Many organizations have activities scheduled to mark the 250th anniversary of our country’s Declaration of Independence.
Just as there were special projects in the county for the Bicentennial in 1976, a longtime reader approached the Enterprise about recognizing “Leelanau Legends ” in celebration of the county’s Semiquincentennial.
“Leelanau County is a great place to live — great people,” said Alan Harwick of Leland, who was part of the “Pursuit of Liberty” an original production featuring a cast of 50, performed before sold out dates at Glen Lake Community School. “There’s a wonderful spirit in the county.”
Earlier this year, the Detroit Free Press named their “Mount Rushmore” of Detroit Tiger baseball players. Similarly, the newspaper is seeking reader input on persons who have made their mark on the county, 50 years post Bicentennial. Our own Mount Rushmore of sorts.
According to the National Park Service, the idea originated by South Dakota State historian Doane Robinson. He imagined large figures of the American west carved in South Dakota’s Black Hills. Robinson contacted master sculptor Gutzon Borglum, who liked the idea, but wanted the sculpture to be a monument that conveyed the meaning of America.
Hence, the monument includes four presidents: George Washington; Thomas Jefferson, third President of the United States; Abraham Lincoln, 16th President of the United States and Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States.
So, who do you think should be on Leelanau’s Mount Rushmore?
Hartwick moved to the county in the 1970s and his choices for our Rushmore reflect this:
• Larry Glass, legendary Leland girls basketball coach. “He taught Leland’s young ladies much more than basketball,” Hartwick said.
• Dick Grout, a decorated member of the Greatest Generation who landed on Normandy and also was just a great human being.”
• Scott Craig, one of Leelanau’s most notable storytellers. He wrote stories about our neighbors next door.
• Ed Collins, founder of the Leelanau Conservancy. He helped to preserve Leelanau for future generations.”
Below you will find a Leelanau Legends nomination form which provides space for four candidates and is due by noon June 15.
Nominations are limited to four persons and limited to 30 words in length.
The Enterprise staff will determine who will fill the county’s Mount Rushmore, which will be published in our July 2 newspaper.
If you have questions direct them to [email protected]
