As Penn State and politicians hide behind closed doors, conspiring about how to steal Spring Creek Canyon, and how to keep the public out in the dark about it, I was reminded of Thomas Jefferson's observation that "All tyranny needs to gain a foothold is for people of good conscience to remain silent." But where are the Penn State professionals? Where are all the men and women of good conscience concerning the Spring Creek land transfer in light of the scientific data developed by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy and others as to what is best for the future of the Spring Creek and the Canyon?

In September, the House of Representatives State Government Committee will hold public hearings here regarding the proposed land transfer. How embarrassing it will be to Penn State and its professional staff to have national experts from other universities appear before the House Committee to testify to the adverse environmental, biological and archaeological effects that the proposed land transfer will cause, while the Penn State staff sits mute.

I challenge the men and women of good conscience on the Penn State staff to come forward and join us in what you know is right. Speak out and defend Spring Creek Canyon!

Frank J. Muraca
Class of 1975