Dear Maryknollers,

What is a school without a story? And, certainly the Saga of our precious tree, mistakenly identified as a Norfolk Island Pine, is one that brings forth many loving and emotional responses and memories. I share Maryknollers' love of the tree and the sorrow of cutting it down. Equal, if not more, the sorrow as my father, brothers and sisters were nurserymen and landscapers. I grew up with trees all around me; thus, you can understand my love and concern for all trees and nature.

First, let me assure you that our school and the government have enlisted several certified arborists for their advice, which we heeded to preserve the tree. However, communication gaps involving various parties repairing the drainage pipes has brought us to another level of decision making. The roots of the tree were severely damaged. The tilt of the tree, monitored by authorities, has increased from 2009 to 2010 dramatically and now to a dangerous level. Our first and foremost concern is for the safety of present students and pedestrians. Our concern for safety and the present facts influenced the decision to remove the tree. Painful as it is, we have reached an informed decision to take immediate action. Hopefully, speculation and conspiracy theories will not take root in Maryknollers' hearts.

Sister Jeanne Houlihan