"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - Jr. Miss Cherokee Leadership Competition

***"The 2007 Jr. Miss Cherokee Leadership Competition will be held August 18 in Tahlequah."***

TAHLEQUAH, OKLAHOMA - The Cherokee Nation will be hosting the 2007 Jr. Miss Cherokee Leadership Competition on Saturday, August 18, at 6:30 p.m. at Sequoyah Schools in Tahlequah. The competition is held in conjunction with the 55th annual Cherokee National Holiday.

Contestants must be between the ages of 14 and 17 years of age, possess a Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) card, and be a citizen of the Cherokee Nation. Contestants will be judged during an interview process on Cherokee history, traditional dress, current issues and scholastic achievement. A cultural presentation and a two-page essay will also be required for the competition.

The 2007 Jr. Miss Cherokee will serve as a goodwill ambassador of the Cherokee people, and will have several opportunities to share knowledge of Cherokee culture and history.

Completed applications must be received by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, July 25 and mailed to Cherokee Nation Jr. Miss Cherokee Leadership Competition, ATTN: Reba Bruner, PO Box 948, Tahlequah, OK, 74465. Applications may also be hand delivered. FAXed applications will not be accepted.

The Cherokee National Holiday has been held since 1953 in tribute of the signing of the 1839 Cherokee Constitution. It has grown into one of the largest events in Oklahoma, attracting more than 90,000 visitors from across the world.

This year’s theme is “Common Values, Common Ground,” in commemoration of the rich history of the Cherokee Nation, which spans 169 years, and the 100th anniversary of Oklahoma’s statehood.

“This theme is a tribute to the partnership that exists between the Cherokee Nation and the great state of Oklahoma.” said Chad Smith, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. “Throughout the years we have worked together to create better and stronger communities all over the state. This year’s theme of ‘Common Values, Common Ground’ reiterates the importance of the continuation of this relationship for the betterment of Cherokee citizens and our Oklahoma neighbors. The Mission of the Cherokee Nation is: ‘ga du gi’: working together as individuals, families and communities for a quality of life for this and future generations. In our partnerships with the state and community organizations all across Oklahoma we can in effect help to create a better Oklahoma for everyone.”

For applications for the Jr. Miss Cherokee leadership competition or for more information, contact Reba Bruner, phone: 918-453-5397.