Thunderbird Casino AST Veteran Memorial Dedication (2023)

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www.astribe.com

THE ABSENTEE

SHAWNEE NEWS

Volume 33, No. 12

December 2023

Thunderbird Casino AST Veteran Memorial Dedication

Veterans Day was November 11 and on this day to honor veterans, Thunderbird Casino held a ceremony dedicating the AST Veteran Memorial. The statue is located by the

casino entrance.

The celebration was held outside in front of the memorial. Members of the AST Executive Committee did the unveiling. Several AST Veterans and tribal members were also

in attendance.

Native Americans have served in the U.S. military in every major conflict for more than 200 years. And even though Native Americans make up only 1.4 percent of the U.S.

population they have the highest rate of service of any population in the U.S. military. They serve in the Armed Forces at five times the national average.

After the ceremony, the AST Veterans Association held their annual Thanksgiving dinner in the Warrior Room.

Thanks to the many brave tribal veterans who served and continue to serve.

2A www.astribe.com

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

GOVERNOR’S REPORT

John Johnson, AST Governor

Hello Tribal members,

We finally have the AST podcast up

and running. With all the trial and errors figured out, we are finally able to do

monthly podcast; so watch for updates

and upcoming news. On Veteran’s day a

dedication ceremony was held in honor

of the all AST veterans at the Thunderbird

Casino where a Veterans monument was

revealed. I want to personally thank all

December 2023

the AST Veterans all across the world for

your dedication. I recently attended the

NCAI conference in New Orleans with

Treasurer Blanchard. This conference has

given me some insight on the upcoming events for 2024. Also, the Executive

Committee has approved an Educational

ARPA relief funds to be released to all minors under the age of 18 in the amount of

$500.00. This will be a one-time payment

to all eligible tribal minor. The tribal minor must have been enrolled by June 1,

2021. Please get your children’s applications in quickly; the deadline for this is

December 29, 2023.

As 2023 comes to an end, I want to wish

everyone the best for the upcoming year.

I hope 2024 brings in a lot of new adventures for you and your family.

Should you have any questions please

feel free to contact the office. The campus

has new extensions below are the listed

extension for my office.

Governor ext: 3500

Executive Assistant ext: 3501

mary utility connections have been completed, and all of the parking lot work has

been done. Security fencing, access gate,

and interior finishes are currently underway.

We would like to remind Tribal Members that if they see any activities related

to illegal dumping of trash or other discarded items on Tribal lands to please

contact OEH at the email or phone number listed below.

Jarrod Lloyd, OEH&E Director

jlloyd@astribe.com - (405) 214-4235

Self-Governance

On November 13, 2023 the House

Committee on Rules were scheduled to

meet to consider Further Continuing Appropriations and Other Extensions Act,

2024. If this passes, the CR will continue

until January 19, 2024.

The next quarterly meeting for DOI

SGAC/IHS TSGAC is scheduled for December 11-14, 2023 which I will be attending by zoom.

BIA Roads Program

On October 31 – November 2, 2023 I

attended the Tribal Transportation Program Coordinating Committee Meeting

in Washington, D.C. I, along with seven other candidates received the official

letter of being appointed to TTPC Committee signed by Assistant Secretary of

Indian Affairs, Bryan Newland. Chris

McCray, Pawnee Nation, and I will represent the Southern Plains Region. While

in D.C., the Committee took a tour of the

new Tribal Affairs Office in the U.S. Department of Transportation Building and

met with Assistant Secretary of Tribal

Affairs, Arlando Teller. I look forward to

representing the Absentee Shawnee Tribe

along with other tribes in the Southern

Plains Region.

Recently I reported that we received

some safety funds. We have been asked

by the FHWA Tribal Technical Assistance

Program (TTAP) Manager, Morgan Manning, to present on November 30, 2023 on

the Innovation Exchange Webinar. This

month they are highlighting Tribal Transportation Safety and would like us to

present with the City of Norman on our

project on 72nd Avenue SE and Post Oak

Road.

Any questions or concerns please

email me at TwylaB@astribe.com or call

(405)275-4030.

Weatherization

The weatherization program is still up

and running. The process is taking longer

than anticipated for this month. The program will be working in the Shawnee area

for the next three weeks. Please be patient

we are working as fast as we can. We are

at the halfway point of the applications

and should be completing two homes a

week. The process is elderly first then the

remaining tribal members. If you have

any questions or concerns please feel free

to contact me at 405-827-4311 or you

can e-mail me at dmarshall@astribe.com.

