Um, I beg respectfully to differ.
I have been a regular at Fremont Peak longer than most folks who now
observe there. Counting Cameron, I remember four Peak rangers, back to
the late 1970s; namely, Kate Foley, Rick Morales, Mike <not sure of last
name>, and Cameron <ditto>. Rick and Mike allowed setup on the flats
behind the ranger house. Kate didn't. Evidently Cameron won't. I
think I recall hearing that the ranger before Kate didn't allow it,
either. Furthermore, I remember that when Rick decided to let us set up
on the flats, it was well understood to be a personal favor, stemming
from his FPOA involvement and from his growing interest in astronomy.
I will tell no one what to think. Yet on the basis above, I myself
believe that there is no precedent for routine setup on the flat area.
I am greatful for past favors, and would be equally greatful for more of
the same, but I would be embarrassed if anyone thought I was expecting
favors as a matter of course, much less insisting on them.
> ... [the trees] ...
There are enough strong opinions that stating mine would serve no
purpose. Yet I _will_ state my course of action on the matter:
1) Reiterate my offer of money and/or labor to help provide replacement
trees elsewhere in the Park, when and and if replacement trees should
become appropriate, and
2) Wait.
-- Jay Freeman