In this episode of CNTV News, Brad Clonch and Quin Tran report from the Chickasaw Nation Medical Center in Ada to learn about the many health and wellness services offered by the state-of-the-art facility, such as an emergency department, diabetes care center, dental and eye clinics, diagnostics and more. May is Healthy Vision Month and a great time to think about eye and vision care. Optometrists recommend eye exams every year and patients at the Chickasaw Nation Medical Center have access to the eye clinic, which uses the latest tools to detect and treat vision loss and eye diseases.

This month, families are also encouraged to think about severe weather preparedness and with the help of the Chickasaw Nation, citizens can be prepared for tornado season. Chickasaw citizen Zena Tidmore grew up in California but moved to Ada a few years ago. After purchasing a home she had a storm shelter installed through the Chickasaw Nation Storm Shelter Program. "When the sky gets bad and the sirens go off, you really need to find some shelter," says Zena. "In the ground is really the safest place." Since 2003, the program has helped thousands of Chickasaw citizens. "The criteria is that you be a Chickasaw homeowner and the Chickasaw's name is on the warranty deed, " explains Mike Wingo, Chickasaw Nation Division of Housing Customer Service Coordinator. The Storm Shelter Program is available to citizens both inside and outside the Chickasaw Nation boundaries. For Chickasaw Nation citizens-at-large, grants are up to $2,500 for the installation of storm shelters. Visit www.chickasaw.net/stormshelter for an application and to learn more.

Babies, toddlers and preschoolers who attend the Chickasaw Nation Child Development Center and Chickasaw Nation Head Start program in Ada participated in a parade along with teachers and parents to celebrate Week of the Young Child. The annual celebration is held all over the country to spotlight the importance of early learning. The children had fun with balloons and banners, which represented their classrooms, and other events included the Little Olympics, which encourage youth to be active by going through obstacle courses.

The annual Artesian Arts Festival is just around the corner. Join us for a day of fun for the whole family in Sulphur on Saturday, May 25.