Friends of the Ledges, Call to Action August 17, 2002

This will serve a powerful purpose by discrediting those who are continuing to spread lies, propaganda, and misunderstanding in a campaign that may outlaw the Ledges, allow control of the public shoreline to those with selfish interests, and restrict fundamentals of freedom by allowing a highly vocal minority to rule. By honestly "telling them who we are" can easily discredit the many untruths written in vile letters in recent editions of the DV news. By doing nothing, we will be viewed, by default, as people ashamed of ourselves supporting claims by our opponents.

It is time to write letters to the Deerfield Valley News and to the local daily, The Brattleboro Reformer. Although this can be an effective campaign, it is one that must be approached in a most cautious way. The timing is perfect. This suggestion is by consensus of many local supporters, users who are very close to the issue, and experts from the national organizations. Note that this important action is in support of many other important strategies.

Do:

• Keep it simple and to the topic.
• Be Positive
• Tell the people a bit about yourself, what draws to Wilmington (other than the obvious Ledges), and the nature of your trips (are you a summer home owner, overnight B&B guest, camper, etc.
• Be honest and factual. Any form of deception can backfire.
• Do use your real name and address. Your Mom does not read these newspapers and who really cares if she does?
• Reflect only your own positive experiences at the Ledges and in Wilmington.
• If you have a Vermont address, are a woman, couple, retiree, or a family, let them know. Many local people are most surprised when learning that such people are the ones who use the Ledges.
• Use terminology that the people are familiar with. Ie; "nudist" to an outsider is a negative and misunderstood word. Vermonters "skinny dip". In many cases there is no need to reference either.
• Keep the letters short and sweet. Newspapers have space restrictions and a long letter may bump tow of someone else's short letters. Short letters are more often read.
• A very positive letter from a Vermont retired couple has created positive impression with people polled in town. The same people are some who have suggested more of the same.

• Be argumentative. No one wins arguments.
• Be negative. Negativity from Ledges users will inspire votes the wrong way.
• Speculate or represent any type of factual information unless you are positive. Refutable claims can do major damage.
• Neither politicize, nor promote the virtues of nudity. The people have had far too much of that.
• Beg for support, nor tell people what to do.
• Make attacks on anyone.
• Make mention of allegations or misconduct at the Ledges, even in defense. Doing so can add fuel to the negative crusade.
• Be defensive. There is no shame in lawfully skinny dipping.
• Attempt to flatter "the fine people of Vermont", especially if you do not know these people. Don't waste space by praising FOTL.

Editor@vermontmedia.com

The Brattleboro reformer is the daily read in town. Letters can be submitted at: http://www.reformer.com. All letters should be submitted to both newspapers.

In addition, there is not a better way to create understanding of Ledges users than with a face. Spend some time in Wilmington wearing a recognizable Friends of the Ledges shirt. Turn on the charm a bit at the line at the grocery store, etc. and you will make a favorable impression. History of people who have done this has been very positive. We have shirts and if you e-mail me or find me at the Ledges today, tomorrow, or Wednesday (21st), we will find a way to get you one. They are also sold via the Naturist Society on line store. If you want a shirt but don't intend to wear it in town please hold off on taking one until after the 27th because they are in limited supply. They are an important tool. Fashion is secondary.

A bit of time invested today may serve to protect the future of tomorrow.

Thank you,
Phil Markham

Communication Coordinator, Friends Of The Ledges
Member, The Naturist Society
Southern Vermont Area Representative, Naturist Action Committee
Frequent Ledges User
Part time resident and tourist in Wilmington