When the idea of a playground near Plandome Road was first discussed a few years ago we were amazed at the depth of public support for such a project. Posters were up all over town, petitions were signed and letters to the editor were written in support of a playground. Still for a time it seemed as if it wasn't going to happen, for a variety of reasons. Nevertheless it did happen and there it is, right behind the bandstand in Mary Jane Davies Park. We hope it will be a popular place for young families to bring their children. We also hope that it will be treated with respect, especially by teenagers who will not see any personal benefit for themselves. When the proponents of a playground for downtown Manhasset began their crusade they were told by people at Town Hall that there was concern that the equipment would be vandalized. The concern arose from the vandalism that is a routine problem at the bandstand. We implore everyone in Manhasset to take good care of this new public treasure. Parents of young children will, we are sure, make sure that their children use the playground equipment as it is meant to be used. We hope they will also make sure their older children enjoy what is age appropriate and not abuse what is intended for their younger siblings. And, once again, teenagers, why not show the skeptics that you have the maturity and the generosity to recognize that this playground will mean a lot to the little kids in the neighborhood. After all, it's not so long ago that you were their age.

E.F.B.