An exhibit on the history of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and their language and culture opened last week at the Cherokee Central Schools. “Understanding our Past, Shaping our Future” opened with a reception at the Chief Joyce Dugan Cultural Arts Center on Thursday, Nov. 14.

WNC Communities announced the winners of the 64th Annual Honors Awards Program on Saturday, Nov. 9 as over 260 community leaders from 14 counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee were recognized and rewarded for their exceptional community development programs at a luncheon at The Omni Grove Park Inn.

In the early morning hours of Thursday, Nov. 7, the Swain County Sheriff’s Office, Cherokee Indian Police, BIA and DEA Drug Enforcement Unit arrested three individuals from the Charlotte area for drug trafficking and related charges. These arrests were made at the intersection of 441 Bypass and Whitewater Drive near Hungry Bear.

EBCI tribal elder Ellen Wachacha Bird was given the title of Beloved Woman of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians during the regular Tribal Council session on Thursday, Nov. 7.