Tribal Store Receives Storm Damage Repairs (2021)

www.astribe.com

THE ABSENTEE

SHAWNEE NEWS

December 2021

Volume 31, No. 12

Tribal Store Receives Storm Damage Repairs

Photo: New flooring inside of AST Tribal Store.

The massive ice storm that hit

Oklahoma in February of 2021 did

significant damage to Thunderbird

Express. Renovations to the Tribal

store at 15700 East Highway 9 in

Norman are almost complete.

The ongoing project is the result of a

more than $100,000 insurance claim.

The ice storm caused over $196 billion

in damage and is the costliest winter

storm on record

The store was hit with hail damage

to the roof and the inside was flooded.

The water damage caused the need for

new flooring, appliances and office

furniture.

The project includes a new

roof, guttering, cabinets, flooring,

appliances and office furniture. The

inside and outside of the store was

Photo: Roofers working on AST Tribal Store roof.

also repainted. The entire project was

completed as a result of the insurance

claim.

The tribe did help pay for part of the

kitchen expansion and the upgrade

of the air conditioning units. The

kitchen was expanded and has three

times more space. Kitchen renovations

included gutting and remodeling the

entire space.

“The store really appreciates the

Executive Committee so much”, said

tribal store manager Patsy Haeffner.

“The Governor, Secretary and

Treasurer were a big part of getting

this project done. We couldn't have

done this without them."

The renovations began in the

summer. Work should be complete in

the next few months.

Photo: New roof completed.

Tresha Spoon Celebrates 20 Years of Employment with AST

Education Director Tresha Spoon

For over 20 years she has assisted tribal members across the

nation from pre-kindergarten through doctoral degrees with their

educational needs.

Tribal member Tresha Spoon started her

career with the Absentee Shawnee Tribe

as a temporary adult WIA worker in 2001.

That October she was hired as a regular

full-time employee for ICW as the child

protection/foster care worker. In 2002 she

became the Director of Education and in

2007 she added Family Services Director to

her title.

As Director of Education, she currently

administers eight Education programs. The

Education programs assist tribal members

across the nation from Pre-Kindergarten

through Doctoral degrees. She also oversees

the Tribal Youth Program offered at the

Brendle Corner Community Building in

Little Axe. She is the grant administrator

for the Office of Juvenile Justice and

Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) Tribal

Youth Program grant the Education

department received in 2019. The OJJDP

Grant targets youth ages 11-14 with a

variety of services and supplements the

annual summer day camp-Camp Nikoti,

the Little Axe Afterschool program, Youth

Diversion program, Melokami (Spring

Break) Youth day camp, and the Little Axe

Soccer program.

Spoon is passionate about advocating for

the youth of the tribe and this passion is

what has kept her here for 20 years. “Many

people say they value our youth, I get the

opportunity to show them by the hard work

we do in the Education department through

our different programs and services. I do

my best to support and encourage them

through the Tribe’s programs. I’m proud of

the students that go through our programs.

I enjoy seeing their successes.” she said.

During her time at the Tribe, she has served

on the numerous boards and committees in

an effort to better serve tribal members. She

has served on the AST Domestic Violence

Advisory Board for three years beginning in

2018, the REL Southwest Governing Board

of SEDL for four years ending in 2018, the

AST Foster Care Licensing Committee

for a total of eight years ending in 2014,

and the Oklahoma Council on Economic

Education’s Board of Directors beginning

in 2006 and is currently on the Finance and

MEE Competition committees.

She has a Bachelor’s degree in

Management from the University of

Science and Arts of Oklahoma and a

Master’s degree in Business Administration

from the University of Central Oklahoma.

Tresha Spoon we commend you for

your 20 years of service with the Absentee

Shawnee Tribe.

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EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

GOVERNOR’S REPORT

John Johnson, AST Governor

GOVERNOR

John Johnson

Hello fellow tribal members. I

hope that everyone had a wonderful

Thanksgiving with lots of food and

family fun. It is hard to believe it is the

last month of the year. This year has

been challenging in many ways but

the tribe has continued to grow and

make steps forward throughout 2021.

On October 23rd the 87th SemiAnnual General Council was held at

the Thunderbird Casino in Little Axe.

We had a good turnout with safety

protocols in place. It was great to see

all the tribal members that attended.

Questions and concerns that tribal

LT. GOVERNOR’S REPORT

Ezra DeLodge, AST Lt. Governor

Lt. GOVERNOR

Ezra DeLodge

SECRETARY

Alicia Miller

TREASURER

Joseph Blanchard

Tribal Members,

I hope we are all doing well and

getting back to some sort of normal,

within the safety and precautions

which we have been advised to follow.

I honestly feel Covid is something we

will be dealing with for some time if

not becoming a part of our “new” normal. I just want to report a few department updates within my oversight.

Woodcutting Program

As of 11/10/2021, we have 11 ricks,

3 stacked at Resource Center and

8 at the south side of camp. We still

have wood to be blocked and split at

the camp; hopefully we’ll get about 6

to 8 additional ricks by end of next

week. Phase 4, play ground has about

3 hours of work left which include

cutting and hauling off trees. Once

this is complete we will be ready for

stump removals. A work order was

issued about a down oak tree on the

driveway of the old south ceremonial

ground, Donnie and David completed

order and stacked wood as requested.

BIA Roads Program

As of today, we have served 19 driveway applicants and we have several

more that are nearing completion that

I will be working on next week. On the

county road side, we currently have 9

miles of roads approved for Cleveland

County. One of those miles has been

completed, minus the striping, which

will be completed soon; the other 8

miles will follow (including the road

leading to the youth camp.) I do not

have anything scheduled currently

with Pott. County but I would like to

schedule a meeting with the Commissioners in the near future.

Maintenance Dept. Update

The campus maintenance crew has

been keeping up with all work orders

that comes in for the campus while

mowing and trimming tree limbs. We

SECRETARY’S REPORT

Alicia Miller, AST Secretary

REPRESENTATIVE

DeWayne Wilson

Ho wa se ke sa ke!

I would like to begin my article by

wishing all my relations a very Merry

Christmas! The Executive Committee

has had a busy productive year, and

closing out this last quarter of 2021,

particularly this year due to CARES,

and preparing for 2022 - is just as fast

and furious as the whole year combined.

At the November regular monthly

meeting, the EC formally passed resolutions accepting the ARPA Enrollment Allocation, Employee Allocation, and the Homeowner Assistance

Funds from the Treasury. This move

was a formality; however, this documentation aids the Tribe in building

budgets and to better track expenditures of these funds. We had some

lessons learned (internally) regarding

the approach of these new monies and

the EC wanted to have a better-established administrative process. Over-

December 2021

members expressed were addressed

by the Executive Committee. I believe

this meeting went well and I am excited for the next General Council in

April 2022.

This year for the children’s Christmas gift, we have decided to give a

$25 gift card. If you have an enrolled

AST child 0-17 fill out an application

on the AST website and a gift card will

be mailed to your child on December

17th. The application deadline is December 10th, so be sure to get your

application in for your child.

Since the opening of the AST Food

Pantry on September 29th, I am

proud to announce we are now serving over 100 tribal members. Also for

the month of December the amount

of food has increased and you will

get more holiday items along with the

regular items that are giving monthly. If you have not applied please go

by the Food Pantry and turn in your

application. Income guidelines are

not being used at this time so all AST

households qualify (it is one box per

household).

As I come to a close, I want to wish

all of you a very Merry Christmas and

a Happy New Year. I hope this New

Year brings health and happiness to all

tribal members. I am excited for the

new adventures that the tribe will be

undertaking in 2022.

are also helping move some office furniture for Tax Commission into their

new building. Since November 1,

2021 we have completed 18 work orders that is actually in 7 business days

OEH Update

From January 2021 to November

2021, OEH has assisted Tribal members with 60 different septic renovations and installations, water well

drilling and installations, well renovations, and community water connections.

For 2021, we have collected, processed, and recycled 54 bales of shredded office paper and cardboard equaling roughly 40 tons of recyclable waste

that has been diverted from landfills.

128 Tribal Response, 106 Water

Pollution, 319 Nonpoint Source Pollution, and GAP Grant Applications

have been awarded and we are now

operating under EPA Fiscal Year 2021.

We are currently working with EPA

on developing our budget narratives

and work plans for each grant to submit for Fiscal Year 2022.

Our new environmental manager,

Kevin Arthur, began his new position

on October 4th. He is doing a fantastic job with managing our EPA grants

and staying in contact with our EPA

project officers to ensure our EPA

grants programs are reaching their

maximum potential.

The cabins and bathhouse at Camp

Nikoti are currently being framed.

The contractors are making great

progress and construction is expected

to be completed by January. All project construction and closeout documentation is expected to be completed well ahead of the HUD Designated

deadline.

