It seems like such a simple thing - the planting of a tree. But this tree has unusual significance - it was planted to represent the next 100 years in Arizona's history.

Probably more than a hundred gathered on the north side of the Courthouse to mark the occasion. The Yavapai County Board of Supervisors were all on hand for the momentous event. Of course, other dignitaries were in attendance, as well as a fourth grade class from Del Rio Elementary School. A plaque was unveiled - and it sits upon a stone that was pulled from the same quarry as that used to build the courthouse, according to Elisabeth Ruffner.

Each of the Supervisors spoke of the importance of this day to our community and our state. Supervisor Tom Thurman acknowledged that the new tree looks a little crooked, but assured the crowd that it was usual for it to look like that. Supervisor Carol Springer talked of the importance of history to those living in Prescott, and Supervisor Chip Davis acknowledged the wealth of representation this community enjoys at the Arizona Capitol, with Speaker of the House, Andy Tobin; Senate President Steve Pierce; Secretary of State Ken Bennett and Supreme Court Justice Robert Brutinel all coming from Yavapai County.

But it took a story by Presiding Judge David Mackey to remind us all that sometimes history and everyday life converge in remarkable ways:

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