Every once in a while I hear a story that inspires, that reminds me that when we choose to work arm-in-arm to protect that which we hold dear, we can accomplish what feels like the impossible. This is such a story. For over twelve years, a group of citizens has been battling a proposed 600+ acre quarry that would decimate what has been described as “The Jewel of Lehigh Valley.” Tucked among the rolling hills of Eastern Pennsylvania, the land in Lower Milford Township is defined by its narrow, winding roads threading through century-old historic stone homes, forested acres of land, streams, farmland, wetlands, and dairy farms. The quarry plans, which include an asphalt plant and concrete distribution facility, threaten the quality of the groundwater and the air; put at risk the endangered bog turtles and Eastern brown bats; threaten the brown trout in nearby streams; and damage the ambiance of what approximately 3,700 people call home. Since 2004, this relatively small group of people has kept a Goliath of seemingly infinite resources at bay, fending off seventeen separate quarry suits and appeals. But while the Pennsylvania Supreme Court has twice ruled in favor of the people, the lawsuits and appeals from Geryville Materials continue. It appears the company’s strategy is to wear down the people, to financially bankrupt those standing in the way of the quarry. While the sword of the average warrior would be dulled and chipped from so many years of conflict, the woman with whom I spoke exuded great passion and a fierce commitment to persevere. I could feel her energy; see her and the team battling through endless public hearings, dissertations, and courtroom arguments. She has my respect, my admiration, and my love. She is Rubin’s sister.
8 Comments
Lynn Smith
12/4/2016 08:29:50 am
Your blog is so timely, Mary, given the similar battle going on for Standing Rock. Kudos to you for shining a light on Pennsylvania as they're not getting the same degree of attention. And, kudos to Rubin's sister for staying in the fight.
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Ed H
12/4/2016 08:52:26 am
Great post! And, I second the call for any support we can add here, or at Standing Rock!
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Mary Ellen Miller
12/4/2016 11:53:29 am
Your blog post sent me scurrying to the internet to do a bit of research, Mary. If you google "Geryville Materials" a wealth of information pops up, not the least of which is a website called "Crush the Quarry" run by the folks who are featured in your blog. Thanks so much for raising the consciousness of your readers!
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Eric Stemle
12/4/2016 04:13:15 pm
Mary, your gift to us continues to be not only shining a light on issues as Lynn well suggests, but also giving us our own torches to join in. The battle images (Goliath, "sword of the average warrior") underscore the nature of this ongoing struggle that we as citizens face when we stand up against economic powers. The question remains, how many insidious practices go on in the darkness? Thank you for illuminating one more!
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Molly Laflin
12/4/2016 04:35:14 pm
Good question, "How many insidious practices go on in the darkness?" Thank you for all that you do to protect our environment, Mary.
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12/5/2016 10:12:12 pm
Mary, thank you so much for bringing attention to our battle. The members of the LMRA are deeply touched that someone has heard our cry for help. Your message is timely and it encourages us as we head into two quarry hearings this week. We will continue to stand strong and resilient as we strive to preserve the natural, scenic, historic and esthetic values of the environment. Thank you again for your support.
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Deirdre Ring-Marrinson
12/13/2016 02:27:21 pm
please add me to your distribution list
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12/19/2016 08:44:16 pm
So very worthwhile. I admire these people who refuse to give up!
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