Follow us on Twitter #CATribalTribune CheyenneandArapaho-nsn.gov May 1, 2020 -Vol. 16, Issue 9 Sharing Information Through

Telephone Town Hall Seriesour patients.” Rosemary Stephens Editor-in-Chief On the first telephone town hall meeting Dr. Dar- During this time of So- relle Cox, a medical anthro- cial Distancing and Distance pologist at the University of Learning, thousands of in- Oklahoma who has worked dividuals are getting crash with the Cheyenne and Arap- courses on holding meetings aho Tribes for a number of and sharing information via years on health related re- cyber space. From to search, discussed the effects teleconferencing to Face- COVID-19 has had on the book Live events, the ability state of Oklahoma. to conduct business in a vir- “When reviewing mobili- tual setting has been another ty, there is a strong predictor unprecedented factor of the of the more mobile a com- COVID-19 pandemic. munity is there is an increase Leadership of the Chey- of COVID-19 outbreaks,” enne and Arapaho Tribes and Dr. Cox said. “The Chey- Clinton Service Unit (CSU) enne and Arapaho Tribal came together to host a series area looks to be doing very of Telephone Town Hall live well at sheltering in place, meetings to address the im- staying home, and reducing pact of the coronavirus across travel.” tribal communities, and give Dr. Sarah Hartnett, CSU people the opportunity to clinical director, reviewed ask questions. The CSU and the ongoing services CSU the Cheyenne and Arapaho is providing during this na- Tribes have been working tional emergency. collaboratively to provide on- going patient care and infor- “CSU has increased ed by the Oklahoma State Dept. of this situation is such an unknown we worry about, including influen- mation to tribal citizens. telemedicine visits and the Health and encouraged everyone to for everyone,” Romannose said. za (flu) and now COVID-19. There “This is our first experience such number of departments providing keep guidelines in Experts were invited to share is a vaccine for influenza and this as this,” Cheyenne and Arapaho their services through telemed- place in spite of Oklahoma opening information about COVID-19 and vaccine helps people avoid going Tribes’ Gov. Reggie Wassana said. icine has increased as well. This some non-essential businesses. how community members may to the intensive care unit. We are “We are working as hard as we can, means we can provide care to Quinton Romannose, member of protect themselves. Dr. Joe P. Bry- working to develop a vaccine for as diligently as we can, and trying those with chronic needs at home. the Tribal Health Board, impressed an, infectious disease specialist and COVID-19,” Dr. Bryan said. “Stay to be as safe as we can. I appreciate This does not replace face-to-face upon listeners the importance of consultant for the Cheyenne and calm as we keep working through the partnership with CSU and the visits, as we are currently encour- sharing and acquiring of informa- Arapaho Tribes, spoke on what this. There are a number of clinical daily interactions through confer- aging our patients to continue to tion, stating the CSU and the Chey- they have learned from the past, trials currently taking place. We ence calls to discuss how we can enne and Arapaho Tribes meet dai- where they are now, and what they will know more in the near future. shelter in place,” Dr. Harnett said. continue to help our tribal mem- ly to communicate and share how can learn for the future. This has been a challenging time, Dr. Harnett emphasized the bers.” they can best serve the tribal com- “Respiratory tract infections are but I am proud of the efforts of the wearing of face coverings while Gov. Wassana said the execu- munity. the number one infectious disease Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes and in public spaces due to the emerg- tive branch is basing most of their “It’s important to know informa- killer of humans worldwide. There the Indian Health Services have ing information of asymptomatic decisions on the numbers provid- tion and where it’s coming from, as are a number of infectious diseases provided in meeting the needs of TOWN HALL / pg. 8 Coronavirus Testing Needs to Triple Before the U.S. Can Safely Reopen, Experts Say (AP) As some gover- researchers say is too high. nors consider easing social “If you have a very high distancing restrictions, new positive rate, it means that estimates by researchers at there are probably a good Harvard University suggest number of people out there that the cannot who have the disease who safely reopen unless it con- you haven’t tested,” said ducts more than three times Ashish Jha, the director of the number of coronavirus the Harvard Global Health tests it is currently adminis- Institute. “You want to drive tering over the next month. the positive rate down, be- Otoe-Missouria Tribal Chairman John Shotton (left) and Comanche Nation Chairman William Nelson Sr. gave state- An average of 146,000 cause the fundamental ele- ments during Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt’s press conference announcing the signing of their new Tribal-State compacts. people per day have been ment of keeping our econ- tested for the coronavirus omy open is making sure nationally so far this month, you’re identifying as many Oklahoma Governor Makes Surprise according to the COVID infected people as possible Tracking Project, which on and isolating them.” Friday, April 24, reported The researchers said that Public Announcement on Tribal Gaming 3.6 million total tests across expanded testing could re- the country. To reopen the duce the rate to 10 percent, Compacts during Health Pandemic United States by mid-May, which is the maximum rate Rosemary Stephens, Editor-in-Chief the number of daily tests recommended by the World (OKLAHOMA CITY) While most state governors fo- automatically renewed for another 15 years. The case is cur- performed between now Health Organization. In Ger- cus on the coronavirus COVID-19 affecting their individual rently scheduled to be heard in federal court after three of the and then should be 500,000 many, that number is seven states and citizens, Oklahoma’s governor, Kevin Stitt’s atten- largest tribes in Oklahoma brought suit against Stitt in De- to 700,000, according to the percent, and in South Korea, tion seems to be more about tribal gaming compacts. cember 2019. The case was set to be mediated in March, until Harvard estimates. it is closer to three percent. During the unprecedented health pandemic, Gov. Stitt the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United States. The presiding That level of testing is There is variation in the went public, on a live broadcast hours after signing Gaming federal judge, Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy DeGuisti necessary to identify the rate of testing and positive Compacts with Comanche Nation and the Otoe-Missouria postponed the hearing over the status of tribal gaming com- majority of people who are results among states, but Tribe. Which came as news to the other 37 tribes in Okla- pacts and placed a gag order on all parties involved. infected and isolate them most need to administer homa. Stitt is seeking higher exclusivity fee rates from the tribes from people who are healthy, more tests to get to the lev- The state and the tribes have been locked in a dispute for to continue operating Class III gaming in Oklahoma. The according to the researchers. el the researchers suggest a months over whether the existing gaming compact expired tribes pay the state between 4% and 10% in exclusivity fees About 20 percent of those minimum of about 152 tests on Jan. 1, 2020, with Gov. Stitt insisting the current compact currently. In 2018 tribes paid the state of Oklahoma over tested so far were positive per 100,000 people each day. for the virus, a rate that the expired, while the tribes maintain their belief the compact GAMING COMPACT / pg. 7 TESTING / pg. 7 PAGE 2 Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune Tsistsistas & Hinonoei

AboutWhat is COVID-19? testing COVID-19 site. COVID-19 is the new How do I get tested? respiratory disease spread- Your doctor or state or ing around the world and local health department it is caused by a coronavi- will decide if you should rus. COVID-19 is short for be tested. “coronavirus disease 2019.” State and local health The virus is thought to departments have received spread mainly between peo- tests from the CDC. Indi- ple who are in close contact vidual doctors are coor- with one another (about 6 dinating testing through feet) and through respirato- public health labs. They ry droplets produced when are also getting tests de- stant chest pain or pressure; Lather your hands by an infected person coughs or veloped by commercial man- extreme difficulty breathing; rubbing them together. Get sneezes. ufacturers. severe, constant lightheaded- the backs of your hands, be- People are most conta- Different providers, ness; or serious disorienta- tween your fingers, and un- gious when they are the sick- states, and local health de- tion or unresponsiveness. der your nails. est, however studies have partments may have different Have your medical pro- Scrub your hands for 20 shown two to three days pri- testing recommendations. vider’s contact information seconds. Sing “Happy Birth- or to symptoms being pres- Testing is limited-avail- on hand. day” twice while washing to ent a person can still pass the ability across the country If your symptoms wors- gauge your timing. virus on to others. and is currently being priori- en, call your doctor and tell Rinse your hands under There is currently no vac- tized for healthcare workers, them your symptoms. They clean, running water. Air dry cine or cure for COVID-19 emergency medical service will tell you what to do next. or use a clean towel. but researchers