Have a blessed month and Happy Holidays.

do a brief welcoming for court training

that was held at the complex. I’d like to

thank our Absentee Shawnee Court clerk

Chelsea Cope and Anna Clough with

Oklahoma Indian Legal Services for giving me this opportunity.

Domestic Violence

October 27th, our Ladies in Domestic

Violence hosted a motorcycle event had a

great turn out. Next year we are working

to make this event bigger to the public.

Thank you to Redrum Motorcycle Club &

Society, and RedSpirit WMRC for doing

the awareness ride. For more information

on upcoming events contact our domestic violence department or like our page

on Facebook “Absentee Shawnee Tribe

Rising Warrior”.

ICW

October 31st our ICW group teamed up

with Absentee Shawnee Housing Authority and other departments for a Trunk or

Treat. This event had a huge turn out with

a lot of scares and fun. I hope everyone

who attended had a great time. November

15th, our ICW team did a wonderful Job

hosting Thanksgiving dinner, Mexican

style. A huge shout out and thank you to

our Elders who attended and helped with

this event. We really thank everyone for

the love and support for our Angel Tree

Event. All of our Angels were sponsored.

Your support is greatly appreciated beyond words.

Upcoming Events: Come Join ICW for

the 2nd annual Gift Wrap Jamboree December 15 from 4-7pm located at 1318 E.

Independence Shawnee, Ok. December

16th from 11am-2pm ICW Christmas

Party located 105 N. Kimberly, Shawnee,

Ok. For more information please contact

our ICW department.

Enrollment

As of November 20, 2023 we have 4,626

enrolled members.

Thank you

Governor Johnson

GOVERNOR

John Johnson

LT. GOVERNOR’S REPORT

Ezra DeLodge, AST Lt. Governor

Lt. GOVERNOR

Ezra DeLodge

SECRETARY

Misty McGirt

Tribal Members,

Please see below for department updates. If you have any questions or concerns please contact me by email ezrad@

astribe.com, call my office 405-275-4030

x 6253 or cell 405-432-0733.

Maintenance:

The Absentee Shawnee Tribal Maintenance Department is currently staffed by

six full-time maintenance workers and 2

full-time housekeepers. The guys have

been super busy with maintaining all

incoming work orders which consist of

minor repairs, moving/ rearranging offices and assembling/installing new furniture. Housekeeping has been working

effortlessly with maintaining the upkeep

of the buildings on the complex. I would

like to thank the Maintenance staff for all

the hard work they do for the department

and Tribe.

OEH:

In total for 2023 OEH has assisted Tribal members with 62 different septic renovations and installations, water well drilling and installations, well renovations,

and community water connections.

For 2023, we have collected, processed,

and recycled 35 bales of shredded office

paper and cardboard equaling roughly

26.25 tons of recyclable waste that has

been diverted from landfills.

The new Police Safety Center is on

schedule to be completed by the end of

2023. Interior work is underway, all pri-

Respectfully,

Lt. Governor DeLodge

TREASURER

Joseph Blanchard

SECRETARY’S REPORT

Misty McGirt, AST Secretary

REPRESENTATIVE

DeWayne Wilson

Hello Tribal Members,

I hope everyone had a great turkey day.

It’s a great time to spend with family but

a time to remember our ancestors, the

trials and tribulations they went through

for us to be here today thriving as Absentee-Shawnee people. October 28th, the

Executive committee hosted a movie day

for our Tribal Members to view “Killers of

the Flower Moon”. Everyone had a great

time and if you did not get to participate,

I hope you will be able to attend future

events. November 4th, I attended the

Red Feather Gala, thank you to Health,

for allowing me to be a part of this event.

November 11th, I attended the Veteran’s

Dedication Ceremony hosted by Thunderbird Casino. It was a wonderful day to

honor and spend time with our Veterans

who attended. I’d like to say thank you to

all our veterans for serving our Country.

November 14th, I had the opportunity to

I wish everyone a wonderful Christmas, safe travels, and a Happy New Year.

Ne yi wa

Secretary McGirt

December 2023

REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORT

DeWayne Wilson, AST Representative

Hello Tribal Members,

Again I want to apologize for missing

General Council. We had a very busy

week in Ohio. I just want to wish everyone a Very Merry Christmas with family

and friends. I want to let everyone know

that I have hired another Administrative

Assistant due to the previous assistant

transferring to the 477 Program.

