Joe and Tom: Two Inspiring Trees

I had to wrestle a bit with posting this in honor of our founder, because it violates the one rule Joe Tree set for this site: the photo must be posted on the day it was taken. I excuse myself by saying this 120 foot coast redwood is worthy of the occasion and of the man. This neighborhood giant is quite a local celebrity because of the recent City Council decision to chop it down. The roots are damaging both public and private property and no one has come up with a satisfactory solution. There have been attempts to save the tree, and many arborists have spoken both in favor of and against the removal. Some say the tree could be 200 years old based on its girth, others maintain it is around 60, based on photos of the area. A young woman who identified herself as a tree whisperer addressed the Council and said she spoke with the tree and learned his name is Tom, and that he is 254 years old.
I myself pass by this corner almost every day, sometimes a couple times a day. It is across from the high school and on the main walking route to downtown, so it is a monumental part of many lives, much like Blipfoto. (How cleverly she brought this to a conclusion…) So thank you, Joe, for creating this wonderful place for us to share our photos and our lives. We fought the axe that threatened our existence some years ago, and, thanks to a wonderful team, Blip continues to be a joy and inspiration to people around the globe.