I love this picture! I know that more than likely, the tree was a beautiful something-other-than-a-birch. Then, in the darkness of the cold cruel Phoenix winter, a disease took its toll on poor mr.tree. Or maybe it was termites. The police are not entirely sure. Anyhow, it leaves a very funny picture behind.
"First, lay the pavement in a perfect circle around the tree. Then I want you to construct some grating to fit that circle in two even pieces. Take your friggin plasma torch and cut out pieces leaving an opening for the tree. Now cop that son of a birch down!"