102-477 Program: In Oct. and Nov.,

the 477 Director and Intake Specialist attended the 2023 Western Regional 477 Training in Temecula, CA. They

attended meetings/ work sessions pertaining to P.L. 102- 477 Administration

and Compliance. They also met with our

477 AOTR from the BIA concerning the

progress of the AST 477 Program. They

have completed a podcast concerning the

477 Program and it should be posted in

December, 2023. Currently, the 477 Program has 262 participants. The 477 staff

are busy processing the numerous applications as well as assigning a case managers to those applications.

CCDF Program: They have been real

busy planning events for the Thanksgiving Holiday for the children and families.

Some very important and exciting information is the Administration/ Afterschool program facility located on Highway 177 and Westech Road will be closing

in December, 2023. The exciting news is

during their closure, they will be moving

into new building which is located on the

south side of the Absentee Shawnee Tribal Complex. They plan on re-opening this

new facility in early January, 2024.

Education Department: In October,

Education Department staff attended the

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National Indian Education Association

2023 Annual Convention October 1721 in Albuquerque, NM. The Education

Department sponsored and prepared

sandwich meals for the Little Axe Football team on October 26th.Education Department decorated our van and gave out

program information, candy, and snacks

at the ASHA Trunk or Treat Block Party

the evening of October 31st.

In November, Education Dept. set up

an information table at the OKC Thunder Native American Student Day on

November 6th. Education Director attended the First Annual Veterans Education and Resource Fair for anyone with

a military connection (Veterans, Active

Duty, National Guard/Reserves, Spouses

and Dependents) at the Oklahoma City

Community College. She set up an information table. She was invited by the U.S.

Government Schools Abroad - Office of

Admissions & Recruitment at the University of Oklahoma.

Workforce Program: Busy as usual,

the HVAC interns continue their training. The HVAC Program continues to

advertise Heater/ Furnace systems check

for this coming winter. If you want/

need your Heater/ Furnace system check

please contact Cindy at ext. 3566. Elders

will be given preference.

Cultural Preservation: The Language

Program has embarked on a new project lead by Scott Miller, Language Linguist/Project Coordinator: the use of QR

codes. Shawnee word lists are now being

accompanied with a QR code that can be

scanned with a smartphone. You will not

only see the words in written form, but

this code will allow you to hear words

spoken. In October, I, DeWayne Wilson,

the Absentee Shawnee Tribal Representative, four employees of Cultural Preser-

vation Department staff, and one Media

staff went to State of Ohio to attend the

8TH Annual Tribal Nations Conference

with Ohio History Connection. The week

was packed full of meetings concerning

Section 106, NAGPRA and other historic

preservation topics, events, and site visits.

We attended a reception at the Governor

mansion which was put on by the State

of Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and his

wife, Fran, who was also in attendance.

There were numerous Tribal Nation officials/ representatives as well as representatives from the Ohio History Connection, Ohio Department of Transportation,

Federal Highway Administration – Ohio

Division, The Nature Conservancy, Ohio

Department of Natural Resources, National Wildlife Federation, and the National Park Service were in attendance.

These and other prominent dignitaries

also attended the Commemoration of

the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks.

The week ended with the long-awaited,

monumental event, Commemoration of

the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks inscription as Ohio’s first UNESCO World

Heritage Site and the United States 25th

World Heritage Site. In November, Carol

Butler, Cultural Preservation Director/

Interim NAGPRA Coordinator, attended

the 9th Annual Repatriation Conference

held at the Grand Casino Hotel & Resort,

in Shawnee Oklahoma. Three main topics

were discussed at this conference: NAGPRA Regulations (new NAGPRA regulations are getting ready to be enforced),

Domestic Repatriation, and International

Repatriation.

Gaming Commission: As it was reported earlier in October, 2023, the annual National Indian Gaming Commission

(NIGC) site visit was conducted at the

Tribe’s two gaming facilities. The reason

for these site visits was to make sure the

two casinos and the Gaming Commission

are in compliance with facility licensing,

key sections of the surveillance departments, and gaming license requirements.

I am proud to announce the results of the

annual NIGC site visit and that NIGC

found no issues and determined the casinos, surveillance departments, and the

gaming licensing departments are all in

compliance. ASTGC should receive the

internal audit’s preliminary reports and

will receive the final reports in December. During this time, if there are any

findings on the preliminary reports this is

the opportunity to submit any additional

documentation or changes to policies &

procedures to help resolve those findings

before the final reports are issued. The

Gaming Commission continues to keep

up to date with changes to rules and regulations as we evolve into modernization

of the gaming industry.

