I am writing to beg for your help in supporting the preservation of Chimney Rock Park. My husband and I have a home in Lake Lure that overlooks the gorge and the park. It is truly a piece of heaven there. It recently came to my attention that the park was put up for sale by the Morse family. Our fear is that it will fall into the hands of developers and a national treasure will be destroyed. Chimney Rock is one of the most significant ecological sights in the southeast and the flora and fauna are rich, diverse and irreplaceable. In addition, the local, state and regional economies depend on the 250,000-plus tourists that come to see Chimney Rock. Please help to support The Friends of Hickory Nut Gorge, the governor and the state of N.C. to save this national treasure and urge the Morse family to negotiate with the state to preserve the legacy that they have stewarded for over 100 years.

Tammi DeFrancisco

Plantation, Fla.