Cherokee Nation holds annual community meetings in Kansas City and Wichita this weekend

The Cherokee Nation Tribal Council convened on March 10, 2025, to address community matters and honor the memory of several cherished members who recently passed away. The meeting opened with announcements of upcoming community gatherings, including annual meetings in Kansas City and Wichita on March 15 and 16, respectively, encouraging community participation.

Council members expressed condolences for the loss of prominent figures within the community, including Andy Wolf, Steven Proctor, and Albert Wofford Jr., who were recognized for their contributions and leadership. Additional condolences were offered for families from Veneta, including John Burkhalter, Lois Ann Smith, and Laura Nadine Galvin, highlighting the impact of these losses on the Cherokee community.

In a positive note, the council celebrated local achievements, such as the Okay Mustangs basketball team, which secured a runner-up position in the Class A tournament. The council also acknowledged the accomplishments of Bodie Adams, a state champion wrestler, and the success of the Kenwood lady basketball team, which claimed the state championship title.

The meeting also featured announcements about cultural events, including Cherokee cultural wellness classes held weekly, which aim to promote heritage and language among community members. The council encouraged attendance at these classes, which also provide a free dinner, fostering community engagement and cultural preservation.

Looking ahead, the council reminded attendees of the upcoming Andy Payne 5K event in Claremore on April 12 and the annual Indian Women's Pocahontas Club wild onion dinner, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in these events.

The meeting concluded with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the veterans present, underscoring the council's gratitude for their service and contributions to the community. The council's discussions reflect a commitment to honoring the past while actively engaging the community in cultural and social initiatives.