Youth Camp: We are accepting and

receiving bids for lighting for the softball

field, basketball and tennis courts and

for the dining hall parking lot and playground area. The other construction we

will be starting will be a Water Harvest

project. This project will allow us to collect rain water in a tank to be utilized to

irrigate the softball field and surrounding

area if need be.

If you have any questions or concerns

about the programs mentioned in this

news article, feel free to contact my office

at (405) 275-4030 Ext. 6239 or by email:

dewayne.wilson@astribe.com. Again, it is

my pleasure to be your Tribal Representative.

Ne yi wa!

DeWayne Wilson

Tribal Representative

FROM THE ELECTION COMMISSION:

The Filing Period for Elective Office in 2024.

A tribal member may file for office, January 1 to January 10 (excluding weekends and holidays). Hours to file are 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Potential candidates please consult the Election Ordinance for the procedures and qualifications when running for elective office.

The following positions will be open for the Elections to be held in 2024:

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Position Filing Fees

Lt. Governor

$800.00

Tribal Treasurer

$800.00

Tribal Representative

$800.00

Term

4 Year Term

ELECTION COMMISSION

Position Filing Fees

Deputy Commissioner

$300.00

Commissioner Member #1

$300.00

Term

3 Year Term

Fee Amount includes: Alcohol test, drug test, MVR, OSBI, FBI plus certified postage fee, ballot printing (twice), Absentee Ballot/correspondence postage.

QUALIFICATIONS:

A) An enrolled member of the tribe.

B) An eligible voter for purposes of voting in tribal elections.

C) Must be twenty-one (21) years of age on the date of the election for which he/she desires to be a candidate.

D) Physically reside within the following Counties: Cleveland, Pottawatomie, Oklahoma, McClain, Garvin, Pontotoc, Seminole, Lincoln, or Okfuskee.

E) In cases where a prospective candidate has been convicted of a felony, such person shall not be eligible for consideration as a candidate until at least five (5) years have

passed following completion of the penalty for such conviction(s).

F) Not more than one (1) member of an immediate family shall be elected to the same tribal elective body except when running as a candidate for the same elective position.

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS (approved by Referendum June 20, 2015)

A) Must have a valid Oklahoma State Driver's License

B) Must have a negative result on a drug and alcohol test

C) Must have a high school diploma or GED

December 2023

4A www.astribe.com

CULTURAL PRESERVATION DEPARTMENT

While it was not our first attendance to the Tribal Nations Conference, it is always a blessing

to represent our Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma within one of our ancestral

October and the beginning of November was busy for the staff of Cultural Preservation. Foland historic homelands. It is the honor of our Tribal Historic Preservation Office staff to have

lowing is a breakdown of each departmental program’s most recent activities.

provided our expertise and knowledge in vital conversations that will impact several Ohio fedGift Shop

eral agencies and their upcoming or concluding projects.

The Gift Shop is open! No appointments necessary. We have two locations for your shopping

convenience. Our Shawnee Gift Shop is located at the complex in the Cultural Preservation

building (2025 S. Gordon Cooper Drive, Shawnee, OK 74801; building 6), and our Little Axe

Gift Shop is located in the lobby of the Little Axe Health Center (15951 Little Axe Drive, Norman, OK 73026). We are open in Shawnee Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and every other

Thursday in Little Axe from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Please be patient with us, we are currently

without a Gift Shop Manager. If you know of anybody, this position is open for applications. Please contact HR.

We are currently going through our inventory and plan to have a big sale on multiple items

in December. Please look for posts on Facebook and the website for all the details.

Please note, if you live out of state, we can ship items to you. Please contact the Gift Shop,

Ms. Maureen Bemo, at (405) 275-4030 ext. 3529 or at MBemo@astribe.com for more details.

NAGPRA

In addition to Cultural Preservation Director, I currently hold the position of interim NAGLibrary

The Library is open! Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PRA Coordinator. The last few months have been very busy for me. More and more agencies/

Last month, activity in the library included 4 library visitors with a total of 4 books checked out. museums/colleges both in the states and overseas have been reaching out, and with the exAlso, 23 virtual books were checked out. Ms. Paula Jackson, Librarian, added 5 new patrons to pected new regulations that will be enforced in the coming months, the number is going to

the system. Please note the library application has recently been converted to a digital format drastically increase. Currently, we are in consultation with 26 different facilities concerning the

ancestors and funerary objects they have in their possession.

that can be emailed. If you would like the application please contact Ms. Jackson.

