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Dillsboro tree should have been saved
The Friday, Dec. 3, issue of the Asheville Citizen-Times carried a story, with pictures, about Buncombe County's "Treasured Trees" and the fond memories the trees evoke. I don't believe that the Dillsboro board gave memories or beauty a thought when, according to (town clerk) Herb Nolan, the board unanamously voted to cut down the tree.
I inquired whether the tree was diseased. No, replied Nolan; it had become "unmanagable" for him to decorate each year. I asked whether others could decorate; "No." It was his job. Did it occur to the Board that a simple flood light would only enhance the beauty of an unlit tree? No, it was "overtaking the park" and had become an "eyesore." Could this be the same tree whose beauty I enjoyed every day as I picked up my mail? Could this be the same tree whose branches shaded the small park? Could this be the same tree that was not posing a threat, either with disease or to traffic?
I asked why the tree had not been left through the Luminaire and Nolan informed me that the board made the decision "several months ago." He proudly explained that the tree was being replaced by a gazebo. So, the next time you visit the little park and sit in the new gazabo, please take time to look around at all the "Thou Shalt Not" signs posted on every available surface and ask yourself this question: "What is the real eyesore?"
I think that I shall never see a gazebo as lovely as a tree. Big mistake, Dillsboro board. Next time, will you remove the dam and install billboards?
Helen Tugwell
Dillsboro
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