We are currently in the process of

requesting proposals for architects

to develop engineering specifications

and plans for the new Police Safety Center. Once all proposals are received we will be working with the

Police Department and the Architect

Firm to develop the specs and plans

and then will begin the process of requesting bids for contractors. Ideally,

we will have a general contractor under signed contract by January and

will begin construction.

Agriculture Dept. Update

The Ag Department is starting operation for the preparations of the lands

for planting next Spring. The staff has

identified 4 different plots in which

seed will be planted on. These plots

total around 100 acres of land that can

be used for production. The preparation will begin with cutting firebreaks,

then applying Prescribed Fire to clean

the surface area and then plowing to

allow the area to absorb all the winter

moisture as possible.

An information board is in the creation to provide the necessary information to all tribal members that are

interested in gardening next spring.

Working with several entities- the

NRCS, OSU Extension Office- literature, planting schedules and other

types of info will be available to assist

with your planting efforts.

Along with the information board,

we will be trying to work in conjunction with different presenters and educators from the Extension Office to

host classes about planting/gardening.

We will send out notices when these

sessions are scheduled. We look forward to assisting and working with

anyone interested in gardening next

spring, any questions or suggestions,

contact Admin Assistant Jennifer

Howell (405) 827-6545, or Andy Warrior (405) 432-6257.

If you have any questions or concerns please contact me by email ezrad@astribe.com , call my office 405275-4030 x 6253 or cell 405-432-0733.

all, what helps us, helps you.

During the same meeting, the EC

passed a resolution to provide additional (ARPA) funds to the AST Children’s Clothing Program (K-12th) for

CY 2022. Each eligible school-aged

child will see an increase to purchase

clothing from $200. to $500. This will

un-doubtly help parents when purchasing school clothing for their children. To me and to many of our tribal

members, this was a common sense

move to provide increase assistance to

our tribal families in a highly utilized

and existing program. This will take

effect January 3, 2022. Please contact

Social Services to complete your annual application and please be sure to

attach your child’s updated CDIB with

the application so there is no delay for

their assistance.

The EC also held a special meeting

to take care of our tribal members and

staff. The EC passed resolutions to

provide a tribal member winter general assistance in the amount of $500

for those who were enrolled prior to

June 1, 2021, and for the retention

of our current staff (we did not offer

Hazard Pay after the 1st quarter of the

CY 2021). Due to the date the special

meeting was held and this newsletter

submission deadline, we will be placing the winter general assistance communications on the tribal website and

on the tribe’s social media. The information will be released at the beginning of December, so please be sure to

be on the lookout! The intended plan

is to put out a quicker process, so payments are received timely. Again, just

be sure to be on the lookout.

I look forward to continuing good

things for tribal members in 2022 and

I also have continued hope for normalcy from this pandemic.

Wishing you all good tidings during

this very Merry holiday season!

Respectfully,

Lt. Governor DeLodge

Si li no ke ka no la. Ne yi wa.

Respectfully,

Alicia Miller

Tribal Secretary

(405) 287-5247

December 2021

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TREASURER’S REPORT

mittee will have met to discuss a final

disbursement from the remainder of

Joseph Blanchard, AST Treasurer

the CARES funds. This is an effort to

assist our members with unexpectHello Fellow Tribal Members,

I hope all is well with you and your ed expenses and distribute before

families. It is finally December and the Federal Government’s December

many of us will be creating memories 30th deadline. This action prevents

throughout the next few weeks as we the Tribe from sending back any of

move into 2022. Take a moment to the monies received.

In other news, my office had been

reflect upon all the good things that

have happened this year. Also, re- working with Health and our other

member and pray for those who have departments to submit a proposed

had hard times and may not be in a budget for approval in November.

We were able to pass Health but had

celebratory mood.

First, I want to report, by the time of issues with the Tribe’s portion due to

this submission, the Executive Com- recent changes in rates. Subsequently,

this caused a delay and I agreed with

Finance to complete this process by

the December Regular Meeting.

Other information I want to pass

along includes updates from some of

my oversight departments. In a recent Department head meeting, the

Grants Director informed the Leadership they had submitted grants applications in excess of $20 million dollars. This is great news for the Tribe

as it provides additional funding and

job opportunities for our community.

In Procurement, there was a job

opening for an Assets/Fleet Coordinator position. I am happy to announce,

3

new Director, Rebecca Kennedy has

filled the position with another qualified, tribal member. I want to quickly

“Welcome” Leonard Foreman, Jr to

our team as we look forward to his

contribution and believe he will be a

great benefit to the Tribe.

That is all I have for this month but

I want to end by wishing everyone a

“Merry Christmas!” Enjoy this season with your loved ones as we all

hope and look forward to a prosperous New Year in 2022.

Happy Holidays!

Joseph H. Blanchard

REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORT want to acknowledge that I have hired room on the Tribe`s website to pro- from tree cutting and removal, road

DeWayne Wilson, AST Representative

Hello Tribal Members,

I hope everyone is staying healthy.

The Tribal Complex is at Phase 3

Modified due to the COVID 19 pandemic. The Executive Committee has

approved and started the Tribe`s Vaccine Incentive Program for any Tribal

member/ employee who wants to be

vaccinated. Lt. Gov. Ezra Delodge

and I attended the 1st OSU-OKC

Tribal Education Advisory Council at

the First American Museum in OKC.

This council`s goal is to create education and training programs to assist

Tribes. These programs may include

Tribal Gov./ Admin., Operations,

Cultural Tourism, Economic Development, Finance/ Budget, Gaming,

etc. Again, I want to send out my

heart- felt condolences out to all Tribal families who have lost loved ones. I

Mr. Eddie Brokeshoulder as my Administrative Assistant.

Education Department: Education

Director Tresha Spoon and I have

been discussing the implementation

of the AST Workforce Development

and Career Initiative. We have been

discussing developing meetings, who

and how many people we want to invite, the criteria for applicants and the

type of career opportunities that will

be of benefit to the applicant/ Tribe.

We are also discussing how ARPA

funding can be used/ utilized in the

Education Department over the next

three years. We are discussing increases in stipends or the addition of

personnel.

Cultural Preservation Department:

Ms. Carol Butler (Director) and I

have had meetings with MIS and

the Grants Departments. With our

meeting with MIS, we found we have

mote some of the Language resources. Cultural Preservation Dept. plans

on doing this in the near future. By

doing this, we can accomplish some

goals/ objective of the ANA grant.

As for the ANA Language grant, we

met with the Grants Department. We

discussed the goals/ objectives we can

accomplish to keep this grant moving

forward. We will continue to look for

a candidate for the Linguist position.

Gaming Commission: Gaming

Commissioners and I have filled the

Executive Director and two Compliance Officers positions. I continue

to attend the Gaming Commission

meetings, where we approved/ disapproved Employee/ Vendor Licensing

requests. We continue to look/ research training opportunities for our

employees.

Youth Camp: There is a lot of construction going on at the Youth Camp

Agriculture Department

construction, and the construction of

camp cabins/ bathhouse. We continue

to look for other funding sources for

the different projects that we would

like to accomplish.

At the recent General Council, it

was good to see/ speak with some of

my family and other Tribal member

that I haven`t seen in for a while. As

always, I am honor to be here representing our tribe and our tribal membership. If anyone has any questions/

concerns feel free to contact me at office phone #405-275-4030, Ext. 6239

or by email: dewayne.wilson@astribe.

com

“HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE”

Respectfully,

DeWayne Wilson

Indian Child Welfare (ICW)

The Ag Department is starting operation for the preparations of the lands

for planting next Spring. The staff has identified 4 different plots in which

seed will be planted on. These plots total around 100 acres of land that can be

used for production. The preparation will begin with cutting firebreaks, then

applying Prescribed Fire to clean the surface area and then plowing to allow

the area to absorb all the winter moisture as possible.

An information board is in the creation to provide the necessary information

to all tribal members that are interested in gardening next spring. Working

with several entities- the NRCS, OSU Extension Office- literature, planting

schedules and other types of info will be available to assist with your planting

efforts.

Along with the information board, we will be trying to work in conjunction

with different presenters and educators from the Extension Office to host

classes about planting/gardening. We will send out notices when these

sessions are scheduled. We look forward to assisting and working with

anyone interested in gardening next spring.

Any questions or suggestions, contact Admin Assistant Jennifer Howell

(405) 827-6545, or Andy Warrior (405) 432-6257.

ICW staff with the Thanksgiving gift baskets they will

deliver to the Angel Tree recipients.

Photo (L-R): Shawnee Martinez, ICW Case Manager;

Paige LittleCharley, ICW

Caseworker; Shelia Wilson,

ICW Caseworker; Chanci Peterson, ICW Director

YOUTH PREVENTION AWARENESS

Children’s Christmas $25 Gift Card

Applications will be available starting November 10th , 2021.

***Deadline for applications is December 10th, 2021 at 5pm.***

Application received after the deadline will not be accepted and a gift card will not be issued.

