By Rich Chapman and Don Goodwillie

The South Haven Steelheaders is a diverse group of citizens concerned about our community, its vitality, its deep fishing and outdoor recreation tradition. They are the largest chapter of the Michigan Steelhead & Salmon Fishermen’s Association, established to protect, promote and enhance sport fishing in the Great Lakes and connecting waterways. Join us for a presentation and discussion by current president, Rich Chapman, joined by one of the founders of the Michigan Steelheaders, Don Goodwillie as they present the historical beginnings and current events of the South Haven Steelheaders and the Michigan Steelhead and Salmon Fisherman’s Association.

By Cecil Wilson, Historic Research Specialist

Join us as Cecil Wilson, Historic Research Specialist for the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians gives a presentation on the history of the Pokagon Band in our local area and Southwest Michigan. Pokagon citizens have long sustained their culture and connection to their homeland; numerous placenames in northern Indiana and southwest Michigan continually reflect that connection. The Pokagon people have endured thanks partly to their values of Wisdom, Love, Respect, Truth, Honesty, Humility, and Bravery. Adapting these deeply rooted ideals to contemporary circumstances has made the Band an engine for economic development and a model for sustainable living in the region.

Cecil Wilson is a Pokagon Potawatomi and a member of the Turtle Clan. He is pursuing a doctorate in U.S. History through Western Michigan University. Cecil works as the Historic Research Specialist for the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi’s Center of History and Culture. His primary job is to research the vast history of the Potawatomi people and to share his findings with his community, as well as reaching out to the surrounding communities to discuss an often-forgotten history of our shared lands. Cecil also works in the Tribal Historic Preservation Office and works with NAGPRA compliance for the Pokagon Band.