Copyright © 2000 NLThomas
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TAHLEQUAH, OK - The 48th Cherokee National Holiday Committee is seeking nominations for the National Living Treasures Awards. The awards will be presented during the Cherokee National Holiday, September 2, 2000.

The project is designated to recognize Cherokee men and women who have exceptional skill and historical knowledge of a traditional Cherokee art or craft and have shown individual commitment to education and cultural preservation. Primary emphasis will be given to those crafts or arts produced in the traditional manner using native materials. The eligible crafts may include gigs, bow and arrows, basketry, stone marbles, blowguns, water drums, stone and wood carving, turtle shells, flint knapping, stickball sticks, traditional clothing, pottery, pipe making, clay or shell jewelry, weaving and other crafts.

The Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma and the Cherokee National Historical Society, Inc., officially designates the selected individual(s). A nominated craftsperson must be a Cherokee Tribal Member. Since the inception of the project in 1988, 50 individuals have been honored. Last year's recipients were, Lee Foreman in Marble Making; Bessie Russell in Basket Weaving; Albert Wofford in Gig Making & Carving; and a Posthumous Award to Mildred Ketcher in Basket Weaving.

The deadline for nominations is July 20, 2000. For more information or to nominate, contact Carol Dunn or Linda Vann at (918) 458-4440, extension 223.