By SCOTT MCKIE B.P.
ONE FEATHER STAFF
Webster’s dictionary defines the word ‘inauguration’ as “marking a beginning”. The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians will hold an inauguration on Monday, Oct. 3 at 10am in the Council Fire Ballroom at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino & Hotel. Principal Chief Michell Hicks and Vice Chief Larry Blythe will both take the oath of office for the third time.
In addition to the executive offices, Tribal Council representatives and School Board members will take their oaths of office.
“It is time to celebrate our accomplishments and our good fortune in the election,” said Chief Hicks. “We now have the opportunity and the responsibility to plan for the next four years. I am encouraged by the state of our Tribe at this point, but we have much room for improvement. I have been working with our deputies and other staff to implement some new strategies, and I look forward to implementing some exciting changes.”
New this year to the inauguration proceedings is an Inaugural Ball scheduled for Monday night at 9pm in the Cherokee Events Center at the casino. The cost for the black-tie event is $30 per person or $50 per couple.
“This is our first ever Inaugural Ball, and we are very excited about it,” Chief Hicks commented. “But, it is not just a Ball, but a great opportunity to raise money for a very needy and important cause, the Madison Hornbuckle Children’s Cancer Foundation. Our goal is to raise as much money as possible for this Foundation, and I ask for everyone’s assistance in raising money for the families that this Foundation serves.”
For additional information on the inauguration, call 497-7029.
