Hands Link Against Offshore Oil/Gas

Hands linked at noon in Nags Head for Hands Across the Sand. Photo, Kip Tabb.

As Outer Banks opposition to offshore drilling grows stronger and more focused, local activities are focussing on ways to raise public awareness of the possibility that oil and gas exploration could be a part of coastal North Carolina’s future if nothing is done.

Hands Across the Sand, held today at noon in Nags Head brought what appeared to be 200-250 men, women, children, families and a few dogs together to link hands at the edge of the ocean. Sponsored by Not the Answer NC, an offshoot of the the Outer Banks Surfrider Foundation, the event included music, food, refreshments and information after the event at Farmdog Surf School.

Jess Moody, owner of Village Yoga in Duck, and Ivy Ingram, who has taken on the leadership mantel for Not the Answer NC, organized the event which began with a morning yoga session at Moody’s studio then moved to the Bonnett St. Beach Access in Nags Head.

“We wanted to created an event where people in the community can get educated and have fun,” Moody said.

After linking hands on the beach, there was live music from Graham Outten, food from Bad Bean Baja Grill and beer and wine from Outer Banks Brewing Station and Trio Outer Banks.

Although there was a festive atmosphere to the day, Moody addressed the underlying reason for the event.

“There’s a purpose a bigger purpose,” she said. “Our beaches are our livelihood. I’m a small business owner. So in a way I think it’s my duty to stand up and protect this area. So we can keep running our small businesses. Even if you’re a teacher, or lawyer, or banker, something that’s not completely dependent on tourism, all of your customers, your clients, all of their children going to school—our children’s parents depend on that.”