are working providers, police, and other When should I see a doc- No soap or water? Use to find one. essential workers. tor? hand sanitizer that contains What are COVID-19’s If you or someone you Knowing when to see a at least 60 percent alcohol. symptoms? know has COVID-19 symp- doctor can keep medical care Apply the gel to the palm of The most common symp- toms and needs to get tested, available for those who need one hand. Rub your hands to- toms are very similar to oth- call your doctor. They will it most. gether over all of your hands’ er viruses: fever, cough, and tell you what to do next. Most mild symptoms can surfaces and fingers until difficulty breathing, chills What can I expect from be treated at home. your hands are dry. and sore throat. test results? If you have mild symp- Avoid touching your face Common symptoms of Testing can identify if you toms, call your doctor before and eyes. COVID-19 are changing as have the virus that causes going into their office. Many Social Distancing more is learned about the COVID-19. physicians’ offices are doing The main way COVID-19 disease. For the most up-to- No treatment is specifical- virtual visits. They will tell spreads is between people. date symptom list, visit the ly approved for COVID-19. you what to do based on your Social distancing helps to CDC’s website. But test results can help you location. stop the spread. Symptoms may appear and your doctor decide what Testing is limited-avail- Avoid physical contact two to 14 days after expo- to do next. ability across the country with other people. sure and range from mild to If you test positive and and is currently being priori- Stay at least 6 feet away severe illness. have mild symptoms, your tized for healthcare workers, from people when outside Who is at high risk for doctor may advise you to emergency medical service your home. COVID-19? care for yourself at home. providers, police, and other Do not invite guests over Everyone is at risk of get- If you test positive and essential workers, so please to your house. ting COVID-19, but some have severe symptoms, your consult your doctor for avail- Avoid large groups. people are at a higher risk of doctor will tell you what to ability in your local area. Stay home if you’re sick. serious illness. do. If you develop emergency Isolate Yourself from Generally speaking, A negative test means you warning signs, call 911. Main Others adults aged 65 and older were probably not infected at emergency warning signs in- If you have confirmed or and people of any age who the time of testing. However, clude: severe, constant chest possible COVID-19 or have have underlying medical it is possible that you were pain or pressure; extreme symptoms, isolate yourself conditions may be at higher tested early into your infec- difficulty breathing; severe, in your home to protect oth- risk for serious illness from tion and that you could test constant lightheadedness; or ers. COVID-19. positive later. You could also serious disorientation or un- Stay home. COVID-19 Testing be exposed at any time and responsiveness. Monitor your symptoms Current guidance on who develop the illness. What You Can Do and if they get worse, contact should be tested and what to What can I do while wait- Information about social your doctor immediately. expect from test results. ing for results? distancing, isolating from Do your best to stay away Who should be tested? The turnaround time for others, and more. from your other household Not everyone needs to be testing varies between test- Washing Your Hands members, including pets. tested for COVID-19. ing sites. Washing your hands is Designate a room for your Most mild symptoms can While waiting for test re- the best way to help you stay use only. Ideally use your be treated at home. sults, seek emergency care healthy. Here’s how to do it. own bathroom, too. If you think you have right away if you develop Wet your hands with Wash your hands fre- symptoms, contact your phy- emergency warning signs, clean, running water. Turn quently. sician or go to a drive-thru which include: severe, con- off the tap and apply soap. COVID-19 / pg. 4 Tsistsistas & Hinonoei Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune PAGE 3 Native owned laboratory announces COVID-19 testing Rosemary Stephens, Editor-in-Chief antibody testing and phase have been tested for the two testing being molecular coronavirus nationally as of tests, which will show if a April 17. To reopen the econ- person has the virus. omy in the United States by “The first phase is going mid-May, Harvard research- to include an antibody type of ers say the number of daily test, so when you think about tests should be somewhere when a virus enters the body between 500,000 to 700,000 we have antibodies that will tests per day. build up and attack the virus,” There is a variation in the Littlepage said. rate of testing and positive re- There has been a shortage sults among individual states, of testing options, not only in however Harvard researchers Oklahoma, but also across the say most states need to ad- country. It is predicted there minister more tests to get to are thousands of people in a minimum of approximately Oklahoma who may have had 152 tests per 100,000 people COVID-19 and just didn’t per day. know it because they were Tribal Diagnostics will either a) asymptomatic, or b) have the ability to conduct couldn’t get access to the test. 100 antibody tests per hour “We will have antibody with a 24-hour result turn testing so we will know if a around time. person was previously infect- “Depending on how many ed and if someone has had the hours we work in a day, we virus and has developed some can scale up testing pretty level of immunity to it,” Lit- quickly Littlepage said. tlepage said. Littlepage acknowledged The data from antibody there is a lot the scientific testing will help to provide community does not know Tribal Diagnostics lab technicians are ready to start test- context on who has developed about COVID-19 and are ing for COVID-19. Cory Littlepage, Tribal Diagnostics CEO, was named some immunity and protec- learning each day, and mak- “That’s what is being done now in the one of 43 recipients of The Journal Record’s Health Care tion from COVID-19, which ing the antibody tests available will provide drive-thru testing sites with the nasal swab Heroes Award on March 6 in Oklahoma City. in turn will be data that can be more data to use towards getting out vacci- test, so we will be able to test about 200 spec- used in deciding when a per- nations, different immunities and how it im- imens per day and we are anticipating phase (OKLAHOMA CITY) Tribal Diagnos- son can safely return to work. pacts different patient populations. two to begin in early May,” Littlepage said. tics, a Native owned and operated labora- As governors across the country are con- “I don’t want to sit here and say I have Tribal Diagnostics will be coordinating tory based out of Oklahoma City begins sidering easing social distancing restrictions all the answers, but if we could start getting with tribes and health boards across Okla- COVID-19 testing. As CEO Cory Littlepage, and looking to reopen businesses, researchers more and more samples to run additional homa, and across the country to offer their a citizen of Chickasaw Nation, puts it, “we at Harvard University are suggesting states tests we will start getting closer to those an- facility as a hub for the nasal specimens to be have a unique opportunity to provide testing may not reopen safely unless they conduct swers, than the world becomes a better place delivered to their facility in Oklahoma City solutions during this pandemic and I am real- more than three times the number of corona- and in Oklahoma, and Indian Country,” Lit- for testing. ly proud that the Tribal Diagnostics team is virus tests currently being administered over tlepage said. “Even though our headquarters are in rising up to the challenge.” the next month. Phase two testing will be molecular test- Oklahoma City, we support providers and Tribal Diagnostics rolled out COVID-19 According to the COVID Tracking Proj- ing, meaning testing for those who actually testing in two phases, with phase one being ect, an average of 146,000 people per day have the virus now. TRIBAL DIAGNOSTICS / pg. 5 Public Notice to Acquire Land Into Trust - Case Number 21375

Rosemary Stephens, Editor-in-Chief Cheyenne and Arapaho Latoya Lonelodge, Reporter/Advertising Sales Tribal Tribune 405-422-7446 / [email protected] 405-422-7608 / [email protected] 1600 E. Hwy 66, Suite 8, El Reno OK / P. O. Box 38, Concho, OK 73022 Fax: 405-422-8204

