March 2009 Letters to the Editor |
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New Letters to the Editor....03.30.2009 10:35 am
Beach Access Issues Let’s write President Obama. Needed now: 1,000 e-mails to President Obama requesting help to keep our beaches open. Below is his contact page. Click and write. http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/ What I wrote: Mr. President, please help the people of Hatteras and Ocracoke islands, N.C., by rescinding the Richard Nixon edict that limits our beach access. We are now living under an unfair and unjust law called a consent decree that violates the promise made to us by the government never to stop us from accessing the beach. Please help us. Dewey Parr Buxton I appreciate all your effort at providing interesting and responsible journalism at The Island Free Press. Your inspirational story about the Ocracoke woman, Marcy Brenner, portrayed in "Dead Girl Walking" was wonderful. I knew Marcy when she lived in Kitty Hawk, and she is a remarkable woman. Thanks for telling her story. I know, too, that you provide other valuable insight and information to your community and constituency through your reporting. My family and ancestors have been on the Outer Banks for hundreds of years as fishermen, guides, homemakers, conservationists, game wardens and renegades, tourism and real estate related business people, so I have a broad feel for the depths of the human and environmental connection that bind our local culture. I can see merit in the concerns of all involved in the ORV issue on the Outer Banks, and I commend your efforts to give representation to all parties involved. Knowing that this is a very difficult and sensitive issue, where persons' livelihood, culture, and tradition are seemingly at odds with the preservation and existence of wildlife and the environment, I would imagine that it is very difficult to find the delicate balance of responsible reporting. I do have a special love and affinity for this place-- this place on the coastal edge-- a sense of place that goes beyond the people to include all life and the physical geography that draw all of us to reside and visit here. As a lifelong resident and concerned citizen of the Outer Banks, I wonder if you read, in the North Carolina section of The Virginian-Pilot last week, the article about the "State of the Birds" report that was published by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. It is a very concise and thoughtful report about the human and environmental dilemma. So in the spirit of balanced reporting, would you please review this link for your own information and consider providing it to your readers, so they may better understand why the National Park Service is trying to do a better job of balancing the human access vs. bird protection issue in Cape Hatteras National Seashore? The "state of the birds" is also a story about the "state of mankind." The link is www.stateofthebirds.org Thanks so much. Amy Wells Kitty Hawk, N.C. How do you expect to collect moneys from saltwater fisherpeople when the National Park Service won’t let people on the beaches of the Outer Banks? Barry White Tuckerton, N.J. I hate the fact that the beaches the government keeps closing are the only ones I care to visit. There are two places I have always loved to fish – Hatteras Inlet and Buxton Point. It’s almost as if they are just targeting the fishing areas for closure and leaving the swimming areas open. I can’t believe that anyone in the U.S. can make a law that would keep a person from walking along the beach any where, any time. If you want to rope off areas of nests, that’s fine, but to close areas at the tide line to stop passage is crap. Richard Altizer Williamsburg, Va. Negotiated rulemaking Now the park is going to more than likely end up with a permit program, limiting access. The committee would have been most productive with true conservation-minded members -- use and NOT abuse. There are many bad examples to look at, such as the Canada goose. They are now a nuisance, as is the white tail deer in my area, and others too numerous to mention. Teddy Roosevelt had the correct ideas and the example should have been used. Keith A. Greenawalt Connelsville, Pa. Resource Closure violations Here we go again! It’s either a hot-head showing his contempt for the consent decree, or someone expanding the buffers on purpose. Whichever it is, I feel like I'm in kindergarten again -- everyone in the class being subjected to punishment for the actions of one individual. It's just one of the many aspects of the consent decree that makes my blood boil! What's to stop someone who opposes ORV access in our recreation area from doing this to have the buffers expanded and our access diminished even more than it already is? On the other hand, if it is an individual who is upset with the closures, they need to realize that they're just making it worse for everyone else! In any case, it needs to stop. Mike Stokes Kill Devil Hills I say when they find out who it is they need to not only fine them but confiscate all of their fishing equipment and also make them forfeit their truck that they did the damage with. Terry Helsel Harrington, Del. Here we go again -- punishing the uninvolved for the misdeeds of the unidentified. To repeat - this is so reminiscent of the Nazi Gestapo in Europe of the ‘30s. Keep shooting innocent hostages until the sabotage ceases. It's interesting that Mike Murray has interpreted this to be not merely vandalism or protest, but a deliberate attempt to restrict our access to the beach. Now, who would want such a thing? Why, of course, our environmentalist plaintiffs! Is there no means to oppose this irrationality? No injunction, no countersuit, no effective coalition? Fred Westervelt Ocracoke First and foremost, personally, I believe that the closures are illegal. The beaches were set aside as a national park for the people of the United States. How can certain business groups and wildlife activists act to change an act of Congress. Where was the judge in his thinking process in this whole mess? To the matter at hand, vandalism of government property is an act of cowardice. I challenge anyone to dispute this. If you feel this strongly and cannot control yourself, you should be prosecuted to the fullest extent. As a former Marine, I believe in civic obedience. I understand the frustration and anger, as I too feel it. Yet destroying public property is nothing less than what the banks and some major corporations have done to the taxpayer. Joe Rioux Midlothian, Va. “This deliberate act of vandalism is contemptible and appears to be aimed at reducing access for the many park visitors who do comply with park regulations,” Murray said. I know Mr. Murray cannot say publicly without any proof, but is he privately starting to suspect people sympathetic to the environmentalist cause and not those of us who enjoy fishing, surfing or just sitting on the beach? His statement leads me to believe just that. Michael Porter Indianapolis, Ind. Here we go again. Innocent people are being punished because of the unfair law called the consent decree. Fifty meters of the Ocracoke beach is being closed because someone broke two signs. It doesn't make sense that anyone who wants to keep the beaches open did it. Maybe the Park Service needs to check those in its own ranks to be sure that someone on their staff is not looking the other way or encouraging all these acts of