Event listings are FREE of charge. Send your flyers/info to Scott at scotmckie@ebci-nsn.gov or to Cherokeeonefeather1966@gmail.com
BENEFITS/FUNDRAISERS
Indian Dinner Benefit. July 26 at 11 a.m. at the Yellowhill Activity Center in Cherokee, N.C. This is a fundraiser for Lena Vallejo (Taylor) who underwent open-heart bypass surgery recently. All proceeds will go to Lena while she is out of work. $15 – bean bread, chicken, fatback, cabbage, beans and hominy, fried potatoes, dessert, and a drink. For five or more orders, please text the order by July 25 at 8 a.m. Info: Bear Taylor (828) 269-5007, Chavella Taylor 506-1066
Indian Taco Benefit Dinner. Aug. 2 at 11 a.m. at the Yellowhill Activity Center. $12 for an Indian Taco, dessert, and drink. Proceeds go to Steven Tisho’s family as he experienced brain bleeding from an injury and will be out of work. For four or more orders, please text the orders by Aug. 1 at 9 p.m. to Alea Tisho (828) 736-7898 or Angela Squirrell (918) 822-4315
Cherokee Children’s Home 40th Annual Golf Tournament fundraiser. Aug. 15-16 at the Sequoyah National Golf Course in Cherokee, N.C. Tee times will be scheduled for each team by the clubhouse. Call (828) 497-3000 in advance to request a specific tee time. $350 per golfer includes cart and greens fees. Lunch provided each day. Info: www.cherokeeboysclub.com/golf or Ericka Sweet (828) 359-5575, ericka.sweet@cherokeeboysclub.com
EBCI COMMUNITY EVENTS
1974 Class Reunion planning meeting. July 24 at 11 a.m. at Qualla Java in Cherokee, N.C. These meetings are to plan the 50th Class Reunion for Cherokee High School which will occur on Aug. 10 at 6 p.m. at the Tsali Manor picnic area. There will be a meal provided at the reunion at an estimated cost of $15/person. RSVP yourself and one guest by calling (828) 497-5289 and leave a message on the answering machine which will answer with “Little People Boutique”. Bring any old photos and/or memorabilia to the reunion.
Tsisqwohi Celebration. July 27 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 1146 Birdtown Rd. in Cherokee, N.C. Food, fun, Birdtown Indian Ball Game, live music, traditional games.
EBCI Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Program Back to School Summer Bash. July 27 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Unity Field in Cherokee, N.C. This event is for ages Kindergarten to fifth grade. The first 150 kids who arrive will receive a bookbag and school supplies. Live music, games, snow cones, food, bouncy houses, and more. Info: Candi Waldroup (828) 359-6830 or 788-0593
Cherokee Indian Police Dept. Conceal Carry Class. July 27 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Rod Cooper Training Room located in the Anthony Edward Lossiah Justice Center at 137 Seven Clans Ln. in Cherokee, N.C. Registration fee: $60. Firearms and ammo will be provided. Limited spots. Visit the Police Dept. and pay to be registered for the class.
