by Neil Carleton
To anthropomorphically paraphrase the second verse of the Beatles 1965 song ‘Yesterday’ is a good way of introducing the roadside shady characters of this month’s column. At the first keystroke, the tune came rushing back from musical memories of almost half a century ago. Although it’s the most covered song in recording history, I’ve only had ears for the original Beatles creation with its spare, haunting lament of loss.
Suddenly, I’m not half the tree I used to be, There’s a shadow hanging over me …
I’m sure you’ve seen them too on your travels along country roads and municipal byways in our area. They’re rich in growth on one side and trimmed to the trunk on the road side where a telephone wire or hydro line runs close by. They’re the half trees of our community.
Do you have a notable or favourite tree? Readers are invited to submit their nominations for an honor roll of trees in our area that could be featured in future articles. You can contact me at 613-256-2018, <ve3nce@rac.ca>, or Neil Carleton, 3 Argyle Street, P.O. Box 1644, Almonte, Ontario, K0A 1A0. I look forward to hearing from you.
My volunteer columns started in March 2010, as print features, to support the tree planting and tree awareness initiatives of the Mississippi Mills Beautification Committee. The contact for the Tree Working Group is Ron Ayling, 613-256-4617. In Carleton Place, the contact for the Urban Forest / River Corridor Advisory Committee is Jim McCready, 613-257-5853.
Until the next column, you’ll find me looking for and hanging out with shady characters.