Society of Professional Journalists members Oklahoma Press Association member Native American Journalists Association member DISCLAIMER: Letters to the editor, opinions and commentaries do not reflect the views of the Tribal Tribune unless specified. Correspondence must be signed and include a return address and telephone number for verification, otherwise it will not be published. The Tribal Tribune reserves the right to edit letters for clarity and length. Submission of a letter does not guarantee its publication. Photographs, news stories or other materials in this publication may not be reprinted without prior permission. Printed by Lindsay Web Press, Lindsay, Okla. 2010-2019 NATIVE AMERICAN JOURNALISTS ASSOCIATION MEDIA AWARD WINNER & 2012-2017 AWARD WINNER OF THE OPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST PAGE 4 Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune Tsistsistas & Hinonoei COVID-19 continued from pg. 2 Changing the Face If you cough or sneeze, frequently touched surfaces Look After Your Mental cover your mouth and nose like tables, doorknobs, light Health with a tissue. Discard the switches, handles, desks, toi- Practice mindfulness, tissue and immediately wash lets, faucets, and sinks. But if which can help you stay of Health Care your hands. you have a suspected or con- calm. Various meditation Indian Health Service: Clinton Service Unit Avoid sharing personal firmed case of COVID-19, apps are offering free ser- items such as dishes, towels, be vigilant about doing this vices and specific COVID-19 The delivery of health care and ser- of the clinic, which encourages social and bedding with other peo- daily. programming. vices provided is constantly chang- distancing.” ple in your house. First, clean dirty surfaces It’s important to unplug. ing. This statement is truer than ever Staff has been conducting wellness Clean and disinfect fre- with soap and water. Clean- Take short timeouts during as Clinton Service Unit (CSU) adapts calls by reaching out to elderly pa- quently used surfaces often. ing will remove dirt and low- the day to recharge. Sched- and develops innovative services to tients and ensure they are informed of Wash laundry frequently. er the number of germs—but ule longer breaks for fun or Have a household mem- it will not kill germs. relaxing activities. meet health care demands during the the services available. “We want our ber or friend run errands for Next, disinfect surfaces Stimulate your brain. Do COVID-19 national emergency. elders to know we are here to care for you like picking up groceries to kill germs. Disinfecting something that excites you. “Our facilities are taking extra pre- their needs,” said CAPT Bryant. “In or prescriptions. after cleaning can further Read a book, do a puzzle, or cautions to ensure the safety of our doing so, CSU has identify follow-up Wear a mask if you have lower the risk of spreading paint a picture. patients and staff during this pandem- care needed in some of our patients to be around other people. If an infection. Most common Exercise, stretch, or take you can’t find a mask, cre- EPA-registered household walks outside. Movement ic,” said Capt. Joe Bryant, CSU chief and have been able to schedule a tele- ate one from a garment like disinfectants will work. Or can raise your level of en- executive officer. “We are open for medicine visit to address their con- a scarf. If you can’t wear a dilute your household bleach dorphins, the chemicals that patient care, but are optimizing the cern.” mask because of difficulty with 1/3 cup of bleach per promote a positive mindset. delivery of our services and adapting Clinton Indian Health Center breathing, make sure care- gallon of water. Start a gratitude journal. to new ways of working. We are dai- (CIHC) expanded services to include givers wear one around you. Wear dedicated gloves for Take time to acknowledge ly collaborating with community and drive-thru COVID-19 testing. Mon- You can leave your house COVID-19 related cleaning the little things that make to receive medical care, but and disinfecting or use dis- you happy. tribal leaders to be as prepared as we day to Friday, between the hours of don’t take the bus, subway, posable gloves and discard Talk to people you trust possibly can be.” noon to 2 p.m., patients may drive-up or taxi. them after each use. about how you are feeling. CSU providers are transitioning to to the facility to receive testing. Pa- Symptom Monitoring Support Yourself Sharing your thoughts and providing telemedicine services for tients arriving for testing will be di- Observe your COVID-19 Tips for keeping your- concerns with others can the majority of patient visits. With rected to drive through a series of sta- symptoms for 14 days if you self physically and mentally help you feel less alone. suspect you have the disease, healthy. Your physical and mental telemedicine, you meet your provider tions to register and answer screening have been around someone Care For Your Body health are connected. Don’t over the phone or video chat, instead questions. If the screening guidelines who has tested positive for Eat well-balanced meals. forget to care for your body. of in-person at the clinic. are met, they will be evaluated by a it, or you’ve been diagnosed. This means lots of fruits, Shop Wisely “It’s a visit with your provider from provider in the testing area and under- First, seek emergency vegetables, whole grains, Only go to grocery stores the safety of your home,” said Dr. go COVID-19 testing from the com- care right away if you devel- and protein—and a limited and pharmacies for necessary Sarah Hartnett, CSU clinical direc- fort of their vehicle. op emergency warning signs, amount of sugar, salt, and items. Limit your number of which include: severe, con- red meat. outings to reduce exposure. tor. “You discuss your symptoms and CSU continues to deliver new tech- stant chest pain or pressure; Stay hydrated. Drink wa- Keep purchases to only what medical history with your provider, nologies. Patients are now able to re- extreme difficulty breathing; ter with every meal, in be- you need to be sure there’s who works with you to come up with a ceive COVID-19 testing results in a severe, constant lightheaded- tween each meal, and when enough for everyone else. plan of care. If you need medications, matter of minutes through use of the ness; or serious disorienta- you work out. People who are at higher the provider can order them for you Abbott ID NOW COVID-19. This tion or unresponsiveness. Exercise for at least 30 risk of severe illness, such as and alert the pharmacy to mail them machine received emergency use au- Have your medical pro- minutes a day. Walking those aged 65 or older or in- vider’s contact information counts. Many gyms and fit- dividuals with an underlying to you or have them ready for pick-up. thorization from the U.S. Food and on hand. ness companies are offering medical condition, should try Sometimes your provider will decide Drug Administration (FDA) to deliver Keep a log of your symp- free online classes with no to get food and medications that you need to be seen in person, but the fastest point-of-care test available. toms, including your tem- equipment necessary. delivered. If delivery is not the telemedicine visit helps us plan A positive result is available in as little perature. Make sure to sleep. Try possible, check local stores this visit to be as efficient and safe as as five minutes and a negative result is If your symptoms worsen, to get seven to nine hours if to see if they have special call your doctor immediately possible. shopping hours for high risk possible. ” available in 13 minutes. to update them and they will Don’t drink too much caf- customers. Behavioral Health, Physical Ther- “I’m so appreciative of the care tell you what to do next. feine. It can lead to anxiety, Wear gloves or wipe apy, and many other clinic services I received at CIHC,” said a patient Cleaning and Disinfecting insomnia, nausea, and head- down your cart or basket be- can take place over telemedicine and treated at the facility. “I have private Surfaces aches. fore using it. FaceTime. “The services CSU offers insurance, but I choose to receive Commonly used surfaces You might need to see You want to , not through telemedicine visits are in- health care services here [CIHC]. The should be regularly cleaned your doctor for a reason hoard. Buy two weeks’ worth and disinfected. other than COVID-19. Call, of groceries at a time. There creasing rapidly,” said Dr. Hartnett. staff are respectful, detail oriented and It’s always a good idea to video chat, or email your is no threat of a food short- “Telemedicine helps flatten the curve provided the information my family routinely clean and disinfect provider first. by allowing us to treat patients outside needed to assist in my recovery.” COVID-19 / pg. 5 Tsistsistas & Hinonoei Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune PAGE 5 TRIBAL DIAGNOSTICS continued from pg. 3 Message From Your tribes in Seattle, Michigan, Maine and Washington, D.C., and that’s the good District Legislator thing about modern lo- Editor’s Note: “Message From Your District Legislator” is a new column being published gistics, the specimens can in the first issue of every month. Legislators have been invited to submit an article for this get to us the next morning column. Those who submit articles will appear under this column monthly. and we can conduct high Cheyenne District 3: Darrell Flyingman volume tests on our equip- ment,” Littlepage said. I want to thank Rosemary 3 legialtive office delivered According to a press for giving the Legislature a food boxes on March 27, release, which states, venue to report their activi- March 28, April 1, April 2 ties for the past month. The and April 18. We also made “Tribal Diagnostics’ ser- past month of April 2020 has and distributed veggie snack vices are available to serve been very busy for the Exec- packs on April 11, April 14 all healthcare providers, utive Office and the Legis- and April 15. they are working hard to lature office. Keeping our During April I also started ensure Tribally-operated tribe safe is a daily commit- to clean up the Colony Pow- hospitals and clinics are ment for the leadership and wow grounds. Grass was cut receiving focused care and workers. and weed eating done. There analysis as the American The COVID-19 Food De- was also a few elders that Indian demographic is a livery Program is designed needed their lawns mowed vulnerable population ac- for the elders to ensure food and I assisted with that. include three references, (6) cording to the Centers for is available to feed the el- I submitted three Resolu- results from a drug and alco- ders and grandchildren. tions for the April Legislative Disease Control and Pre- hol test must be included, (7) Many grandparents have Regular Session to be made a cleared background check, vention (CDC). taken on the responsibility into law, (1) A Resolution to (8) a complete job descrip- “Tribal Diagnostics is to raise their