All gift cards will be mailed on December 17th, 2021. You will not be able to pick up gift card.

Qualifications and documents needed to apply:

•

•

•

•

•

Children must be between the ages 0-17 and be an enrolled member of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe.

Complete Children’s Christmas Gift application.

Must attach a current copy of child’s CDIB card.

Must attach a copy of Parent/Guardian State ID and CDIB card

Children living with Custodial Parent or Legal Guardian or an Out-of-home placement, must provide:

Ø CDIB and State ID for the adult applying on child(ren) behalf; and

Ø Custody Documentation (need minimum of 1 document indicating custody status)

§ Divorce Decree

§ Guardianship

§ Legal or Notarized Custody Agreement

§ Letter from Child(ren) School (Proof of Residency)

§ OKDHS Letter (TANF, Food Stamps, ect.)

Please Print:

Name of Child _________________________________________________________________

CDIB # ________________ Date of Birth __________________________ Age_____

Address _______________________________________________ City___________________

State_________________ Zip _________

o

o

Are you the parent of the applicant Yes__ No__

Are you legal guardian of the applicant Yes__ No __ (Please provide proof of guardianship)

Parent/Guardian ______________________________________________________________

CDIB # ________________ Date of Birth __________________________

Address _______________________________________________ City___________________

State_________________ Zip _________ Phone #___________________________

Email __________________________________________________________

o I am a parent or guardian entering this information for my child and will not claim the gift card for a child not in my custody.

o I understand there is only one gift card per qualifying tribal member who is 0-17 years of age.

o I will not provide false information in order to receive this gift card.

o I understand this is a voluntary and first come first serve program.

We are not responsible for lost or stolen gift cards.

For questions: giftcardhelp@astribe.com or call (405) 275-4030 x6269

Runaway Statistics Nation Wide:

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2.8 million teens run away every year.

1 out of every 7 kids between the ages of 10-18 will choose to run away from home at least once.

47% of children experience conflicts with parents or guardians at home.

34% of runaways experience sexual abuse at home with 80% of those being girls.

43% of teens reported physical abuse as one of the main reasons they left home.

17% of runaways have been involved with the local juvenile justice system in some way.



Physical or sexual abuse

- most common reason why kids run away

- 17% of runaways reported they were subjected to unwanted sexual activity by a member of

their house/family.

Family conflict

Struggling to manage mental health

- 56% of teens that run away reported having some sort of mental illness issue at some point in

their life.

Substance abuse

- Drug addictions that affect teens are the second most common reason why kids decide to run

away.

- 17% of runaway teens were found using hard drugs.

To be with a friend, romantic partner, or biological family

Risk Factors That May Cause Youth to Runaway:



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Ways to Prevent Running Away:



Do not interrupt when they are explaining something, even if you disagree, wait until they are done.



Establish good communication with your child.



Always tell your child that you love them and they are important to you.



Talk with your child about the dangers of running away from home.



Invite your child’s new friends to the house to get to know their social network.

Camp Nikoti Youth Programs Provided:

Afterschool Program-Tutoring, Prevention, healthy lifestyle

Diversion Program-4 to 8 session program helping family and

child communicate and understand each other better.

Explorers Program-Working with the tribal cops and emergency

management dept.

Spring Break Camp-Five day camp for 6th-12th graders.

Activities and prevention all week.

Soccer League-8 week league, 3-18yr old broke up into different

divisions.

Summer Camp- Five week camp for 11-14yr olds, doing

activities, prevention, cultural activities, and healthy lifestyles.

Contact information:

Blake Goodman – bgoodman@astribe.com or

405-275-4030 ext. 6432

Shay Fixico –

sfixico@astribe.com or

405-275-4030 ext. 6433

Or call TYP Cell @405-617-6231

Nation Wide Education Statistics During Pandemic:

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By the end of the school year of 2020-2021,

students were three to six percentile points behind

in reading and eight to 12 points behind in math.

First grade through sixth grade students were on

average five months behind in math and fourth

months behind on reading.

Reading achievements for Native American

students during 2020-2021 were down an average of

1 to 7 percentile points. In math, their achievements

were down by 17 points.

4

December 2021

www.astribe.com

Veterans Association

The AST Veterans Association participated in the Veterans Day

Parade held by the city of Norman on Sunday, November 14,

2021.

The AST flagpole was recently refurbished by The AST Veterans

Association. A solar powered light on top was installed and will

illuminate the flags up to 12 hours.

The Search for Shawnee DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid also known as DNA is defined as self-replicating material that is present in

nearly all living organisms as the main constituent

of chromosomes. It is the carrier of genetic information.

Every living person has DNA. But how can you

distinguish Absentee Shawnee DNA? Dorene

Soiret is on a mission to do just that. She has spent

over 40 years researching genetics and native DNA.

She wants to determine the markers in DNA that

show Absentee Shawnee lineage.

What began as a quest to prove her own heritage,

has evolved into the first ever Shawnee DNA Project.

“About six years ago I decided I wanted to find a

DNA company that was more "forensic" in nature,

especially one that specialized in Native American

DNA. I found and researched extensively DNA

Consultants who has been in business since 2003.

“Soiret said.

“I researched their company for almost two years

before I personally decided to test with them. I

found that their tests are more reliable, in that the

technology they use is more exacting than other

DNA tests offered to the consumer and they have

one of the largest population databases available to

match customer's DNA, over 500 worldwide, including many Native American populations.” She

explained. “Because of my blog and my involvement in the Phase 3 mitochondrial study, I have

been peppering DNA Consultants with questions

about who would conduct such studies and how

would I contact the geneticists necessary to get a

study started so that we don't lose that unique DNA

signature (preferably elders' DNA for obvious reasons) before it is admixed to such a point that its

uniqueness is lost. To me, I realize how important

it is. I feel it is like oral tradition, it is so important

and it needs to be saved for future generations.”

Most genetic tests only determine the ethnic

groups that make up a person’s DNA but Soiret

wants to identify the exact genetic marker to determine if a person is Shawnee. There’s not a lot of

tests that break down the types of Native American

diversity in DNA. Soiret and DNA Consultants are

specifically looking into mitochondrial DNA, the

DNA passed down from the mother.

“I’d love to get as many elders tested as possible

to give us (Shawnee) a good representation of what

our DNA looks like. It would be one or two generations closer.” Soiret said.

In collaboration with DNA Consultants she is

working to test 30 participants to identify their

Dorene Soiret (Left) and Tribal member Sharon Shawnee who

DNA fingerprints. Testing is being done on Abparticipated in the Shawnee DNA Project.

sentee Shawnee tribal members along with Eastern

Shawnee and the Shawnee tribe.

Participants will receive a personal confidential Basic American Indian DNA Ancestry Report in exchange for contributing their alleles anonymously to the project. For those who would like to participate who prefer to purchase their own

test kit, DNA Consultants will give them a 20 percent discount. The cost of the kit is $135.

Interested Tribal members can contact Soiret by email, Dorene@thecaseforblueskyandparkeradkins.com

December 2021

www.astribe.com

ASTHS December 2021 Monthly Update

Remembering our Native American Heritage: Healthy Living - You’re in Charge!

As Native Americans, we are very fortunate today to have the healthcare we do. It is very easy to forget, and often we do in our busy lives forget,

how all of our ancestors suffered greatly for us to have what we have today. Every Tribe in Oklahoma today is not here without historical struggles and strife. There are even serious studies about the generational effects upon Tribal members with historical trauma as the result of relocation and other abuses and treatment during relocation to Indian Territory, what we all know now as Oklahoma today, and the years in-between. The bond of care between Tribes and the United States Government through treaties, compacts, and other codified agreements, secure funding for either direct care or indirect health care

services we all enjoy now as Native Americans. There has never been a greater time than today for Tribal members and their healthcare, historically underfunded and

many times with needs unmet. With Marketplace expansion for Americans in general and also Native Americans, including Medicare and Medicaid programs also

touching more lives than ever, these health insurance coverages combined with our healthcare with the Indian Health Service (I.H.S.) provide the best array of healthcare

Native Americans have ever enjoyed. As horrible as the pandemic has been, it is also extremely fortunate our Government has provided Tribes with both CARES Act

and ARPA funds to extend care and services, not only in healthcare, but to all Tribal members with various needs due to the ravages and negative impacts heaped upon

Tribal communities from the pandemic.

We need to honor our ancestor’s struggles by taking full advantage of what their pain and struggles earned us today. Taking charge of your health means keeping your

appointments, taking your medications as prescribed, following your provider’s instructions with self-care, and maintaining routine check-ups. It also means ensuring

you keep your patient information current, so if you are in need of contract health services or you need help from a family member or a caretaker, that you have that

caretaker or family member listed in your records to help you with medical issues and information that you authorize ahead of time to be released to them when you

need help. This may change for patients’ year over year, so that is another reason keeping your information current is so important. One of the top reasons for PRC,

(formerly called Contract Health), not approving claims is due to outdated information, wrong phone numbers or outdated contact information, and not updating current addresses or dependents. Failing to do these important “little things” can cause delays in coordinating care for you or your family. Please continue to take care of

your health tomorrow by taking charge of your health today! Doing so not only provides for early disease detection, treatment, and prevention, it honors our ancestor’s

memories for what they suffered and the services we enjoy today as a result of what they went through. Let’s all honor our ancestors, not only during Native American

Heritage Month each November, but all year long by taking charge of our health today!

