Editor, Gazette-Journal:

Approximately 10 years ago, a Mathews County citizen came to the County Administrator’s office with a request. He wanted the people of Mathews to have a live tree on the historic court green which could be decorated and appreciated year after year at Christmas.

I was serving as County Administrator at the time. I walked the court green with him and we agreed that existing trees and areas prone to storm flooding left no suitable location for the desired conifer. He promised that he would continue working toward his goal.

A few years later, I called the gentleman and informed him that the large, old tree beside the historic courthouse was dying and required removal. There was now a spot for the community tree. Together we purchased a tree which he found in Hanover County and had it planted with inmate help. He provided fertilizer spikes and purchased decorations for the tree. That December, the community gathered for the first time around the community t...