THE
CHEROKEE
CITIZENS
LEAGUE
OF
SOUTHEAST TEXAS
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President, Dr. McAlister, records lively ideas
on the board as members strategize for 2024.
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Left, Dr. Wade McAlister, president of Cherokee Citizens League,
introduced July 22, 2023 guest speaker Pam Bakke.
Right, Pam demonstrated how to make Cherokee traditional fry bread.
introduced July 22, 2023 guest speaker Pam Bakke.
Right, Pam demonstrated how to make Cherokee traditional fry bread.
A special thank you to our July 22, 2023 meeting presenter, PAM BAKKE, who demonstrated how to make a wonderfully enriching Cherokee traditional fry bread. We even got a few members "into the mix" of preparing the dough and reaping the rewards of the finished treat. Pam, who is a Cherokee Cultural Outreach Officer from the Cherokee Nation Community and Cultural Outreach Program, brought her "fry daddy" for the occasion and a crock pot of wonderful Cherokee grape dumplings. These delicacies, along with the potluck dishes provided by our members, made for a delightful gathering.
We were so glad to see everyone in attendance, reconnecting with many who had not been able to meet since pre-pandemic days. Our local organization is now back on track to have multiple meeting through the year. It was a fun day when we gathered in our newest location, the Chinese Community Center in west Houston. Many thanks to their staff for accommodating us so well.
We were so glad to see everyone in attendance, reconnecting with many who had not been able to meet since pre-pandemic days. Our local organization is now back on track to have multiple meeting through the year. It was a fun day when we gathered in our newest location, the Chinese Community Center in west Houston. Many thanks to their staff for accommodating us so well.
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We thank all of the Cherokee Nation staff and officials who visited the Houston area Saturday, September 17, 2022.
Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin, Jr., with tribal council members Julia Coates and Johnny Kidwell, greeted the members and families at the lovely VFW park in Katy, TX. Along with reports on the state of the Cherokee Nation, there was wonderful entertainment from famous flutist Tommy Wildcat, outstanding storyteller Robert Lewis and master of ceremonies Abraham Bearpaw. Cherokee games, prize giveaways, crafts and CN voting information were featured. We appreciate the volunteers from our own organization for their steadfast work, led by our president Dr. Wade McAlister. Great new t-shirts were available, which will reappear at our next meeting (details to be announced later.) Cherokee Nation remains very aware COVID-19 is an ongoing public health concern. As such, CN promotes and encourages the CDC guidelines in order to protect the public: this event took place outdoors, with room to safely social distance; the meal provided was an individual boxed meal and hand sanitizers were available. Fortunately, we were able to enjoy a lovely autumn day, rain free, and located under giant native trees. |
September 17, 2022 at the VFW Park in Katy, TX featured the honoring of a local Cherokee Citizens League of Southeast Texas long time member, Jimmy Cochran, fourth from left, who was recognized as an official ELDER by the Cherokee Nation. He is a native Cherokee language speaker and was previously honored for his part in preserving the Cherokee language.
John Murphy, third from left, was honored with the Cherokee Warrior Award by the Cherokee Nation. John is a reliable and outstanding member of our local CCLST.
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Special appreciation goes to Brad Wagnon, Community Outreach Coordinator for the Cherokee Nation, shown left, for a very informative program on "Cherokee Spirituality".
We enjoyed major attendance at the Bracewell Neighborhood Library, 9002 Kingspoint Drive in Houston, Saturday, July 23, 2022. There was a meaningful question and answer session that followed after Brad detailed many ancient customs and traditions that once flourished, some of which survive today.
Cherokees and their loved ones were so glad to meet again in person after a two year absence due to the pandemic. We did not have potluck luncheon because of library regulations, but the smiling faces sufficed!
We look forward to gathering again Saturday, September 17, 2022, at VFW park in Katy, TX. CN will send formal notices with details. The Principal Chief, Deputy Principal Chief and other Cherokee Nation officials are expected to greet us at that time. We look forward to seeing many of our families and friends then. Check back for updates.
We enjoyed major attendance at the Bracewell Neighborhood Library, 9002 Kingspoint Drive in Houston, Saturday, July 23, 2022. There was a meaningful question and answer session that followed after Brad detailed many ancient customs and traditions that once flourished, some of which survive today.
Cherokees and their loved ones were so glad to meet again in person after a two year absence due to the pandemic. We did not have potluck luncheon because of library regulations, but the smiling faces sufficed!
We look forward to gathering again Saturday, September 17, 2022, at VFW park in Katy, TX. CN will send formal notices with details. The Principal Chief, Deputy Principal Chief and other Cherokee Nation officials are expected to greet us at that time. We look forward to seeing many of our families and friends then. Check back for updates.
