Shipwreck Program by WI Photographer Cal Kothrade

Are you looking for an exciting and dynamic speaker for the 2020 presentation season?  Now is the perfect time to schedule a presentation by Wisconsin diver, artist and underwater photographer Cal Kothrade. His latest presentation details the recent discovery and identification of the most intact schooner shipwreck in the world.

The new hour-long presentation features underwater photos and video of the lake schooner W.C. Kimball, a two masted sailing vessel that vanished with all hands in northern Lake Michigan in 1891. Michigan area shipwreck hunter Ross Richardson found the wreck in late 2018. Using actual footage from multiple dives on the 300' deep wreck by Wisconsin diver Steven Wimer, and Cal’s artwork, this fascinating show discusses the forensic clues that not only led to the identification, but the conclusion of what the ship's ghostly final hours may have been like. This highly significant and timely story has recently been featured by several news outlets including 13 News Grand Rapids, Milwaukee's own Fox Six news, and others.

Cal has presented and delivered keynote speeches at the Wisconsin Maritime Museum, Lake Huron Coastal Conservation Convention (Ontario, CA), GLSRF's Ghostships Conference, Great Lakes Shipwreck Festival in Canton Michigan, Milwaukee's North Point Lighthouse, Wisconsin Marine Historical Society galas, various libraries, yacht clubs, nursing homes, even dive club meetings!  No matter if it's ten people or two hundred, your audience will be spellbound from the very first minute until the end.

As a photographer/artist, it's no wonder his shows are a visual odyssey, often utilizing maps, archival images from his 20 year dive career, and dozens of his world renown shipwreck photos with a healthy dose of humor sprinkled in to keep things light.  Presentations typically run about 45 minutes with Q&A sessions afterwards.  Event organizers should expect larger than normal turnouts, his talks routinely draw record crowds. Past sponsors have touted the show as fascinating, and his natural, storytelling style of speaking is reminiscent of sitting around with an old friend listening to tales of their latest adventure.

A digital projector and screen are required of the venue.  If you have a microphone system great, otherwise for small to medium sized venues he can vocalize enough to not need a mic/PA.  Promotional images and copy can be provided upon request to aid in your advertising efforts.

Cal is based in the Milwaukee, WI area, and is available for presentations virtually any evening of the week.  In town rate is $250 for one hour.  Out of town rates vary based on distance, please contact him regarding availability and other requirements. Milwaukee, Waukesha, and Racine counties are considered 'in town'.

More information can be found at www.calsworld.net

Replies and inquiries:  calkothrade@gmail.com