grandchildren, support Oklahoma House tion for the position being proud to use our experi- which I believe is a gracious Bill (HB) 3345 “Ida’s Law. filled, (9) all confirmations ence during these chal- act which has been handed Ida’s Law outlines the cre- American. need for more testing in shall be posted on the 30 lenging and unprecedent- down by generations. I will ation of the Office of Liaison day Legislative Agenda, and “Although we are order to open the states’ ed times. We have now never forget the love and under the Oklahoma State (10) confirmations not post- unique because we are economies back up, hav- conducted over one mil- kindness my grandparents Bureau of Investigation for ed on the 30 day Legislative tribally owned and oper- ing another avenue of anti- lion laboratory tests and gave to my sister and I. Missing and Murdered per- Agenda will be tabled until ated, we understand the body testing through Trib- feel uniquely positioned The Food Delivery Pro- sons. The Office of Liaison the next Legislative Regular delivery system of IHS, al Diagnostics will play an to join the fight to control gram takes many people and will consist of a missing Session. This resolution was electronic health records important role in Oklaho- departments to make this person’s specialist with sig- the COVID-19 outbreak disapproved by the Legisla- and the importance of data ma’s path to opening up program work. The program nificant experience working ture with a vote of 7 no and 1 across the country and es- and reports for advocating businesses again. starts: with the governor and alongside tribal communi- yes. This resolution will be pecially within our Tribal federal funding, so I antic- “To begin to get back his staff, they purchase the ties. the resolution was ap- resubmitted. communities, by doing ipate us being a valuable a semblance of our lives, food and make necessary proved by the Legislature (3) A Bill requesting what we do best … pro- arrangements to receive the with 8 yes, 0 no. partner to tribal commu- I believe you have to talk Monthly Financial Infor- viding comprehensive lab food. The Legislative office (2) A Resolution to mation and all Donations. nities because we can help about it … we’re humans, analysis as quickly as pos- (Corrine Morton) makes sure Improve the Governor’s A monthly financial report tribes with their data as and I think you have to sible,” Littlepage stated in she has enough workers to Executive Directors’ shall be provided to the Leg- it relates to COVID-19,” have a plan for reopening th a press release. fill the boxes with food and Nomination Process for islative by the 25 of each Littlepage said. the economy,” Littlepage Tribal Diagnostics first get ready to be delivered to Confirmations. The Reso- month, to include monies Tribal Diagnostics will said when asked his opin- opened their doors in 2015 our elders. Lastly, the legis- lution reads as follows: The from all Tribal Casinos, Tax be reporting daily how ion on reopening Oklaho- lators pick up the food box- Governor shall include in with a focus on target- Commission, and any oth- many tests they run, the ma’s economy. “You have es and make delivery to the the employee’s packet for er sources of income to the ing substance abuse tests, positives, the negatives to help people get back to elders in their districts. The employment. (1) a complete tribe. The resolution was specifically opioids. They and what their capacity some sort of life, and you problem I have when mak- application for employment, approved by the Legislature have evolved over the past is and what equipment have to take care of safety ing deliveries is many of our (2) shall include all applica- with a vote of 8 yes and 0 no. few years into a full ser- they have to the Oklaho- first, but not to talk about elders have post office box- tions submitted for this posi- To reach Cheyenne Dis- vice laboratory offering es listed for their address. tion, (3) a certified copy of a trict 3 Legislator Darrell Fly- ma State Dept. of Health. how we can start getting hundreds of different tests Please provide a physical ad- college transcript, (4) a cer- ingman call 405-422-7588 Littlepage said everyone back the economy would related to diabetes, heart dress to my office to be used tified copy of a degree from or email dflyingman@chey- is competing for the same be negligent, in my per- disease, infectious dis- for food deliveries. a four year college, (5) the enneandarapaho-nsn.gov. resources with the nasal sonal opinion.” eases such as Hepatitis C The Cheyenne District packet for employment must swabs and other materials To learn more about and HIV, and other disease and feels it is important to Tribal Diagnostics visit states. Their headquarters be transparent and proac- www.tribaldiagnostics. District Legislators Contact Information: are based out of Oklahoma tive with the state in let- com or follow on Face- City, however they have Cheyenne District 1: gov 405-422-7919, ksleeper@ ting them know Tribal Di- book at www.facebook. employees in 10 different Bruce Whiteman, 405- cheyenneandarapaho-nsn. agnostics have the testing. com/TribalDiagnostics or 7750, bwhiteman@chey- states with 30% of their Cheyenne District 4: gov With all of the data and on Twitter at www.twitter. enneandarapaho-nsn.gov Byron Byrd, 405-422-7616, employees being Native experts emphasizing the com/Triballab. bybyrd@cheyenneandarap- Arapaho District 3: Cheyenne District 2: aho-nsn.gov Travis Ruiz, 405-422-7599, George Woods, 405-7415, truiz@cheyenneandarapa- geowoods@cheyennean- Arapaho District 1: ho-nsn.gov continuedCOVID-19 from pg. 4 darapaho-nsn.gov Billie Sutton, 405-422- 7405, bsutton@cheyenne- Arapaho District 4: age. The same goes for toilet cause of coronavirus, know What To Do If You Get Cheyenne District 3: andarapaho-nsn.gov Rector Candy, 405-422- paper. your options for unemploy- Sick Darrell Flyingman, 405- 7916, rcandy@cheyennean- Stock up on long-lasting ment and take advantage of Stay home. 422-7588, dflyingman@ Arapaho District 2: darapaho-nsn.gov foods, like dry, canned, or local community programs. Monitor your symptoms. cheyenneandarapaho-nsn. Kendricks Sleeper, Speaker, frozen foods. You can still Call your mortgage, student If they get worse, contact purchase fresh produce, loan, utility, and credit card your doctor immediately. meat, and dairy. Just eat providers and let them know Do your best to stay away those items first or freeze your situation. from your other household them so they don’t spoil. Unemployment Help members, including pets. Gather essential over-the- Create a Household Designate a room for your counter supplies like tissues, Emergency Plan use only. Ideally use your a fever reducer, and cough Have two weeks’ worth own bathroom, too. medicine. Buy extra house- of food in case a household Wash your hands fre- hold items like soap, toilet- member needs to isolate quently. ries, and laundry detergent. from others. If you cough or sneeze, Strategies for Work Create an emergency con- cover your mouth and nose If you’re able to work tact list. This should include with a tissue. Discard the from home, maintain a email addresses and phone tissue and immediately wash schedule and stick to it. numbers for family, friends, your hands. Avoid working in bed or neighbors, carpool drivers, Avoid sharing personal on the couch. If possible, health care providers, teach- items such as dishes, towels, create a separate workspace. ers, employers, and the local and bedding with other peo- Take walks (while main- public health department. ple in your house. taining a social distance) to If possible, those who Clean and disinfect fre- make up for the steps you are sick should have their quently used surfaces often. usually take to get to and own bedroom and bathroom. Wash laundry frequently. from work. Choose the rooms in advance Have a household mem- If you have children at and prepare them with over- ber or friend run errands for home, communicate your the-counter medications and you like picking up groceries child-care issues to your su- extra household supplies. or prescriptions. pervisor. Join your neighborhood’s Wear a mask if you have If you aren’t working social media page to get ac- to be around other people. If from home, follow the prop- cess to neighbors, informa- you can’t find a mask, create er steps for hand-washing, tion, and resources. one from a garment like a cleaning and disinfecting, If you live alone and are scarf or handkerchief. If you and symptom-monitoring. recovering at home, stay can’t wear a mask because If you live with someone in frequent contact with of difficulty breathing, make who goes into work, ensure friends, family, and medical sure caregivers wear one they properly wash their providers. around you. hands immediately upon If you are worried about You can leave your house returning home. Disinfect losing your job, research op- to receive medical care, but anything they touched before tions for unemployment and don’t take the bus, subway, they washed their hands. other forms of assistance in or taxi. If you’re out of work be- advance. PAGE 6 Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune Tsistsistas & Hinonoei Mask Making 101 As experts encourage the wearing of facial masks - demand is high for facemasks