Join us in celebrating our December Monthly Employee Award Winners this month! These outstanding professionals and team players lead the way in making our

programs succeed and with taking care of our patients!

December 2021 Health Employee Awards of the Month

Employee of the Month: Quentin L. Creek, AST Health System’s Patient Registration Department

Team of the Month: AST Health System’s Patient Benefit Advisors Team

Special Leadership Award: Connie Bottaro, AST Health System’s Patient Benefit Director

Mark E. Rogers, MAL, FACHE, CMPE, CHC

Executive Director

DECEMBER 2021/ JANUARY 2022

Dates Closed:

Wednesday, December 1st

Every 1st Wednesday each

month

Thursday, December 23rd

Hours Closed:

Noon-5PM

Locations:

All AST Health Facilities CLOSE at Noon.

- PluseCare and Shawnee SameDay OPEN at 5PM until 8pm (last patient at 7:30 PM).

-LA pharmacy and Shawnee pharmacy OPEN at 5PM until 8PM.

All Day

All AST Health Facilities CLOSED

Friday, December 24th

Christmas Eve

All Day

Saturday, December 25th

Christmas Day

All Day

Friday, December 31st

New Year’s Eve

All Day

Saturday, January 1

New Year’s Day









st

Christmas Eve- All AST Health Facilities CLOSED

Christmas Day- All AST Health Facilities CLOSED

New Year’s Eve- All AST Health Facilities CLOSED

All Day

New Year’s Day- All AST Health Facilities CLOSED

Don’t forget to request medication refills before closure: LAHC Pharmacy 405.292.9530/Shawnee Pharmacy 405.878.5859

In the event of a predicted severe weather forecast, please call ahead for possible health system closure or delay:

LAHC 405. 447.0300/ Shawnee Clinic 405. 878.5850/ PlusCare 405. 447.0477

Health closures/delays are posted on the Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System on Facebook and on ASTHS website at www.asthealth.org.

st

Please remember the 1 Wednesday of each month our facilities are closed from noon to 5PM. PlusCare & Shawnee Clinic OPEN 5pm until 8PM (last

patient at 7:30PM).

Celebrate

Safely This

Season!

Everyone Can Make the Holidays Safer

Traditional holiday gatherings with family and friends are fun but can increase the

chances or spreading of COVID-19 or the flu. The safest way to celebrate this year

is with people in your own household. Consider visiting with extended friends and

family virtually. If you do host an event, or attend an event, remember the three Ws:

(1) Wear your mask; (2) Watch your distance. Stay at least 6 feet away from others

who do not live with you; And (3) Wash your hands. Together, we can keep our

community more healthy this holiday season.

If you host an event or travel please...

WEAR A MASK

WATCH YOUR

SPACING

WASH YOUR

HANDS OFTEN

5

December 2021

www.astribe.com

6

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2021

TO SCHEDULE YOUR

APPOINTMENT CALL

405.701.7190

or

405.701.7600



 Testing- 5:30pm-6:30pm:

Thursday, Nov. 18th, Dec. 2nd, &

Dec. 16th





 ANTIBODY testing- 5 pm-6pm

(LAC only): Thursday, Nov.18th, &

Dec. 30th

 Vaccinations- 5pm-7pm:

Thursday, Nov. 18th, Dec. 2nd, &

Dec. 16th











Testing- 5 : 3 0 pm-6:30pm:

Tuesday, Nov. 9th, Nov. 30th, &

Dec. 14th

Vaccinations- 5pm-7pm:

Tuesday, Nov. 9th, Nov. 30th,

Dec. 14th, & Dec. 28th



MODERNA:

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) is recommending that moderately to

severely immunocompromised people receive an additional dose. This

includes people who have:

Been receiving active cancer treatment for tumors or cancers of the

blood.

Received an organ transplant and are taking medicine to suppress the

immune system.

Received a stem cell transplant within the last 2 years or are taking

medicine to suppress the immune system.

Moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (such as DiGeorge

syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome).

Advanced or untreated HIV infection.

Active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids or other drugs that

may suppress your immune response.

PFIZER-BioNTech:

The CDC is recommending that only certain populations initially vaccinated

with the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine can get a booster shot at this time:

Older adults and 50-64 year old people with medical conditions.

Long-term care setting residents aged 18 years and older.

People with medical conditions aged 18-49 years.

Employees and residents at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure

and transmission.

People should talk to their healthcare provider about their medical condition

and if they meet the above criteria for getting an additional dose.

For more information, please visit www.asthealth.org



In the event of adverse weather, testing may not be conducted. Follow

the Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System on Facebook or our website

for updates at asthealth.org.

The Absentee Shawnee Health System is now

administering the COVID-19 vaccine to all

individuals ages 5 years and older.

TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT CALL

405.701.7190

or

405.701.7600

WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR A 3RD DOSE OF

A COVID-19 VACCINE?

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/booster-shot.html

December 2021

www.astribe.com

ASTHS PHARMACY IS HERE TO SERVE YOU WITH NEW UPDATES

Refill Requests can be made the following ways:

REFILLQUICK APP STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS

ENSURING HOPE

PROJECT

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT:

ELDER SUBSTANCE USE

Are elders impacted

differently by alcohol and

drugs?

Aging could possibly lead to social and

physical changes that may increase

vulnerability to substance misuse. Elders may

be more likely to experience mood disorders,

lung and heart problems, or memory issues.

Drugs can worsen these conditions,

exacerbating the negative health

consequences of substance use. It can also

result in accidents and injuries which pose a

greater risk to health in elders.

Ensuring hope &

Native

Connections

WOMEN & YOUNG

LADIES

MEDICINE WHEEL &

12 STEPS PROGRAM

Virtual

6 PM - 8 PM

To pre-enroll

scan the QR

Code or visit:

https://forms.gle/

Dx5fhra6bBQF2

WhP6

Every Monday

Beginning

September

20, 2021

Prescription Medications

Chronic health conditions tend to develop as part of

aging, and elders are often prescribed more medicines

than other age groups, leading to a higher rate of

exposure to potentially addictive medications.Other risks

could include accidental misuse of prescription drugs,

and possible worsening of existing mental health issues.

Persistent pain may be more complicated in elders

experiencing other health conditions. Up to 80% of

patients with advanced cancer report pain, as well as

77% of heart disease patients, and up to 40% of

outpatients 65 and older.

Do you know the risk factors for

substance use in elders?

Chronic Pain

Physical

Disabilities

Reduced

Mobility

Transitions in

living

Chronic Illness

Avoidance

coping style

Previous or

current mental

illness

FATHERHOOD IS SACRED;

MOTHERHOOD IS SACRED

If you or a loved one would like more

information about elder substance abuse or

mental health, please contact us or visit our

website:

https://www.asthealth.org/services/behavioral

-health

PARENTING CLASS

PURPOSE

The fatherhood is Sacred & Motherhood is Sacred Parenting Enrichment Program was

created by the Native American Fatherhood & Families Association (NAFFA) for fathers

and mothers using a Native American approach. The purpose is to create positive change

& to build a safe & happy family.

Outcomes

Increase families and individuals ability to face life's challenges

Build Person character & Integrity

Become a more confident individual/parent

Understand the importance of vision and how powerful it is

Use critical thinking skills to explore ideas and solve problems within the family and

communities.

COURSE CONTENT

SESSION ONE: INTRODUCTION TO THE PROGRAM

SESSION TWO: LAYING THE FOUNDATION

SESSIONT THREE: THE CREATOR

SESSION FOUR: CHOICE

SESSION FIVE: ESSENTIAL PART OF CHOICE

SESSION SIX: TEACHABLE

SESSION SEVEN: BARRIERS TO BEING TEACHABLE

SESSION EIGHT: WISDOM

SESSION NINE: SERVICE

SESSION TEN: SELF-IDENTITY

SESSION ELEVEN: RELATIONSHIPS

SESSION TWELVE: NURTURING

Loss of a loved

one

Forced

Retirement

Change in Income

Poor Health

Status

Taking a lot of

medications and

supplements

History of

substance use

disorders

Social isolation

Ensuring Hope Project Director, Crystal

Springer: (405) 878-4716

Little Axe Health Center: (405) 447-0300

Shawnee Clinic: (405) 878-4716

Resources:

https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/s

ubstance-use-in-older-adults-drugfacts

Galicia-Castillo, M. Opioids for persistent

pain in older adults. Cleveland Clinic

Journal of Medicine. 2016 June 6; 83(6).