Multiple generations of Cherokee families attended the July 23, 2022 meeting.
The Cherokee Citizens League of Southeast Texas
held a special in-person meeting Saturday, October 2, 2021,
at India House, 8888 West Bellfort, Houston, TX
Special appreciation goes to our outstanding guest speaker
Dr. Cara Cowan Watts.
A former Cherokee Nation Tribal Councilor and current CEO, Tulsa Pier Drilling, LLC., she shared her expertise and experience in locating and working with scholarship resources. The scholarship workshop emphasized resources for tribal citizens: "How to Find and Apply for Academic Scholarships Beginning in 4th Grade through Graduate School."
We were so excited to greet her in person after the pandemic generated delays.
Thank you, Cara!
Our super thanks to the meeting organizers, President Dr. Wade McAlister, and our CCLST Board. Photos are courtesy of Dena Standingwater, Fred Stratton and Mireille Murphy.
held a special in-person meeting Saturday, October 2, 2021,
at India House, 8888 West Bellfort, Houston, TX
Special appreciation goes to our outstanding guest speaker
Dr. Cara Cowan Watts.
A former Cherokee Nation Tribal Councilor and current CEO, Tulsa Pier Drilling, LLC., she shared her expertise and experience in locating and working with scholarship resources. The scholarship workshop emphasized resources for tribal citizens: "How to Find and Apply for Academic Scholarships Beginning in 4th Grade through Graduate School."
We were so excited to greet her in person after the pandemic generated delays.
Thank you, Cara!
Our super thanks to the meeting organizers, President Dr. Wade McAlister, and our CCLST Board. Photos are courtesy of Dena Standingwater, Fred Stratton and Mireille Murphy.
Cara is seen front row center, second from right, in this photo with the Native American Science and Engineering Society.
We are so proud that the City of Houston issued a Proclamation declaring April 13, 2021 Cherokee Nation Day! The document credits our Cherokee Citizens League of Southeast Texas as well. In the virtual City of Houston Council meeting of the same day, which included Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin, Jr., there was even speculation of making the Cherokee Nation a "Sister City" of Houston. We are proud to be Cherokee and very grateful to be Houston area residents who can work together for the benefit of our larger community.
Our thank you again to all who have volunteered and who contributed to our causes over these many years. You are well remembered! |
The Cherokee Nation delivered a major donation from the Cherokee capital in Tahlequah, OK with a truck load of water, milk and boxed food for distribution in Houston Tuesday, February 23, 2021. Over 175 families were served at the church parking lot of the Grace Presbyterian Church in west Houston. It was open to the public, first-come-first-serve, until the supply was exhausted.
We were honored as Cherokees to offer this assistance to our local residents who have suffered greatly during the February week of record breaking low temperatures. Many thanks to the Cherokee Nation for their contributions to our Houstonians! Special appreciation goes also to Dr. Wade McAlister, President of the local Cherokee Citizens League of Southeast Texas, for his swift organization of the event on short notice, assisted greatly by our Treasurer Lloyd Armstrong.
We were honored as Cherokees to offer this assistance to our local residents who have suffered greatly during the February week of record breaking low temperatures. Many thanks to the Cherokee Nation for their contributions to our Houstonians! Special appreciation goes also to Dr. Wade McAlister, President of the local Cherokee Citizens League of Southeast Texas, for his swift organization of the event on short notice, assisted greatly by our Treasurer Lloyd Armstrong.
We continue to offer vital assistance to those in need who suffered in our South Texas communities. A GoFundMe page enhanced this opportunity.
The proceeds assisted in the purchase of gift cards that were issued to struggling families for use at major retail outlets. Any leftover funds not used for this purpose become part of our local Scholarship Fund. We thank all of you for your generosity. Special thanks to board member Alec Lignitz for his efforts to establish the GoFundMe page on our behalf which was an outstanding success that exceeded expectations.
The proceeds assisted in the purchase of gift cards that were issued to struggling families for use at major retail outlets. Any leftover funds not used for this purpose become part of our local Scholarship Fund. We thank all of you for your generosity. Special thanks to board member Alec Lignitz for his efforts to establish the GoFundMe page on our behalf which was an outstanding success that exceeded expectations.
The Cherokee Citizens League of Southeast Texas co-hosted a scholarship webinar with the Cherokee PINS Project Saturday, June 13, 2020.
