TAHLEQUAH, OK – Beginning Feb. 15, "Osiyo, Voices of the Cherokee People," a new monthly, 30-minute news magazine-style program featuring the people, places, history and culture of the Cherokee Nation, will be airing locally.

Emmy-winning journalist and CN citizen Jennifer Loren, a former anchor at KOTV News on 6, will host the TV and online program.

"Being Cherokee has always been an important part of my life. My family still owns our original allotment on Monkey Island, which is very special to all of us," Loren said. "As a longtime television journalist, I can't think of a better way to share the stories of my heritage with the people of northeast Oklahoma and, really, with the world. We have so many beautiful stories to tell."

Officials said the program would allow Cherokees living anywhere in the world the opportunity to learn about and celebrate their heritage. It would also highlight various aspects of the tribe, including historical sites, artwork and artisans, language preservation efforts, young Cherokees who are making a difference in their communities and more.

"There is so much more to our tribe than many people know," Loren said. "I learn something new every day. I think this is going to be an eye-opening experience for a lot of people, and a journey they will embrace."

Muscogee Creek filmmaker Sterlin Harjo and Cherokee photographer filmmaker Jeremy Charles are producing the show.

"The opportunity to create a program focused on the Cherokee people is both an honor and a thrill for me as a Cherokee citizen," Charles said. "I think viewers will be excited by the interesting characters and memorable stories we'll share each month."

The program will air monthly in local TV markets and online at www.Osiyo.tv.

Special screenings will be held in four Oklahoma locations. Each will include a meet-and-greet with Loren, Charles and Harjo, followed by a screening and a question-and-answer session. Dates and times are:

• Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. – Dream Theater, 312 N. Muskogee Ave., Tahlequah
• Feb. 22 at 2 p.m. – Circle Cinema, 10 S. Lewis Ave., Tulsa
• Feb. 23 at 5 p.m. – Cherokee Nation's Vinita Health Center, 27371 S. 4410 Road, Vinita
• Feb. 25 at 5:30 p.m. – Three Rivers Health Center, 1001 S. 41st St. East, Muskogee

For more information about the program or to check listings in your area, visit www.Osiyo.tv.