Phoenix Five - now 10 years

Daily Cal photo

The Daily Cal reminded me that it was 10 years ago that the famous Phoenix Five allegedly stole the Tree costume.

During the two-week hostage crisis, the "Five" released a proof of life video and several letters, including one signed by the mascot stating that the tree was no longer happy with its working conditions at Stanford.

But due to a house arrest of sorts that was subsequently placed on Oski Bear and threats made by the chancellors of both universities citing the illegality of stealing something estimated to be worth $1,000, the Tree reluctantly returned to its home, unharmed.