Storytelling Workshop for Aspiring Filmmakers with Loren Waters. Aug. 1 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Multi-purpose Room at the Museum of the Cherokee People in Cherokee, N.C. Open to aspiring filmmakers aged 15-22. Free of charge. Step into the realm of film and storytelling with award-winning filmmaker Loren Waters (Cherokee Nation, Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma). In this workshop participants will embark on a captivating journey through Loren’s emergent career and delve into her recent works, gaining invaluable insights into the dynamic world of filmmaking. In an immersive experience, Loren ignites creativity and collaboration through an engaging storytelling activity. Registration required via bit.ly/3pep74m
18th Protecting Mother Earth Conference. Aug. 1-4 at 160 Jonathan Road in Cherokee, N.C. Free to attend. Free camping, meals provided, daycare on-site. Workshops, talking circles, demonstrations, evening socials and more. Hosted by the Indigenous Environmetal Network and the Eastern Cherokee Organization. Info: PME2024@ienearth.org or visit www.ienearth.org/PME2024
The Way We Connect with the World event. Aug. 2 at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort Events Center in Cherokee, N.C. Since 2022, Museum of the Cherokee People’s “The Way We” events have been an opportunity for the Museum to honor and highlight Native pop culture and showcase timely perspectives for Cherokee people, primarily by, Cherokee people. These community-centered events put Native self-representation in the spotlight and uplift the work that Native people are doing to explore identity through artistic expressions in film, music, visual art, and more. Info: Museum of the Cheroke People www.motcp.org
NAIWA Blueberry Festival. Aug. 3 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Yellowhill Activity Center. Featuring blueberry pancakes. Vendor spaces available for $10/table. To reserve a table, call Lucille Wolfe (828) 736-5285
Talking Trees Children’s Trout Derby. Aug. 3 at the Oconaluftee Island Park in Cherokee, N.C. Info: (828) 359-6471
Sequoyah Remembrance Day. Aug. 4 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum in Vonore, Tenn. Sequoyah died in August 1843 – the exact day is not known. The Museum has chosen the first Sunday in August to remember him and his life. Free admission to the Museum on this day. Info: (423) 884-6246
Screening of “Four Souls of Coyote”. Aug. 6 at 6 p.m. at Cherokee Cinemas & More in Cherokee, N.C. Through a unique re-telling of the creation of the universe, the film highlights the increasingly pressing need to live in harmony with the environment before it is too late.
Cherokee Central School Back to School Bash. Aug. 8. Cherokee Elementary School 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., Cherokee Middle School and Cherokee High School 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Splish Splash Shopping Bash. Aug. 9 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Yellowhill Activity Center in Cherokee, N.C. Lunch by Melishia and lots of vendors. Info: Denise Walkingstick (828) 508-2211
Oconaluftee Job Corps’ 60th Anniversary Open House. Aug. 9 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Oconaluftee Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center (OJCCCC) at 502 Job Corps Rd. in Cherokee, N.C. The event, part of a nationwide initiative, aims to celebrate the accomplishments of current students and alumni, while also connecting them with workforce opportunities. Attendees will be able to take tours of the campus and view demonstrations on areas of vocational and educational studies.
Back to School Party hosted by EBCI Family Safety. Aug. 10 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the old Cherokee High School site in Cherokee, N.C. Food trucks, activities, support and learning activities to foster healthy homes. Info: Family Safety (828) 359-1507
Film screening of “Nature’s Wisdom Thru Native Eyes”. Aug. 19 at the Mountainside Theatre in Cherokee, N.C. The movie features several members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and is being presented by the Cherokee Historical Association and the Center for Cultural Preservation. The event will include an art market, dance demonstration, and a panel of special guests. The event is a fundraiser for both organizations. Tickets can be purchased at: https://cherokeehistorical.org/special-event-film-screening/
Confluence: An Indigenous Writers’ Workshop. Sept. 20-21 in the Museum of the Cherokee People Multipurpose Room. Created in partnership with Annette Saunooke Clapsaddle, a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and author of the award-winning novel “Even As We Breathe”, this series of workshops offers EBCI tribal members and members of other federally recognized tribes access to high-quality writing instruction from the world’s top Indigenous writers at no cost. Workshops are open to the public is space is available. Visiting writers and registration opening date is to be announced. Info: Museum of the Cheroke People www.motcp.org
Cherokee Indian Fair. Oct. 1-5 at 1441 Acquoni Road (old Cherokee High School site) in Cherokee, N.C. Info: (828) 788-1708
Cherokee Fall Rod Run. Oct. 11-12 at 1441 Acquoni Road (old Cherokee High School site) in Cherokee, N.C. Info: (828) 226-6853
Scareokee. Oct. 31 at 181 Tsali Blvd. (old Cherokee Elementary School site) in Cherokee, N.C. Info: (828) 359-6490
Cherokee Christmas Parade. Dec. 14 in downtown Cherokee, N.C. Info: (828) 359-6490
EBCI COMMUNITY REGULAR MEETINGS
Cherokee Storytellers meet the fourth Tuesday of every month from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Ray Kinsland Leadership building in Cherokee, N.C. All ages are welcome. The group shares stories and resources.