Special appreciation goes to Dr. Cara Cowan Watts, former Cherokee Nation Tribal Councilor and CEO, Tulsa Pier Drilling, LLC, who generously shared her expertise and experience in locating and working with scholarship resources. Her scholarship workshop focused on tribal citizens: "How to Find and Apply for Academic Scholarships Beginning in 4th Grade through Graduate School." We also enjoyed a dynamic question and answer session that addressed concerns of many of our citizens who joined the webinar. Cara was to have been our special guest in March 2020, but her presentation transitioned to online through Zoom due to the pandemic. Special thanks also go to our At Large Tribal Councilors, Dr. Julia Coates and Mary Baker Shaw for their updates on vibrant plans and current programs within the Cherokee Nation from voter registration matters by Dr. Coates to good news on health care from Councilor Shaw. We thank all for their fine services to promote education, health and well-being for our Cherokee families. |
Dr. Julia Coates has been the major force behind the Cherokee Pins project. Visit the Cherokee PINS page to see more webinars and to learn more about Cherokee history. She is a dedicated Cherokee Nation Councilor who works on many fronts to preserve our history and to safeguard our rights as at large citizens. |
Learn more about the outstanding background and accomplishments of Mary Baker Shaw here. A former nurse and health administrator, she works to promote sound health of our Cherokees, as well as to promote education for our peeple. |
Mireille Murphy
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Michaela Lawrence
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Annie Wildcat Memorial Scholarship Winners!
The Cherokee Citizens League of Southeast Texas is pleased to announce the award of our first scholarships to Michaela Lawrence and Mireille Murphy.
Both Cherokee Citizens have excelled in their education and earned their honors as recipients of these awards.
A graduate of Murchadh Academy, Mireille now attends the University of Houston. Michaela has been attending Lee College and will continue her education there.
Both are founding members of our local Cherokee Youth League, “A league created for the Cherokee Youth of Today and the Future!” The outstanding students established an Instagram site: https://instagram.com/cherokeeyouthleague?igshid=9xlj3mgrn4ub
Certainly, we as a local Cherokee community are most proud of these fine young scholars and look forward to their future success.
CCLST has awarded $1500 in scholarships to date and looks forward to offering meaningful support for other fine students in the future.
Both Cherokee Citizens have excelled in their education and earned their honors as recipients of these awards.
A graduate of Murchadh Academy, Mireille now attends the University of Houston. Michaela has been attending Lee College and will continue her education there.
Both are founding members of our local Cherokee Youth League, “A league created for the Cherokee Youth of Today and the Future!” The outstanding students established an Instagram site: https://instagram.com/cherokeeyouthleague?igshid=9xlj3mgrn4ub
Certainly, we as a local Cherokee community are most proud of these fine young scholars and look forward to their future success.
CCLST has awarded $1500 in scholarships to date and looks forward to offering meaningful support for other fine students in the future.
Due to the pandemic, our meetings will be all virtual for the foreseeable future. Our usual in-person meeting schedule is on a Saturday,
11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at
Clayton Library for Genealogical Research Carriage House
5300 Caroline
Houston, TX 77004
11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at
Clayton Library for Genealogical Research Carriage House
5300 Caroline
Houston, TX 77004
We always appreciate all who attend and look forward to your future visit!
Questions and RSVP: vicki164@yahoo.com
Questions and RSVP: vicki164@yahoo.com
Many thanks to those who participated in our spirited Thanksgiving meeting Saturday, November 23, 2019 when the Cherokee Citizens League program topics were our group's future scholarship and development of a Youth Council among our local Cherokees. We made progress in equitable guidelines for future scholarship applications and setting other goals for the program (More details to come.)
We launched the Youth Council to expand our reach to a growing generation of Cherokee Citizens. Look forward to an energetic effort to continue our Cherokee culture in the Southeast Texas area.
Shown here are founding Youth Council members Michaela Lawrence, left, and Mirelle Murphy.
We launched the Youth Council to expand our reach to a growing generation of Cherokee Citizens. Look forward to an energetic effort to continue our Cherokee culture in the Southeast Texas area.
Shown here are founding Youth Council members Michaela Lawrence, left, and Mirelle Murphy.
Our September 21, 2019 Cherokee Citizens League meeting
in collaboration with the Cherokee Nation at India House in Houston, TX was a major success!
We were so glad to greet Principal Chief Chuck Hoskins, Jr., Deputy Principal Chief Bryan Warner, At-Large Councilors Julia Coates and Mary Baker Shaw in Houston on a sunny day after such a frightening weather week. We wish all of our relatives and friends well and send our best for recovery to all who were harmed in the week's storms.
Many bright spots greeted us during the festive day. Tommy Wildcat shared his wonderful original flute compositions with us, while Robert Lewis regaled us with his classic Cherokee storytelling. We heard words of encouragement from Chuck Hoskins, Jr. on the strength and vitality of our Cherokee Nation. The audience heard from First Lady January Hoskins on her initiatives to boost Cherokee child welfare. We got acquainted with Deputy Chief Bryan Warner. Those well traveled At-Large Councilors Mary Baker Shaw and Julia Coates shared their inspirations for us as At-Large Citizens. We thank all of the participants from the Cherokee Nation, our local volunteers and many fine guests for their contributions to this lovely September day. Oh yes, that potluck buffet was at its finest!
