these sacred waters -- and a true threat to those that depend on that income to keep them and their island alive and well. Even a short period of injunction will be detrimental when you consider most annual income on this island is earned in only seven to eight months. Pat and Art Mullinax Lyman, S.C . I thought I would just express my opinion here. For the last few months, all of us here on Hatteras Island have been screaming to the world about our issues with the ORV access. While I am one of those who has been screaming and preaching doom and gloom, it has come to me that maybe we are hurting ourselves now by doing so. We are losing renters and vacationers left and right because they think that we have NO beach access and NO driving privileges at all. We all know that is not true. Yes, we have to humble ourselves just a bit and abide by the rules and regulations that the Park Service has to enforce. But if you think about the big picture, it is really no different from what it was, except the ropes extend more. These are subject to change at any time due to nesting. Permits and fishing license and regulated times of driving on the beach are difficult to swallow for a lot of us. I am not happy about any of this either, but now I think it is the time to encourage our vacationers (supporters) to come, and let them know that all is not lost. They are misunderstanding our pleas, and we need to let them know that they can still enjoy our beaches and still have driving on the beach. They just have to follow the rules as they would in any other park in the states. This is not a give-up attitude that I am conveying. It’s just that we need to salvage our summer season the best we can and hope and pray that we can all have a successful season and have faith that all will turn out okay in the end. Beth Bailey Hatteras My family spends more than $10,000 yearly vacationing on Hatteras Island. This will probably be our last year. Without the ORV access, there is no reason to come back. We will miss the fishing trips. Good luck renting all of those high-dollar houses to the environmentalists! One plus may be that the lines will be shorter at the grocery stores. Looks like you will need to build a lot of parking lots along the beaches. The dunes and nests will probably be ruined by everyone hiking over them to reach the beach. Personally, I think Mother Nature is much more harmful to the beach wildlife than ORV access. Mike Miller Owings, Md. There are so many things wrong with the way that this was done, but I don't have the time or the space to write a novel. I am a policeman and have been so for 25-plus years. There is one section that really concerns me where if something happens to one of the animals or mammals in question then the following will happen. Right away, without an investigation to find out who, what, when and where, we are going to blame the incident on the ORV operators and then enlarge the restricted area. Why would we not investigate to find out what happened and prosecute the person or persons who committed the act? This would be like someone having their ORV damaged because of the restrictions in place, and we go and penalize the whole special interest group not caring which one of them did the damage. Also where is the National Park Service going to get all the personnel to track these birds and reset the restrictions on the beach? It just seems that we as citizens always have to cater to the special interest groups. These special interest groups are not just causing grief for the ORV users, but they are affecting people’s livelihood. They are affecting the people who live and work on the Outer Banks. I hunt and fish, and I know wildlife is important. But are we giving more attention to the wildlife than we are people in real need. Thank you for your time. And, yes, I am at this time still planning to come to the Outer Banks this October to fish using my ORV. Terry Halsel Harrington, Del. Some of the judge's questions just seem ridiculous. Qualification for driving on the beach? Please! That would be like the snow belt states setting up a qualification for visitors from the sun belt states for driving in the snow, which is very similar to driving on sand. One of the most helpful pieces of literature I have picked up is from the NCBBA providing instructions on driving on the OBX beaches, and I have followed them for eight years of driving on the beach. I will be there in October and look forward to driving to the Point and further educate my niece, nephew, and granddaughter on true environmentalism. Michael Porter Indianapolis, Ind. I can't even imagine not being able to drive and fish on the beach at Hatteras or Ocracoke. This situation is repulsive, and I wouldn't support the Audubon Society if my life depended on it. This is a classic example of left-wing environmentalists obtaining exactly what they want -- closure of all the beaches. Rick Lewis Quinton, Va. This whole process is sickening. ORVs have been on the Outer Banks for decades. Where is the evidence that ORV use has destroyed habitat? The buffer zone sizes are absurd! What happens if bird and turtle populations don't improve? What happens if they do? Will any of this ever be reversed? I live in New Jersey, where Canada geese are “protected.” With the changes in the weather (mild winters), they are now resident, not migratory. Their population has exploded, and our ballfields and parks are awash in their excrement. There is little we can do about it. I will never contribute a dime to the National Audubon Society for their heavy-handed tactics. Courts should not be used for this purpose. David Jones Ramsey, N.J. Birds are killed everyday on the roads by cars. Are we supposed to close all the highways? I saw a turkey on the parkway that was hit by a car. Why aren't the tree huggers doing something about that? Mark Morgan Roanoke, Va. Well, this closing of the beach vehicle access is already affecting