Latoya Lonelodge, Staff Reporter pandemic. many times,” Blassingame Blassingame said making masks felt more said. Now more than ever, seamstresses are mandatory. She said she knew masks were Residing in Cedar Park, being called to the forefront during the being asked for early on in quarantine, but Texas, witnessing a shortage COVID-19 pandemic to use their skills and she just couldn’t bring herself to make them in medical masks supply was talent for a new cutting edge trend in modern at first. only the beginning as Blass- day fashion … facial masks. “I don’t know if I was in denial that there ingame said there were also The moment COVID-19 became wide- was a shortage of masks or what the deal was shortages in materials for spread and caused a shortage in medical sup- but I couldn’t make them and I was talking making masks in the area. plies worldwide, many seamstresses and first to other designers about this and we were “Now there’s a shortage in time sewers found themselves in a position talking about the different types of sewing,” elastic to even make masks, not only to help during this time of mask Blassingame said. “This isn’t like the fun we’re having to put tape or shortages but also sharing their sewing expe- type of sewing, they’re making prom dresses make our own strings to tie it rience to others. and I’m making jingle dresses, it felt kind of on with so I guess they really Seamstresses, both experienced and first mandatory that we have to make masks so it are in high demand because timers, all around the world took it upon kind of gave me a little more anxiety to even of all the shortage in material, themselves to create masks of their own de- do it in the beginning.” I seen a Wal-Mart in San An- sign to donate and sell for the cause. Now in Although she was a little late in partici- tonio and their aisles of fabric high demand, facemasks have been proven to pating in mask making, Blassingame said her were completely empty, like lessen the chance of spreading or contracting inspiration came from a friend. everyone bought out all the the novel coronavirus COVID-19. And with “She made a head wrap with a matching fabric,” Blassingame said. many cities mandating facial masks to be mask and I’m like, ‘oh I should make them,’ While Blassingame is worn in public, there will be an increase in a mask to match my hat that I already have more familiar in sewing re- demand in coming months. and I didn’t know it was going to blow up,” galia and clothing items for For Nan Blassingame and Corrine Mor- Blassingame said. fashion, she had to teach her- ton, both citizens of the Cheyenne and Arap- Blassingame said since sharing a picture self a few tricks with mask aho Tribes, they found themselves in the mid- of her wearing a matching mask and hat making. dle of the pandemic learning and teaching the combo she made, it has been shared over 200 “A lot of people were art of mask making with fellow community times on Facebook. posting videos on how they Nan Blassingame fashion designer and a citizen of the members. “I mentioned this certain type of mask was made them on YouTube, so I Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes, models her floral hat and Known particularly for their participa- easier to make compared to the one that you watched one on how to make mask combo she created. tion in fashion shows and their unique work make with the pleats in and I felt like it sits the pleated mask but I didn’t in Native fashion design, Blassingame and on the face a lot better. Everyone asked me like it, so from watching that mandatory, Blassingame said it was different Morton’s sewing skills were put to the ul- to share a video so they could see, so I final- video I just kind of figured out how to make from her usual items of sewing. timate test in learning and teaching how to ly got around to it a few days later. I shared the curved over the nose mask,” Blassingame “I put aside all my other sewing to make make masks during an unprecedented health the video and right after I finished my mask said. masks but I can make a lot of them at a time, I posted the picture and it’s been shared so Feeling more like making masks was MASKS / pg. 9

OBITUARIES Robert James Meely Robert James Meely, ‘Lil of Jenks, Okla., brothers, Rocc’ was born Dec. 4, 1979 Daniel Meely of Oklahoma Mona Red Bufffalo Moutassam in Oklahoma City. He lived City and Anthony Meely Mona Red Buffalo Mou- adult life here until she most of his life in El Reno of El Reno, sister, Marissa tassam was born Nov. 7, went to her Lord on Easter and worked for the Chey- Fletcher of El Reno, grand- 1944. She died at the age Sunday surrounded by her enne and Arapaho Tribes’ parents, Jerrie White Buffa- of 75 on April 12, 2020. two sisters Betty Lou and maintenance department in lo of El Reno, and Charles Mona moved to Albuquer- Maxine and some of her Concho, Okla. He died on and Barbara Nicholson of que when she was 18 years other family members from April 12, 2020. Oklahoma City, half-broth- old to attend Nazarene In- Oklahoma. Mona loved to He is survived by his ers, Dominic, Gana and dian School. She was an take pictures and go to the mother Terri Fletcher of El another half brother also administrative assistant Santa Fe Indian Market ev- Reno, father Gana Nichol- named Gana, Noah, Abdul, throughout the years in Al- ery year. She also loved to son of El Reno, children, Malachi, Brian and Taylor A private family service buquerque. She was kind, serve her Lord and Savior. Robert James Meely Jr. and and half-sisters, Cortnie and was held at the Concho loving, and generous. She Mona is preceded in Hayley Gabriel Meely both Jessica. Cemetery in Concho, Okla. ho, Okla., and Maxine Fern was so beautiful. She lived death by her papa Ben Red Condulle of Oklahoma City, her life for the Lord. She Buffalo Jr and Vida Roman many cousins, nieces, neph- had a lot of nephews, niec- Nose, and two brothers, ews, and grandchildren. III es and cousins, too many Bennie Red Buffalo III, and William Pratt A private family ser- William Pratt III, or Bil- meals for them to share. In to name, and made many, Ronald Red Buffalo. She is vice was held and live ly to his family and friends the yard and garden, he could many friends in Albuquer- survived by her two sisters, streamed on April 17, 2020. was born on March 7, 1967 raise anything he set his que.Mona spent her whole Betty Lou White of Arapa- in Chicago, IL, the son of mind to, and had the green William and Harriett Irene thumb. Evening were spent (Cooley-St. Clair) Pratt Jr. watching educational TV, he Margaret Nell Pawnee He was part of a family that thirsted after knowledge and Margaret Nell Pawnee beadwork, bingo and going had two brothers, William was always wanting to learn was born on Feb.17, 1934, to the casino. and Eldon and three sisters, more. He had the ability to in Concho, Okla. Margaret Survivors include two Daisy, Chauncina and Diana. make you laugh and had the died April 24, 2020, at Post- sons, Thomas Blackowl of He attended school and then best sense of humor. He was Acute Rehabilitation Center El Reno and Albert Pawnee decided on a job working happiest when surrounded by in El Reno, Okla. of Calumet, daughter Paula with people that needed his the nieces and nephews and cherished and adored, Jef- She was a homemaker Conklin of Oklahoma City, help and became a nursing family he called his own. His fery St Clair, Jerrad St Clair, and lived most of her life in and numerous grandchil- assistant. Billy was his own life was brief, and he passed Cody St Clair, Cammi St Calumet. She was a mem- dren, great-grandchildren, man and lived his life the from this life on Tuesday, Clair-Capps, Meko St Clair, ber of the Native American and great-great-grandchil- way he liked. He loved his April 14, 2020 at the age of Sophia St Clair, Phillip Daw Church. A traditional wom- dren. family most of all and was 53 years. He will be greatly Jr., Paul Daw, Lee Nells, an, she went through the Her husband Freeman totally devoted to all of them missed. Lena Nells, Lance Nells, Northern Arapaho Sundance Pawne, parents, John and a sister Edna Wahweah, pre- and raising them. As a child Billy is preceded in death Elijah Nells, Brittney Nells, a number of years. Margaret Susie Blackowl, daughters, ceded her in death. growing up in Chicago, he by his father, William Sr. and Irene Pratt, Stephanie Black- was known and respected by Wilma Hamilton, and baby, Private services for Mar- loved time spent with his his grandparents, Hugh and fox, Chauncina Blackfox, the Northern Arapaho people Edna Marie Noear, brothers, garet Nell Pawnee will be grandfather in the park. There daisy McKenna and William Reese Blackfox, Nina Black- and was one of the first Fan- Walter Blackowl and Clar- Wednesday at the Concho they would tour the park in and Pauline (Meat) Pratt. fox, Lewis Blackfox, Bran- cy War dancers, and enjoyed ence “Scorp” Blackowl and Cemetery with Rev. Gerald the wagon. Once the family Those left to cherish his don Grass, Cassey Gutierrez, Panana officiating. relocated back to Tahlequah, memory include his moth- and Ariel Bighorse. His great Billy spent a great deal of er, Harriet Irene (Cooley) nieces and nephews include time with his grandfather, St Clair- Pratt Giacometti Janean Pratt, Latina Rog- camping, fishing, and swim- of Tahlequah, OK, and his ers, Josey Rogers, Katelynn Malaina Sue Tallbear ming. He also learned to play brothers and sisters, William Pickup, Kaiden Pickup, all of Malaina Sue Tallbear brothers, Deforest Tallbear tennis, a game he really en- St Clair of Tahlequah, El- whom he helped to raise, as was born July 28, 1977, in Jr. of El Reno and Mitchell joyed. He was schooled and don St. Clair and wife Gina well as many cousins friends Oklahoma City. She lived Tallbear of Lawton, Okla., very talented in Native craft- of Skiatook, Daisy Nell and and a host of friends and most of her life in El Reno, and sisters, Margaret Miles work such as beading and husband James of Park Hill, loved ones. Okla., and was previously and Anissa White, both of clay sculpting. Billy loved OK, Chauncina Blackfox of A private graveside ser- employed by the Cheyenne El Reno. to spend time in the kitchen Tulsa, OK, and Diana Orr vice was held at the Tahle- and Arapaho Tribes. Her father Deforest Earl and was an accomplished and husband Clint of Locust quah City Cemetery in Tah- She died on April 17, Tallbear, mother Debra cook. He like cooking for his Grove, OK. He leaves his lequah, Okla. 2020 at Integris Baptist Lynn White, and grandpar- family and making delicious nieces and nephews that he Medical Center in Oklaho- ents, Floyd and Rose Tall- ma City. bear and George and Mar- Malaina is survived by garet White, preceded her Paula Kathryn Goodbear Cemetery with Rev. Jim her children, Elijah Joseph in death. Paula Kathryn Goodbear was born Aug. 3, 1951. She White officiating. Tallbear and Lylah Christine A private graveside ser- passed from this life on April 13, 2020 Tallbear both of El Reno, vice was held at the El Reno A private family service was held in Tulsa, Okla. Tsistsistas & Hinonoei Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune PAGE 7

Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes Diabetes continuedGAMING from pg. 1 COMPACT Wellness Program Beginning Tuesday, April 28 tancing Guide- $139 million in exclusivity fees. we are better prepared to provide you Current service will be providing buffalo lines. No one After Stitt’s public broadcast showing the feedback you may have been seeking meat during COVID-19 health pandemic will be allowed tribal leaders of both Comanche Nation yesterday via this letter … we agree with (Please NOTE: Shoes / Glasses services into the build- and the Otoe-Missouria Tribe signing the assessment of Oklahoma Attorney will resume at a later date.) ing. Clients Hours of Operations will be 10 a.m. - 2 will need to fill their new compacts, Oklahoma’s At- General Mike Hunter.” p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, by appoiint- and sign paper- torney General Mike Hunter released a Many tribal leaders were also quick ment only. work outside of statement hours afterwards, stating, in to respond to the news ‘bomb’ dropped Call Tara Conway at 405-422-7685 or building to receive buffalo meat. Call upon part, “The agreements signed today, are by Stitt, talking to television news crews toll free at 800-247-4612 ext. 27685 for ap- your arrival and your paperwork will be not authorized by the state Tribal Gam- and using Social Media to release state- pointment. available.” ing Act. The governor has the authority ments. “We will be following CDC Social Dis- Thank you. to negotiate compacts with the tribes on Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes Gov. behalf of the state. However, only gam- Reggie Wassana was one of the first trib- ing activities authorized by the act may al leaders to respond. His full statement TESTING be the subject of a tribal gaming com- read, “Today we learned two Tribal Na- continued from pg. 1 pact. Sports betting is not a prescribed tions have chosen to enter into Gaming ‘covered game’ under the act.” Compacts with the state of Oklahoma. In most states, people “It does make sense, giv- not been tested. President of the Oklahoma Indian Reiterating Oklahoma Indian Gaming who had severe symptoms, en constraints, to focus on The state’s testing prog- worked in health facilities people with severe illness, ress has been hindered by Gaming Association swiftly respond- Association’s statement, ‘respecting the or were otherwise hospi- because you need that infor- setbacks, including long ed to Stitt’s announcement by saying, sovereignty of each Tribe to take what talized were given priority mation to guide their care,” lines at testing facilities and “Gov. Stitt does not have the authority actions it believes it must on behalf of for testing. The goal of the Dr. Rivers said. a shortage of health care to do what he claims to have done today. their citizens, and although we stood to- testing level recommended In mid-May, however, workers and testing swabs. Without the engagement of the Oklaho- gether for a common cause, our individ- by the researchers would be when the researchers esti- Christopher Neuwirth, ma Legislature, he has entered agree- ual Tribal environments dictate what is to test nearly everyone who mate infections will have an assistant commissioner ments based on a claim of unilateral best for each individual Tribe.” has mild or severe flulike subsided somewhat and at New Jersey’s Health De- state authority to legalize sports books, “We take seriously the inner workings symptoms, and an average states are looking to reopen partment, said the state’s lag to revamp the Oklahoma Lottery, and to of the Gaming Compact. We should all of 10 contacts for each per- their economies, Dr. Jha be- in testing could also indicate authorize new gaming facilities in Nor- view this compact as our treaties and son who tests positive for lieves vastly expanded test- that fewer people are trying the virus. ing will be crucial. to get tested. man and Stillwater, among other places. leave no room for error as we have in the A shortage of test kits and “I want to be able to iden- “In the days and weeks That’s simply not the law.” past. The state has not shown our Sover- technical flaws in the United tify everybody who is even up until testing was avail- “I expect tribal and state officials are eign Tribal Nations kindness in the past, States significantly delayed mildly symptomatic,” he able, there was a huge pent- now reviewing the documents he re- and many tribal citizens still harbor re- more widespread testing of said. “So when I wake up up demand,” Mr. Neuwirth leased … and trying to understand what sentment. When we were unemployed the virus, letting it spread one morning and have a sore said. After that, he said, the exactly it is Gov. Stitt is trying to do. But and hungry we were stepped over. Now undetected for weeks. throat and a fever, I should public became more aware at the end of the day, I suspect his actions the shoe is on the other foot, with Tribal With more than 988,000 cas- be able to go get tested. And of the criteria for testing. have not helped matters for anyone,” Nations employing thousands of Okla- es as of April 27, the country then I want to be able to test “People really paid attention Morgan stated in a press release. homa citizens throughout the state … has the highest number of all of my contacts if I turn and really heard the mes- And it seems members of the Oklaho- providing non-Tribal citizens and Tribal known cases in the world. out to be positive, so that I saging that you have to be Health experts said that can do the test, trace and iso- symptomatic.” ma Legislature agree with the Oklahoma citizens with the means to buy food and if the U.S. had tested earli- late strategy that’s so critical That messaging will have attorney general’s assessment the com- provide shelter for their families. It is a er and more, the outbreak to allowing us to open up to be reversed, Dr. Jha said, pacts are not authorized. new time, a new era and a new philoso- would have been better con- and stay open.” once testing is expanded. In a letter addressed to Gov. Stitt, on phy for tribes. My hope is whatever lies tained. , an as- New Jersey currently “We need to switch letterhead of House District 22 Repre- ahead, that we are treated with respect, sistant professor at the Johns has the highest positive rate from saying to people, ‘if sentative Charles McCall, it states, in treated fairly and we can both sit at the Hopkins Center for Health among all states — about you have mild symptoms, part, “during a meeting with you yester- table knowing we can have a mutual Security, said that since that half of the coronavirus tests if you’re not feeling super day when we learned of this for the first agreement benefitting both the Tribes did not happen and the virus that it has conducted so far sick, don’t come and stay time (moments before your public an- and the state of Oklahoma and our fu- spread rapidly, it has made have come back positive. at home,’ to ‘if you have nouncement), we were not provided with tures are everlasting.” sense to prioritize testing for That suggests that many of any symptoms, you need to those in hospitals in recent the people in the state who come in to get tested right key details or the documents themselves. It would appear there will now be two weeks. have the coronavirus have away,’ ” he said. Now that we have been able to review challenges in court in the near future. the documents and details within them,

Paid Advertising PAGE 8 Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune Tsistsistas & Hinonoei

Northern Arapaho Clinic continuedTOWN from pg. 1HALL Conducts Over 20 Percent Of individuals who may not be exhibiting registrations from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on any symptoms, but are still contagious Tuesdays and Thursdays, and Diabetes and spreading the virus. Wellness Program is providing buffalo COVID-19 Testing In Wyoming CSU is also conducting drive-thru meat curbside pick up by appointment By Savannah Maher COVID-19 testing at the Clinton Indi- only by calling 405-422-7685, from 10 an Health Center from noon – 2 p.m. a.m. – 2 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thurs- COVID-19 testing re- Monday through Friday. Individuals, days. The Elder Care Program recently sources remain limited around Wyoming and the who have symptoms of COVID-19, mailed out elder food checks for May country. But one clinic that’s have been exposed to someone who and are currently taking applications operated by the Northern has COVID-19 in the past 14 days or by mail at PO Box 133, Concho, OK Arapaho Tribe has emerged an order from their primary care pro- 73022. as a leader in the state when vider can be tested. Other programs available for assis- it comes to testing. Several Cheyenne and Arapaho tance include the Burial Program to Wind River Family and Tribes’ department leaders shared up- assist with funeral expenses and the Community Healthcare dated information on their departments Elderly Nutrition Program (ENP), cur- (WRFCH,) which is fund- and initiatives that has been put into rently closed to in-house