Congratulations to our
CHEROKEE NATIONAL MEDAL OF PATRIOTISM award winner
JIMMY COCHRAN!
He received the Cherokee Nation annual award as a Veteran, nominated by our local Cherokee Citizens League for his dedication to service in protecting our country.
He and his wife NORMA also received Cherokee Nation recognition as NATIVE CHEROKEE SPEAKERS, and had the honor of signing the CHEROKEE SPEAKERS ROLL, a document to commemorate for generations to come who Native Speakers are during our time in history.
in collaboration with the Cherokee Nation at India House in Houston, TX was a major success!
We were so glad to greet Principal Chief Chuck Hoskins, Jr., Deputy Principal Chief Bryan Warner, At-Large Councilors Julia Coates and Mary Baker Shaw in Houston on a sunny day after such a frightening weather week. We wish all of our relatives and friends well and send our best for recovery to all who were harmed in the week's storms.
Many bright spots greeted us during the festive day. Tommy Wildcat shared his wonderful original flute compositions with us, while Robert Lewis regaled us with his classic Cherokee storytelling. We heard words of encouragement from Chuck Hoskins, Jr. on the strength and vitality of our Cherokee Nation. The audience heard from First Lady January Hoskins on her initiatives to boost Cherokee child welfare. We got acquainted with Deputy Chief Bryan Warner. Those well traveled At-Large Councilors Mary Baker Shaw and Julia Coates shared their inspirations for us as At-Large Citizens. We thank all of the participants from the Cherokee Nation, our local volunteers and many fine guests for their contributions to this lovely September day. Oh yes, that potluck buffet was at its finest!
Congratulations to our
CHEROKEE NATIONAL MEDAL OF PATRIOTISM award winner
JIMMY COCHRAN!
He received the Cherokee Nation annual award as a Veteran, nominated by our local Cherokee Citizens League for his dedication to service in protecting our country.
He and his wife NORMA also received Cherokee Nation recognition as NATIVE CHEROKEE SPEAKERS, and had the honor of signing the CHEROKEE SPEAKERS ROLL, a document to commemorate for generations to come who Native Speakers are during our time in history.
Left to right are Deputy Principal Chief Bryan Warner, At-Large Councilor Julia Coates, Principal Chief Chuck Hoskins, Jr., Veteran Jimmy Cochran, At-Large Councilor Mary Baker Shaw and First Lady January Hoskins.
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Veteran honoree Jimmy Cochran, left, and his wife Norma Cochran, right, signed the Cherokee Speakers Roll, as Native Cherokee Speakers.
Your fearless webmaster and Communication Director Vicki Henrichs received the total surprise September 21, 2019 when I was honored as a CHEROKEE ELDER. The Cherokee Nation annual award, nominated by the local Cherokee Citizens League from their membership, honors one dedicated to preserving Cherokee Culture and for contributions to the local organization. Thank you!
Many thanks to all who made possible our August 10, 2019 meeting at
Cherryhurst Community Center
(1700 Missouri, Houston, TX 77006)
The very special GENEALOGY PRESENTATION:
“RESEARCHING CHEROKEE ON THE WORLD WIDE WEB”
by guest speaker GENE NORRIS, held the group's attention with Gene's lively and informative summary of very helpful resources. We enjoyed his anecdotes from his long history as a Cherokee genealogist who has helped so many to learn their complex family histories. An extensive resource guide was distributed to assist us in our pursuit of our own family trees.
Gene Norris, Lead Genealogist with the Cherokee National Historical Society and Cherokee Heritage Center, has 37+ years of experience in genealogy, 25 years in Cherokee research and history and 17 years with the Cherokee Heritage Center. He has published numerous articles and is an experienced presenter on Cherokee history and culture. He can be reached at gene-norris@cherokee.org
Cherryhurst Community Center
(1700 Missouri, Houston, TX 77006)
The very special GENEALOGY PRESENTATION:
“RESEARCHING CHEROKEE ON THE WORLD WIDE WEB”
by guest speaker GENE NORRIS, held the group's attention with Gene's lively and informative summary of very helpful resources. We enjoyed his anecdotes from his long history as a Cherokee genealogist who has helped so many to learn their complex family histories. An extensive resource guide was distributed to assist us in our pursuit of our own family trees.
