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TAHLEQUAH, OK — Calling all runners! The Cherokee Nation will host a 5K run in conjunction with the 55th Annual Cherokee National Holiday on Saturday, September 1, 7:30 a.m., on the east side of the Cherokee Nation Complex. Trophies will be awarded to the overall male and female finishers of the race and Olympic-style medals will be presented to the winners of each age division. “This event also offers a non-competitive one-mile fun run,” said Sherry Parks, event coordinator. “We have a great volunteer staff that will be ready and prepared to welcome all of our participants.” Participants registering before Monday, August 27 will pay a fee of $15. Registration the day of the event is $18 and will begin at 6:30 a.m. A free t-shirt will be given to the first 350 entrants. 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 about the 5K race or the fun run, or for an entry form contact Sherry Parks, phone: 918-458-7661 or by email: sherry-parks@cherokee.org.

Related Cherokee Nation contact information:

Mike Miller, Cherokee Nation Director of Communications Phone: 918-456-0671 (ext.2210) Fax: 918-458-5580 E-mail: Communications@cherokee.org Larry Daugherty, Advertising Manager Cherokee Nation - Public Affairs Phone 918-456-0671 (Ex.2324) E-mail: ldaugherty@cherokee.org

Steven Swogger, Agriculture Liaison Natural Resources Department Phone: 918-456-0671 (ext.2546) FAX: 918-458-7673 E-mail: sswogger@cherokee.org Bradley D. Peak, Cherokee Nation Natural Resources Specialist Phone: 918-456-0671 (ex.2843) E-mail: bpeak@cherokee.org