vandalism. Strange that they keep happening, and no one is ever caught, yet if a poor little tourist happens to accidentally step inside a bird enclosure, they are immediately caught and fined. The National Park has stated it is happy with the consent decree, so they should provide necessary enforcement to see to it that there are no violations. I would suggest they put their employees on around the clock duty to see to it that we the people are no longer punished for their inability to protect us from the vandals. We the public have a right to demand that Superintendent Mike Murray see to it that our economy is not further destroyed because he is unable to stop those who would violate the law. If he is not able to do it, then we need to petition the government to get someone in here that can do the job. Dewey Parr Buxton Does it annoy anyone else that the terms of the consent decree mean that any DOW or anti-closure person can go out to the beach, violate the closure area, and cause it to be extended? They have been handed free reign to extend the closure area anywhere they want. Perhaps that is what happened here? Evan Hockenberger Raleigh, N.C. The area that was violated was already so close to the ocean that it is blatantly obvious to someone like myself who has used this area for the last 25 years. This was a calculated move by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife and National Park Service resource group to close South Point on Ocracoke Island as quick as possible. Why don't we have a 500 feet corridor to the ocean to drive on? There would still be acres and acres of closed off flats as there have been for several years now. What a bummer to know that folks who don't even use our beaches are drawing imaginary boundaries and miniature bird sancuaries to ultimately close our beaches. Very sad. Randal Mathews Ocracoke Cape Cod National Seashore ban on kiteboarding Is there any doubt that there are groups of people out there that don't want others to do anything that they see as unnecessary, undesirable, or have no interest in? This is just the beginning, and it is going to continue for a long time. The more you give in, the more they are going to want. And if a group in one part of the country gets their way, it will spread. What happens at CHNS will spread throughout the OBX and beyond. For now it is the fishermen and beach driving. I think it is clear that some will not ever be satisfied. No matter who you are, where you are, or what your interests are, some are going to say you are a threat to something and move to eliminate you from the equation. I have always been a lover of nature and its creatures and have tried to live in harmony with them, helping them when ever I can (with the exception of a few). I feel there is need for rules and regulation with enforcement. However, I also feel that nature’s creatures are very capable of adapting to the extent of allowing we humans to continue, with due consideration, many activities which we enjoy. All we seem to hear is the word "BAN." I think therein lies the problem. Ron Saunders Virginia Beach and Kill Devil Hills s Bodie Island spit owned by the Park Service – or not? Boy, you are just full of interesting news. What a fascinating proposition. Could open up some great discussion. You say one of the "owners" is or was a fisherman. Wonder whose side he would be on in the battle for access? I would think that it could be argued that some right to access would be in order. Again, very interesting. Keep up the good reporting. Ron Saunders Virginia Beach and Kill Devil Hills Outer Banks Angling Congratulations on a great day. Awesome story. Jodie Gray Hampstead, N.C. Cancer Foundation spring dance So much fun! Well worth $50 and for the best of causes. This is a highly recommended event. Monica Jones Buxton Home makeover: Hatteras style What goes around, comes around -- the law of reciprocity. This is what our community is all about. Our people may not be rich monetarily. They give in abundance through their productivity, an act of kindness and love here and there. Even though our contractors are hurting for work and have very little money to put food on the table for their families, they still found that helping someone in need is what will give back to them 100 fold. Way to go folks. I'm proud of all of you. Great job. Anita Bills Frisco Nicky Bibbey’s new loom What a beautiful gesture on behalf of the students. Your parents should be very proud. Working with the special need children with autism for 26 years it is always nice to hear a great story. Good luck to Nicky, I am also very proud of you. Martha Pongrac Forked River, N.J. Anglers Club Fishing Tournament coverage It's always nice to read about fishing on the island. Being a native of the island for 32 years, it's hard to be away from what I've grown to love! I'm a contractor in Iraq and miss our island dearly and the fishing that goes hand in hand with growing up there. As a kid I was a member of the Anglers Club, and to this day, I still root for the Sandfiddlers in the tournaments! The rich traditions of taking kids fishing is what it's really all about! To those members who took the time for me, thank you! P.J Williams Buxton New Letters to the Editor....03.23.2009 8:20 am Beach Access Issues As a non-resident property owner who has been coming to Hatteras Island for nearly 40 years, this whole topic of beach access has been a real stressor. And today, March 21, I saw two of my former rental customers state in your letters section that they will not be returning to the island. Well, that just takes the cake! The Audubon Society and Defenders of Wildlife seem to be in the “game” only for the power trip. The national seashore was set up as a recreational area for people! Chuck Allison Avalon, N.J. “Our goal is to eliminate the use of lead ammunition and lead fishing tackle in parks by the end of 2010,” said Acting National Park Service Director Dan Wenk in a media release. “We want to take a leadership role in removing lead from the environment.” However, the media release from NPS in Washington, D.C., was headlined, “National Park Service Gets the Lead Out!” and called it a reason for visitors to the parks and for wildlife to “celebrate." Lord have mercy! No sinkers? What the hell is going on in D.C. these days? I tell you, I'm thinking revolution. I'm thinking sovereign Republic of Ocracoke. I'm thinking "reason to celebrate" and D.C. be damned. Enjoy your weekend while you can. Who knows what's next? A ban on humans who aren't blessed with feathers or fins? Oh, for heaven's sake! Ben Spain Tarboro The kitesurfing ban on Cape Cod is terrible new to hear! Kitesurfing has little to no environmental impact to the beaches we use. There are lots of other things they could focus on -- like sewage and fuel oil that goes into the waters, among other things. What a shame to hear about Cape Cod. My heart goes out to all the kiters up there. Unite and fight back against these annoying tree huggers! Andrew J. McGee Hampton, Bays, N.Y. As a visitor to Hatteras, I love the place and I love the people. To all the lawmakers out there who are making unjust laws preventing Hatterasmen, Trenters, Kinnakeeters, Ocracokers, etc. from living as fishermen, clammers, oystermen, crabbers, etc., and to all those same cowards who hide in politically correct piping ploverland, give us a break! We’ve seen your act. It gets old real fast. Come up with some new material or