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TAHLEQUAH, OK - The Cherokee Nation recently launched a radio show, which airs on Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. on KTLQ 1350 AM and KEOK 101.7 FM. The show, produced in the Cherokee language, provides an entertaining look at community events and opportunities for Cherokees.

"The show gets information about our programs out to the public", said Chad Smith, Principal Chief. "It also is a statement about the continuing strength and value of the Cherokee language and culture."

The show has different hosts and different topics from week to week.

"It's an evolving thing", said Robby Robinson, who helps produce the show for the Cherokee Nation. "We're finding what works the best, taking feedback from the listeners and adjusting as we go along."

Listeners of the first show suggested adding a segment on basic conversational Cherokee. This will be implemented in future shows and should help to increase the basic understanding of the Cherokee language.

"The idea is that fluent Cherokees can listen and teach some of the friends and family that aren’t as fluent", said Robinson.

The pre-recorded show includes regular segments from the Cherokee Nation Children's Choir and an update on news at the Cherokee Heritage Center as well as current events in the Cherokee Nation and contact information for suggestions.

Many community volunteers and Cherokee Nation employees have contributed to the success and launching of the show.

The show airs on Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. on KTLQ 1350 A.M. and KEOK 101.7 F.M. The coverage area includes a 35-40 mile radius of Tahlequah. For more information or to make suggestions for the show contact Robby Robinson, phone: 981- 456-0671 (ext. 2489).