Substance Abuse and Mental Health

Services Administration. (2019). Results

from the 2018 National Survey on Drug

Use and Health: Detailed tables. Rockville,

MD: Center for Behavioral Health Statistics

and Quality, Substance Abuse and Mental

Health Services Administration.

7

8

Building Block/CCDF

www.astribe.com

December 2021

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma

Building Blocks C.D.C.

2025 S. Gordon Cooper Dr.

Shawnee, OK 74801

(405) 878-0633

Fax: (405) 878-0156

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma

Building Blocks C.D.C.

16051 Lttle Axe Dr.

Norman, OK 73026

(405) 360-2710

Fax: (405) 360-2726

Building Blocks II

Building Blocks III

Building Blocks is excited to be back to fully open. We are

currently taking waiting list applications for children. If you are

interested in our child care program please call for us to email you

a waiting list application and to inquire about availability in our

age groups.

We gave out Thanksgiving Dinners to our Building Blocks families.

Hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving.

We are excited about Christmas Holiday Season. Our staff and

children will be preparing lots of projects for Christmas. We will

have ‘Spread a Little Holiday Cheer’ Dress up/activities during

December 16th-24th. Building Blocks will be closed December

24th.

We are currently enrolling to the public. We care for children ages 6weeks up to 11

years old. Our hours of operation are 7:00am – 6:00pm, Monday thru Friday. If you

are interested in your child attending Building Blocks III Child Development Center in

Norman, OK please call (405) 360-2710. You can find us on Facebook @ AST Building

Blocks Child Development Center III-Little Axe Page to see all the latest updates.

Please enjoy a few of the moments we captured this past month from the pumpkin

patch and the Halloween party.

Vaccine Incentive Program

Drive-Thru Event

Tribal member Leam Johnson with

his t-shirt he received at the Vaccine

Incentive Program Drive-Thru Event.

The events were held October 15th &

22nd.

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe will offer Tax Preparation Services for Tax Season starting in February 2022.

December 2021

www.astribe.com

9

Cultural Preservation Department

The Cultural Preservation Department has continued to carry out essential day to day operations to ensure the department continues to function properly. Since the last

week of August, we have moved to a split shift schedule in which three staff members are available in the office every day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Gift Shop

In accordance with the change in operations, the gift shop is now only open to Tribal members for shopping. If possible, we do encourage curbside and porch shopping. We

ask if you are wanting to shop please make an appointment with the Gift Shop Manager, Mrs. Merry Rodriguez, 24 hours in advance. Also, upon arrival please check in at

the checkpoint. Mrs. Rodriguez can be reached at (405) 275-4030 ext. 6310.

We have two locations for your shopping. Our Shawnee Gift Shop is located at the complex in the Cultural Preservation building, and our Little Axe Gift Shop is located in

the lobby of the Little Axe Health Center. We are open in Shawnee Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and twice a month in Little Axe from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Also, currently, we

do not offer online shopping. However, we are looking into possibly making this an option for you in the future.

Further, to ensure the safety and protect the health of all, the Gift Shop has implemented the following 5 safety protocols that we ask visitors to follow:

1. All are required to cover their mouth and nose with PPE (masks) when shopping in the Gift Shop.

2. Occupancy Control – for your safety and the safety of our employees, we are limiting the number of customers in

the gift shop.

a. Only 2 customers will be allowed in at a time

3. Avoid close contact (Social Distance)

a. Please keep 6 feet between you and other customers

4. Use hand sanitizer as often as possible

5. Sorry…NO public restroom is available. Temporarily closed due to COVID-19.

We continue to make progress in new inventory, but please be patient with us if we are unable to get what you are looking

for in-stock. Like other stores, we are experiencing shortages and delays with our vendors. However, some of the new

items we have received can be seen to the left.

If you haven’t been in our store recently, please make an appointment and get some early Christmas shopping done!

Library

Like the Gift Shop, the Library is open to all visitors. We ask that you follow all the protocols mentioned above, and

that you call Ms. Casey Wilson, the Librarian, to make an appointment 24 hours in advance. She can be reached at (405)

275-4030 ext. 6416.

Further, for your safety, individuals are asked to use gloves while viewing books in the library, and to ensure that

checked out books are properly sanitized, books are placed in a Ziploc bag and quarantined for four days upon return

to the library.

Over the past month, activity in the library has included 11 books being checked out, 6 hotspots checked out and 21

guests have visited the library. Also, Ms. Casey Wilson has held an individual moccasin workshop, and she showed an

individual how to bind leather to an object.

On November 9th, 5 individuals came into the library to research genealogy. These individuals were from near and far

including Oklahoma, California, West Virginia, and Ohio. Ms. Wilson assisted them with all their needs.

THPO

The THPO Program continues to make great strides and advancements. The THPO staff has steadily been receiving

Section 106 projects from various Federal Agencies. Over the past month, the THPO Officer, Mrs. Devon Frazier-Smith,

has received 203 new Section 106 projects for review. In conjunction with receiving projects, the program has consulted

on 158 projects. These projects were completed in 17 of our 25 areas of interest/states. The THPO has also taken part in

7 teleconference calls as it concerns Section 106 projects.

FCC/TCNS

In lieu of the shutdowns from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the incoming workflow of new and

modified telecommunications projects has been steady for the TCNS program. The THPO Specialist, Ms. Ashley Brokeshoulder, has been busy reviewing, researching and given recommendations to the telecommunications industry. Over

the past month, she has received 98 new telecommunications facility projects for review. These 98 individual projects will

be completed in conjunction with 9 consulting firms in 9 of our 25 areas of interest/states.

In conjunction with receiving projects, she has reviewed, researched and gave recommendation for the clearance of 87

telecommunications projects. These 87 individual projects were completed in conjunction with 9 consulting firms in 9 of

our 25 areas of interest/states. Also, 11 projects are awaiting clearance because their packages are lacking some information such as full archaeological reports, SHPO responses, or clear pictures.

EVENTS

It is that time of year again Red Earth Treefest! This year celebrates the 7th year for the display of tribal trees. Like last year, to

help with proper social distancing, the event will be held at NorthPark Mall in north Oklahoma City. The different tribal trees will

be displayed and open to public viewing from Thursday, November 18th through Sunday, January 2nd. If you are in that part of

Oklahoma City, please go and look at the different tribal trees. The tree for the Absentee Shawnee can be seen to the right.

Also, we are planning some workshops for December, so please be on the lookout for flyers on the website and Tribal Facebook

page.

Your concerns are important to us. We thank you for the continued support of our department as we continue to make changes

to our programs to better serve the Tribal community. My door is always open so please feel free to contact me, Carol Butler, at 405275-4030 ext. 6245 or cbutler@astribe.com.

Put a Powerful Financial Tool in Your Pocket with the AllNations Bank

Mobile Banking App. Deposit Checks Securely from Anywhere with the

Mobile Deposit Capture feature.

Today’s smartphones have more processing power than the computers

NASA used to put a man on the moon. And now you can put that power to

work for you with the mobile banking app from AllNations Bank. It’s the

smart, simple and secure way to manage your money.

WHAT YOU CAN DO with the app:

Securely make bill payments anywhere. View all your upcoming

bills, make payments, add payees and access your payment

history.

View transactions anytime. Check on your cash flow and

finances.

Make transfers anyplace. Securely move money between your

accounts so funds are where you need it, when you need it.

Deposit checks. Deposit checks securely from anywhere, at any

time, using mobile deposit capture.

WHERE TO DOWNLOAD the app:

Download the AllNations app, by searching “AllNations Access”

on the App StoreSM or Google PlayTM.

Contact us today at (405) 273-0202 or (405) 893-2240 with any questions or to discuss

our account options.

Member

FDIC

Tribal member Jackie Denny shows off the ribbon

skirt she made. If you are interested in making a skirt

or other projects, the library is open by appointment

only. Please call (405) 275-4030 x6414 for appointments.