Gene Norris, Lead Genealogist with the Cherokee National Historical Society and Cherokee Heritage Center, has 37+ years of experience in genealogy, 25 years in Cherokee research and history and 17 years with the Cherokee Heritage Center. He has published numerous articles and is an experienced presenter on Cherokee history and culture. He can be reached at gene-norris@cherokee.org
Many thanks to DENISE LAWRENCE, who provided a fine presentation on the HISTORY OF EDUCATION AND THE CHEROKEE NATION, and to all who attended our June 15, 2019 meeting at the Carriage House, Clayton Library for Genealogical Research in Houston, TX.
We also made progress on exploring options to award a local scholarship to a worthy Cherokee Citizen. A committee will work on the details in the near future, to award the scholarship for the 2020-2021 academic year. Stay tuned for the upcoming details.
For meeting RSVP and Inquiries:
vicki164@yahoo.com
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YOUR LOCAL DUES COUNT!
Support of the Cherokee Citizens League of Southeast Texas
is vital to our projects.
Mail dues to:
Lloyd Armstrong, Treasurer
P. O. Box 131515
Houston, TX 77219
Dues are $25.00/year/family
$20/individual
Thank you for your support of the Cherokee Citizens League of Southeast Texas!
Many thanks to all who made the April 20, 2019 meeting of the
Cherokee Citizens League of Southeast Texas a success!
We enjoyed a very meaningful and well ordered candidates forum at the Carriage House, Clayton Library for Genealogical Research, in Houston, TX.
President Dr. Wade McAlister moderated while Treasurer Lloyd Armstrong was a trusty time keeper. Fairness was the order of the day, while we learned much from each candidate.
Our loyal Board of Directors Secretary Dena Standingwater provided a sound program on the basic history of Cherokee elections, a brief overview of current election matters and a bit of personal family history relating to voting challenges. We thank her for her insights!
The CHEROKEE NATION CANDIDATES FORUM included
Principal Chief candidate Dick Lay
Deputy Chief candidate Meredith Frailey
At-Large Councilor candidate Julia Coates
Canaan Duncan, District 7 Councilor, representing the Chuck Hoskin, Jr.-Bryan Warner campaign
At-Large Councilor candidate Johny Jack Kidwell
It was a lovely spring day in Houston, TX and a well attended meeting. We enjoyed seeing long time friends and family while meeting many new attendees.
Certainly, we welcome everyone back to the next meeting June 15, 2019.
Enjoy the slide show from April 20:
Cherokee Citizens League of Southeast Texas a success!
We enjoyed a very meaningful and well ordered candidates forum at the Carriage House, Clayton Library for Genealogical Research, in Houston, TX.
President Dr. Wade McAlister moderated while Treasurer Lloyd Armstrong was a trusty time keeper. Fairness was the order of the day, while we learned much from each candidate.
Our loyal Board of Directors Secretary Dena Standingwater provided a sound program on the basic history of Cherokee elections, a brief overview of current election matters and a bit of personal family history relating to voting challenges. We thank her for her insights!
The CHEROKEE NATION CANDIDATES FORUM included
Principal Chief candidate Dick Lay
Deputy Chief candidate Meredith Frailey
At-Large Councilor candidate Julia Coates
Canaan Duncan, District 7 Councilor, representing the Chuck Hoskin, Jr.-Bryan Warner campaign
At-Large Councilor candidate Johny Jack Kidwell
It was a lovely spring day in Houston, TX and a well attended meeting. We enjoyed seeing long time friends and family while meeting many new attendees.
Certainly, we welcome everyone back to the next meeting June 15, 2019.
Enjoy the slide show from April 20:
LOCAL OPPORTUNITY!
Interested members are now being recruited to become more involved as Board Members in our Cherokee Citizens League! Coming soon, current board members will include a list of responsibilities and expectations. Let your talents shine on our behalf! All participants must be registered citizens of the Cherokee Nation. Contact Dr. Wade McAlister, President, wadeprince@aol.com
Your local Cherokee Citizens League dues count!
Mail to:
Lloyd Armstrong, Treasurer
P. O. Box 131515
Houston, TX 77219
Dues are $25.00/year/family
$20/individual
Thank you for your support of the Cherokee Citizens League of Southeast Texas!
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Our local Cherokees and friends gathered for a most inspiring program on CHEROKEE GENEALOGY, presented by our own expert genealogist Marjorie Lowe. She guided us on how to discover our ancestors with the outstanding resources of the famous Clayton Library for Genealogical Research in Houston, site of our November 2018 meeting. Many thanks to Marjorie, who has long been a "Treasure" to our Cherokees in the southeast Texas area. Originally from Oklahoma, we are so glad she is a Houstonian!
Many thanks to all who contributed to the September 16 food drive to benefit the Houston Food Bank as part of the community meeting in Pearland.
