I write today to support the candidacy of Michael Cherry for Tribal Council of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde. 

I first met Michael through her family when she was still a high school student. Her mother, Candy, was and still is a personal friend of mine as well as one of the early Tribal Council members in the post Restoration but pre-Reservation days. From many interactions with her family and conversations with her, I realized Michael had a strong commitment to improving the lives of her people. Even as a High School student she was curious about the tribe’s efforts for reestablishing their reservation and recreating a home for many people forced to leave during termination. It was unusual to hear a member so young yet so concerned about the future of her Tribe. Particularly at a time when there was a well-financed and organized local effort against the Tribe’s efforts to establish a Reservation.

Over the years Michael never lost that concern but turned it into a personal commitment to build her own capacity to learn and increase her abilities and awareness of the many issues facing her Tribe so she could play a part in their future. Michael always understood the value of public service.

After High School Michael went on to college and raised her children along the way all the while working for her Tribe in a variety of positions until reaching her current management position. She not only talked about helping her Tribe, but she also lived it. 

A lot has changed for her Tribe and Michael has been a part of the change from the beginning. Most of the old people who played such important roles in the early years after Restoration are gone and like all things in life there is a time when the younger generation steps up to fulfill their responsibilities to their Tribe. Michael knows that and now is interested in serving in a more direct capacity as a Tribal Council member.

Honestly, I can’t think of many people who could do what Michael has done and based on her history of personal drive and commitment to her Tribe and family I expect she will be a formidable warrior and defender of her people. 

Therefore, it is my honor and a great pleasure to encourage support for Michael’s candidacy. I know she will be a thoughtful, respectful and considerate leader who will always put the interests of her Tribe before all others.

Thank you,
Jim Willis
Willis Consulting

I’ve known Michael Cherry since I helped open Spirit Mountain Lodge in late 1998.  During that time, I’ve known her to be a smart, thoughtful and compassionate woman, with both a pragmatic and aspirational mindset.

Michael cares deeply for her CTGR community and has shown a deep respect for the current tribal leadership as well as those that have set the foundation for the success that the tribe enjoys today. But, while she respects all that has happened in the past and currently, she also has a clear vision for the future of her Tribe.  

By using  a clear perspective of the past, a generous work ethic as well as a commitment to generations to come,  Michael will provide a clear-eyed foresight and a great addition to Tribal Council.

Sincerely,
Mark Holland
National Director of Supply Chain at SuiteAmerica

As a former, long-term employee at Spirit Mountain Casino, I would like to personally and professionally endorse Michael Cherry’s candidacy for Grand Ronde Tribal Council.  I have known Michael for more than 13 years and hired her to oversee the Players’ Club at Spirit Mountain Casino. Not only is she smart, energetic and a natural leader; she has a passion, openness and determination that is unparalleled. Her wisdom and high character stem from her unselfishness and deference to listen and empathize. She’s fair and carefully reviews all sides before making a decision. She’s proactive and goal-oriented and is most effective coalescing and motivating others in a team environment. Michael has never sought special treatment or privileges. She insists on earning respect through hard work and is humble enough to know each day brings new learning experiences. I encourage Grand Ronde tribal members to discover what I did when I helped hired her at the casino 13 years ago: We simply became better every day with Michael being a leader in Marketing.  

Greg Fritz
Marketing Director, Legends Casino Hotel (Yakama Nation)

It’s been my privilege to directly supervise Michael Cherry in her role as Players Club Manager at Spirit Mountain Casino. I use the term ‘supervise’ because that’s what the org chart said but Michael is one of those rare individuals that exhibits such superior work ethics, leadership skills, communication skills, and team building talents, that she needed no ‘supervision’.

I highly endorse this talented and capable individual for any endeavor she tackles.  No one will be disappointed in the job she does!

Keith Young
Marketing Director, Jena Choctaw Pines Casino

Michael is one of those rare people who successfully combines attention to detail, a creative view of the big picture, and compassionate leadership. During my tenure at Spirit Mountain, Michael managed the customer service aspects of the business, helping employees develop their skills and consistently focusing on value to tribal members, providing opportunities for personal growth and financial stability. Michael will be an outstanding resource and partner as a member of the tribal council.

Toby O’Brien
Independent Consultant