I acquired this elm tree and would like to know of anyone can ID it and give some initial suggestions on styling and growing it out. (Sorry for the blurring, can't find my REAL camera)
Incidentally, the soil was what I had on hand to collect it so no wise cracks please
Most likely American elm. Chop back to roughly 12 inches height, let it grow for a season, then do your branch selection for informal upright style. It should back-bud vigorously, giving you plenty of branches to choose from.
the second branch on the left seems like the best option for a new apex. if you are happy with the current trunk, it could be a good idea to remove the branch that's shooting straight up(fourth on the right side) it's creating an unsightly bulge in the trunk.