They could have put that pencil drawing of Howard in that A-Ha "Take on Me" video....hahaha
Scott's done a fantastic job of being an 'ambassador' to Ft. Desoto all these years. I think the positive impression he has given park officials of kiters is somewhat of a factor in our continued access there- thanks from all of us Scotty!
If you really want to make a positive impression on park officials, log a few service hours at their park. One thing those guys can always count on, is more budget cuts- free labor is quite a bonus when you have real work to do.
I was invited to sit in on a FoFD board meeting earlier this year, and one of the things they were doing was planning the volunteer recognition for their annual meeting. They had a few who individually log over 1000 hours each year (That's 20 hours a week, or a part time job.), and right on down the line. That’s basically how they look at it (on paper at least). They also see what is happening on the beach- some of them have watched this sport from the beginning and are well aware of the problems.
Tampa Bay area kiters have had a good bit of success with creating partnerships over the past few years, mainly through beach cleanups and other positive community involvement, and hope others do the same. Good deeds plant seeds.
Some examples:
With Shell Key Preserve, (best camping/ kiting around) we introduced ourselves at the island one day, and offered to help out on a cleanup or two. We did just that, and now TBKA is listed as a partner on their site. We have permission to kite and camp there anytime, as long as we play by the rules- mainly stay out of restricted (bird) areas. Kite-n-camp weekend anyone?
We have partnered with Ocean Conservancy and other orgs. several times at Picnic Island in Tampa, which is another of our launch sites. This happened because a local kiter knew we try to jump on opportunities like that, and hooked us up with his company, who was hosting the event.
We have hosted and/or participated in several cleanups at Ft Desoto over the years, and they always welcome us for any other event we want- (just get a permit). The permit is not only the proper way to do things, it is a verifiable record of activity- good for us, and good for the rangers!
Ft. Desoto permits are free (for small events) and I can email you a copy if you need one.
The above stories and more kiters positive actions are listed on
www.actionsportsfoundation.org if you want to check them out.
-Happy Kiting