By KRISTINA HYATT
MISS CHEROKEE 2011
September has been a good month that has definitely gone by a lot faster than I expected it to. I have stayed busy balancing out fulfilling duties as Miss Cherokee and a full-time dental hygiene student.
Miss Cherokee 2011 Kristina Hyatt (center) is shown during a recent trip to Oklahoma with Miss Keetoowah 2011-12 Kristy Daugherty (left) and the newly crowned Miss Cherokee (Nation) 2012-13 Christy Kingfisher. (Photos courtesy of Gloria Hyatt)
On Aug. 30 – Sept. 2, my parents and I had the opportunity to travel to Oklahoma to participate in the Cherokee Holidays events. Upon arriving, we realized that the worst nightmare of a traveler was happening to us. My luggage was lost and yes, it had all of my Miss Cherokee attire in it. I know what you’re thinking, “I hope that crown wasn’t in there.”
Don’t worry, I was sure to carry it on board with me! My luggage eventually made its way safely back to me and we were able to enjoy our trip. I participated in my last parade as Miss Cherokee and the crowd was absolutely lovely. We also had a wonderful time visiting with my cousin, Nika West, and his beautiful family at the pow wow. The newly crowned Miss Cherokee Nation, Christy Kingfisher, and her parents were very hospitable to us during our visit.
Miss Cherokee is shown with Sky Figueroa, a member of the Warriors of Anikituwah.
On Sept. 8-9, I had the honor of dancing with the Anikituwah Warriors in Vonore, Tenn. at the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum, during the Great Island Festival. I appreciate each and every one of them for allowing me to participate and for being such wonderful ambassadors of our tribe.
On the early morning of Sept. 14, Bullet Standingdeer and I had the honor of representing the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and promoting the Southeast Tribes Festival on WLOS! We had to be there at 5:15 a.m., but the sleep deprivation was totally worth it. It was a great experience and we received lots of positive feedback. Later that day, my dad and I attended the Southeast Tribes Festival where I welcomed those in attendance and enjoyed watching the different tribes perform their traditional dances. It was my last opportunity dancing with the Anikituwah Warriors as Miss Cherokee.
It has been an honor representing you as Miss Cherokee 2011. Come and see who will be crowned Miss Cherokee 2012 on Saturday, Sept. 29 at 6pm. The Pageant will take place at the Chief Joyce Dugan Cultural Arts Center. We need to show the contestants lots of support and let them know that we admire them for having the desire to represent our tribe. I hope to see everyone there!
Sgi .
