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CNI employee Jerry Shell waits for a hamburger at the employee picnic.

STILWELL, OK - More than 150 Cherokee Nation Industries employees enjoyed beautiful fall weather and discussed the company's future at CNI's employee picnic earlier this week.

Several Cherokee Nation Tribal Council members joined Principal Chief Chad Smith in complementing CNI’s employees for their dedication and reputation for quality work in the manufacturing, defense, telecommunications and professional services industries.

"We truly believe that the employees of CNI are the strength of the company", Smith said.

CNI interim president David Stewart spoke to the employees about the new direction for the company, stressing unity and working together.

"We’ve got some contracts lined up that will keep us busy for a long time", Stewart said. He also said that CNI is looking into other areas of opportunity for growth, especially in the environmental and government contracting businesses.

When it came his turn to speak, Smith kept his comments short, praising employees before saying, "I know we’re all hungry. Let’s eat."