"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - Traditional Marbles Holiday Tournament

TAHLEQUAH, OK — Keeping cultural traditions alive, the Cherokee Nation will host a Marble Tournament beginning on Monday, August 27, at 6:30 p.m., at the Cherokee Heritage Center Marble Field.

The tournament is being held in conjunction with the 55th Annual Cherokee National Holiday and will continue through Saturday, Saturday, September 1, 2007.

“This event is a lot of fun to take part in and to watch,” said Mike O’Field, event coordinator. “The individuals that take part in this are very talented. This is a pretty competitive event. If you aren’t familiar with Cherokee marbles this is a great time to come out and learn. I really encourage everyone to come out to the marble field and enjoy this Cherokee tradition.”

Registration will take place on Saturday, August 25 at the Cherokee Heritage Center Marble Field. The cost to enter is $5 per player. Each team must consist of three competitors and may have one substitute. A representative from each team must be present the evening of registration to draw for bracket placement.

Awards will be presented to first through third place teams. First place winners will receive jackets, second place teams will be awarded sweatshirts and third place teams will receive t-shirts.

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 contact Mike O’Field, phone: 918-458-5980 or Gloria Sly, phone: 918-453-5154.