Also serving the communities of De Luz, Rainbow, Camp Pendleton, Pala and Pauma

An open letter to Grace Gabrielli (owner of Valley Oaks Park)

Four years ago we chose [space number] 98, not because of the coach, not because of the neighbors and not because of any of the amenities. We chose it solely because of the backyard and its potential and because of the graceful, beautiful 200-year-old oak tree that was in residence.

We added a great deal to the backyard, including a deck and lots of flowers, and enjoyed all the birds that made their home in the old oak tree.

Then, one day, totally unknown to us (why should we be informed? We just rent, we don’t own) a tree service came and destroyed the old oak. Someone decided that our oak tree needed “pruning.” They hacked and sawed and great big limbs fell to the ground, right along with smaller branches.

When they were done, the tree little resembled its former self. It was a joy to turn down our street and be able to see the leafy green branches from two blocks away. Now, all we see are dead, brown branches. That tree stood proud and green for 200 years! Think of all it went through in that time: storms, earthquakes, perhaps a devastating fire or two. But the one thing this living creature could not stand was the destruction of man. Thanks to you and your people, the tree is now dead.

We are sick over this situation. And yes, you are responsible. We have done all that we have been told to do, going to considerable work and money to move plants to save this oak. It never needed “pruning.” You need to pay more attention to what is going on here and to what people tell you. It is truly amazing to see the oaks in the field behind us that have never needed pruning and are thriving.

We think this is criminal – surviving God only knows what only to be killed by the greedy tree service that you hired. People here in Fallbrook really do care, even if you don’t, Grace, so we are letting them know about our dead friend.

Gene and Deborah Zinn

 

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