August Hownikan Article
Bozho, (Hello),
I want to begin by expressing my deepest gratitude for the opportunity to serve as your District 1 legislator. Thank you to everyone who participated in the election process, the kind words and encouragement along the way. Your voice matters, and it is an incredible honor to represent you.
Our family had a wonderful experience at the CPN Family Reunion Festival this past June. The kids loved the camel rides (yes, you read that right!), and even took a good-natured loss in the chess tournament courtesy of Tribal elder Monroe Jeffrey. We also lost to the PLP in hand games but had a great time trying! Lastly, I was honored to stand as a sponsor at a naming ceremony for Caitlyn Jones — a remarkable young woman from New York.
After the General Council meeting, I was overwhelmed by the kindness, generosity and emotional connection I felt from those who came up to congratulate me. People I hadn’t yet met introduced themselves and their families and allowed me to introduce mine. Most important to me, though, was seeing the pride in my daughter’s smile throughout the weekend. It was a powerful reminder that this role isn’t just about policy. It’s about people and the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with those I serve.
Former District 1 Legislator Alan Melot with Steve Livingston’s family Brooklyn, Laura and Caitlyn
I want to express my sincere gratitude to Anna Johnson, my fellow candidate in this past election. Anna ran a heartfelt campaign focused on connection, community and building relationships. I appreciated our conversations throughout the campaign season and admire her strength, kindness and passion. She is a positive force in our community, and I look forward to working alongside her.
I also want to recognize and thank Alan Melot for the friendship we’ve built over the last five years and for his years of service representing District 1. Alan led with integrity, authenticity and humility, and his example is one I will look to as I begin this journey. He raised the bar for what it means to be a servant leader, and I’ll continue to lean on his wisdom and support.
Following the election, I received heartfelt messages, hugs and gifts from friends. Thank you to Erin Dix, Anna Johnson, Charles Scott and my dear friend Peggy Kinder, who gifted my girls shawls and passed down a beaded bolo tie that had belonged to her late husband, Steve. It was an emotional gesture, one that reminded me how much we mean to each other as a community.
Peggy Kinder with Steve Livingston’s family
By the time this article is published, the Gathering of Potawatomi Nations, hosted by the Gun Lake Tribe, will have just taken place. I want to give a special shoutout to Peggy Kinder, who was honored as the head elder lady for the Saturday powwow — an honor that reflects her deep care and spirit. I also want to recognize Lakota Hobia, a District 1 citizen, tribal historic preservation officer at Gun Lake, and a dear friend who served on the Gathering’s organizing committee. District 1 is full of talented and generous people!
As I step into this role, I humbly ask for your prayers and support. I can’t do this alone. I’m here to listen, to learn and to lead with heart and transparency.
I’ll be maintaining a strong digital presence and encourage you to visit my website at cpndistrict1.com. I’ll post regular updates and opportunities to connect. Please share your contact information so I can keep you in the loop. You can email me at steve.livingston@potawatomi.org, call or text me at 419-654-4183 or connect via Facebook at facebook.com/district1cpn.
Serving District 1 is the honor of a lifetime.
Steve Livingston | Legislator, District 1 | steve.livingston@potawatomi.org
