George,

Here are my thoughts on the First Amendment Monument after two months of operation:

I find the First Amendment Monument to be a significant and very positive addition to the mall. I visit the monument to read or write on the chalkboard about once every week. I love the interactive nature of the notes on the chalkboard where comments are written, and then another adds a related comment (sometimes in agreement, sometimes in opposition). The chalkboard has also brought strangers together to talk about the issues addressed on the chalkboard, or even to discuss the value of public expression the chalkboard attracts. I always find thoughful comments on the chalkboard amid the many unreadable or less thoughtful messages and enjoy watching others proudly place there own thoughts and ideas on the wall where space allows.

I also make a point of bringing my friends from outside Charlottesville to visit the First Amendment Monument. I believe it serves our community as a destination, a place for sharing ideas, and a statement that we the people are the ones whose ideas will help shape our collective future. I have written on the chalkboard several times and expect to write many more thoughts on the chalkboard in the future.

Peter Kleeman (electronic mail, June 22, 2006)

Note: An index to coverage of the Monument on this website is at http://loper.org/~george/trends/2006/May/986.html