photo: Gillian WareJerry chained himself to a ficus tree this morning which was in the process of being dug up and removed. Cosmo, Shari, Jill, Dan, Alice, Richard and I (sorry if I missed anyone) were there for backup and support. Shari even entered the restricted area and stood near the tree. Jerry wouldn't leave. The city backed off and put the dirt they had removed back.Then they went to the next tree slated for removal and started chainsawing its roots and digging. Jerry came from the first tree and kept trying to get a meeting with Kate Vernez of Lamont's office. He wanted them to stop removing the trees while everyone could talk. KCAL 9 came. Jerry entered the restricted area around the tree and was arrested. KCAL 9 (and 2) filmed the scene, us, and an interview of Jerry and then his arrest. This happened between 11:00 and noon in front of Michael's on 4th. Jerry's brother and sister-in-law were going to bail him out. No word yet on his status or whereabouts. Hats off to Jerry for doing what he said he'd do. Thumbs down for the city that wastes so much money killing healthy trees and transplanting other healthy trees. Remember, the only reason the trees are being transplanted (and subjected to a slow death) is for a design change. The city admitted this! At least $11,000 per tree to boot.
Sherry writes:
Jerry was very, very effective today. He argued the Treesavers case and, as Susan said, he did what he said he would do. He brought more public attention to the matter and, in the face of an upcoming election, I can't help but think this will cause some concern for City Council candidates. It was very sad to see the trees' roots being cut -- so obvious that they will never survive any relocation. Getting arrested, while acting in a peaceful
manner, was a powerful statement. Thank you Jerry.
Marissa writes:
Treesavers...... you have been informed of the ordeal on 4th street regarding our ficus trees and Jerry's attempt to prevent their removal.
Let's bring positive energy to bear on creating a Tree Commission so that intelligent and caring decisions can, in future times, be made about the maintenance and expansion of our urban forest.
It was good to see the support Jerry received from the few fellow Treesavers that were aware of the situation today.
And Most of All.......THANK YOU JERRY RUBIN FOR YOUR UNSWERVING FOCUS ON THE TREES...AND TO SEIZING EVERY MOMENT AND MAKING THE MOST OF IT........in all aspects of the struggle!photo: Gillian Ware
