"I want to give our community a quick update on things. Up until now, we have had to stay relatively quiet about the efforts and discussions going on behind the scenes. It is refreshing for us to now be able to talk openly about what we are so passionate about and what you have been wondering so much about."
"It has been just over a week since we announced the funding proposal in our latest press release. And it has gone just as expected. We knew there would be a lot of negative online comments focusing on the suggestion of a tax. Almost a tidal wave of negativism, if you will. Taxes are a triggering topic. In contrast, the primary demographic for those who want a zoo are not the type who are going to go online and engage in public debate and risk being attacked."
"Offline and in private, the response has been the complete opposite of what you may have seen online. People have been very encouraging, offering suggestions, and feel the tax is a small sacrifice for something so wonderful. Please keep sending us letters and notes. It is very appreciated and uplifting. We hear you, the silent majority."
"What wasn't expected is that in some of the online commentary, the fervor of negativism was softened and at times stopped when a brave zoo supporter would post more information about the proposal beyond just the tax. It shows that people are actually very much open to the proposal if they are given the opportunity to learn more what it entails."
"Over the next several weeks and months, we will be teasing apart the funding proposal and introducing it to the public. It has been our intention that this proposal only be enacted if the people agreed to it through a public vote. At the same time, we believe that the voter also needs to be an informed one. Our mission and duty in the coming months is to get the information out to everyone."
"This campaign to educate and get this proposal on a ballot is going to take some additional support. Will you pitch in today to help support this campaign?"
"I can't wait to start this deep dive with you all. Please hit the "forward" button to pass this along to all you friends and family."
"NALZS is hosting a pickleball tournament on April 6th in Athens. This going to be a fun event for competitors and families. Come watch or play. We will be there to answer
questions as well. For more information: https://www.nalzs.org/2024-pickleball"
Thank you for all of your support!
Ethan Woodruff
Executive Director - North Alabama Zoological Society