The Tree Doctor and The Ripple

Photographing Petey, the Tree Doctor, Boonville, NC
(photos: Jonathan David Phillips)

Yesterday, I was shadowed by a reporter, and friend, from The Yadkin Ripple (the local paper), "Captain" Jonathan David Phillips. He met me at Trish's Restaurant to talk about the project, pry into my goals, my vision, my personal life and to take some photographs.


Trish's Restaurant, September, 7, 2007, Boonville, NC


"Boonville Park," September 7, 2007

Yes, that is my tent. And yes, I am currently the homeless man living in the park. The Boonville Park! Harvey Smith, the Mayor, offered up Boonville's Park as my new home for the next few days, weeks or "for however long you need it." It is actually quite comfortable: As comfortable as packed dirt and wet grass can feel while your laying on it for long periods of time. Tom and Sharon Arnold, a couple I met in town, have brought me a couple of chairs and extra blankets to make my stay here in Boonville a bit more cozy. Now, if only someone could bring me a shower and four solid walls. I'm just kidding! I truly enjoy camping and I am just lazy enough to enjoy not having to shower.



Shortly after Jonathan and I arrived to camp, "Petey," the Tree Doctor, stopped by to say hi. Petey has come to visit with me a number of times since I have lived in the park, as he often works just around the corner. We all hit it off and Petey quickly left, returning just as fast with three bottles of non-alcoholic Sangria. Good times, the non-alcoholic way!


Jonathan, Petey, and me, September 7, 2007

Our time with Petey was well spent and I am grateful that he wandered over, again, for Petey was the first person that I have photographed in Boonville, North Carolina. And now the fun begins...