With the end of the legislative session in Washington earlier this month, there also came the end of a significant political era for the State of Michigan.

U.S. Senator Carl Levin, chose not to run for re-election and with the end of the session, a Senate career that expanded six terms, a total of 36 years, came to an end.

Levin’s political career began with a seat on the Detroit city council. Serving from 1968-77, he left the council to run for the U.S. Senate. Upsetting incumbent Republican Robert Griffin, Levin was re-elected five more times.

Like it or not, Levin stayed close to his liberal roots throughout his tenure, but had a special place in his heart for the Keweenaw.

Levin was one of the key players in the inception and development of the Keweenaw National Historic Park.

He was there when the park was planned and when it opened. He had an involvement in nearly aspect of the park and was among those on hand when the impressive visitors center was dedicated a few years back.

Senator Levin was a frequent visitor to the Copper Country and we fondly remember intimate interviews conducted in a corner booth of the Kaleva Restaurant in Hancock.

Whether or not you agree with his politics, there is no doubt Carl Levin has made a significant personal contribution to the State of Michigan. And for that we thank him.