The non-perishable contributions are part of our Cherokee spirit to look after one another as we benefit those who face challenging times. Super appreciation to all contributors! |
*** Local area Cherokees enjoyed a fun filled day Sunday, September 16, 2018, when Cherokee Nation representatives visited with us at the VFW Post 7109 in Pearland, TX. Billed as a "Community Event & Potluck", hundreds of our citizens and families enjoyed cultural events, raffle prizes, visits with our CN representatives and staff, plus all that fabulous potluck food! Many thanks to all who contributed to this wonderful day. Many local Cherokees were able to obtain their official CN ID cards, which are great for travel and general identification purposes. Famed storyteller Robert Lewis got folks off their chairs and into the mix to entertain us as active participants in this entertainment. Our traditional Cherokee stories really came to life. Special note was made to promote our local Cherokee Citizens League as well. We hope you will join us if you are missing from our local organization. |
The Cherokee Citizens League of Southeast Texas was recently named Outstanding Community Organization among all the official at-large Cherokee organizations in the U.S. The honor was announced by Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker. Our local Houston-based organization was recognized at the Honor and Awards Banquet preceding the Cherokee Nation Holiday on August 30, 2018, in Tahlequah, OK at the Sequoyah High School Gym. Baker also recognized our organization and other awardees during his State of the Nation Address on September 1. 2018, as part of the annual Cherokee National Holiday, held in Tahlequah, OK.
Congratulations to all of our hard-working, dedicated Cherokees, many of whom spent countless hours assisting Hurricane Harvey victims in the autumn of 2017. Many families and friends lent their efforts on behalf of our Southeast Texas residents. See some of their projects in the photos below.
Special appreciation goes to our dedicated board members Dena Standingwater and Michele Hayes (pictured below) who presented an exciting and often humorous program on the Cherokee Language at our July 28, 2018 meeting. We had audience participation and practice on important phrases. A wealth of resources was offered also. Our president, Dr. Wade McAlister, suggested an online resource that proves helpful: discoverbloom.com/learn The social media name is Discoverbloom.
We hope to see all of our Cherokees on Sunday, September 16, 2018, when the Cherokee Nation representatives will visit our area.
Congratulations to all of our hard-working, dedicated Cherokees, many of whom spent countless hours assisting Hurricane Harvey victims in the autumn of 2017. Many families and friends lent their efforts on behalf of our Southeast Texas residents. See some of their projects in the photos below.
Special appreciation goes to our dedicated board members Dena Standingwater and Michele Hayes (pictured below) who presented an exciting and often humorous program on the Cherokee Language at our July 28, 2018 meeting. We had audience participation and practice on important phrases. A wealth of resources was offered also. Our president, Dr. Wade McAlister, suggested an online resource that proves helpful: discoverbloom.com/learn The social media name is Discoverbloom.
We hope to see all of our Cherokees on Sunday, September 16, 2018, when the Cherokee Nation representatives will visit our area.
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A Gofundme page has been established to assist the family of a beloved Cherokee lady upon her passing. Renown Cherokee artist and musician Tommy Wildcat lost his mother in June, 2018. We provide this link for those who would like to offer assistance and condolences on the passing of
Mrs. Annie Wildcat: https://www.gofundme.com/annie-wildcat-memorial-fund We thank all for your contributions. We welcomed our Cherokee families and friends to the May 19, 2018 meeting at the Carriage House. part of the Clayton Library for Genealogical Research(5300 Caroline, Houston, TX 77004).
Many thanks to Cole Hogner for his fine presentation on stickball, the fascinating Cherokee traditional game. Cole brought the stickball rackets that represent various Native American renditions of this famous game. He described the wood and other materials used in their construction and how players from various tribes actually played the game. Even today, the rules and action vary significantly from one tribe to another. Our Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians also have their contrasts in play compared to our Oklahoma Cherokees. Cole is a treasure of knowledge on Cherokee history relating to rituals of Cherokee games and sacred observances at the stomp grounds. We thank him and his family for visiting us in Houston and bringing us closer to our Cherokee people. Cole Hogner is from the heart of the Cherokee Nation. He was raised, and still resides in Tahlequah, OK. He and his two sons are members of the Echota Ceremonial Grounds, where he works diligently to raise his sons to value the ways of our Ancestors. Cole also has a strong connection to the Cherokee Heritage Center. He studied Accounting at Northeastern State University. He works for the Cherokee Nation Accounting Department, but would rather be outside with his sons. Cole is a founding member of the Indigenous People’s Alliance Of Oklahoma. Another area of interest is the Little Brother of War, most commonly known as stickball. Cole focuses on its history, cultural significance and its art form. For Cole, stickball represents a spiritual game used in place of war and a way to prepare young warriors for future battle. It’s also a way for our tribal towns to prepare ourselves for visitors and ceremony. Cole is shown, left, in the photo below with one of our local members. 
