Commissioners share a vision
If you think parks are a waste of money; if the view of the Susquehanna from the bridges is enough to refresh your soul: if you thrill at the sight of monstrous trophy houses sprawling across the river hills read no further.
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I grew up in York County in the 50's and while it did not quite match Huck Finn's life it was relatively idyllic. My friends and I could ramble almost anywhere we chose. My first awareness that things were to change was the closing of Rambo Hollow. This beautiful valley cut by Rambo Run as it descends into Muddy Creek was a favorite spot for hiking, fishing and swimming by the locals until a group of wealthy Yorkers thought it was too good to share. They bought it, posted it and had it patrolled.
Next was Tyson's Meadow a beautiful piece of land containing the confluence of Muddy Creek and Rambo Run and nearly a mile of Muddy Creek. This was also a favorite place for fishing, swimming and hiking until a wealthy doctor claimed it and posted it.
On a lesser scale was a beautiful grove of 150-year old white oaks just outside Red Lion. They are gone, replaced by asphalt and sprawl. These are a few examples of losses happening all over the county. If you mentioned such losses in the 60's you got uncomprehending stares. Open Space was not a recognized term then. Everything was open space. When I returned in 1998 after a 35 year absence I found immense changes. Not one place where I roamed is now open. Thanks to a far sighted commissioner a few places like Rocky Ridge Park have been saved. We are fortunate to again have two commissioners who share a vision. I wish them success in their efforts.
Gary L. Fillmore
Wrightsville
Amen, brother. Best statement I've read on this issue anywhere, period. I hope you keep sharing your good York County common sense with the people.