To the Journal editor:

When we walk in our Superior Dome, we come in all shapes and sizes.

Some of us are old, some are young, some in good health and others not, some challenges are great and others not. Some struggle and some do not. Some run; some walk; some need a cane; some come alone; some bring their friends; some need an escort and some push babies. And many show great perseverance and courage.

Their circumstances vary but their reasons are the same —  their bodies or their doctors told them to exercise.

When we are no longer 21 we need to avoid the potholes and winter weather. Clean bathrooms and floors, drinking fountains, places to sit along the way, and all at no cost, are good reasons to go besides our health. 

But, allow me to address another value.  Several months ago, I observed a couple walking with and supporting a young man who obviously had a severe stroke with a body half paralyzed.

I surmise that some doctor advised them to keep him moving to aid in potential recovery. Tug at your heart — certainly. Where else would they go except the Superior Dome?

I want to thank Northern Michigan University for providing this enormous service and I pray that their administrators fully understand its magnitude and they make every reasonable effort to keep it open and available as many days as they can.

Indeed, the building provides for collegiate sports, craft and recreation shows. These are certainly things we want. But the things we need? I saw that when I saw those parents walking that young man.

This building can fulfill the ambitions of the college athlete for four years, but for me and our community, it promotes quality for a lifetime. I see no better way to spend our money and I hope someday Michigan Tech University and Lake Superior State University have one, too.