something. After the flood, God told Noah, “The fear and dread of you will fall upon all the beasts of the earth and all the birds of the air, upon every creature that moves upon the ground, and upon all the fish of the sea; they are given into your hands. Everything that lives and moves will be food for you. Just as I gave you the green plants, I now give you everything.” The Book of Genesis, Chapter 9, Verses 2 and 3. Michael Letso Chadwick Beach, N.J. My grandfather brought me to Cape Hatteras to surf fish the first time in '71. My family and I have carried on that tradition every year since. I grew up in the Pittsburgh area but feel as much an Outer Banker as I do a Pittsburgher. That’s what it's all about in the end -- preserving all of our traditions. I believe there is more than enough room for birds and people. I don't believe any of the fishermen who care about tradition would do anything to hurt the place they love. It seems some people care more about having their own ideas of what a national park should be than what this area was set aside for in the first place -- for the use of the people of this county. When we drive down to vacation, I tell my children about the long tradition of our family coming here and those who have passed away that loved it so. If the minority can impose their will out of ignorance and intolerance and they take away beach access, they are ruining a very special place. When I married, my wife her family had always vacationed at Ocean City, Md. I went once. Please don't make me have to go there again. Thomas Dodds Martinsburg, W.Va. This entire issue is yet another example of a tiny minority of extremists leading the sane majority around by a nose ring with the help of corrupt liberal judges. It is nothing less than tragic that the entire economy of a thriving recreation area such as our beloved Hatteras Island can be destroyed by uninformed, over zealous bullies who refuse to come to a reasonable compromise on these environmental concerns. We have enjoyed Hatteras Island annually since 1972. We have watched the growth and development through the years, and, yes, there are always going to be a few clowns who don't know how to act. However, for the sake of a few clowns who could easily be brought to fair and reasonable punishment, the other 99.9 percent of good and responsible vacationers are the ones paying a penalty we do not deserve. Sabra Kovalscik Grassy Meadows, W.Va. Outer Banks Angling: A new column by Rob Alderman So glad to see Rob Alderman in The Island Free Press. Just from coming every year, we have gotten to know Rob and he is a great guy and fisherman -- lots of great tips from him. Don and Sondra Wolff Pittsburgh, Pa. My son and I fish off beach here at Atlantic Beach, N.C. and can’t wait for water to warm up a little. We have been at the beach for last couple of weeks, but no luck. Looking forward to hitting Outer Banks soon. Save us some drum. Mitchell Brazie Beaufort, N.C. Extreme Makeover: Hatteras-style This story is an example of how blessed Hatteras Island is. It’s very moving and beautiful. How willful our community can be. Sharon Kennedy Buxton Friends of Felines’ first annual Spay Days I enjoyed reading about your residents' trap/neuter/return efforts. It's a much more humane way to control the population of feral cats than "catch and kill." We have a FFF group here in Charlotte, and I'm thrilled to have their help for the group of abandoned cats that live in my apartment complex. Through their efforts, the cats are not only neutered, but also vaccinated against rabies. We moved here in 2003, and I started feeding one or two on my patio. Well, before long, it was five or six. I realized right away we needed to do more than just feed them. So, I did some searches on the Internet and got their phone number. I explained my situation to the volunteer, and she brought a trap the following week and began the arduous task of trap/neuter/return of almost 20 cats over the next four years. I also talked with the manager of the complex, and she was very much in favor of the project -- it didn't cost them anything. We have a new owner/manager now who wants the cats either paid for (at $100 each plus $20/month pet fee/cat) or removed from the property. Since I'm disabled and a widow, I can't afford the fees. But I was able to find a farm owner who's willing to accept them and look out for them. I agreed to buy her a couple of big bags of food monthly. We're down to relocating the last four or five now. Best wishes to all of you! Katherine Lamb Charlotte, N.C. I think it is wonderful that these cats are being taken care of. Hopefully, in the end, it will greatly reduce the number of cats on this island. The island is over run with cats. I know it has been a long time since I have seen a lizard, snake, or mouse around my surrounding landscape. Cats are cute but they are undermining the natural ecosystem. If the Park Service and environmentalists had a brain, they would realize the death of shorebirds and the chicks are not from humans or ORV traffic but from cats! If you look at the paw prints on the beach, I see cat prints every day. I really don't think the little kitties are walking on the beach for a transcendental experience. I do think they are on the prowl for something to eat. Does anyone have any idea how many cats fixed and unfixed are roaming the beach? I bet there are a whole lot more than anyone imagines. It is time to hunt them down and get rid of them. Wes Lassiter Frisco Avon’s first St. Patrick’s Day parade Congratulations! As a homeowner (Shenanigans) and an Irishman, I think what you have done is a compliment to the town of Avon and our heritage. It’s about time we are recognized! Jim Ryan Newport, Del. I think the expansion of the parade to Highway 12 is a great idea! Glad to hear the Irish traditions continue! Everyone looks great and like they are having fun. May you continue for many years. Carol Dolgosh Painesville, Ohio I say let's take it to Highway 12. There’s no need to drive to Nags Head! Let's start our own tradition. Debbie Scott Avon New Letters to the Editor....03.16.2009 7:30 am Beach Access Issues The increase in shorebird nesting could be attributed to the additional biologists and other personnel that were involved in protecting selective types of wildlife on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore last year. The cost of these federal employees to "baby-sit" a few plover chicks is highly questionable considering the state of the country's economy. When will common sense prevail? Bill Blackwell Roper, N.C. Regarding the column about committee members weighing in on negotiated rulemaking: Jason, how easy to place the blame on the Park Service when you don't get what you want. Hawk Hawkins Mechanicsville, Va. My husband and I have been vacationing on the Outer Banks every year for the past six or seven years. During our first visit, we fell in love with Hatteras Island. Each and every year since then, we’ve found new reasons to appreciate the island. We’ve surf-fished, gone swimming, flown kites, helped our son learn to windsurf (by paying and then happily watching from the beach), observed coquinas for hours, read on the beach, walked the beach in the mornings (or afternoons, or evenings), beachcombed (finding some treasured sea glass), pier-fished, tried to paint the glorious surroundings, gone on photographic expeditions, found the remains of countless shipwrecks, watched crab