Tom Petzold introduced Tribe Chairman Sam McClellan of the Proud Nation of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. It’s been a few years since we last heard at the noon club from the Chairman. It was a good opportunity to reacquaint the Club with the Band and their activities.
Chairman McClellan’s comments were on the general interest side. He spoke of the grants that have gone to the Fire Departments and some others that have gone to the assistance of the Band’s many neighbors in need. He was very generous in his praise of Rotary and the work we do in the interest of the community that is shared by the Band.
The Chairman intimated the Band’s focus on and commitment to the preservation of air, land and water. They are against Pipeline 5 and the Tunnel, which they feel are damaging to the Band’s economy and the resources impacted.
He referenced the handout (see the Images below) that will bring us up to date. He acknowledged his assistant, LeAnn and niece, Christy who have done much to advance him and the programs they pursue. Then he spoke lovingly of his wife of 47 years and extended family and thanked them as well.
