The editorial on Wirth Park failed to mention what a tremendous resource the Wirth Par 3 Golf Club is to Minneapolis golfers ("New life for Wirth in wake of tornado," June 8).

The Wirth advisory committee and the City of Lakes Nordic Ski Foundation would like to see the Par 3 closed and redeveloped for more skiing and bike trails. This golf course is a gem of a resource and an economical way for parents to introduce the game of golf to their children.

Since the inception of the First Tee of Minneapolis, more than 7,500 kids have learned these valuable life skills. Golf can truly change a child's life. Our program works with more than 50 parks in the city and teaches nine core values to participants.

There are 84 miles of off-street paths in Minneapolis and only one par 3 course. Let's fight to keep it!

MICHAEL HINTON, ROBBINSDALE