holes for long minutes after depositing food nearby (until crabs emerged and tucked the food away), ferried to Ocracoke to comb its beaches, encountered wild horses on a northern expedition, shelled on Portsmouth Island, enjoyed the gardens on Roanoke, climbed Hatteras Light, visited other island lights, visited the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum (not yet a great destination, but we’re patient), visited the Hatteras weather station, visited the Chicamacomico Life-saving Station (always fantastic), visited even the empty lifesaving stations, walked a few nature trails, developed a great love of particular Hatteras markets and eateries, shopped the galleries and bookstores, toured a couple of off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods, been thrilled by the spring storms, been blessed by spectacular sunny days, hot-tubbed in sight of the ocean, consumed glorious seafood (some caught, some purchased), and encouraged friends and family to visit --with some success. A few years back, we increased the length of our stay. This year we hope to bring our kayaks, and we can tell you exactly how many more days until we arrive. How do we feel about not being able to drive on your beaches? It really doesn’t matter to us. We sure don’t drive on the lovely Gloucester beaches. Every single thing, every empty creature casing and life-bearing egg, that Hatteras (and Gloucester) contains is precious. We just can’t wait to get there. Sarah Swart Gloucester, Mass. It’s the winter doldrums for surfers Beautiful series of photos. Cold water does really take a toll on you, but your results are fantastic. I especially liked the self portrait. Jim Brown Baltimore, Md. Friends of Felines Spay Days It was so nice to read this article. I also have been involved with the mobile vet unit and Dr. Ferris. I was a caretaker for a feral cat colony that was being studied by Dr. Felicia Nutter and had the privilege of the mobile unit coming to my home when I lived in North Carolina. Dr. Ferris gives so much of her time for these projects and should be commended for her devotion. Good luck with your fundraiser and the mobile unit returning. Please post in the paper if you will have T-shirts, bumper stickers, or such for sale to raise money. I would love to help. Patty Hendrick Bastian, Va. Extreme Makeover: Hatteras-style Just another example of what makes Hatteras so great! I don't live there, but I'm not at all surprised by the willingness to help their neighbors. Jeanie Wright Chesapeake, Va. Movie theater in Avon will reopen May 1 I am very happy that the theater is opening for the season. One of my objections is that often, more often than not, there was never a "G" rated movie for the children -- or many adults for that matter. Even though there are many theaters, you would think one would offer a family friendly movie, even if it was a bit older than the other offerings. Perhaps in May that could happen. Shaun Gerhard Buxton Reader likes keeping up with island news What a site The Island Free Press has become. It is informative, professional, and it looks like advertisers have begun to see positive ROI potential. The site looks great! Really. Thanks for the dedication and commitment that keeps us who live well inland abreast of Island news. Ben Spain Tarboro, N.C. Homeowner insurance rates on the coast As your readers are undoubtedly aware, bills in the state House and Senate have been introduced to freeze homeowner insurance rate increases statewide. While both the Insurance Commissioner and the insurance companies vigorously opposed the initiative, their arguments and the publicity encouraged by them have done much to increase the confusion and frustration of many citizens of the state. I would like to offer some arguments in support of the bills. First, reference is often made to the “Beach Plan.” This is confusing for two reasons. First, the plan is not just about the beaches. It affects all CAMA (Coastal) counties. Secondly, rates have gone up substantially for most eastern counties, not just the CAMA counties. Bladen, Columbus and Robeson rates are going up 12 percent, while Bertie, Duplin, Gates, Greene, Hertford, Lenoir, Martin, Pitt, Sampson, and Wayne Counties are going up 7 percent on top of previous increases. Rates have more than doubled for most homeowners in eastern North Carolina in the last five years. The current ruling by the Insurance Commissioner added rate increases as high as 29 percent, and rates in some coastal counties are as much as five times the rates in Mecklenburg County. The insurance companies and the Insurance Commissioner maintain the rates should be higher because the risk is greater and that many of the coastal homes are the second homes of rich people who need to pay more. Here’s the truth: The risk of hurricane damage is truly statewide. Remember Hugo? Fran? In fact, six out of 15 of the costliest hurricanes to hit the U.S. – property damage only, flood not included – made landfall in western and central North Carolina. Only two of the fifteen hurricanes caused damage in eastern North Carolina. (Insurance Information Institute). Coastal homes are also built to higher wind standards because building codes require it. While there are some very expensive homes on or near the coast, eastern North Carolina is the poorest region of the state, and much of it is undeveloped. Even Dare County is 80 percent sand, much of it national seashore. Finally, the current insurance system really needs fixing. A Rate Bureau, composed entirely of insurance companies, makes requests to the Insurance Commissioner who unilaterally decides, without any public hearings, who lives and who dies, metaphorically speaking. None of the data is shared with the public, and we are asked to trust “models” of 100-year storms that are driving outrageous increases and disparities in insurance rates in the state. No one has published, at least in a readily accessible public forum, the definition of a 100-year storm nor have they furnished information on how these “models” are constructed. No one is asking the insurance industry to lose money. What we are asking for is a transparent, fair system based on actuarial data. The legislators that are attempting to freeze all rates temporarily are to be commended. We need to shine a light on this problem. Tom Thompson President NC-20 Washington, N.C. www.NC-20.com New Letters to the Editor....03.08.2009 6:30 pm This year’s beach access outlook My son is getting married out at Hatteras this spring. If we had known things would not be settled by now, we would have strongly considered having the wedding at a more receptive area. I know that our future vacation expense will not be spent at the OBX and that saddens us greatly. I am handicapped and need the use of a 4-by-4 to access the beach. Things have been fine in the past. I wish the Parks Service would just stand up for the people for a change. Melody Love Iron Station, N.C. Well, I have been coming there for about 30 years now, once in the fall and once in July. It is a shame that I have three families that come with me in July, and we can't even fish at night. If I had suspected it being like this again, I would have taken my $4,000 rental and all the money I spend while I'm there to a beach that would respect the human . With the economy in the shape it’s in, you would think they would want people to come and spend there hard earned money -- not try and drive them