BOB KUSSNER, A VIETNAM VETERAN, stands next to the majestic silver maple tree that overlooks the corner of State and Center streets after affixing a patriotic ribbon on it top honor Independence Day and the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. But this is no ordinary tree. It could be said that it is an arborist’s delight, as it measures about 14 feet in diameter. And it’s a rare tree in Tracy as well. To Colette Hesla, who lives at 113 State St. and owns the lot at the intersection, it’s more than just another tree in town. “I’d love to keep it,” said Hesla, who moved to Tracy from Pierre, SD, five years ago. “The tornado tree … they honored that in the memory of what happened in the community, but this was standing before the tornado. This is history. Once it goes, it’s gone forever. This tree just stands out — she’s history, grace and beauty. And you don’t see a lot of silver maples. There’s such a grace to it. This is rare.” The tree will likely be removed for the Phase E infrastructure project on that side of town.” Photo / Per Peterson
