Sunday, May 4, 2025

New Hatteras business group puts out welcome mat

Share post:

Megan Vayette says she was among those “embarrassed” by some of the expressions of ill will directed toward non-resident property owners and Outer Banks visitors during this COVID-19 pandemic shutdown. So, she “got the ball rolling,” on the creation of the new (about a week old, actually) Hatteras Island Business Association, which currently has about 115 members and is designed with one basic goal in mind.

“We want to make sure they feel welcome,” she tells the Voice. Observing that the more vocal negativity toward NRPO’s and visitors is likely being fueled by a minority of locals, she added: “I think the squeaky wheel gets the oil. I think we need to shout louder than the negative. That’s my goal.”

Vayette also stresses that the group is not “political,” that it is not advocating for a particular timetable for easing entry restrictions — the NPRO’s can start entering Dare County on May 4 — and that it will follow the county’s lead in terms of entry decisions.

On its public Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/HatterasIslandBA/,  the organization has posted an item that encapsulates its message.

“Days are getting longer, the air is warmer, and that means summer is right around the corner,” it reads. “As we begin a new season, we also begin a new way of living. So much has changed in the world, but what hasn’t changed is our desire to see our friends and family. To shake hands and to hug each other tight. Through the years many of our visitors to Hatteras island have become like family to us and we want you to know that we have missed you. We cannot wait to welcome you back.”

Right now, the association is focusing on two projects. One is a “#Hatteras Love Story” effort in which it’s asking people to share memories, stories and photos on social media. The other is a “Welcome Back Ribbon” campaign designed to encourage local businesses to display colorful ribbons with a welcoming message.

And while the group isn’t taking sides on when to ease restrictions on visitors, Vayette asserts that life without them is pretty daunting.

“Anyone that thinks they don’t rely on tourism right now,” she says, “is in la-la land.”

Trending

Subscribe

Help Support Local News! Subscribe for Free, Upgrade to Premium, or Make a Contribution.

Related articles

Vehicle wreck causes Friday night power outage on Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands

A one-vehicle collision in northern Rodanthe was the cause of a power outage that affected Hatteras and Ocracoke...

Rip Current Awareness Week: Distant storms can present up close threats

Story courtesy National Weather Service This week is Carolinas Rip Current Awareness Week, as the National Weather Service offices...

NCDEQ Division of Water Resources to hold public hearing on revision to state definition of ‘wetlands’ in rule

The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Division of Water Resources will hold a public hearing on June...

Early Friday morning collision results in severe injuries

A two-vehicle collision that occurred on early Friday morning, May 2, resulted in severe injuries, according to multiple...