The NCTOTA Chapter held a sign dedication recognizing Qualla Town on Saturday, October 5 at the Exxon Station/Hungry Bear/Quality Inn at 719 Seven Clans Ln, Cherokee, NC. Though many folks were dealing with the horrific effects of Hurricane Helena, the dedication was well attended. President Sue Abram welcomed guests. Cherokee elder Dr. Tom Belt opened the program with a prayer. EBCI Tribal Liaison and NCTOTA Secretary Robin Swayney provided a history of the National Trail of Tears Association and NCTOTA’s inclusion as a state chapter. EBCI Beloved Woman and NCTOTA Vice President Carmaleta Monteith moderated the program, noting the partnership between NCTOTA and the EBCI Yellowhill Community Club (YCC), which will care for the sign. Speakers and distinguished guests included YCC Chairperson Virginia Johnson and Yellowhill Tribal Representative David Wolfe, along with Big Cove Council Representative Richard French. NCTOTA’s Preservation Officer Dr. Brett Riggs spoke about the importance of Qualla Town’s residents in protecting refugees from the Removal. EBCI businesswoman Susan Arch and her daughter Natalie represented the Arch Family who graciously allowed the installation of the sign on their property. The Arch Family, along with Wolfe, unveiled the sign after a dedication blessing by Carmaleta. EBCI THPO, Brett Riggs, and David Smith, along with Anita Finger-Smith, were recognized for their contributions to the sign’s installation. David was a trouper, bailing standing water from the postholes that collected during Helene!