away. Guess I’ll have to find me another beach in another state because this one sure doesn’t seem to care about the welfare of the people. Tim Bryant Winston-Salem, N.C. Negotiated rulemaking ends with no consensus It is a shame that a consensus could not be reached. I am in favor of protecting animals. However, it is beyond me why we are more concerned about them than we are about human beings. Tourists/fishermen are not going to Hatteras for vacation because they can't ride the seashore like they enjoy doing. The few that abused the privilege have caused a community to suffer financially, and some have even had to close their business. With economic times like they are and unemployment at an all time high, wouldn't you think this committee would be more focused on how to get people back to work? Instead, there will probably be more unemployment there now, just adding to the problem of humans. Mike Triplette FuquayVarina, N.C. I am not surprised at this outcome since reaching consensus is almost 100 percent of the time unattainable, especially when you have two such opposing groups. IF (and I emphasize if) both sides ever want to reach a decision one of two things must happen -- do away with consensus and replace with a more democratic system or bring in a “'tie-breaker,” someone with no dog in either fight to make the decision based on evidence. Unless these or some other equitable system is used, what happens will happen because of money and power. Not exactly an equitable process is it? Tim Hatacher Fuquay Varina, N.C. Good job in keeping us updated. It’s a shame that the committee was unable to reach an agreement, but at least for now we still have some access. Simone Pillari Williamsburg, Va. As a retired District Ranger with the N.C. Forest Service and a 30-year servant of the state of North Carolina, I would like to make the following statement. A group of fellow employees began making a fall fishing trip to the Outer Banks in the early 1960s. Later a number of family members kept up the practice, as we thoroughly enjoyed each trip to this "one of a kind" place that God gave to all of us to enjoy. I find it hard to believe that this opportunity may not be a reality in the future. My hope and prayer is that some "sense" can be made of this "senseless" predicament, and the beaches of this great state can once again be enjoyed by all. Lawrence Johnson Polkton, N.C. I wrote last year warning the Superintendent that (negotiated rulemaking) would not work. See my letter below. I take no happiness that I was correct. Dear Superintendent Murray: Last week I sent an e-mail indicating my belief that the Audubon Society and Defenders of Wildlife should not be allowed to continue to sit at the Negotiated Rulemaking Committee table because of their court action. This letter is in follow up. Last night I attended and participated in this timely and informative event -- the University of Wyoming hosted an Environment and Natural Resources Distinguished Speaker Series on Collaborative Processes with Bill Ruckelshaus and John F. Turner participating in "Lifetimes of experience with collaborative public process: A conversation will Bill Ruckelshaus and John Turner". As background, Ruckelhaus became the first adminstrator of the EPA in 1970 and worked as the acting director of the FBI and deputy attorney general of the U.S. in 1973. He has served as director of a number of corporations, including Cummins Engine Corporation, Nordstrom, Inc., and Monsanto Company. Turner is a Wyoming native from Jackson who served as director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service from 1989-1993. He was then president and chief executive officer for the Conservation Fund. Recently, he served as the Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs. During the Q&A, I outlined what is happening at Cape Hatteras National Seashore in the hypothetical, not naming places or names. I then asked the question if they, Turner and Ruckelshaus, were stakeholders at the table, would they think it appropriate for the plaintiffs in the court case to return to the committee table? What I got from these experts was a resounding “no.” The two then elaborated and I learned the following: • If the plaintiffs were allowed to return to the committee the process would be “doomed for failure,” as Ruckelshaus put it. • The players have to come to the table to “play.” • There has to be a high level of trust among all committee members. • The members have to be prepared for long and hard work. • If, in the end, the committee has success, the entire committee will have a feeling of pride in their accomplishment and all stakeholders will benefit. With the knowledge gathered last night, I more strongly urge you to ensure that the Audubon Society and Defenders of Wildlife are replaced at the committee table. These experts say it is the right thing to do for success. After the meeting, I had the opportunity to meet both gentlemen and visit with John Turner for a period of time. I told him how much I was honored and enjoyed the few years I worked on the 12-member Secretary of Interior’s Resource Roundtable, established by his predecessor at USFWS, director Ray Arnett. John then relayed some of the “horrors” he experienced in administrating the ESA It was a very enjoyable evening despite driving home in a blinding snow storm. This morning it is continuing with 10-12 inches on the ground and the road closed back to Laramie. Sadly, my attending today’s 4 p.m. session is very much is doubt (given by Sarah Bates, Deputy Director for Policy and Outreach in the Missoula Office of Western Progress; topic: Across the Great Divide: Explorations in Collaborative Conservation in the American West). I wish you much success in your efforts. Bob Lick Cheyenne, Wyo. Well, it looks like majority doesn't rule. It's a shame that even with a vote of 17-5, we still can't drive on the beach. We are all in favor of protecting the environment, but this is ridiculous. Another fine example of special interest groups ruining our country. Liberal environmental groups funded by Hollywood and a misguided federal government have no place in deciding who should have access to beaches. This is a dangerous precedent being set. This is hurting the Outer Banks tourism. Sorry it has to be this way. What a shame. Our founding fathers would be ashamed of where we are today. Todd Langford Ashburn, Va. I don't understand why a simple majority could not be used to decide the future of the areas in question. In a representative government, is that not the general policy? It seems that we have, in the last 40 years, allowed the "the tail to wag the dog" in this country. David H. Bliss Mohawk, N.Y. Ridiculous! Since when does a majority not rule? I have never understood the whole thing about the birds. Has anyone ever shown that the ORVs have had a detrimental effect on the birds? I've heard there are plovers at Cape Canaveral, but the rockets don't seem to bother them. Perhaps we should impose a moratorium on space exploration also? Seems to me there is plenty of beach for birds that ORVs do not have access to. I imagine the birds would go there if they wanted to. The real losers in this battle are the citizens of the Outer Banks. To you, my friends, I give my sympathies. Randy Garrett Troy, Va. I would vote with the ORV group. Protecting the environment is one thing, but if a choice must be made between people or birds, I vote people. Oscar Priest Asheboro, N.C. The