FROM THE EDITOR One of the most optimistic acts I can think of is to plant a tree. Shovels were being sunk into the ground throughout Western New York in early November, as Re-Tree volunteers placed chestnut, crabapple, gingko, locust, serviceberry, and ash saplings (among other varieties) throughout the city. Over 1,700 trees were planted. As one of the volunteers, I can attest that this is a bittersweet experience. It’s unlikely that I’ll ever see any of these trees in their full maturity, except maybe the crabapples. Tree planting is truly an investment, one that provides substantial rewards far into the future. Animals receive shelter and habitat. The air becomes more breathable, as ozone, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide are absorbed and oxygen is released; harsh weather is mitigated, as trees absorb excessive wind, rain, and sun. Homeowners save on energy costs if surrounding trees provide windbreak and shade. Those benefits are far in the future, however. All I and my neighbors will see for years to come are skinny saplings—little more than sticks in the ground—that we’ll have to baby and protect as they struggle to thrive in difficult urban conditions. For us, these trees are a leap of faith—faith that there will always be a viable neighborhood with residents who will continue to appreciate vital components of it, like these trees. It’s hard not to see efforts like Re-Tree as proof that we must believe in Western New York’s future. Enjoy the holidays, whichever ones you celebrate! SUBSCRIBE NOW Back to the Table of Contents Back to Top