I remember seeing the damage that Juan did in Halifax.

All of those fine, century-old trees lying in the streets -- it made me a little sick. I guess it was personal -- I had been there only a few months before.

But part of me was surprised as well. There was adequate warning; why didn't people try to anchor down those trees?

Maybe, as a country dweller, I have a different perspective. When severe weather is coming in, there's nobody but me to take responsibility and batten things down (usually at 2:00 in the freaking a.m.).

Anyway, I know you can't do everything, but as a homeowner, or someone who cares about their beautiful neightbourhood, why wouldn't you organize some cable and metal stakes, and preserve the magnificent gems right in front of your property?