Editor:
I have watched that beautiful tree on Second Street, the prettiest in Eureka, for years. It’s (er, it was) on the bay side just before the Carson Mansion. I noted its roots pressing against the curb, but never said anything, knowing the city of Eureka’s homicidal attitude towards its few remaining trees. Oh, I know. The curb will give way eventually. So what? Few cars drive that section anyway. I certainly wouldn’t expect Miles Slattery and his minions to do anything remotely imaginative — like transform that lovely block into a pedestrian area.
Enough! Next time I see a tree on its way to yet another cavalier destruction, count on me. I’ll spread my arms around it, and they will have to carry me away by force. I invite you to join me.
Louisa Rogers, Eureka
This article appears in ‘A Symbolic Gesture’.