10

December 2021

www.astribe.com

DECEMBER

BIRTHDAYS

Adams, Alexis Pearl

Adams, Misty Dawn

Aguirre, Carlos Eriberto

Alaee, Beverly Jo

Alford, Blake Tyler

Alford, Larry Dean

Alford, Teldon Blake

Allen, Annabelle Marie

Alvarez Jr., Jesus Justin Ray

Anderson Reading, Alecia Dawn

Anderson, Alexander Dewaine

Armstrong, Hobart

Atabaigi, Roberta Lynn

Atkinson, Joshua Dean

Atwood, Crystal Dawn

Ayers, Delana Sue

Ballard, Debra Ann

Bates, Aria Belyn

Bates, Howard Eugene

Batton, Kayden Marie

Belvin, Luna Maelynn

Bender, Maecie Raelene

Benish, Madelyn Katherine

Berry, Dakota Trah

Bierd, Jamie Chereese

Bigpond, Bobby Gene

Bills, Jonell Lynne

Blackburn, Elliott James

Blackburn, Leland Paul Neasbitt

Blackshire, Everleigh Sue

Blanchard, Amber

Blanchard, Ashley Gabrielle

Blanchard, Camenah Joe

Blanchard, Crystal Raylene

Blanchard, Erika MaCale

Blanchard, Johnathan Cole

Blanchard, Mya Aileen

Blanchard, Sustina Marie

Bond, Delsin Wyatt

Bradley, Micah Joel

Bradshaw, Mitchell Bryan

Breeding, Matthew Thad

Breeding, Woodlyn Saige

Brokeshoulder, Elk Eli

Brokeshoulder, Glenda Mae

Brokeshoulder, Katrina Sue

Brokeshoulder, Vickie Robin

Brophy, Callie-Kaye Ellice

Brown, Braxton Gilbert

Brown, Charlotte Elaine

Brown, Cochanna Christine

Bruner, Mason Harjo

Bryant Jr., Robert Wesley

Bryant, Andrea Gail

Bui, Noreen Fay

Bui, Wiley The

Bullen, Shelly Lisa

Bump, Tonya Lynn

Butler, Wosey Jane

Byers, Sherry Levon

Byington, David Adam

Calladitto, Annika Mone'L

Carpenter, Whitney Rochelle

Chafin, Sierra Nicole

Charley Whatley, Marrissa Ashley

Chisholm, Keegan Conner

Cloud, Cain Allen

Coddington, Emily Elizabeth

Coddington, Krystal Renee

Cody, Dakoda Hunter

Coffee, Larry Ben

Colbert, Braylon Dean

Colungo, Wilma Wildena

Coon, Vannessa Rae

Cooper, Beverly Rose

Cortez, La Donna Marie

Cravens, Christopher Dale

Creek, Jaxon Lee

Creeping Bear, Bobby

Crenshaw, Christian Lee

Crenshaw, Mila Elle

Crosswhite, Donna Elaine

Crow, Kimberly Kay

Cruz, Debra Ann

Cuellar Jr., Clifford Eugene

Darrington, Taliyah De' Vine

Daugherty, Samuel Edwin

Davis, Guenevere Tess

Davis, Holly Ann

Davis, Julius Alexander

Davis, Rex Keith

Davis, Serenity Jean

Day, Anthony Lee

Day, George Michael

Deer, Alena Rose

Deere, Alyssia Lynn

Deere, Gabriel Xavier

Deere, Kathleen Ann

Deere, Tavia Mi'Zhinga

Delodge, Dexter Lee

DeLodge, Genesis Octavia

Delodge, Wayne Lee

Doss, Jacobi Ezra

Douglass, Christian Jayce

Downs, Che` Kyle

Duran, Anthony George

Ellis Jr., Michael Frank

Ellis, Ciara Renee

Ellis, Jessica Marie

Ellis, Justin Lee

Ellis, Matthew Drew

Ellis-Harrison, Andrea Layne

Elsloo, Lyla Lee

Embery, Isaiah Dwayne

Engledowl, Alexia Michelle

Engler, Alicia Diane

Evans, James Steven

Evans, Steven E

Felton, Aiden Michael

Florick, Krista Leann

Foreman, Carole Jean

Foreman, Elysabeth Lesleigh

Foreman, Zelda Mae

Fowler, Joanna Marie

Frye, Zoe Ann

Fullbright, Debra Jean

Galloway, Daisy Jade

Galloway, Kory Damien

Galloway, Skylar Matthew

Garretson, Christopher Ronald

Garretson, Janis Marie

Gibson Jr., Jeremy Lee

Gibson, Davanee Mina Paralee

Gibson, Garret Henry

Gibson, Lita Danielle

Gibson, Willie Ray

Gibson, Zoli Layne

Gonzalez-Freed, Anthony Wayne

Goodwin, Alissa Mae

Gouge, Jace Joaquin

Graham, Jordan Michael

Grant, Jayden Dewayne

Grass, Billie Jean

Grass, Gage Owen

Griego, Aiyanna Che'la

Gurrola, Arturo Jr

Hackbarth, Riley Rain

Hadjiconstantinou, Ty Lucas

Hall, Sarah Jean

Hanson Jr., Andrew Joseph Jin

Harjo, Laketa Kaye

Hartley, Carolyn Curtis

Harvey, Lisa Michelle

Harvey, Nevaeh Nicole

Hatcher, Wade Jeffrey

Haumpy Sr., Willliam Allen

Hawk, Jordyn Marie

Hayes, Jackson Elias

Haymond, J-Lynn Lanea

Hernandez, Landon Jayse

Herrera, Precious Lara

Hicks, Layla Cleona-Louise

Hill, Dominick Allen

Hill, Keevan Jones

Hinds, Vickie Ann

Hixon, Eli James

Holt-Belvin, Brittani Maelynne

Hood, John Michael

Huckaby, Mary Louise Tyner

Huerta-Carrillo, Jaenny Denaya

Hunt, Royal Xavier

Hunt, Victory Xyler

Hunter, Sarah Denae

Innis, Quanah Guy

Isaac, Frances Jane

Jackson, Cheyenne Marie

James, Constance Logan

James, Gregory Dale

Jantz, Evan Blake

Jimerson, Magan Christina

Johnson III, Fauster Calvin

Johnson Jr., Anthony David

Johnson, Brodie Wade

Johnson, Bryan Mack

Johnson, Camille Marie

Johnson, Fawntayne Catara

Johnson, George Benjamin

Johnson, James Christopher

Johnson, Kayla Ryan

Johnson, Marlene Jane

Johnson, Steve Allen

Kaniatobe, Guy Willis

Kastl, Scott Christopher

Keith, Blake Garrett

Kennedy, Deborah Leigh

Kennedy, Kolton Clint

Kent-Larney, Flora Jean

Kilmer, Sandra Lynn

Kishketon, Malaki Allen

Kisor II, Jesse Devon

Klein, Madelynn Grace

Kringlen, Faibian Eugene

Lalehparvaran, Lilah Parvin

Lamb, Caden James Charley

Landrum, Rachel Erin

Larney, Darnell Maxine

Lasarge, Susan Gail

Lemaire, Deann Marie

Lemke-Rochon, Andrea Kay

Lester, Mackenzie Danielle

Limon, Jennifer Nell

Little Axe Sr., Ricky Lee

Little Axe, Jaydell Chance

Little Axe, Kamyrah Lemarea Illiana

Little Axe, Maxine

Little Axe, Slayer Dane

Little Axe, William Dennis

Little Charley, Dakota Micheal

Little Charley, Newman

Littlebear, Calvin

Littlebear, Jonathon

Littlebear, Paul Jaccob

Littlebear, Waleen Tenae

Littlecreek, Ronnie Joe

Locke, Tristan Daniel

Logan, Glenda Sue

Longhorn Jr., Keith Warren

Longhorn, Kaselyn Diane

Longhorn, Stuart Kyle

Longhorn, Tokahey Pipakey

Longman, Collin Jay

Longman, John Wayne

Lopez, Ruby Ann

Lowe, Preston Gavin

MacK, Brynlee Susie

MacK, Makenna Dawn

Martinez Jr., Timothy Andrew

Martinez, Efren Adam-Dean

Martinez, Shawnee H.

Martinez, Tewa Marie

Masquat, Dana Lanelle

Maxfield, Joseph Thad

McBride, Anthony Daniel

McBride, Damien Nicholas

McBroom, Garrett Allen Trece

McCulloch III, Grant Howard

McGuire, Mary Ann

McKee, William Kirby Zakkariah

Medina, Sophia Katherine Lily

Merrell, Cass Adam

Merrell, Cruz David

Miller, Alicia Le Waine

Miller, Hollis Cade

Miller, Madilyn Neveah

Mills, Hanna Frances

Mitchell, Janice Maria

Mitchell, Qiana Skye

Moore, Alexander Lee

Morgan, John David

Morris III, John Gilbert

Morris, Cecilia Renee

Murdock, Brian Lee

Narry, Eleanor Luna-Rose

Neash Rodriguez, Nekkia Christine

Neash, Bobby Joe

Nelson, Debra Ann

Neske, Kyle Logan

New Moon, Melissa Elaine

Nicholson, Lee Anna

Odell, Travis Dewayne

Oles, Robin Jewel

On-The-Hill, Tonya Lynn

Ontiveros-Adame, Tina Marie

Onzahwah, Brian Neil

Onzahwah, Chloe Sarai

Onzahwah, Hailia Brielle

Parker, Hunter Caleb Chase

Parker, Teresa Erin

Patton, Erionna Marie

Pawpa, Jacey Tatum

Pearman, Retha Ann

Perry, Savannah Jade

Pewenofkit, Jay Patrick

Pickens, Irma Juanita

Pine, Jacob Lawrence

Pitchford, Chayton Baeze

Pitchford, Satoria Chayne

Pitner, Shane Thomas

Ponkilla, Orrin Heath

Powell, Alivia Jordan

Price, Ciara Davon

Price, Ethan Daniel

Puckitt, Cody Michael

Puckitt, Steven Austin

Purcell, Desmond Lee

Ramirez, Alejandro Andres

Ramirez, Alye Tatum

Ramirez-Beavers, Shakiya Darlene Danae

Reid, Lilith

Robertson, Drew Hayden

Robertson, Kyle Scott

Robertson, Rachel Deanne

Robinson, Star Dionna

Rodas, Klay Arnoldo

Rolette, Lawrence R.

