I wanted to provide you some insight to the DEIS meeting held in Hampton, VA last night.  There were approximately 150 people there.  Overwhelming number of pre-access people.  Approximately 40-50 spoke.  Only 2 were environmentalist.  One was a lady who just wants to take her kids and grand kids to see the birds and is not a resident of Hatteras.  She did bring a copy of the NPS charter and read it.  Unfortunately for her it was not Cape Hatteras charter.  The other gentlemen stated he was a biologist and the  information we were stating  regarding the piping plover was incorrect.  He stated there were several species of piping plover and some were on the endangered species list, while others were on the threatened list and all were inhabitants of Cape Hatteras.  These two spoke about midway through and did not receive a warm welcome.  No one applauded for them (except each other).  The rest of the room remained quite.  However everyone was respectful.  Absolutely no name calling, interruptions or bad comments.  Very impressive. 

All of the speakers were well prepared, passionate, courteous and respectful.  Great point were brought up and in my opinion, Mike Murray cannot ignore nor bring anything close the identified alternatives back.  I think the current dissatisfaction of the current White House administration coupled with the dissatisfaction of the way this is being handled, people are really fed up with Government.  Mike really needs to listen.  I spoke to him after the meeting.  He offered no opinion but seemed concerned as to the future.   We all know this will get worked out, but at what cost?

Several brought up the ridiculous nature of this 800 page document and one accused the Government of trying to smother the public in paperwork so we would not get involved (my words).   Several charged Mike directly with listening to the public and not giving in to the special interest groups. Over all the meeting was a success for access. I think you and the entire coalition team did an outstanding job educating the public on the pending threats, costs, benefits and how to make a difference.  All should be very proud!

I have attached a copy of the comments I submitted.  I only had time to present a very small portion of this, but the important thing is it is now a matter of record.  I will provide additional comments via the park service web site.  I also provided as copy to Dave Joyner.

Best Wishes and thank you for all you do.

Howard