In this episode of CNTV News, Brad and Quin begin with the COVID-19 news. The FDA has expanded the emergency use authorization for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to children as young as 12. Chickasaw Nation health officials now recommend that adolescents ages 12 to 15 receive the Pfizer vaccine, which is the first vaccine to receive emergency use authorization for that younger age group.

Dr. Charles Grim, Chickasaw Nation Secretary of Health, says that the trial results in the 12-15 age group show 100 percent efficacy—meaning in 100 percent of the children vaccinated, none contracted COVID-19. Chickasaw Nation pediatricians Dr. Stephanie Schofield, Dr. Tangra Broge and Dr. Beth Mittelstet further explain the importance of vaccinating this age group, such as preventing Multi System Inflammatory Syndrome, which can cause serious symptoms that require hospitalization.

The Chickasaw Nation offers COVID-19 vaccines at no cost. Pfizer vaccinations for ages 12 and up are only available at Chickasaw Nation Health Clinics in Ardmore and Purcell, and the Emergency Operations Facility in Ada. The Moderna vaccine is offered at the Tishomingo clinic. Please visit www.covidvaccine.chickasaw.net for more information and to register for a vaccination appointment.

Next, Quin resumes her conversation with Chickasaw citizen, emergency room physician and COVID-19 survivor Dr. Grant Lashley. He explains that although he was able to learn to walk again and achieve his goal of hiking the Grand Canyon, he is still dealing with lingering side effects known as long-haul COVID symptoms.

The Chickasaw Nation's 2021 Virtual Kids Club is just around the corner. The Zoom sessions provide instructions on cultural activities, crafts and Chickasaw history through an at-home experience. The first session starts June 14 for children ages 2 to 6 and July 12 for ages 7 to 13. To learn more, call (580) 272-5318 or send an email to languagedepartment@chickasaw.net. The Chickasaw Nation's Hofanti Chokma program has been a wonderful online resource for families during the pandemic. Hofanti Chokma means "to grow well" and teaches parenting tips. The next online workshop will be June 28 from 1 pm to 4 pm. To learn more about the program, visit www.chickasaw.net/growwell or send an email to hofantichokma@chickasaw.net.

Now is the time to explore the 2021 Artesian Online Art Market. Visit www.artesianartsfestival.com to view and buy fine art from First American artists. The online art market runs through August 2. To close the episode, Quin speaks with Chickasaw classical composer Jerod Impichchaachaaha' Tate about his award-winning compositions and collaborations during the pandemic.