On Mon, 29 Aug 2005 05:05:55 -0400, Ann wrote:

"Travis" expounded:

Topping a tree is *never* a good idea.

Usually that's true. However, a category 5 or strong category 4 is
probably going to make the point moot, unfortunately. Topping this
tree may save it......
.. . . temporarily. http://www.treesaregood.com/treecare/topping.asp

You don't want a topped tree looming over your house. If the storm
spares it, finish the removal and replace it, and be kind to the new
tree.

Keith Babberney
ISA Certified Arborist #TX-236