Thanks for your feedback. I believe I am in zone 6 (SE Michigan). I
am new to this stuff, but I looked it up he
http://www.arborday.org/trees/whatzone.cfm

This is what I want. I want something that will group 8-12 feet talk,
is fast growing, adds color to my yard and will provide a lot of
privacy during the summer. I do not really care about the winter. I
am most interested in those wonderful summer cookouts!

I do not really want to go with evergreens because that's what most of
my neighbors have. We are not short on green here! I want to add
something different and add colors.

So, any other suggestions? I do not want to spend a lot of money and
want to provide coverage for about 30 feet.

Also, any opinions on my proposed spacing (see original posting)? I
am planning on doing some of my planting this weekend.

Thanks for the feedback!

Nate