Rolette, Ryan Adam

Rolette, Tiffany Renee

Rutledge, James Aiyden

Ryan, Crystal Gay

Sanchez, Tommy Shawnego

Schmidt, Sammie Anne

Schwarz, Lionel Teniola A. C. H. D.

Self, Katelyn Lynel

Shawnee Swimmer, Carrah Dawnell

Shawnee, Arla Nicole

Shawnee, Corey Wayne

Sherrill, Cody Michael

Shields, Ty Xavier

Simpson, Caden Marshall

Simpson, Thurman Ray

Sinks, Tammy Relin

Sloat, Arthur Wayne

Sloat, Jennifer Lauren

Smith, Cheryl Renae

Smith, Keana Tempestt

Smith, Kyle Lee

Smith, Skylard Marcus

Snow, Brianna Margaret-Faye

Solis, Adrianna Clavel

Solis, Jose Maria

Spoon, Desirae Roxanne

Spoon, Jiliyan Jade

Spoon, Michael Brody

Spybuck, Barbara Ann

Spybuck, Nicholas Lawrence

Squire, Christopher Lane

Stanley, Denelle Mae

Starnes, Mekia Ladawn

Starr, Jack Eugene

Stevens Jr., Houston

Stinger Jr., Jack Theophilus

Stone, Sherry Darlene

Sultuska Jr., Jerome Ray

Swenson, Sofia Magdalena

Switch, Ezequiel

Tebe, Jabril Rylen

Teehee, Penny Lynn

Tello-Faz, Jennie Rebecca

Tenner, Kirsten Elizabeth

Thompson Jr., John Michael

Thorpe, Dara Beth

Thorpe, Jamie Lee

Thorpe, Kotah Nayeli Gustavo

Thorpe, Matilda Carol

Thorpe, Preston Barrett

Tiger, Ashlee Jean

Tiger, Joseph Aaron

Tiger, Kane Matthew

Tiger, Lyric Danyl

Tolbert, Justin Wade

Torres-Salazar, Mary Ellen

Turtle, Kendall Jose Thomas Reece

Valdivia, Shirley Ann

Villalobos, Constantina K.

Wabaunasee, Mary Ellen

Wagner, Kaya-Mae Cristine

Wakley, Kylie Ann

Walker, Braylen Sincere

Walley, Dallas Jeffery

Warren, Linda Sue

Warrior-Benson, Josiah Clark

Watkins, Ginger Gaile

Watson, Zachary Miles

Webb, Charles Kenneth

Webster, Ryan Bennett

Whims, Lawanna Jo

White Sr., Robert

White Thunder, Nakiaus Sage

White Thunder, Nanami Brielle

White, Beckie Lynette

White, Edward Leon

Whittaker, Dominique Marie

Wiles, Mitzie Arlene Little Creek

Williams Jr., Joseph Edward

Williams, Benjamin Michael

Williams, Brexon Apakus

Williams, Chance Michael

Williams, Daniell Anissa

Williams, Michelle Lee

Williams, Okah Melina

Wilson, Alvin Blaine

Wilson, Dwayne Alan

Wilson, Jessie Lee

Wilson, Kaitlyn Nicole

Wilson, Kamren Patrick

Wilson, Raylin Amelia

Wilson, Stacey Lynn

Winrow, Alexandra Nicole

Winrow, Ashley Dionne

Winrow, Jayden Lee

Wolf Jr., Eric Wayne

Womack, Cody Lee

Wright, Randall Justin

Wyatt, Vance Allen

Yeahpau, Trevian Alexander

Youngbear, Curtis Joshua

December 2021

www.astribe.com

Jiliyan Jade

Happy 17th Birthday my most beautiful

daughter. Hope your day is as amazing as

you are. Granny would be so very proud of

you.

XOXOXO Always Momma

Jils – Happy Birthday to our ornery sister.

We really do love you! LOL

Love Joplin & Justin

11

NaNomi Brielle White Thunder

Happy Blessed 1st Birthday (Our lil NICU baby)

Love Mom, Grandma/Grandpa, Shelsie, NaKiaus,

Sheldon and Bryson

NaKiaus Dudley White Thunder

Happy Blessed 4th Birthday

Love Dad, Grandma/Grandpa, Shelsie, NaNomi,

Shelby and Bryson

Jiliyan – To my most precious niece, I wish

you the most wonderful kind of day! Happy

Birthday! Love you much Aunt B C & D

Thank You

We would like to take this time to extend our sincere gratitude

to the Governor and Lt. Governor’s and the Representative Department staff for all the help during our loss of our mother, sister,

aunt “Clara Jean Masquat Whiteshirt”. We would like to thank everyone that took the time to bring food, drinks and all the prayers

and kind words for the family. And all the beautiful plants and

flowers. Prayers for all that had a hand in making this all possible

sending our love one on her journey.

From the family of Clara Jean Masquat Whiteshirt

Baryn and Coltin Wallis proudly represented the Absentee Shawnee Tribe by

carrying the tribal flag during Native American Pride Night at halftime of the

Sr Night football game at Cache High School on November 5, 2021.

OBITUARY

Arthur Wayne Sloat, 88

Arthur Wayne Sloat, 88, a resident of Irving since 1957 died Saturday, October 30,

2021 at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital in Denton. Born December 6, 1932

in Checotah, Oklahoma, he was the son

of the late Arthur James Sloat and Thelma Phelps Sloat. He grew up in Shawnee,

Oklahoma, served in the U S. Navy during the Korean Conflict and married Karen Kay Morse November 10, 1957 in North Kansas City, Missouri. He was in Trucking before his retirement. He was a member of First

United Methodist Church in Irving.

Preceded in death by a son Donald Gene Sloat; a brother Newton Sloat;

survivors include his wife Karen Sloat of Irving; two daughters Cheryl

Dawn Fritsch and spouse Eric and Lorraine Falcone and spouse Pete of

Denton; a son Douglas James Sloat of Denton; one brother Jerry Sloat; two

sisters, Terry Logan and Zelda Brewer; grandchildren, Drew McBride,

Aaron McBride with spouse Lucy, Master Sergeant Anthony McBride

with spouse Johnele, Allison Robinson with spouse Joey, Chris Sloat, Jennifer Sloat, Morgan Sloat, Jerod Fritsch with spouse Teja, Joley Fritsch,

Jadyn Fritsch, Jaxon Fritsch; and great grandchildren, Luke McBride,

Liam McBride, Lyla McBride, Blake McBride, Noelle McBride, Cannon

McBride, Jase McBride, Aria Robinson, Lily Robinson, Grant Robinson,

Avery Gamez, Atticus Dominguez, and Landon Austin.

Absentee

Absentee Shawnee

Shawnee Tribe's

Tribe's Domestic

Domestic Violence

Violence Department

Department

We help with:

Our mission is to:

Domestic Violence

Eliminate violence in

Sexual Assault

Native Country and to

Dating Violence

strengthen

Stalking

Native families to end the

Sex Trafficking

cycle of violence.

Our services are confidential and include:

Safety Planning

Emergency Assistance

Court Advocacy

Shelter Placement Assistance

Referrals

Must be intimate partner

related violence and the

victim must be fleeing the

home/situation

Who we serve:

Where we serve:

Natives and non-Natives

LGBTQ2S+

Any Religion

Any income level

EVERYONE

Because we are federally funded

we get to serve all populations

within our *service area, which

includes Cleveland, Oklahoma and

Pottawatomie counties.

*If you are AST and outside the service area, please call our office and we will see what we can do to help

you.

Contact Us:

Office Line 405.273.2888

Fax 405.273.1192

Webpage https://www.astribe.com/domestic-violence

Link to intake https://www.astribe.com/forms/victim-intake

@ASTRisingWarrior

For emergencies call 911 or AST PD @ 405.275.3200

This project was supported byGrant No. 2015-TW-AX-0016 awarded by the Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations

expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women.

12

December 2021

www.astribe.com

Gov.

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE – SHAWNEE DEPARTMENT EXTENSIONS (405) 275-4030

Governor John R. Johnson ......... 6308

Alvina Barnes ............................... 6307

Kim Porter .................................... 6269

Lt. Gov.