us. We rent our cottage, and so far we have had two families cancel out their weeks because of the closing of vehicle access to the beaches. I can only imagine the impact on the families whose livelihoods depend on tourists. Diana Rountree Carrollton, Va. I think the National Park Service, the locals, and the vacationers using the beach with their ORVs have done a great job respecting the wildlife and their habitats, and I am disappointed that a judge and out-of-state organizations feel they can better control what was already being handled in what I feel was a successful partnership between National Park Service and ORV users. We have been visiting Hatteras Island for almost 10 years, and I am saddened that outsiders felt the need to stick their nose in something that was already going well. All sea turtle nesting areas and bird areas were always clearly marked, and people respected the signs without any outsiders telling them what to do. Angie Sieber Lititz, Pa. My family has been visiting and enjoying the Outer Banks since 1992. We live about two hours from the beaches of New Jersey but would rather drive the 7 1/2 hours it takes to get to the Outer Banks. We do that for a reason and that is there is no place quite like the Outer Banks. As one reads the consent decree, one quickly comes to the conclusion that this judge displayed absolute disregard for his job, which is to interpret laws, not to make them. How can a federal district judge be allowed to make policy? The last time I checked Congress made federal laws, not judges. To the great people of the Outer Banks, our thoughts are with you. As a family, we may be forced to think about vacationing elsewhere. It truly breaks my heart to think about that since I have come to feel at home in the OBX even though I live 400 miles away. To Judge Boyle and the special interest groups, I say, “I hope you can look yourselves in the mirror and feel good about what you're doing. If you can, then you live in a fantasy world, not the real one with real people who will be directly affected by what you have done.” The sad part is I think they just don't care about real people. They just want to get their way like a spoiled child. Jim McGettigan Lansdale, Pa. This so called settlement is unfair and ridiculous. Where was the public’s opinion in all of this? I live in Virginia and spend a great deal of time and money on Hatteras Island. Our favorite spot is Cape Point and that has been robbed from us. I feel like I have had a death in the family. Who are these people anyway? And what gives them the right to take away one of the few things that cause so much enjoyment in so many peoples’ lives? Kim Bear Disputanta, Va. I am part of a group of 15 that rents a Buxton house ($3,200 per week) and spends another $ 1,000 per person per week on our vacation there. We have been doing this since the early 1980s. If we cannot access the beach with our vehicles, which we operate responsibly, we will not be making annual trips there. This would be very disheartening to both the adults and the children in our group. The beach areas in the Outer Banks are child-safe for us, and this is why we return year after year (even though many of the kids are grown). Kevin Persinger Clifton Forge, Va. It is unfortunate that we have allowed 26 years to pass without a proper ordinance regarding ORV use at the Outer Banks. It is even more unfortunate that these special interest groups have nothing better to do than ensure that the residents and visitors of this state cannot enjoy its resources at our own discretion. The fact of the matter is that hunters and fishermen were the first environmentalists, and after the smoke clears, we will be last ones standing. Toyota's contributions to the Audubon Society have ensured that I will never spend a penny on their products. John Hatley Huntersville, N.C. I’m sorry, but I still have the same opinion as I did in the beginning – that we (defenders of the public rights) have already compromised enough. There are already multiple locations blocked every year for the sea turtles and plovers. In addition, I find it amazing that the federal government would even consider a plover’s or turtle’s home over the local peoples’ homes. And I find it hard to respect and follow the laws that the government lays out for us when they can’t even abide by their own agreements. I guess that goes to say that the government’s policy is “Do as I say, not as I do.” I hope when this is all over that the devastation isn’t so great that the island can no longer exist, except in the summer months. Who knows, though? If it comes to that, maybe Judge Boyle’s conscience will let him know the trouble he and his “friends” have caused on of the most beautiful locations in the USA. God Bless America. Amanda Farrow Frisco This letter is to all of my fellow fishermen, beachcombers, and, most importantly, all of the friends and businesses that my family and I have patronized for the past 30 years. I will truly be sorry for all of my old friends who have to close their businesses and lose their livelihoods because of this settlement, if you can call it that. That is what this decree will do. These regulations are preposterous, to say the least. Now I hope these people will sue the automotive industry to prevent innocent birds from being hit by cars driving on our highways, or perhaps they could sue the human race for excess carbon dioxide production. Sounds absurd, doesn’t it? Don't put it past these zealots. They won’t stop until we can see our beloved Outer Banks only from the sky or a picture. We cannot let them run us off the beaches. James McConnell Richmond, Va. This is an agreement that will only get worse and worse down the road. Fishing is a freedom I have always enjoyed and cherished. It’s sad to be losing a beautiful beach. This will hurt North Carolina, the Outer Banks, and mainly the people of Hatteras Island. I am 45 years old and have been