"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - Time to Decorate Your Float

TAHLEQUAH, OK - It’s time to strike up the band and decorate your float for the 55th Annual Cherokee National Holiday Parade on Saturday, September 1, at 9:30 a.m. in downtown Tahlequah.

“We are looking to draw more interest from communities and school organizations,” said Kristie Girdner, event coordinator. “We would like to have any community groups, churches, businesses, 4-H groups, FFA, FCCLA and Girls and Boys Clubs to participate in our parade. The holiday parade is always a great success and a great place to way to get involved in the community. We would also like to see more band involvement this year. I really want to make this year’s parade bigger and better. I encourage everyone to get out your decorations and come join us.”

Parade check-in will begin at 7:30 a.m. in front of Saint Brigid Catholic Church on the corner of Crafton and Oklahoma Streets. Entries should emphasize the 2007 Holiday theme “Common Values, Common Ground,” promoting communities, language and culture.

The parade route will begin at Grand Avenue and Crafton Street, just north of the NSU Student Union Center, and will continue south on Muskogee Avenue, ending at Choctaw and Muskogee Avenue.

Trophies and cash prizes will be awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners in the varying categories. First place winners will receive $75, 2nd place winners $50 and 3rd place winners $25. All decisions by judges will be final.

Entries must be turned in to parade coordinators by August 27, at 5 p.m.

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 169 years of rich history the Cherokee Nation has in what is now Oklahoma, 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. In our partnerships with the state and community organizations all across Oklahoma we can help to create a better Oklahoma for everyone.”

For more information or for a parade entry form contact Kristie Girdner, phone: 918-453-5482 or Robbi Guthrie, phone: 918-453-5430.