=====  A message from the 'makahwhaling' discussion list  =====

SEA SHEPHERD CONSERVATION SOCIETY - MEDIA ADVISORY


On September 30, 1999, the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society deployed the vessel 
'Sirenian' to the waters off Neah Bay, Washington, to oppose any Makah attempt 
to kill a gray whale.

Today (October 1, 1999), the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society decided to 
withdraw the 'Sirenian' at 12:00 noon. This decision was based on a request by 
Makah elder Alberta Thompson, who informed the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society 
that elder Vivian Claplanhoo has less than forty-eight hours to live.

Sea Shepherd Conservation Society International Director Lisa Distefano stated, 
"we came here to save a life, and now, out of respect for another life, we will 
temporarily withdraw. Vivian Claplanhoo is a hero, not only among the Makah 
people, but to the environmental community at large."

Distefano continued, "The truth will not die with her, but will live with a new 
generation of elders who see any resurrection of cultural values in the living- 
not in the dying."

Captain Paul Watson, at the helm of the 'Sirenian', stated, "We recognize and 
respect the right of the Makah people to grieve in peace. However, the 
'Sirenian' will be on standby, ready to act when it becomes necessary."

The vessel will withdraw at 12:00 noon on October 1 with its flag at half-mast.

Meanwhile, in Tacoma, Washington, the "Neah Bay 7"- activists who attempted to 
intervene and protect gray whales during the Makah hunt last May- will be 
arraigned at 1:30 pm today in Tacoma District Court.  

Lisa Distefano announced, "The irony does not escape anyone of the October 1 
date. It is both the date of the resumption of the Makah hunt and the court 
appearances of those who would protect the whales. This political dog and pony 
show on behalf of and at the request of the Makah whalers, at the expense of the 
taxpayers of Washington state, is an absolute disgrace."

The Sea Shepherd Conservation Society will hold a Press Conference on the front 
steps of the Union Station Courthouse, October 1, 1999, immediately following 
the 1:30 p.m. hearing. All supporters and media sources are invited to attend.