Islanders Have an Obligation to All

To the Editor:

As one who for years has traveled to Mackinac Island, I truly am saddened to hear McNally Cottage could be on a course of destruction.

Mackinac Island is a remarkable place to visit and is a welcome spot for all to see and feel how things were in the past. As I have read on the Web site the letters and notes of visiting folks, you can understand that living on the Island is a privilege not to be taken lightly. Folks living and working on the Island have an obligation to the citizens of Michigan and folks far and wide to have the Island remain in the fashion that it is.

I agree with Mayor Doud the charm is what brings folks to Mackinac Island. As I view the rendering of the proposed hotel with the little gable on top, it is laughable to think this will possibly stand on the spot of McNally Cottage. The rendering has no charm whatsoever. The years of 120 cannot be measured by three stories, 22 rooms, and eight retail shops. Think, folks, think!

When the cottage is gone, it is gone forever, never to return. Is this really what the people of Mackinac Island feel about the place they live?

This is not what should be the future. The American way is to tear down and build anew. Is this truly what is wanted? I don't think so. Please remember, you folks who live on Mackinac Island, what a joy you have living in a perfect place. What a responsibility you have to keep it that way for generations to come.

I subscribe to the Town Crier and will continue, always looking forward to reading the happenings of one of America's most charming places, Mackinac Island.
Elaine Chaudoir
Berrien Springs