dining, how- ed by the federal Indian also tested several non-Na- said, adding that the North- place and continue to be utilized to as- ever continuing to deliver to elders, Health Service and run by tive tribal employees and ern Arapaho Tribe is offer- the tribe under a self-de- first responders who work ing quarantine housing to sist as many tribal citizens as possible. with additional meals being provided termination contract, has on the Wind River Reser- those who test positive at its As of April 24 there have been 600 on Friday to ensure elders have food tested around 1,400 people. vation. Wind River Hotel. care packages distributed to tribal cit- over the weekend. This increase in That’s more than 20 percent During a press briefing “And a couple of those izens and plans to deliver an addition- meals is due to the ENP receiving two of the 6,328 tests that have last week, Fremont County people were in situations al 300 care packages. The tribes’ have grants. The grants will also enable ENP been conducted in Wyo- Public Health Officer Dr. where they could have been butchered 10 buffalo and distributed to provide grocery baskets with clean- ming by Thursday, April 16. Brian Gee said that pri- super-spreaders, where they meat to their citizens and tribal offic- ing supplies and masks. vate tests could yield more either worked in a local The Wyoming Depart- es providing essential services to the The Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes ment of Health Laboratory false-negative results than store or were going from tribes’ members have remained opera- Health Board secretary, Summer Kline- is currently only process- those being processed by house to house because of ing tests from individuals the state. their housing situation,” tional on a limited basis. kole is heading up ‘Project Mask’ to that fall within the depart- “The downside would Ebbert said. The Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes’ help produce masks for tribal citizens. ment’s priority categories, be the potential accuracy of The not-for-profit clinic H.O.P.E. Program’s COVID-19 re- “We have nine sewing machines we including those over the age [private tests,]” Gee said. has received some feder- sponse has sent out approximately received from Culture & Heritage, and of 65 and other high-risk “So just to have a test, it al relief funding through 1,000 food cards totaling over $85 five tribal members have agreed to re- patients who are showing seems good, but also we the CARES Act, which set thousand. ceive the machines and sew masks,” symptoms. have to figure out what that aside more than $1 billion “We have assisted with rent and Klinkole said. “We still need to recruit test really means.” for the Indian Health Ser- Dr. Paul Ebbert, utilities with disbursements totaling four more and are looking to obtain But according to Ebbert, vice network. But Ebbert Chief Medical Officer of approximately $27 thousand in assis- material for the masks.” WRFCH, said the clinic is WRFCH’s is taking a calcu- said WRFCH is footing the tance, and are now completely caught For more information or to volunteer testing through a private lab. lated risk. bill for private testing, and Since early April, it has of- “We also do not know isn’t seeing much revenue up and processing applications daily contact Klinekole by calling 405-421- fered drive-through testing what the false negative rate since paring down its reg- as they come in, with food cards being 3750 or email sklinekole@cheyenne- at its Ethete and Arapahoe of the state test is,” Ebbert ular operations to combat mailed out one day behind that,” Judy andarapaho-nsn.gov. locations to any member of said. “We have done our re- COVID-19. Holsapple, H.O.P.E. Program director Time was set aside during each Town a federally recognized tribe search, we suspect that the “We hope that we’re go- said. Hall to allow community members to who wants one. way we’re testing is a little ing to be okay [financial- Although the H.O.P.E. Program is address questions and concerns related “The reason we’re able bit less sensitive than the ly], but we honestly don’t closed to the public, individuals can to the coronavirus pandemic. state test is, although we do know,” Ebbert said. “[Lab- to do this is because ear- still apply online by visiting chey- “The most important thing we can do ly on, we decided that we not know. Nobody knows.” Corp] has given us what I enneandarapaho-nsn.gov/project/ now is to protect ourselves,” Dr. Bryan wanted to do mass testing And he feels the clinic’s feel is a reasonable price for so we ordered the supplies more aggressive approach the tests, but it could add up covid-19-food-assistance-application. said. “Follow proper social distancing we needed to do that,” is paying off. to a lot of money.” Other programs offering essential and hygiene care, wash your hands fre- Ebbert said. “We have found three or Ebbert said the clinic and services include Food Distribution, quently, stay home, and take care of the According to the clin- four asymptomatic cases the tribe made a decision to with both their Clinton and Watonga elderly and your family.” ic’s CEO Richard Bran- that would not have been invest in widespread test- stores offering curb side pick up for The next Telephone Town Hall meet- nan, WRFCH’s team began found otherwise. And by ing, which they hope will their clients from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. on ing will be announced via Social Media drafting a preparedness plan doing that, we are able to protect tribal citizens and Mondays and Fridays. The tribes’ tag or contact Summer Klinekole for more quarantine those people and save money down the road. and ordering supplies in late office is open for tag renewals/new details. February. The clinic has do contact tracing “ Ebbert

Happy Birthday Meet JaKody Zeke Littleman

We are so proud of you MaKayla. Love you and we know you will go far in life. Love that you always stayed true Chirstopher Tahchawwickah and to yourself Jimmy Tahchawwickah Born April 22, weighing in at 7 lbs., 10 oz. and is May 4 19 inches long. Love You are in our thoughts and Mommy and Family Grandmother Tina Stevens sends a thank you prayers. Stay strong and do right! to all their family and friends for their prayers. Love and miss you. Mother Jericah Littleman is doing well. Brothers ‘til the casket drops Tsistsistas & Hinonoei Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune PAGE 9 continuedTOWN from pg. 1HALL continuedMASKS from pg. 6

I was showing them in my video how I just continually add While overwhelmed with the excitement of how much the next mask and add the next lining without having to cut her mask and hat combo had gained attention, Blassingame the thread off in-between, creating a little chain of masks,” said the pandemic needs to also be taken seriously during Blassingame said. this time. Blassingame said she began making masks for herself and “I think it’ll be pretty seeing people in their hats at pow- then for friends who were essential workers in the Austin, wows and such, especially when they’re at outdoor pow- Texas area. wows, I think that would be cool, I know they’ll last longer With other clothing and regalia orders to fulfill, Blassin- but I’m just glad it inspired everybody,” Blassingame said. game said sewing and selling masks has been done in her For Morton, who works for the Cheyenne and Arapaho down time as she works from home and helps homeschool Tribes Legislative Branch, she said she began making masks her son. mainly for family and co-workers. “I’ve had about 60 people message me about getting hats “My daughter works in the medical field and was short on and matching masks, but the problem is finding the interface supplies, she was worried about coming home to her family and I’m going to have to go to the Wal-Mart’s and see if and my grandkids. I wanted to do something for her and my there’s the interfacing for the hats because they are revers- family to help keep them safe. We still have to work and my ible, they’re two sided, you can slip it inside out and wear the co-workers had requested some for themselves and their fam- other side, but it takes a lot of the interfaces to give it a strong ilies, that’s when I offered to teach them how to make their hold,” Blassingame said. own,” Morton said. Having made over 30 masks so far, Blassingame said Morton said she’s had requests for masks from family since masks are small, they are quick, easy and very beginner members, co-workers and businesses. She said mask making friendly to make. could take a little time with the process in drafting, tracing “I just cut them out in stacks, cut all the lining and match and cutting the patterns and materials. them together, one mask gets a lining, I’ve been cutting them “After that it is smooth sailing to sew each piece together. out in bulks like that so that I can just sit and sew them,” My daughter and I have been up working like crazy, but with Blassingame said. trial and error I came up with a pattern that works best for With several hat and mask set requests like her colorful us to sew. Depending on the request or order, we have been flower print, Blassingame said she had just enough of left making a couple of different styles of masks, sizes and with over material to make her mask match her hat that she made or without the filter pocket and nose guard. It’s a lot but I like five years ago. to take my time and make sure I do a good job so that it will “I just randomly come across things and maybe we were last and get the most use out of it,” Morton said. going to the beach or something and I wanted a bucket hat, Morton said she has been offering tutorial classes, show- but I extended it a little to make it more full. I bought the pat- ing others how to make masks of their own. tern off of Etsy but then it was