Re: J. Granger Macfarlane’s letter (“Don’t waste more tax dollars on Explore,” Feb. 8) and Ann Hawley’s response (“Use Mill Mountain to better advantage,” Feb. 18 letter):

Both are correct: Mill Mountain’s ability to sustain a zoo and attract visitors has run its course, and the original vision for Explore Park never materialized. Why not utilize the space literally just a short jaunt down the Blue Ridge Parkway?

On a similar note, having traveled to 39 states and four continents, I consider myself well-traveled. Before reading these letters, I was daydreaming of rather fond, though bitter cold, memories of my trip to China and the Great Wall.

Upon arriving atop the mountains, what did we find but a tiny gift/coffee shop, where we all bought the fur hats and vests sold there to battle the extreme temperatures. Those hats became some of our favorite souvenirs.

Without fail, at every point of interest I have visited, there was a place of comfort and welcome. I imagine that such “outposts” are at the very essence of civilized society.

So, Roanoke, get with it and add to the “Star” quality of Mill Mountain or lose its attraction (a man-made neon star, no less) altogether.

MELANIE STEELE ELMIR

ROANOKE

Weather Journal

1 day ago