Above: Anna Britton from Harris | Texas AgriLife Extension Service with a very informative presentation. Busy at the demo table below is Anne DeLay, advising on how great home-grown herbs and veggies can sprout from a bit of soil in egg cartons.
Many thanks to all who attended and presented programs at our Saturday, November 18, 2017 meeting at the
Carriage House, Clayton Library for Genealogical Research (5300 Caroline Houston, TX 77004). We also enjoyed a presentation on Cherokee Genealogy from the Clayton Library with very resource-rich hand-outs. At our meeting, local Cherokee Citizen Michaela Lawrence treated us to a special presentation on Cherokee plants, with a nice video and wonderful herb tea to take home. Vice President Michele Hayes guided us through making traditional Cherokee corn silk dolls. Members of all ages enjoyed watching their dolls take shape with a few simple materials. The potluck was its usual great success with delicious turkey, ham, many desserts and fun side dishes. We look forward to our 2018 meeting with the family and friends who always enliven our gatherings! The Cherokee Citizens League granted urgently needed assistance to our Cherokee survivors of Hurricane Harvey in the southeast Texas area:
We collected gift cards for distribution to Cherokee individuals and families to be used at Lowe's, Home Depot, Target, Walmart; alternately, VISA or American Express gift cards. Monetary donations also boosted our efforts. The Cherokee Citizens League sends our most sincere appreciation to all of the individuals and organizations who donated to our special fund to assist those devastated by Hurricane Harvey. Though the massive disaster has its long term effects, we were able to address most urgent needs that were not immediately available from other sources. Cherokee individuals and families helped by these funds were most appreciative in a very dark hour in their lives. Our Cherokee donors far and wide really offered meaningful support! Many thanks also to our Vice President Michele Hayes, who was in charge of collection and distribution during this busy time.
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The Cherokee Nation and 10 Oklahoma Cherokee communities donated to the Houston relief effort for survivors of Hurricane Harvey. On September 18, 2017 they brought donations to the following Houston area organizations:
Congratulations to our local Cherokee Citizens League members who attended a 2017 special conference in Oklahoma which assembles at-large communities from across the U.S. They received the Cherokee Historic and Cultural Preservation Award. Pictured fourth and fifth from left are Houston area board members Gary Voris and Alec Lignitz, surrounded by Cherokee Nation officials and the Miss Cherokee and Junior Miss Cherokee. Participating but not pictured is local board member Dena Standingwater.
The Cherokee Nation sponsors the nonprofit Cherokee Nation Community Association to provide opportunities for meaningful networking and training to assist Cherokee Citizens living beyond the 14 county Cherokee Nation jurisdiction in northeastern Oklahoma. |
Left, Cherokee Citizens League Treasurer Lloyd Armstrong is shown with Candidate Mary Baker Shaw May 20, 2017. Right, President Dr. Wade McAlister greeted Ms. Shaw. Congratulations to now Council Member Shaw, who was elected to the At-Large position in the June 3, 2017 election.
Board member Alec Lignitz presented a very well balanced and most informative program on the Dakota Access Pipeline controversy at our March 25, 2017 meeting. Multiple viewpoints were covered from the Native perspective and the corporate and U.S. Government view. A lively question and answer session followed. Our thanks to Alec for his contribution!
The March 25, 2017 featured presentation was on
The Dakota Access Pipeline and Tribal Sovereignty.
by Board Member Alec Lignitz
Victoria signed in members and guests at the March 25 meeting. We welcome all generations to participate in our varied activities.
Saturday, November 19, 2016 we enjoyed a wonderfully warm CHEROKEE THANKSGIVING CELEBRATION at the Carriage House, Clayton Library for Genealogical Research, 5300 Caroline Street in Houston, TX. The festivities included the marvelously delicious potluck, greeting long time friends and meeting new ones too.
Board member Lloyd Armstrong presented a most fascinating program about a visit to the Riverside Indian School in Anadarko, OK, where our long time Cherokee cousin and supporter Deborah Scott has been on staff to counsel students.
Accompanied by Board President Dr. Wade McAlister, Lloyd's wife Barbara and family, they saw a side of education and Indian life that is unfamiliar to most of us. There was a multiplicity of tribes represented by the school population. Many were from various reservations in New Mexico and Arizona. We learned that the students, from elementary through high school, were suspicious that Lloyd and Wade simply visited voluntarily and were not forced to arrive and that they wanted to mentor students for positive reasons.
Most students experienced impoverished backgrounds with few role models to encourage completion of their education, and certainly have little encouragement to pursue higher education. Lloyd, as a business entrepreneur in the energy sector, and Wade as an orthopedic surgeon, had to convince the students of their authenticity. Wade was fortunate to have much proof of his medical practice on his phone. Generally, the reception was warm once conversations were in full force. As a side note, the campus has a new high school building that was constructed by Cherokee Nation Industries.
