ESCANABA -Delta Force students learned about the incredible contributions that Upper Peninsula residents made to the war efforts, along with Native American culture during History and Culture Day on Thursday, July 13.

Students discovered the fascinating history of Delta County, and the important contributions that the Hannahville Indian Community makes to the U.P. economy. History and Culture Day, the sixth session of this year’s Delta Force Class, was held at the Delta County Commerce Center and the Hannahville Indian Community Potawatomi Heritage Center. The day started with breakfast sponsored by Anytime Fitness, a short presentation by Anytime Fitness owner Jayne Szukalowski, and a talk by Ann Jousma-Miller about the history of Delta County.

Jousma-Miller gave a fascinating presentation on the history of the cities that make up the Delta County area, and told students stories about some of the founders of the area towns. She then led the students on a tour of Webster Marble’s ‘Inventing the Outdoors’ Museum and the Upper Peninsula Military Museum.

Jousma-Miller described–and showed–the innovative outdoor products that Webster Marble invented, including the safety axe, compass and Marble’s Game Getter gun. “Webster Marble was probably one of the greatest inventors of all time,” Jousma-Miller told the students. She then described in incredible detail the contributions that Upper Peninsula veterans made to the war effort, starting with The Civil War.

Students were impressed by the meaningful content and attention to detail in the museums, along with the vast amount of information that Jousma-Miller passed on about the history of the surrounding towns, saying it made them feel proud of their home.

“I feel more connected to the community of Delta County and its history more than ever before,” Delta Force student Jessica Beaver said.

Students then asked questions and shared experiences, offering Jousma-Miller positive feedback about her presentation.

The next segment focused on the culture and traditions of the Hannahville Indian Community (HIC) at the Potawatomi Heritage Center. Students enjoyed lunch at the Heritage Center, and listened to presentations from leaders at the HIC.

Mia Smith, Tribal Career Development and Higher Education Director, focused on the Potawatomi Culture and how the community has grown over the years, and gave an interesting overview of the scope and reach of the HIC.

Next, HIC Chief Financial Officer Scott Herioux gave a presentation on the U.P. Community and Economic Impact of the HIC, including a discussion of its two percent slot machine revenue payout for community and municipal projects.

The economic impact of the Hannahville Indian Community is staggering, as both a major employer and a major economic engine for the Central U.P.

“Hannahville has become an exceptional corporate citizen and governmental partner,” Herioux said, noting that the Tribe takes its role as a corporate citizen very seriously.

Students learned a great deal and were appreciative of their newfound knowledge.

“I really appreciated the entire day, and I was honored to learn more about Hannahville history and culture,” said Delta Force student Amy Reddinger.

Finally, students toured the HIC’s Aquaponics facility, aptly named AquaTerra, and learned from Amanda Hess how the staff at the facility grows their own vegetables and sells them at local grocery stores, including Elmer’s County Market, Massie’s Country Market, Fazer’s, Island Oasis, and the Hannahville Farmer’s Market.

Next month, Delta Force students will learn from business leaders at Billerud and Department of Natural Resources professionals during Environmental Awareness Day.

The objective of Delta Force is to acquaint students with community issues, resources and opportunities; increase the leadership skills of program participants; provide them with opportunities to network and exchange ideas with each other and other community leaders; assist participants in finding volunteer roles in the community; and encourage graduates to continue their involvement by participating in community service programs.

Created and facilitated by the Delta County Chamber of Commerce, Delta Force encompasses a series of ten full-day sessions covering such areas as media and communications, education, leadership, health and community services, law and order, government, and other key segments of our community. Visit HYPERLINK “http://www.deltami.org/delta-force-leadership-program” deltami.org/delta-force-leadership-program for more information. To tour the Webster Marble’s ‘Inventing the Outdoors’ and Upper Peninsula Military Museums for free, visit the U.P. Welcome Center at 1001 N. Lincoln Rd. any weekday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

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Victoria LaFave is with the Delta County Chamber of Commerce.