fishing on the island all my life. I will visit but not as much as before. Money is getting tight. If I am going to spend, I want to enjoy --and enjoy the freedom of fishing with my toes in the sand. John A. Huffman Richmond, Va. We have been visitors to Hatteras for more than 20 years and my family owned a home in the area for much of my youth. I now bring my own family to the shores of Hatteras. I was appalled when I hear that environmentalists want to eliminate any sort of human contact with the shore. My mother-in-law is physically handicapped, and since we have been bringing her with us to Hatteras, she has actually been able to enjoy a beach vacation. Her limited mobility made it impossible for her to do much of anything, and by driving her onto the beach, we were able to give her the vacation she had been dreaming of. Our family has always been very respectful of the beach, beach-goers and wildlife, and we have always been treated respectfully by other visitors enjoying the beach. We have never driven in protected areas, which in all my years have always been roped off and inaccessible, and we have never attempted to interact with or harm any of the wildlife or plants. It scares me that the best vacation spot on earth could be lost, and our children will not be able to experience the island the way we always have. We are visiting the "Banks" in eight days for our yearly vacation (which we work hard for, and look forward to all year), and we hope that the vacation traditions our family has enjoyed will be preserved. The idea of paying a fee to drive on the beach sounds reasonable to our family, and it is better than finding a new vacation spot because if beach driving is banned, that is what we will be doing! The Welch Family Morgantown, W.Va. Homecoming: A return to Portsmouth Island My husband and I have belonged to Friends of Portsmouth Island for over 15 years. This homecoming was the most meaningful one yet. It was wonderful to see all the folks in attendance. The restoration of the lifesaving station was inspiring along with the continuing work which has been done to other buildings on the island. I would like to thank everyone who had a part in the planning and carrying out of the homecoming. Linda Hall Henderson, N.C. Thank you very much for the wonderful coverage of the 2008 Portsmouth Island Homecoming. Our goal was to "Honor the Lifesavers" and feature the refurbished Portsmouth Life-Saving Station. We also wanted to give the families of Portsmouth a chance to meet and become reacquainted and allow others new to Portsmouth a chance to experience this wonderful place. I think we accomplished all of our goals with much hard work from the National Park Service and Friends of Portsmouth Island members. A special thanks goes to today's modern lifesavers, the U.S. Coast Guard for their participation. Ed Burgess President Friends of Portsmouth Island Burlington, N.C. My daddy was commanding officer of the Coast Guard Station when it was de-commissioned in 1937. I completed the fourth, fifth, and sixth grades with Mrs. Mary Dixon as my teacher. Some of the best memories of my life are those I have of Portsmouth Island and the people. Troy Morris, Jr. Morehead City, N.C . I enjoyed reading and seeing the pictures about the homecoming. I lived in the Tom Gilgo house and wanted to attend the homecoming but could not make it this time. I'm looking forward to the 2010 Homecoming. Paul Gilgo Walkertown, N.C. Thanks to Don and Anne Bowers for going all the way to Portsmouth and for the great story and slide show! Erik Watson Hatteras We were fortunate enough to be invited to the Portsmouth Homecoming 2008 event. Our Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station Historic Site was asked to bring our Beach Apparatus Drill Team, which we did. We also were able to involve today's Coast Guard more fully, with remarks from Lt. Cdr. Dave Obermeier, a USCG Color Guard, and the spectacular finale with the C-130 flyover. But my point is this: Yes, we were there and we saw and we experienced. But the writing by Anne Bowers and the photography by her husband, Don, in the accompanying slide-show, were equally spectacular. Through their different media, they both perfectly captured the exact essence of the day, the event, the significance. I write this as a compliment not only to the artistic merits, but the journalistic accuracy as well. Well done, Team Bowers! James Charlet Chicamacomico Historic Site Manager Rodanthe Thank you for the great coverage given to a special day. My husband lived on Portsmouth Island until school age when his family had to move to Cedar Island. I can now forward your coverage to our families and friends. Pat Gilgo Beaufort, N.C. It must have been a wonderful day if the pictures are any indication. Tony Pierce Macon, Ga. Precious Memories I have loved every single story of Buddy Swain’s, but this last one, “Going to Heaven,” was the best. I hope he will write some more stories because they are priceless. Thank you, Buddy, for the wonderful memories. Anile Bibbey Hatteras Guest Column: An open letters to juniors and seniors Cliff, what a story you tell. Carl was lucky to have you as a friend. Your story will touch people and make them think before they make one bad decision. Kathy Freeborn West Grove, Pa. I was at the party. I was at the emergency room with about 50 or so classmates when we learned that it was true that Carl died. I saw the hurt in my mother's eyes the next morning when I told her what happened. She considered everyone in our school a son and daughter. Seeing my Mom hurt so badly, I just could not imagine the hurt Carl's parents were experiencing. Billy Hill Bath, N.C. Coastguardsman gets medal for ocean rescue Thanks to Erik Watson for his selfless actions in the finest tradition of the rescue stations on the North Carolina coastline. Jim and Paula Brown Baltimore, Md. |
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