Comment from Ann-Marie Ruder

We have a home in Presque Isle as well as Detroit, come upstate one week every month (for the last 10 years) and plan to move permanently upstate by the fall. Sorry this is late but I waited until we returned downstate as we have DSL here and only dial up up there. Please consider the expansion a positive force for the following reasons: 1. Promotes tourism, people climbing the New PI Lighthouse are astonished to be able to see the wreck in the North Bay. 2. Increases the awareness of persons living in the expansion area to the historical as well as conservation issues. 3. Provides educational opportunities for local youth to participate, learn and explore possible career choices. 4. Increase awareness nation wide of other possible fresh water sanctuary establishment. 5. Expands diving sites and will motivate others to explore using scuba or snorkel gear. 6. Fund further exploration on wrecks and searches for wrecks in the Alcona and Presque Isle area. 7. Increase scientific exploration, evaluation and preservation of the wonderful heritage most Michiganers are unaware of. Thank you for allowing me to put in my two cents. Good luck on your endeavor and know that we will continue to promote the NOAA activities and perhaps be able to contribute more time and financial aid once we are established upstate. Sincerely yours, Ann-Marie Ruder