Crazy Horse earns Connecticut’s seal
of approval on 60^th

Gov. M. Jodi Rell has proclaimed June 3, 2008, as “Crazy Horse Memorial Day” in Connecticut.

Her executive order honors the South Dakota mountain carving project on its 60th anniversary. The commemorative also honors former Connecticut residents, Korczak and Ruth (Ross) Ziolkowski, who lived in West Hartford before moving to the Black Hills in 1947.

Connecticut Gov.
M. Jodi Rell

In her official statement, Rell notes highlights from the history of Korczak, Ruth, and Lakota Chief Henry Standing Bear that led to dedicating Crazy Horse on June 3, 1948.

“…Crazy Horse was remembered by his people as a fierce warrior and visionary leader who was committed to preserving the traditional Lakota way of life; and …Korczak was inspired to honor the culture, tradition and living heritage of North American Indians, and thus designed a metaphoric tribute to the spirit of Crazy Horse and his people,” the statement says in part.

Montana governor commends family

HELENA, Montana – Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer is among state and national officials celebrating Crazy Horse Memorial and its diamond jubilee.

“I commend you for your efforts to remind Americans about Korczak Ziolkowski and the monumental sculpture he worked on for so many years. His commitment to honor North American Indians is legendary,” Schweitzer said in a letter to Ruth Ziolkowski.

“Americans are grateful for your effort to fulfill Korczak’s legacy and I wish you well as you commemorate an important milestone in the history of Crazy Horse Memorial.”

S.D. delegation seeks congressional praise

WASHINGTON – The South Dakota congressional delegation is sponsoring resolutions honoring Crazy Horse Memorial on its 60th anniversary.

Rep. Stephanie Herseth Sandlin introduced H.R. 1074, which was referred to the House Natural Resources Committee. Sen. John Thune introduced S. Res 496, legislation co-sponsored by Sen. Tim Johnson that was referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Congresswoman Herseth Sandlin said “the memorial ... serves to educate thousands of visitors a year about the story and traditions of native peoples...”

The Thune-Johnson measure also pays tribute to the late sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski and his family members for carrying on his dream.

“The monument to Crazy Horse ... is a tribute to his spirit and to the legacy of the Lakota people,” Sen. Thune said.