Wave of changes shaking up Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians

this article re-printed courtesy of Carolina Press and written by John Ellison

CHEROKEE NC — Recent months have seen the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians experience a shift in tribal government driven by a new principal chief. But that’s just the start of it amid a rapid succession of political, economic and social changes. The tribe has opened its second casino and a new hospital while weathering debates over disputed pay to public officials, potential legalization of marijuana and other hot-button issues. For this overview of the EBCI’s key recent changes, Carolina Public Press reviewed extensive reporting by the tribe’s official newspaper, the Cherokee One Feather, and other media outlets near the reservation, along with videos of Tribal Council meetings and public records shared by elected officials and tribe members.

Patrick Lambert, new principal chief EBCI

New principal chief brings quick shakeups -  In recent years, the roughly 15,000-member tribe, which is recognized by the U.S. government as sovereign in many of its internal affairs, has charted its own course while being buffeted by many of the same forces that impact its neighbors. It is unique in WNC in how its gaming earnings have brought potential promise and peril. In September elections, Patrick Lambert, who for 22 years headed the EBCI’s Tribal Gaming Commission, which oversees the tribe’s casino operations, won election as new principal chief with more than 70 percent of the vote. He replaced Principal Chief Michell Hicks, who held the position for 12 years and opted not to seek re-election.  

He replaced Principal Chief Michell Hicks, who held the position for 12 years and opted not to seek re-election. Taking office in early October, Lambert instituted quick changes, shuffling the tribal government bureaucracy and instructing tribal employees to become more responsive to constituents by removing TVs from their offices and answering their phones more often. He also shifted some high- and mid-ranking personnel up and down the ladder of their respective agencies, garnering some praise and criticism along the way. And he began publishing his key statements and policy steps online, often via his Facebook page, in a move that’s brought new layers of transparency and public scrutiny to tribal government.

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LTLT Celebrates Ownership of the Hall Mountain Tract by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians

May 31 - An LTLT (Land Trust for the Little Tennessee) project that began in 2005 will culminate with the celebration of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians receiving ownership of the important Hall Mountain Tract overlooking the historic Cowee Mound.

The Wilderness Society was instrumental in securing the project's funding through the newly formed USDA Forest Service Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program.

The Tribe plans to create a scenic hiking trail system through the tract that will exhibit how natural resources were traditionally used by the Cherokee and will also serve as an educational resource for the public, regional schools and youth organizations.

The public is invited to the program that will begin at 11:00 AM with lunch served at noon. It will be held at 7339 Bryson City Road (7.5 miles north of Franklin, NC). In case of rain the event will be moved to the historic Cowee School.

If you would like to attend please RSVP  at (828) 524-2711 ext 305 or send an email.

The Land Trust for the Little Tennessee  helps to conserve the land and water of the Upper Little Tennessee and Hiwasee River Valleys by accepting gifts of land, by promoting conservation easements and, when resources allow, by purchasing at-risk properties. In the Little Tennessee Valley LTLT also leads an active water protection agenda through monitoring stream health, restoring streambanks, and advocacting for water quality protection.

Ronald Cooper Discusses His Journey on The Trail of Tears

January 12, 6:30 PM at City Lights Bookstore , 3 East Jackson Street in Sylva NC- Comanche Nation of Oklahoma member, Ronald Cooper will visit the Bookstore to present his book, It's My Trail Too. In January 2011 Cooper began walking the Northern Route of the Cherokee Trail of Tears for personal reflection and adventure. 

In addition to the usual challenges of hiking long distances during winter, Cooper unexpectedly became an ambassador of education and conservancy for the Trail. It's My Trail Too offers inspiration for anyone who has ever desired to take on unknown challenges and seemingly impossible goals. To reserve a copy, call City Lights Bookstore 828-586-9499. 

To learn more about the History of the Trail of Tears visit the The Museum of the Cherokee Indian.  Totally renovated in 1998, the new museum tells the story of the Cherokee people using high-tech wizardry along with an extensive artifact collection. Follow the "Trail of Tears" and learn about the language, customs and crafts of a remarkable civilization and people. 
 

Tribal Grounds Coffee now in the Smithsonian and Benefitting LTLT

Tribal Grounds Coffee in Cherokee, NC, will be displaying her coffee in the Smithsonian Museum of the American Indian in Washington D.C. The Museum is opening an espresso bar in-front of the famous Mitsitam Cafe. They will be selling one pound bags of the Kuwahi Kawi coffee with 7% of the proceeds going to the Land Trust for the Little Tennessee (LTLT).

Purchase Tribal Grounds Coffee online here or stop by the shop at 938 Tsalagi Rd. Cherokee, NC

The Land Trust for the Little Tennessee is dedicated to conserving the waters, forests, farms, and heritage of the Upper Little Tennessee and Hiwassee River Valleys.