Painting begun in artist studio than moved to library so patrons could watch and see progress.  When a family would watch me working, I would asked if someone would like to paint a leaf on the Friendship Tree and all the children gladly accepted with delight.

In 2005, Hurricane Katrina flooded the library and after the emergency was declared over and recovery was beginning, the Long Beach Fire Department entered the abandoned facility and transported the painting to their Fire Station.  By the providence of God the 500 year old tree still stands and by the effort of those Firemen the painting is now restored in the reconstructed Library.  Thanks to all.