By BETH MALONE
ROSEBANK

Mount Manresa’s natural landscape was formed over the last ice age and has miraculously survived with its very old rare oak and tulip trees. It is a place of tranquillity and very special.

I am a retired New York City detective. I experienced tremendous peace at Mt. Manresa during 9/11 when I was stationed at Ground Zero. I went to the grotto to pray and find peace after the horrible things I saw.

I spoke to the volunteer law enforcement and recovery assistance personnel with K-9 companions staying at Mount Manresa while assisting at Ground Zero. During Superstorm Sandy, the Red Cross used Mount Manresa to house people who were homeless due to Sandy. Many felt fortunate to have Mount Manresa to come to and grew to know there was something wonderfully magical about this place. Many started to feel hopeful again.

Mount Manresa is sacred ground. It should have been protected. That’s why I am a member of Committee to Save Mount Manresa. It can be made into a park for the public. Many feel the same way I do. I hope they join us. Once it is gone, it will be gone forever.