Photos of many of the students with our visitors were a real treat. There also was video of dancers at an Apache powwow. The nighttime scene was enhanced by the spectacular dance movements in authentic regalia around a huge bonfire with drummers in the background.
We thank Wade and Lloyd for their efforts to connect with our Native Indian peoples from other tribes and their offer to build these meaningful associations.
We look forward to seeing all of our Cherokee family and friends in 2017.
Board member Lloyd Armstrong presented a most fascinating program about a visit to the Riverside Indian School in Anadarko, OK, where our long time Cherokee cousin and supporter Deborah Scott has been on staff to counsel students.
Accompanied by Board President Dr. Wade McAlister, Lloyd's wife Barbara and family, they saw a side of education and Indian life that is unfamiliar to most of us. There was a multiplicity of tribes represented by the school population. Many were from various reservations in New Mexico and Arizona. We learned that the students, from elementary through high school, were suspicious that Lloyd and Wade simply visited voluntarily and were not forced to arrive and that they wanted to mentor students for positive reasons.
Most students experienced impoverished backgrounds with few role models to encourage completion of their education, and certainly have little encouragement to pursue higher education. Lloyd, as a business entrepreneur in the energy sector, and Wade as an orthopedic surgeon, had to convince the students of their authenticity. Wade was fortunate to have much proof of his medical practice on his phone. Generally, the reception was warm once conversations were in full force. As a side note, the campus has a new high school building that was constructed by Cherokee Nation Industries.
Photos of many of the students with our visitors were a real treat. There also was video of dancers at an Apache powwow. The nighttime scene was enhanced by the spectacular dance movements in authentic regalia around a huge bonfire with drummers in the background.
We thank Wade and Lloyd for their efforts to connect with our Native Indian peoples from other tribes and their offer to build these meaningful associations.
We look forward to seeing all of our Cherokee family and friends in 2017.
Cherokee Citizens League events are FAMILY FRIENDLY and alcohol/drug free.
We look forward to seeing you again in 2017!
We look forward to seeing you again in 2017!
Enjoy the slide show below!
Sunday, September 18, 2016 attendees of all ages enjoyed cultural events, such as lively Cherokee storytelling, traditional hands-on Cherokee crafts, games, updates from our Cherokee Nation officials, and all that great food.
Thanks to everyone who made it such a wonderful day at the VFW Post 8790 in Houston's Spring Branch.
We heard updates from Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker, Secretary of State Chuck Hoskin, Jr., At Large Tribal Councilors Jack Baker and Wanda Hatfield. CN sponsored scholarships were mentioned as open to qualified at-large Citizens. Many Cherokee Nation issued photo IDs were completed for Cherokee Citizens.
Our local Cherokee Citizens League conducted a great raffle with hand-made items by our own Anne DeLay and an authentic Cherokee artist's painting from Tahlequah, OK. We sold many t-shirts sporting our newly-minted logo as well
Our own ED HOLLAND was honored as an official "ELDER" by the Cherokee Nation.
ANNE DeLAY was celebrated as a VETERAN by officials.
It was a most satisfying day with our Cherokee families and friends. See our slide show below!
For further details on the Cherokee Nation, please see http://www.cherokee.org
The Cherokee Nation, whose capital is in Tahlequah, OK, is the largest federally recognized Native nation in the United States at 340,000 registered Citizens.
Sunday, September 18, 2016 attendees of all ages enjoyed cultural events, such as lively Cherokee storytelling, traditional hands-on Cherokee crafts, games, updates from our Cherokee Nation officials, and all that great food.
Thanks to everyone who made it such a wonderful day at the VFW Post 8790 in Houston's Spring Branch.
We heard updates from Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker, Secretary of State Chuck Hoskin, Jr., At Large Tribal Councilors Jack Baker and Wanda Hatfield. CN sponsored scholarships were mentioned as open to qualified at-large Citizens. Many Cherokee Nation issued photo IDs were completed for Cherokee Citizens.
Our local Cherokee Citizens League conducted a great raffle with hand-made items by our own Anne DeLay and an authentic Cherokee artist's painting from Tahlequah, OK. We sold many t-shirts sporting our newly-minted logo as well
Our own ED HOLLAND was honored as an official "ELDER" by the Cherokee Nation.
ANNE DeLAY was celebrated as a VETERAN by officials.
It was a most satisfying day with our Cherokee families and friends. See our slide show below!
For further details on the Cherokee Nation, please see http://www.cherokee.org
The Cherokee Nation, whose capital is in Tahlequah, OK, is the largest federally recognized Native nation in the United States at 340,000 registered Citizens.