Cherokee storytelling and Cherokee history in the Snowbird Community Library at 60 Snowbird School Rd. in Robbinsville, N.C., every fourth Monday from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. All ages are welcome.
TRIBAL COUNCIL MEETINGS
(All meetings are held in the Cherokee Tribal Council House in Cherokee, N.C. unless otherwise noted.)
Lands Committee. July 25 at 9 a.m.
Budget Council. July 30 at 8:30 a.m.
Reports to Council. July 31 at 9 a.m.
HEALTH & SPORTS EVENTS
First Annual Introduction to Competition Youth Fly Fishing Tournament. July 26 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. (educational activities) and July 27 full tournament day (times to be announced). Must be a student of Cherokee Central Schools or New Kituwah Academy. Must attend day one to qualify. Middle School Division (6th – 8th grade) and High School Division (9th – 12th grade). Prizes for first, second, and third. Registration deadline is Sunday, June 30. Register at: bit.ly/ccs-fly-fish. Info: Christopher Davis (919) 896-2524 or Christopher.davis@ccs-nc.org
Autism 101 training with Dr. Steve Love and Don Masibov. Aug. 9 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Dora Reed Center at 897 Acquoni Rd. in Cherokee, N.C. Info: Candy Ross (828) 359-2203 or Jenny Oskins 359-1529
Qualla Country Fishing Tournament. Aug. 24-25 in the general fishing waters of the Qualla Boundary. $20,000 in cash prizes. Registration deadline is Friday, Aug. 23. Registration fee is $15. Paid fish permit fee covering both tournament days is $17. Fishing hours are one hour prior to sunrise until one hour after sunset. Tag turn-in time is 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. each respective tournament day. Turn in your tags at 517 Sequoyah Trail in Cherokee, N.C. (across from the Cherokee Welcome Center. Info: https://fishcherokee.com
7 Clans Rodeo. Aug. 31-Sept. 1 at 181 Tsali Blvd. (old Cherokee Elementary School site) in Cherokee, N.C. Info: (828) 359-6471
SUPPORT GROUPS
Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at Analenisgi. Info: www.AAwnc80.com
Celebrate Recovery meets every Tuesday at 6 p.m. at the Cherokee Baptist Church at 812 Tsalagi Road, in Cherokee, N.C. This is a Christ-centered recovery program for anyone struggling with hurt, hang-ups, and habits of any kind. All are welcome. Info: Chris McMillan (828) 788-5410
Cherokee Cancer Support Group, potluck dinner with a speaker the first Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at Betty’s Place, 40 Goose Creek Rd, Cherokee, N.C. Anyone is welcome to attend the potluck. The group provides educational and emotional support to clients and families of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians members with cancer. The group can provide financial assistance for fuel, lodging, and transportation and also can assist with mastectomy items, nutritional supplements, wigs, and related products. The group can volunteer to take a client to their appointment if it is requested in a timely manner. Betty’s Place is open Monday through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Info: (828) 497-0788
Life Recovery is a Bible-based 12-step small group meeting held Mondays from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. held in the Rivercane Conference Room at Analenisgi. All material is provided. This small group is for anyone struggling in life with addiction, food, depression, anxiety, relationships, or spiritual struggles. Info: Deb Conseen-Bradley at kellideb@gmail.com or Scott Hill (828) 508-7836
MARA (Medication-Assisted Recovery Anonymous) meets Thursdays at 5 p.m. in the Rivercane Room at Analenisgi. Info: Analenisgi (828) 497-9163 or visit: https://cherokeehospital.org/locations/analenisgi
WESTERN N.C. & BEYOND EVENTS
U.S. Poet Laureate visit to Park. July 20 at 11 a.m. at the Oconaluftee Visitors Center in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limon will visit on her “Poetry in Parks” tour. There will be a book signing and various hands-on, family-friendly activities.
