Loss of honkng tree felt deeply

Talk about it

To the Editor:

I'd like to share a few thoughts from what was, in my opinion, a horrible, senseless and criminally offensive event that someone did by cutting down the "Honking Tree". I feel that not only did this or these persons show a complete lack of respect for our community, they have destroyed one of the things that make our area so special.

To me what was done to that tree would be no different than destroying the Edna G, the Lighthouse, Pierre the Voyager or the Chicken. We are all so fortunate to live in such a beautiful area and as residents of the community, each of these landmarks have become a part of our daily lives. It's very sad and upsetting to me that I won't have the opportunity to share this tradition with my son as my parents did with me.

I have talked with the local law enforcement agencies and they have assured me that if and when these people are caught, they will seek prosecution to the fullest extent of the law.

I also feel the need to set the record straight on a comment I made last week to the Duluth News-Tribune about the "Honking Tree". I made the comment, "All indications are pointing to a senior class prank; it's that time of year." Several students at the Two Harbors High School were offended and felt the comment was directed at them. In no way was the comment intended to be about any one school. The acts of one or more individuals should not be reflected upon others. I deeply regret and apologize if I have offended anyone.

I have come to believe the THHS graduating class of 2009 is a very special and tight-knit group who has worked very hard to create and maintain an image of community caring and involvement. I encourage and look forward to their continued participation in the community.

So now the "Honking Tree" is gone. We will do everything we can to preserve this piece of our history. A friend of mine has this great quote that he uses in times like these: "Sometimes when you have lemons, you have to make lemonade".

Randy Bolen

Mayor

City of Two Harbors

Tags: letters to editor, opinion