NEWS ᎧᏃᎮᏓ
Tabled ordinance would change candidacy requirements
The EBCI (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians) Board of Elections has submitted an ordinance that would remove a section from the tribe’s election law regarding requirements for filing for candidacy. Ord. No. 21 (2025) was deemed read and tabled during the Annual Dinilawigi (Tribal Council) session on Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025.
Hope, Strength, and Healing: EBCI acknowledges Purple Lotus Day
Hope, strength, and healing were the messages conveyed at the Purple Lotus Day event held at the Cherokee Welcome Center on the afternoon of Wednesday, Oct. 22.
CCS School Board holds October meeting
The School Board of Cherokee Central Schools (CCS) met on Monday, Oct. 20 in the Central Office Board Room. The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Jennifer Thompson.
ONE FEATHER PHOTOS
COMMUNITY ᏍᎦᏚᎩ
Cherokee Youth Center honors its heart and soul: Staff, Board, and Tribal Government
In a recent heartfelt ceremony filled with gratitude and celebration, the Cherokee Youth Center honored its Board of Directors, dedicated staff, and the steadfast support of the Tribal government—three pillars that continue to uphold its mission of serving Cherokee youth.
Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation expands efforts to enhance tourism economy
The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation has secured a three-year, $750,000 grant from the Dogwood Health Trust to support regional strategies to advance tourism and related economic development.
“We are still here”: Annual Kituwah Celebration held
A light, constant breeze blew through the area as Cherokee songs were sung, anetso (stickball) was played, and Cherokee people came together to celebrate at Kituwah – the Mother Town of the Cherokee.
OPINIONS ᏃᎵᏍᎬᎢ
SPEAKING OF FAITH: Compelling devotion, Part 1 of 2
We are called to be courageous Christians. Yes, meek and humble are traits we should aspire to, but forthright, faithful, righteous, and brave as soldiers for Christ are also what Christians should be in the face of evil.
SPEAKING OF FAITH: Change of address, Part 2 of 2
Jesus tells us who to fear and the only one we need to fear. Luke 12:4-5 “Jesus says, And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will warn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, who after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.”
COMMENTARY: Dinilawigi election is a deadly serious matter
The power of the Dinilawigi (Tribal Council) goes well beyond any town, county, or state government. The authority given to the Dinilawigi by the Charter and Governing Document of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) is far-reaching. Its power is not limited to legislating.
SPORTS ᏍᎦᏚᎩ
CROSS COUNTRY: Swimmer repeats as 1A West Regional champion; five CHS runners qualify for state
On the foggy morning of Saturday, Oct. 28, Dvdaya Swimmer, Cherokee High School (CHS) sophomore, repeated as 1A West Regional girls cross country champion.
ON THE SIDELINES: Lady Braves’ season was one for the books
As the last ball hit the floor ending the Cherokee Lady Braves 2023 volleyball season at Polk Co. High School on the afternoon of Saturday, Oct. 28, I hope everyone in attendance was aware of the magnitude of what their season meant.
Lady Braves bring home SMC Championship Trophy; JV Lady Braves Runners-Up
The varsity Cherokee Lady Braves volleyball team has made history once again.
OBITUARIES ᏧᏂᏲᎰᏒ
OBITUARY: Frieda Marlene Brown
Frieda Marlene Brown, born Jan. 13, 1939, in Graham County, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. A lifelong resident of the Snowbird Community, Frieda was known for her unwavering devotion to her family and faith. She never failed to make an entrance – always fashionably late, and always with a presence that filled the room.
OBITUARY: Michael Dean Owle “Deano”
It is with a mix of sadness and celebration that we announce the passing of Michael Dean Owle “Deano”, who left this world and departed into eternity, on Monday, July 14, 2025, at the age of 58 after an extensive battle with cancer.
OBITUARY – Delores Amelia Cucumber
Delores Amelia Cucumber, age 52, of Cherokee, N.C., passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday evening, July 15, 2025, at Memorial Mission Hospital.
HAPPENINGS
Aaron Lewis set to play Harrah’s Cherokee
Aaron Lewis has always had a strong connection with his fans, and today, he keeps the tradition alive revealing new music and touring.
Cherokee Nation artist featured in WCU art exhibit
The Western Carolina University Fine Art Museum at Bardo Arts Center is holding an exhibition exploring Cherokee language and culture, entitled “Outspoken: Paintings by America Meredith”, now through May 3.
Upcoming Pow Wows for Nov. 9-11
Note: This list of pow wows was compiled by One Feather staff. The One Feather does not endorse any of these dances. It is simply a listing of ones occurring throughout the continent. Please call before traveling.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Tribal member’s work featured in “Powerful Women” exhibit at Eiteljorg
A new exhibit at the world-renowned Eiteljorg Museum will feature the work of a Cherokee artist.
Annette Saunooke Clapsaddle discusses her debut novel
I sat down with Annette Saunooke Clapsaddle a week before the official publication date of her new novel “Even As We Breathe”.
Tribal member publishes first in series of children’s books
Flip and Flop, two lovable twin rabbits, are the creations of Leslie Pearson and will be featured in a series of 10 children’s books.
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