Passport to Paris. July 25 at 5:30 p.m. at the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva, N.C. The Youth Services Dept. will be hosting a Paris-themed family night in the Community Room in honor of this year’s Summer Olympic Games. Learn about the “City of Lights” and Olympic Game traditions. Crafts, activities, food, and drinks available for patrons.
Kelli Sings Dolly. July 25 at 7 p.m. at the Marianna Black Library in Bryson City, N.C. An evening of music of Dolly Parton performed by Kelli Dodd. Free event. Info: (828) 488-3030
Community Music Jam. Aug. 1 at 6 p.m. at the Marianna Black Library in Bryson City, N.C. This is typically held on the library front patio, if weather permits, or in the library auditorium. Anyone with a guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, dulcimer – anything unplugged – is invited to join. The jam is facilitated by Larry Barnett, of Sawmill Creek Porch Band. Info: (828) 488-3030
Swain County Genealogical and Historical Society meeting. Aug. 1 at 6:30 p.m. at the Swain County Regional Business Education and Training Center at 45 East Ridge Dr. in Bryson City, N.C. “A History of Leather and Papermaking in Sylva” is the title of the presentation which will be done by Jason Gregory. Conversation and refreshments will follow the presentation. Attendance is free of charge, but donations are appreciated.
Back to School Block Party hosted by the Smoky Mountain Competition Cheer. Aug. 17 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Bridge Park in downtown Sylva, N.C. Bounce houses, inflatable obstacle course, food trucks, vendors, face painting, silent auction, and more. Info: (828) 226-9943 or 506-1419
Living Legacy Fall Trade Fair. Aug. 23-24 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. each day at the McMinn County Living Heritage Museum at 522 W. Madison Ave. in Athens, Tenn. Admission is free. Demonstrations of woodcarving, soap making, Appalachian music, hand quilting, herbal tinctures, felting, beadwork, pyrography, and more. Info: www.livingheritagemuseum.org
Green Energy Park Youth Arts Fest. Sept. 21 at 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 100 Green Energy park, Sylva, N.C. This event is free and geared specifically towards kids with the intention of giving them a space to participate in a multitude of arts and crafts related activities. Artists as well as community members provide demonstrations and/or activities for attendees to either observe or participate in. Demonstrations in glassblowing, blacksmithing, raku, flameworking, etc. are generally available to watch. Activities range in a variety of media, anywhere from ceramics, face painting, sewing, and so much more. Food is available for purchase on site from local vendors. There will be no on site parking available. There will be free satellite parking available as well as free shuttles running to and from all locations. Info: Green Energy Park (828) 631-0271.
50th Annual Mountain Heritage Day. Sept. 28 at 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Ramsey Activity Center at 92 Catamount Rd. in Cullowhee, N.C. The 50th annual Mountain Heritage Day will be a combination old-fashioned mountain fair and showcase for Southern Appalachian music, arts, dance and song, with the atmosphere of a big family reunion. Visitors will find three stages of traditional old-time, gospel, and bluegrass music and dance, with plenty of fiddles, banjos, and clogging. Festival-goers are invited to join in workshops at the Circle Tent and participate in shape-note singing, one of the mountains’ sacred traditions. Admission and parking are free. Info: WCU – MHD (828) 227-2966
15th Annual Season of Concerts on the Creek. Every Friday night (through Labor Day) from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Bridge Park in Sylva, N.C. Everyone is encouraged to bring a chair or blanket. These events are free, but donations are encouraged. Dogs must be on a leash. No smoking, vaping, coolers, or tents are allowed. There will be food trucks on site for this event. These concerts are organized and produced by the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, the Town of Sylva and the Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department. Info: Jackson County Chamber (828) 586-2155, visit https://www.mountainlovers.com/concerts-on-the-creek/ or Concerts on the Creek’s Facebook page.
Gatlinburg Farmers Market. Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. through Oct. 19 at 1222 E. Parkway next to City Hall in Gatlinburg, Tenn., across from Food City. Free parking. Still accepting new vendors. Info: Glo (865) 640-7190, glotreecastle@gmail.com, or www.TheGatlinburgFarmersMarket.com