McEUEN: Ode to beloved tree

Just when I think I’ve seen and heard it all, something manifests that proves me wrong. I have been in the throes of accepting the changes to McEuen Field and reconciling myself to the cost of those changes when an event of magnificent proportions has been presented to the people of this town. One of our most revered symbols is losing its life due to the whims of a group that is satisfied only by its “vision” of grandeur with man-made glitz!

Our Norway spruce known as the “Freedom Tree” is being slaughtered and sacrificed because it stands in the way of the McEuen Field makeover. My anger and sorrow over this situation have nothing to do with the cost of upgrading our downtown area. Conversely, it has everything to do with the demise of one of God’s/Nature’s majestic creatures. Included with the loss of our tree is the loss of a symbol — a symbol reminding us of a truly brave man who represented his country by being shot down, captured and held prisoner in order to maintain a good life for the rest of us. I know this man. He is modest and humble by nature and deserves every accolade we can pay him for his service to this country.

As for the tree which stands tall for him; yes, someone can cut up our Freedom Tree and fashion benches adorned with artistic carvings, but the fact will remain that one of God’s creations has been murdered and mutilated. Nothing that can be done by man will ever exceed the magnificence of this LIVING tree.

I have two questions to pose to this group. 1. When will the glorification of your downtown area ever end? 2. Are you not ashamed of yourselves? This tree and the gentleman (Mr. Fred McMurray) it represents deserve better.

BARBARA FURCRON

Coeur d’Alene