magic of a visit to Ocracoke Island is the opportunity to wander unspoiled beaches without lifeguard stands, houses, crowds of beachgoers, concession stands etc. Ocracoke has always been to me kind a Brigadoon -- a real getaway that you never want to leave. The encroachment of governmental authorities on the traditional freedom of Ocracokers and visitors is wrong. It is an encroachment on the freedom we talk about in our society, but a freedom that is increasingly threatened by small-minded bureaucrats who don't really understand Ocracoke or what it represents to those who cherish its unique lifestyle -- or who perhaps are simply envious of something they don't have and wish to take away from those who do. It is a sad and pathetic example of misguided concern for the wildlife and no concern for people. Jerry Keenehan Philadelphia, Pa. It is unfortunate that the Defenders of Wildlife are so closed minded. Ted Cywinski East Norriton, Pa. Judge Boyle gets an update on seashore management It is interesting to note that there is no "best available science" at work here, just the superintendent presenting raw data and guessing at what they mean. The judge is interpreting that data, which he is not qualified to do, and drawing his own conclusions. Interesting! We might invite a psychic and a magician to the party and get more real results than this. Bert Smith Richmond, Va. More on Beach Access Issues My family and I have been coming to the Outer Banks yearly for 18 years. The reason we keep coming back is the pristine conditions of the natural habitat. I know it's probably not popular to back the beach closings, but the long term care of the natural resources in the Outer Banks is key to survival. Bob Rudolph Clifton, N.J. Thanks to all those who have worked hard to keep the beaches open! Hilary Piland Richmond, Va. I have been coming to the Outer Banks every year since 1971, when I got out of the Army. The purpose of these annual spring trips was to fish from the beach. I have been a life member of the North Carolina Beach Buggy association since the late ‘80s. Unfortunately, due to the questionable beach closures, I will not be making my annual trip this year. I am not alone in this decision. There are five families that make this annual pilgrimage to Ocracoke. We all will miss the chance to get a jump on spring, but the primary reason we go to the outer Banks is to have access to the beach with our vehicles. Five families that fish on the beach bring a lot of revenue to the local communities. This is not going to happen in a time when the Outer Banks communities cannot afford to lose any more income. Hugh Schultz Sutton, Vermont I have been visiting the Cape Hatteras National Seashore every summer since 1997. We have always loved vacationing there because of the ORV beach access. We love the beach and we love to fish. Our kids have been coming since they were babies and are just now at the best age to actually be able to fish themselves (12 and 9). Last year we were very disappointed with the extent of the beach closures. The best fishing areas were closed and where we could go within the ORV access was too crowded to enjoy the beach and too crowded to effectively fish. We were constantly worried about crossing lines, and then you had to decide if we wanted to fish or swim -- you couldn't do both for danger of swimming into fishing lines and getting hooked. We didn't have room to do both. I am very disgusted with the wildlife community. The national seashore was designated as a recreational area for human use. They have taken a very extreme position to the extent that people cannot enjoy the best part of the recreational area -- access. How can anyone enjoy the national seashore recreational area if they cannot access it with their vehicles. The desirable locations are not accessible on foot. It is very sad that our family can no longer enjoy the most beautiful vacations we have ever had. Unless the beach closure issue is not resolved in a positive manner toward access, we will not vacation at the national seashore because, unfortunately, it is not worth the seven-hour drive to spend poolside at the rental house. I can do that in Ocean City, Md. Suzanne Taylor Pasadena, Md. I, too, have been completely affected by this whole mess concerning beaches. I grew up in Hatteras in some of the greatest moments of my life. I love the beaches and the native islanders I have come to know. I keep reading letters from people from out of state saying this will be their last trip unless something happens and telling the islanders good luck. This doesn’t have to be your last trip because, for one, you will be surrounded by the ones who mean something to you, and there are still plenty of things to enjoy. You will also be helping the ones who would count on you to shop and eat with lots of laughter. You just can’t walk away from the most beautiful landscape that the island provides for us as we drive toward the lighthouse. I am asking you to not give in to the ones who are doing this to us. If it’s just for a few days and a bag of ice or perhaps some ice cream, then we have helped someone keep their doors open. Debbie Cooper Washington, N.C. Please make all pedestrian and ORV areas accessible to Americans with disabilities. Frank Jakob Salvo Next year will mark 30 years of love for the Outer Banks of North Carolina. In that time, I have bought one and built three houses on Hatteras Island. I came to North Carolina from New York and found paradise. I would no more change what I found here then cut off my right arm. Only those with enormous egos (we all know who they are) who spend their lives telling everyone how to live would do such a thing. Ron Mastellone Flemington, N.J. How much of the recreational fishing license revenue will be spent on legal fees for proponents of ORV access at the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and why is there no license required for birdwatching with revenue going to the National Park Service. It seems as though some are asked to double up on their contributions. And I would say the statistics seem to indicate some detrimental economic effects are taking place since the Defenders of Wildlife and National Audubon Society took action. Just makes you wonder. Ronald Saunders Virginia Beach, Va. and Kill Devil Hills Have you ever been in a classroom where the teacher punished everyone in the class for the actions of a single student? Did you think that is fair? This practice punishes the innocent for the actions of the guilty. I think you would agree with me that to enact a law based upon such a premises is not only stupid, but it provides a breeding ground for trouble makers or those who have specific goals in mind to deprive good people of their rights. I remember well when I was in boot camp, the night I was dragged out and had to push rifles all night because one person violated the rules after lights out. As I watched others around me fall to the ground from exhaustion, I realized they were using peer pressure to be applied to the offender, but it still was not fair to we who obeyed the rules. Law is not intended for law-abiding people but for lawbreakers. What this means is that law should protect us who obey from being abused or punished as a result of the actions of others. American law and the penalties for breaking it were set up to punish the lawbreaker. The purpose of law enforcement is making it so that we who obey the law can