I was dismayed by the “cartoon” in Saturday’s paper. It suggested, rather bluntly, that the proposed Thunder Bay River Center (TBRC) would depreciate the value of Duck Park and the adjoining Wildlife Sanctuary (where the supposedly impacted ducks reside).

TBRC is a project supported not only by the environmental organizations in Northeast Michigan but by numerous people throughout the five counties who live in the watershed. These gifts of nature are limited and once gone can never be restored. Northeast Michigan’s natural resources demand that each of us learn how to care for them. Only with education can we prevent their wanton use and destruction. The River Center is designed to educate all of us about the uniqueness and fragility of our natural resources. TBRC’s motto — “Our River is Our Future” — supports our way of life — physically, emotionally, and economically — and expresses itself differently to each member of our many communities.

As for Duck Park, it is the most heavily used year-round park in our city. The River Center will bring a number of needed amenities to the park and contribute to its overall enjoyment. As for the ducks, they will benefit especially when we all learn how and why to preserve and protect their home.

JUDY KALMANEK,

Alpena