Diane Ponkilla .............................. 6267

Mike Bread……………………….6445 FINANCE

Andrew Warrior…………………6263 Kyle Coody ................................................. 6233

Fallon Jackson…………………...6236 Jennifer Crenshaw........................................... 6228

Secretary

Secretary Alicia Miller ................ 6289

Keesha Mason .............................. 6275

Tina Ontiveros ............................. 6431

Mary Ponkilla……………………6446

Treas.

ENROLLMENT

Amanda Webb ..................................... 6292

Brittany Coughran ............................. 6288

Elicia Ramirez ...................................... 6290

Treasurer Joseph Blanchard ..... 6280

Jan Ranft ...................................... 6309

....................................................... 6341

Rep.

Lt.Governor Ezra DeLodge. ............ 6253

ELECTION COMMISSION

Sally Soap ............................................. 6271

Representative DeWayne Wilson 6239

Eddie Brokeshoulder ................... 6240

RECEPTIONIST

Donna Woodfork ................................. 4030

ATTORNEY

Randall Homburg ............................... 6313

BIA/SELF GOVERNANCE

.............................................................. 6325

Nahinli Billy ......................................... 6301

Whitney Standing ....................................... 6283

CCDF

Briana Ponkilla .................................... 6347

LaNora Buswell ................................... 6348

COURT

Chelsea Cope ....................................... 6241

Ashley Hudson…………………………..6336

.............................................................. 6260

CULT. PRES. / GIFT SHOP

Carol Butler ......................................... 6245

Merry Rodriguez (Gift Shop) ................. 6310

Gift Shop....................................................6254

Devon Frazier(THPO) ........................ 6243

Ashley Brokeshoulder ......................... 6312

Kay Bemo ............................................. 6238

Casey Wilson (Librarian) ................... 6416

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE/FAMILY SERVICES

Melissa Lopez ...................................... 6333

.............................................................. 6326

Bryisha Payne ...................................... 6315

Jasmine Rocha ..................................... 6293

Lacey Carey ......................................... 6298

EDUCATION

Tresha Spoon ....................................... 6242

.............................................................. 6255

Blake Goodman ................................... 6432

Shay Fixico ........................................... 6433

ALL CORRECTIONS PLEASE EMAIL TO:

MIS@ASTRIBE.COM

Last updated: 11/12/21

Sandra Burnett ........................................... 6294

Tracey Dickson ............................................ 6279

Tina Fixico ................................................... 6250

Courtney Green ........................................... 6300

Holly Davis................................................... 6265

Colleen Butler .............................................. 6320

Misti Casey .................................................. 6385

Laina Martin ............................................... 6424

Sheila King................................................... 6344

...................................................................... 6447

Conf. Room .................................................. 6397

FOOD BANK

Falon Powell ................................................ 6438

Sarah Pederson............................................ 6437

SW Office ..................................................... 6439

NW Office .................................................... 6440

GRANTS

Phyllis Wahahrockah-Tasi ......................... 6338

Kryste Carter .............................................. 6284

Bronte Pearson ............................................ 6295

HUMAN RESOURCES

Michele Nowell ............................................ 6296

Casey Adams .............................................. 6337

Rebecca Hyde .............................................. 6222

Jennifer Kinslow ......................................... 6252

Lauren Parish .............................................. 6423

ICW

Chanci Peterson ................................... 395-4492

Shawnee Martinez ............................... 395-4491

Sheila Wilson ....................................... 395-4494

Kelly Seaton .......................................... 395-4490

Paige Little Charley ............................. 395-4493

MAINTENANCE

Kevin Kaseca.. ............................................. 6316

Break Room.. ............................................... 6234

SheilaOrphan………………………………6331

Robert Komacheet, Joe Morton, John Mann

Stephen Fife, Stacy Coon, Duke Blanchard,

Cindy Carpenter ......................................... 6249

MEDIA

Mindy Longhorn ......................................... 6435

Derek Hilderbrand...................................... 6436

MIS

HELP DESK ................................................ 3100

Travis O’Dell ............................................... 6327

Donna Cody ................................................. 6402

Amelia Grass ............................................... 6329

Randy Austin ............................................... 6328

Rafael Rodriguez ......................................... 6332

...................................................................... 6342

OEH

Jarrod Lloyd ................................................ 6229

Kyra Underwood ......................................... 6398

Kevin Arthur………………………………6230

OTHER EXTENSIONS

Bldg. 1 Conf. Rm. ...................................... 2009

Bldg. 1 Break Rm ....................................... 6305

Gov. Bldg. 2 Conf. Rm. .............................. 6330

Fam. Svcs. Conf. Rm. ................................. 6311

Finance Conference Rm ............................. 6236

LITTLE AXE CLINIC

Clinic - Medical .................................... 447-0300

L.A.Plus Care....................................... 447-0477

Dental Clinic ........................................ 307-9704

Diabetes ................................................ 360-0698

Pharmacy ............................................. 292-9530

Resource Center .................................. 364-7298

(Chrissy Wiens)

NOTICE

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SUBMIT

AN ARTICLE OR STORY

All articles for the next month’s issue are

DUE by the 15th of the current month.

Unfortunately we can only accept ONE

PICTURE PER BIRTHDAY PERSON,

not per birthday wish.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Levi Walker ......................................... 6426

PROCUREMENT

Rebecca Kennedy........................................ 6291

Tara Battise ................................................. 6281

...................................................................... 6410

...................................................................... 6422

Lisa Camren ................................................ 6232

Brayden Queen ........................................... 6339

Dylan King .................................................. 6244

REALTY

Taylor Carter .............................................. 6246

Cara Hamilton (Probates) .......................... 6248

Yecica Gutierrez………..……………………..6420

Kimberlee Billie……………….…………........6235

SOCIAL SERVICES

Annie Wilson (Director) ............................. 6311

Nancy Edwards ........................................... 6225

TAX COMMISSION / TAG

Alicia Engler… .......................................... .6257

Shelby White ............................................... 6258

...................................................................... 6237

...................................................................... 6286

TITLE VI

Thomasine (Doss) Owings (DIR) ............... 6227

Lula Bettelyoun, Donna Butler, Robert

Schoolfield, Ted Watson… …..…………...6270

OTHER ENTITIES & TOLL FREE

All Nations Bank .................................. 273-0202

Toll Free ..................................... 1-800-256-3341

ARPA .................................................... 481-8625

Brendle Corner .................................... 447-3372

Building Blocks ................................... 878-0633

(Barbra Pope)

Building Blocks III LA ........................ 360-2710

(Skye Foreman)

Court Clerk .......................................... 481-8575

Enrollment ........................................... 481-8650

Gaming Commission ................ 360-9270 x1110

Housing ................................................. 273-1050

Human Resources ................................ 275-1468

Media .................................................... 598-1279

(Mindy Longhorn)

OEH/OEP ............................................. 214-4235

Police Dept.......................... 275-3200 / 275-3432

OTHER EXTENSIONS

OEH/OEP

............................................. 214-4235

Bldg. Bank

1 Conf.

Rm. ......................................

2009

Food

............................................

481-8640

Bldg. 1 BreakCasino

Rm .......................................

6305

Thunderbird

NRM ................. 360-9270

Shawnee

Casino

...................................

273-2679

Gov. Bldg.

2 Conf.

Rm. ..............................

6330

Tax

481-8600

Fam.Commission

Svcs. Conf. ..................................

Rm. .................................

6311

Tribal

(Little Axe)

364-0668

FinanceStore

Conference

Rm ......................

.............................

6236

LALL

ITTLECORRECTIONS

AXE CLINIC

PLEASE EMAIL TO:

Clinic - Medical

.................................... 447-0300

MIS@ASTRIBE.COM

L.A.Plus Care....................................... 447-0477

Dental ClinicLast

........................................

updated: 11/12/21 307-9704

Diabetes ................................................ 360-0698

Pharmacy ............................................. 292-9530

Resource Center .................................. 364-7298

(Chrissy Wiens)

SHAWNEE CLINIC

Clinic (Bldg. 17) ................................... 878-5850

Pharmacy ............................................. 878-5859

Toll free ...................................... 1-866-742-4977

Rhonda Kaseca .................................... 878-4702

NOTICE

SHAWNEE CLINIC

Clinic (Bldg. 17) ................................... 878-5850

Pharmacy ............................................. 878-5859

Toll free ...................................... 1-866-742-4977

Rhonda Kaseca .................................... 878-4702

Please give us a call at (405) 598-1279 or

send an email to media@astribe.com

POLICE DEPT ....................... 275-3200 / 275-3432

Brad Gaylord (Chief) ................................. 6302

Jason Brinker .............................................. 6259

Steven Crisp ................................................ 6262

Linda Day .................................................... 6261

James Woolbright ....................................... 6276

Russell Harjo............................................... 6391

Patrol Room ................................................ 6278

AST Complex

Christmas Holiday Closures

Thursday, December 23, 2021

Friday, December 24, 2021

New Year’s Day 2022 (Observed)

Friday, December 31, 2021