kind of small so I had to mod- “I wanted to offer a class to my co-workers because I ify it to make it fit. I made that hat maybe five years ago and just didn’t have the time to fill everyone’s request. We are I’m just surprised that it’s going viral now,” Blssingame said. still working for our tribe, providing food boxes to our tribal Taking her fashion and designer skills from the powwow members and have been busy. I’d rather teach them than to arena to making masks in an effort to help stop the spread of do it for them and let them know the process and have the COVID-19, Blassingame decided to go a step further by en- knowledge of what goes into the basics of sewing,” Morton tering an online exhibition and Native American mask-mak- said. Corrine Morton, a local seamstress, and a citizen of the ing contest to be featured in the First American Art Magazine Morton said she’s made approximately 50-75 masks and Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes, sews masks for Cheyenne (FAAM). has had seven people attend her classes so far. and Arapaho Tribes’ Gov. Reggie Wassana and Lt. Gov. Gib “I saw it right after I posted the hat and mask that they “I have a lot more requests and orders, it’s just having the Miles. were having a contest to submit masks that you’ve made … time to fill them all. I don’t charge, I just ask to donate to the it’s three prizes for the mask, so I’ll be submitting the mask cause because supplies are always needed,” Morton said. Aron, Calleigh, Hannah and Sara Lee, I appreciate their inter- and hat,” Blassingame said. Morton said while she only began making masks to est in letting me teach them and all their hard work that they According to the FAAM website, first place winner will help out family and fellow co-workers, she wants to thank do for tribal members,” Morton said. receive a one half-page ad in FAAM plus $100 cash, second the Tribes for all that they do for tribal members during the For mask orders from Nan Blassingame contact nang- place receives a one quarter-page ad plus $75 cash and third COVID-19 crisis. [email protected], and for mask orders or questions regard- place will receive a three-month web ad on the FAAM web- “I love to create and sew, if I can help out at this time then ing future mask tutorials email Corrine Morton, comorton@ site plus $50 cash. my efforts are worth it … a huge thank you to my co-workers cheyenneandarapaho-nsn.gov. American Academy of Arts & Sciences announces their newest members (CAMBRDIGE, MA) The American Academy of Arts & Sciences was found- ed in 1780 by John Adams, John Hancock, and others who believed the new re- public should honor excep- tionally accomplished indi- viduals and engage them in advancing the public good. Two hundred and forty years later, the Academy continues to dedicate itself to recognizing excellence and relying on expertise, both of which seem more important than ever. The Academy an- nounced its newest mem- bers with the election of 276 artists, scholars, sci- entists, and leaders in the public, non-profit, and private sectors, including Edgar Heap of Birds, a cit- izen of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. “The members of the Edgar Heap of Birds is named one of American Academy class of 2020 have excelled of Arts & Sciences newest members. in laboratories and lecture halls, they have amazed on cist R. Alta Charo, Native incoming members of the concert stages and in surgi- American scholar and art- Academy for excelling cal suites, and they have led ist Edgar Heap of Birds, in a broad array of fields; in board rooms and court- Technology and knowl- we want to celebrate them rooms,” said Academy edge strategist Charles and learn from them,” President David W. Oxto- J. Henry, Experimen- said Nancy C. Andrews, by. “With today’s election tal petrologist Marc M. Chair of the Board of Di- announcement, these new Hirschmann, Lawyer and rectors of the American members are united by a former Attorney Gen- Academy. “When Acad- place in history and by an eral Eric H. Holder, Jr., emy members come to- opportunity to shape the fu- Performer and profes- gether, bringing their ex- ture through the Academy’s sor E. Patrick Johnson, pertise and insights to our work to advance the public Anthropologist of human work, they help develop good.” health Clark S. Larsen, new insights and potential New members of Independent filmmak- solutions for some of the the Academy include er Richard S. Linklat- most complex challenges Singer, songwriter, and ac- er, Author Ann Patchett we face.” The Academy’s tivist Joan C. Baez, Immu- Poet and play- projects and publications nologist Yasmine Belkaid, wright Claudia Rankine are focused on the arts and University President Ana CEO and electrical engi- humanities, democracy and Mari Cauce, Bioethi- neer Lisa T. Su. justice, education, global “We congratulate these affairs, and science. PAGE 10 Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune Tsistsistas & Hinonoei Oklahoma artists get creative during quarantine By Hannah Maginot As an artist, Elizabeth Sate Day can’t help nuts, morel mushrooms and wild onions. but create. Even a pandemic won’t change Sate Day is also staying connected with that. her followers. On Monday evening, the artist “I think in some ways, this time is a bless- hosted her second live art lesson via her Ins- ing in disguise,” said Sate Day, a Kiowa tagram profile, @standing_bear.studios. Apache ledger artist. “You really get to settle “I’m still new at livestreaming, but I’m down and focus on your work or spend time getting the hang of it,” Sate Day said. “The with family.” first one went well, I was just showing peo- Artists across the region are out of work ple how I start my paintings, I was talking to and facing exhibit cancelations, but many are them and trying to slip some tribal history in finding new ways to get creative while stay- there.” ing home. Toni Hopper, communications and exhib- “This is my bread and butter, my income,” its director at the Chisholm Trail Heritage Brent Learned, Cheyenne and Arapaho, has had three art exhibits canceled due to the said Sate Day, “but when people are losing Center (CTAC), has managed to remain in coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. He continues to create art pieces promoting social dis- jobs and can’t pay for your work, it’s tricky.” contact with quite a few artists during the tancing, staying home and washing hands as public service pieces. For Sate Day, the last couple weeks have COVID-19 crisis. been a good time to develop her artistic “This is not stopping them from creating Last month, in response weaknesses. art,” she said. “I’m hearing about artists who to the crisis, Learned creat- “I really struggle to paint on canvas .... are using (their work) as a way to cope, be- ed a series of public service and I’m awful at painting animals,” she said. cause there’s a lot of uncertainty with every- announcement paintings de- “But it’s a good time to practice getting out of thing going on.” picting native people wash- your comfort zone. If you mess up, no one is Oklahoma City-based artist Brent Learned ing their hands, wearing face here to judge you.” was scheduled to open an exhibit April 4 at masks and practicing social Last fall, Sate Day nabbed the grand prize CTAC in Duncan, but that has been post- distancing. in the Creative Native national art contest, poned. It was therapeutic for hosted by the Center for Native American The Cheyenne-Arapaho artist has shown Learned, though he said Youth and the National Congress of Ameri- his work around the world, from Australia to there were some emotional can Indians. She won a cash prize and trav- Russia, and has pieces on display in the Na- moments while creating the eled to Washington, D.C. in November to see tional Cowboy and Western Heritage Muse- paintings. her winning piece, titled “Sisterhood,” placed um and the Oklahoma Governor’s Mansion. “It reminded me of when I on display at the Center for Native American Since the health crisis started, Learned has was working on my series on Youth. had three other exhibits canceled, in Durant, the Sand Creek Massacre,” he Artist Elizabeth Sate Day, Kiowa and Apache, poses with Now, Sate Day paints from her home in Okla., Lawrence, Kansas and Chicago. said. her paintbrushes in her home in Stephens County. Sate Day Stephens County, a space she shares with her “I was also supposed to go down to the Learned is also utilizing is hosting live painting lessons via Instagram for her follow- mother and grandparents. The artist said she’s Santa Fe Indian Art Market, but that was just social media to keep in touch ers during the COVID-19 heath crisis. using the extra time to learn more about her canceled and it’s in August,” he said. “That with his followers. He recent- family’s history, which is inspiring her work. shows you how far out shows are being can- ly asked them to send him reaches out to fellow artists and his native “I like going through old family photos celed.” painting suggestions. He received quite a few community for encouragement. Ultimately, and using their poses for references,” she Despite the cancelations, Learned said he requests — from Bigfoot to the Tiger King focusing on his work keeps Learned ground- said. is staying busy. — and is working his way through bringing ed, something he encouraged all artists to do. When she’s not painting, Sate Day is “I have a pretty good-sized community of them to life. Learned shares his work on his “We’re living in unprecedented times,” learning the Kiowa language and taking long people who like what I do, so it hasn’t affect- Instagram profile, @brentlearned. Learned said. “This is a time to use your walks, studying plants and foraging for soap ed my commission work,” he said. On days he feels discouraged, Learned imagination and let it go and start creating.”