live in peace and quiet without being in constant fear of those who break the law. It is un-American to put a law on the books that punishes the innocent. Do you know of a law that has been enacted by Congress or the courts that punishes or deprives the people of our rights because of the actions of the guilty? If you live on Hatteras or Ocracoke islands you don’t have to look far to find such a law. It is the law called the consent decree that was established on April 30, 2008. It is the law that governs the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Recreational Area. This law states that every time someone deliberately violates the roped-off area to protect the birds the islanders and the public who come here will be punished by depriving them of more and more beach area to enjoy. The consent decree outlines the penalties for violations of nesting areas and buffers. It states that with each deliberate violation of a nesting area there will be automatic additional beach closure to all walking and driving. The biggest misunderstanding concerning beach access is that many people think it only applies to driving the beach. It applies to walking as well. The consent decree outlines the following punishment for the innocent public for violations: First violation -- expand closures 50 meters Second violation -- expand closures 100 meters Third violation -- expand closure 500meters or more In most cases, these closures result in the total beach area being closed. What this means is that the public, you and me, are punished even though we did nothing wrong. Businesses that depend on tourists are deprived of customers, homeowners who depend on summer rentals are severely hurt, and county governments are deprived of tax revenue because of the decline in tourism. It is a vicious cycle that goes right on down to schools and services that help the less fortunate all because we are punished for the crimes of others. Not only is this law totally unfair to the general public, it provides a vehicle for those who are dedicated to stopping all public use of the beach the opportunity to close it down. All they have to do is sneak out at night or pay someone to violate the closures by tearing down fences. Last year more and more beach was closed as result of deliberate violations and the guilty persons were never caught or punished, but businesses, visitors to the islands, and residents were punished by limiting access to the beach. This law, the consent decree, violates all Americans rights and establishes a dangerous precedent. It takes a governmental agency (NPS) out of the hands of the government and the people. It places federally owned land under the control of private groups and a court. The law changes the use of our taxes to creating a safe haven for a select group over the welfare of the general public. The law makes our government a liar to the people of these islands by denying them the right to beach access as the government promised at the beginning of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Recreational Area. Dewey Parr Buxton Don’t close our beaches to driving. That's our way of life on the Outer Banks! Bobbi Jo Gannon Southern Shores Kinnakeet Civic Association gets underway in Avon Coming from Kinnakeet originally, I love the fact that the residents have taken the time and energy to preserve their heritage by forming this organization. There are so many, many old stories of Kinnakeet that desperately need to be passed down to all the coming generations throughout time. I know that this will be the group of "home folks" that will tell and preserve the history of this rich community since days of long ago so that future generations will know where they really came from! Thank you, Jenn Augustson, for carrying out your vision for Kinnakeet! Kay Augustson Manteo, N.C. Re the Kinnakeet Civic Association meeting report. (Tongue in cheek) I look forward to a similar reports on the next meeting of the Hatteras Island Homeowners Coalition and the Cape Hatteras Recreational Alliance. (Tongue out of cheek) Ted A. Hamilton Salvo and Hampton, Va. New Letters to the Editor....03.02.2009 8:15 am Negotiated rulemaking ends with no consensus The collapse of this process is ridiculous. I understand the two sides finally taking a stand and becoming unwilling to give any further. The access folks were fighting an uphill battle from the beginning. I have e-mailed my representatives and senators and asked them to support free and open beach access. After 30-some years of coming to Cape Hatteras for family vacations, I finally have a daughter with whom I was excited about sharing the experience of Cape Hatteras and the seashore. My family and I came out to Hatteras and stayed in Frisco last summer for what I feel is probably the last time unless beach access is restored. The consent decree prevented us from doing anything that we truly enjoyed about Hatteras other than simply smelling the fresh salty air and eating seafood purchased at Risky Business. With time off from my job at a premium this year, I can not afford to come back and just sit in a rented house and do nothing like I had to do last year. I truly hope that Congress can step in and take charge in this matter and overrule this preposterous consent decree and kick these tree-huggers back to where they belong. Those of us who have been coming to Cape Hatteras year after year, have more love and respect for this beach than these people will ever know. I will be watching to see what happens, and my heart goes out to the people of Hatteras who are suffering through these tough economic times. God bless you all, and I hope with all of my heart that we'll be able to restore our beaches to free and open access. Wes Broderick Georgetown, Ky. This process ended the exact way I think most people expected. This was the worse display of a democratic process I have ever seen. This was nothing more then a "Dog and Pony Show" to try and soothe the public. I greatly appreciate the hard work done by all those who represented the best needs for Dare County and its residents. The rest of you, well, I'll refrain from comment. It was no surprise that the ringleaders for this mess Derb Carter of the SELC and Sidney Maddock of the Audubon Society were nowhere to be found on the final day. What stand up guys they are. Rob Alderman Buxton More on beach Access issues So if I am understanding the pre-nesting maps correctly, the beaches will be effectively closed as of March 15. According to these maps and information, it looks as though the majority of the beaches are impassable due to the restrictions. If this is the case, I will be requesting a full refund of my reservation for the week of April 25 -- as there is really no point in coming to a beach I cannot get to. Please advise as to the status of the closures. This greatly concerns our family and yours as well, I assume! Melanie Welch Morgantown, W. Va. (Editor’s note: The pre-nesting closures that take effect on March 15 will not close all of the beaches – far from it. There will be somewhat more extensive pre-nesting closures than last year, but there will still be plenty of beaches available to locals and visitors who want to drive on them. Most of the closures you see on the maps allow a vehicle corridor in front of them for ORVs and pedestrians.) These pre-nesting maps for the upcoming year are not true in telling the scrapes and nests of 2008. The nests and scrapes of the birds are