By Tim Douglass

tdouglass@pctribune.com

A decade-long dream finally became a reality in Glenwood as community members gathered to unveil the new sailboat statue on the Minnewaska lake shore in Glenwood—symbolizing local pride, persistence, and collaboration.

Stephanie Hall, Vice President of Glenwood & Beyond, led the dedication ceremony last Friday afternoon, joined by President Kari Nelson and board members Kim Agre, Heidi Rooney, Jen Ring and Amie Stark. 

“This beautiful sailboat statue is more than just a piece of art—it represents persistence, collaboration, and hometown pride,” Hall told the crowd gathered at the intersection of North Lakeshore Drive and Minnesota Avenue.

The new statue, which stands 12 feet tall, stretches 13 feet long, and weighs approximately 1,200 pounds, is built to endure Glenwood’s strong lake winds and seasonal storms. It replaces a series of previous sailboat displays that succumbed to harsh weather conditions.  

“Peter Nelson, thank you,” Hall said, recognizing Nelson’s ongoing efforts over the years to maintain the earlier sailboats. “I’m sure you’re just as thrilled as we are to see something strong and lasting finally be standing here today.”

The project gained momentum when Glenwood & Beyond member Melissa Grossman connected the organization with a sculptor to realize their vision for what is called the Sailboat Plaza.  Dustin Carroll was commissioned to create the statue, with support from structural engineer Joe Nicholson of Design Tree Engineering, geotechnical engineer Chosen Valley Testing, and several local businesses including Kluver Concrete Services and Glacial Lakes Landscaping.

“This statue wouldn’t be here without the support of so many,” Hall said. She extended special thanks to Glenwood State Bank for a generous donation and to Peter Nelson and Jeremiah Stark for braving cold and rain to help install the statue earlier in the week.

Founded to make Glenwood “a better place to live and a destination worth visiting,” Glenwood & Beyond has been behind several key community projects, including the City Park playground, the Pocket Park, the lake walk plazas, and much of the decorative lighting  plants and banners for the Complete Streets initiative.

Hall credited the group’s success to widespread community involvement—from donors and volunteers to event-goers. She listed fundraisers like Winterama, Food on the Fairway, and the New Year’s Eve Gala as crucial to raising funds and awareness.

To those who have contributed over the years, Hall offered her appreciation. “Things like this don’t just magically appear. They happen because of people like you who believe in Glenwood.”

As the dedication concluded, Hall invited community members to stay engaged. She reminded attendees that Glenwood & Beyond is still seeking members and participants for the upcoming Food on the Fairway event on June 16 and that custom engraved pavers are available for purchase at the lake walk plazas.

“If today has inspired you and you’d like to get involved, we’d love to have you,” join Glenwood & Beyond, she said.

The sailboat now stands as a lasting testament to Glenwood’s spirit—anchored not just in concrete, but in community.

Photos by Gabriel Hart