I would like to express my disapproval of this event because it diminishes the sanctity of honor and memory bestowed to my grandfather William E. Smith who is a United States Army military WWII Veteran of Foreign Wars. The event tarnishes the sacredness of these grounds where loved ones are buried. This is not an amusement park.

How could the Board of Directors SCI Funeral Services, Inc, located at 1929 Allen Parkway Houston Texas 77019-2506 support and endorse SCI Pennsylvania Funeral Services, Inc. located at 352 S. Gulph Rd. King of Prussia, Pennsylvania 19406 (610)265-1660 (www.sci-us.com justify the land use of Mt. Rose Cemetery as an amusement park Halloween venue?

According to Pennsylvania Law under the Cemetery and Graveyards Protected Act of April 5,1859, P.L. 397, No.296 Cl.09 this appears to be a violation. It was enacted “to prevent the opening of streets or public roads through burial grounds, and for the protection of cemeteries and grave yards.” From my understanding cars will be driven through the cemetery with people giving out candy to its passengers.

With this straight forward protection granted by this law how can Pennsylvania Funeral Services, Inc circumvent the law? How can SCI Funeral Services operate outside licensing requirements of operating as cemetery? Has York County City Council appropriated taxpayer funds for this event? If so when was it brought to the attention of stakeholders and interested parties? Is Mt. Rose bonded to protect the cemetery lot owners from vandalism?

Cemetery 25 PA Code SS 86.101 definition is defined as “ an area of land where human bodies are interred.” York City Zoning Ordinances under Planning and Zoning Code 1304 (3.01.001) the Cemetery definition is “Property used for the burial of the dead.”
Why alter the cultural perception and ceremonial use and rites associated with Mt. Rose cemetery? To me it this is an unauthorized use of a cemetery. Stricter regulation should be considered regarding use of cemetery land.

I have so many questions and trying to find answers to them with little time to spare.
Thankfully the Veterans of Foreign Association has been notified.

Please consider cancelling this venue. There are so many other options to allow families to drive their vehicles with their children to collect candy and experience Halloween. I would suggest setting up Halloween displays at York Suburban High School adjacent parking lots as a viable alternative then using Mt. Rose Cemetery.