not designated in the areas of the overwash fans. However these areas were closed off for most of the summer due to the supposed "they may land and nest." What is up with that? There should be designations for 2007 as well because of the changing habits of the birds. Well? R. Voelcker Mechanicsville, Va. (This is a letter to President Barack Obama) Mr. President: Cape Hatteras National Seashore Recreational Area was created by Congress many years ago to serve the recreational needs of the American public. Eight villages are enclosed within this recreational area and supported by a tourist economy. Like the rest of the nation, we are facing dire economic times. Unlike others, we do not seek federal funds as handouts or loans. We merely ask that you remove the repressive hands of government agencies from around the necks of your suffering people. The Department of Interior with its divisions of National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and their ancillary North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission, along with one federal judge, are running out of control and unresponsive to the public welfare. Under the guise of affording protection for the piping plover, these agents have closed the most popular beaches of Cape Hatteras to human recreation during the tourist season. Four of the six most necessary areas for recreation are being closed or restricted as "pre- nesting closures" for piping plovers where plovers have not even nested or fledged a chick! The other two areas -- Cape Point (four fledged chicks ) and Ocracoke South Spit (three fledged chicks ) have excessive restrictions that diminish tourism and our economy. These few chicks have no effect on their species survival. We islanders have watched powerless as a few environmental lawyers distort and manipulate science and regulations to remove public access from our beaches. Governmental agency actions fly in the face of common sense. As you proclaimed during your campaign, "It is time for a change." We need a change in these appointed officials and their bureaucracies to remove the radical elements that have closed our beaches, and we need those changes now. The residents of the Outer Banks have loved and cared for these beaches for generations. We could survive this national crisis but not when our government uses our money to destroy our livelihood. Mr. President, we know that you did not create this mess but you were elected to fix it. Don't send us even one nickel, just get these agencies under control and immediately open our beaches. We can do the rest. Thank you. Bob Davis Buxton I'm fed up with the bird huggers. We have them here in Michigan too. When it comes to people or plovers, the birds need to fly the coop. Good luck and stand your ground. Robert Kinzer Utica, Mich. I think it is important to include in the argument about allowing ORVs on the beaches all the places in the United States that have been "closed" due to birds. The more I find out, I am just amazed that the people of this country has allowed the Audubon Society to become so powerful, and that they can bring entire communities to an economic standstill with their lawsuits. We must fight back and with national press. Carol Dawson Buxton Nicky Bibbey’s loom is a gift from Manteo students I would like to thank everyone involved in this project to build a loom for my son Nicholas. You should be proud of your accomplishment of assembling this intricate machine. You all have demonstrated teamwork, unselfish dedication, and the ability to see your project to a successful completion. You are a great asset to your families, friends, and your community. Good luck in all your future endeavors. Thomas R. Bibbey Bagram, Afghanistan Manteo students, what a compassionate group you are! You should be so proud of yourselves. I hope you will continue to build bridges between your communities. To provide someone with the tools to build an occupation is a wonderful feeling, isn't it? Lisa Duke Kill Devil Hills The power of love and generosity that adds to the lives of so many is essential and timeless. He will be weaving on a loom of many hearts and hands -- what a wonderful and thoughtful gift. Martha McCullough Buxton Ocracoke Up Close: Visiting photographer George Brown Thank you so much, George. I absolutely love Ocracoke and the dear friends there. I've been going there since 1960 when my parents rented the little Ronthaler bungalow on Silver Lake. I wish you could have seen "The Poetry Tree" at the school last year. I was spellbound when I arrived to drop off some books for the students. I have a few "Happy Snaps," as Princess Diana says, and I could try to forward to you. I am just learning the computer so have patience. How I would have loved being with you this winter. God bless and keep up the great work! Joyce Elizabeth Luff West Lawn, Pa. Having spent so much time during my youth on the Outer Banks, these photographs are very nostalgic. Thanks for sharing them with the public. Fred Zerkle San Jacinto, Calif. Absolutely stunning! Mr. Brown's photos brought the peace of mind I always feel when I am on the island. Thank you for sharing. Mary Breeden Virginia Beach, Va. Winter storm is a rare treat for beaches Some really nice pics! The ones of Hatteras Light and some beach ones could be prize winners, in my humble opinion. Our clan visits every July or early August ("prime timers") and have enjoyed your wonderful people and places for about 20 years now. God bless and see you in five months and four days. Jim Collinson Westminster, Md. Seals on the seashore beaches The seal in Holly's slide show looks wounded -- a hole in its side and a damaged flipper. What do you think? Maybe not so fat and happy after all? Susette Applebachsville, Pa. While I appreciate the pix of the harbor seal, is it me or does this seal appear to have some sort of puncture wound to its left side and if so was it reported to NPS? As a sidenote, the IFP is great for those of us north of that notorious Mason / Dixon line. Geoff Gardiner, N.Y. (Editor’s Note: The following is an answer to these questions from Michelle Bogardus, lead sea turtle and marine mammal biologist for the Cape Hatteras National Seashore: Irene Nolan from Island Free Press forwarded me your comment about the pictures of the harbor seal at Cape Point the other day. This animal has been seen several times over the past week, and we have continued to monitor its health. The wound on the animal's left side was originally some minor cause of concern, but on closer inspection of the wound, it was found to be very shallow, and the decision was made to leave the animal in place. We generally do not interfere with seals unless we believe that they are in need of immediate rehabilitation. Additionally, the juvenile animals that we commonly see in North Carolina are prone to having scrapes, bruises, etc. This animal has good overall body condition and was behaving well (a good sign). Since these pictures were taken, the wound has somewhat healed, and has not affecting the animal's ability to feed or behave normally.) Kudos from a reader I feel so fortunate to have access to The Island Free Press. It is informative, entertaining, and just plain wonderful for me. I read and read and enjoy every word. What a fantastic job you are doing. I spread the word of you, as well. Please keep up the good work. Janette Wilcox Colonial Heights, Va. |
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