Our efforts appear to be having some effect. Kindly take a few moments to relay the Scammon petition to two or three friends and ensure they sign. At Alumni Weekend this morning, I had a brief exchange with another parent, the school's fundraising chair. Our sons are close friends and are in a jazz band together. She of all people is aware of how important it is to keep our benefactors' memories alive. She said that our campaign is inaccurate, but could only support this by saying that "the name Scammon is sacrosanct." I sensed that she never read the history and still believes that the garden is under a legal covenant. We would like to see the protection -- including all of our points -- memorialized in writing, such as through a resolution from the Board of Trustees. I also had a brief chat this morning with my neighbor, Lab teacher emerita Margaret "Peggy" Bevington. Peggy was the inspiration for us to begin this work, and she is relieved that we are doing this. (Anyone concerned about Peggy's condition should know that during our conversation she was riding alongside me on her rusty bicycle, rather outpacing me.) I described to Peggy terms we are asking, and asked her if she had anything to add. "Yes," she said. "Put some kids in there!" She was referring to the somewhat unnatural and sterile new landscaping. She also wants to see a gate allowing better public access to the field. Please take a moment to communicate our petition via Facebook and e-mail during this Alumni Weekend. Think of siblings, parents, and other Lab friends who can help. We thank you for your support. Scammon Friends Committee