If you would like to view what books we have in the library currently, please visit https://

9th Annual Repatriation Conference

www.librarycat.org/lib/ASTribe to view the catalog. Also, recently she added some new Native

On November 7th through the 9th, I attended the 9th Annual Repatriation Conference

American titles available in either eBook or audio format to the virtual library (https://okvir- co-hosted by the Association of American Indian Affairs and the Citizen Potawatomi Nation.

tuallibrary.overdrive.com/) which currently has approximately 74,600 books available. If you The theme for this year’s conference was Building a New Fire. The idea of this theme was do

would like to fill out an application for a library card, you may contact Ms. Paula Jackson at bring all the participants together so that they can build a new fire that will support new laws

(405) 275-4030 ext. 3530 or at PJackson@astribe.com.

and upcoming changes in regulations and collaborate on the methods for repatriation. The

Please come in and visit! We have a wide variety of resources available for checkout, and three topics that geared the discussions each day were NAGPRA Regulations Training, Domany magazines, newspapers and journals for your reading leisure. We are open to your sug- mestic Repatriation, and International Repatriation. This conference brought to light some of

gestions for the library and look forward to serving your informational needs!

the new topics such as health hazards and international repatriation that the program needs to

THPO (Tribal Historic Preservation Office)

We recently welcomed Mr. Clayton Martinez to the Cultural Preservation Staff as the new

TCNS Coordinator/THPO Specialist!!! His primary responsibility is the handling of Section

106 consultations/project reviews sent to the Tribe from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) via TCNS (Tower Construction Notification System.) Additionally, Mr. Martinez brings a wealth of traditional Shawnee culture knowledge that befits our department goals

and service to historic preservation.

Our Tribal Historic Preservation Office (THPO) Program continues to make great strides

and advancements. The THPO staff has steadily been receiving Section 106 projects from various Federal and State Agencies. Over the past month; the THPO Officer, Mrs. Devon Frazier-Smith, and TCNS Coordinator/THPO Specialist, Mr. Clayton Martinez, have together

received 733 new Section 106 projects for review and consultation. The program staff has successfully consulted on 402 of these received projects, of which occur in 19 of our 25 areas of

interest/states. The THPO Staff, including myself as Director, have also taken part in 14 teleconference calls regarding Section 106 projects or NAGPRA cases.

Ohio Travel

From October 9th through October 14th, THPO staff and few members of our Cultural

Preservation Department traveled to Columbus, Ohio for the 8th Annual Tribal Nations Conference. This conference was hosted in conjunction by Ohio History Connection (Ohio’s State

Historic Preservation Office) and the Ohio Department of Transportation. Our busy travel

itinerary started with an entire afternoon spent with Ohio Department of Natural Resources

staff on Monday, October 9th. During this meeting, interviews and portraits were conducted

for Great Council State Park in Oldtown, OH.

Official conference days were Tuesday through Friday (October 10th - 13th.) As one of fifteen Tribal nations in attendance, we were able to have good facilitated discussion over important historic preservation topics such as NHPA Section 106 project progresses and mitigations,

NAGPRA collection and site visits, and informational engagement with invited guest agencies

like those from America 250 (Ohio Commission for the U.S. Semi-quincentennial), Ball State

University, The Nature Conservatory, and The Ohio River Restoration.

On October 11th, we attended a reception at the Ohio Governor’s Residence with other

Tribal nations at the invitation of Governor Mike DeWine and First Lady Fran DeWine. This

reception was a private event held to celebrate the inscription of the Hopewell Ceremonial

Earthworks as Ohio’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and the United States 25th World

Heritage Site. There, we were able to network with other historic preservation professionals in

celebration of this inscription.

Our travel week ended on October 14th in Chillicothe, OH with the long long-awaited, monumental event: Commemoration of the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks inscription as Ohio’s

first UNESCO World Heritage Site and the United States 25th World Heritage Site! The collection of eight indigenous sites showcases a brilliance, sophistication and intelligence of our ancient ancestors in the Ohio River Valley in the realms of mathematics, astronomy, engineering,

architecture and ceremony.

We felt honored to be present during all the week’s events, meetings, receptions and ceremonies. It was an especially great honor for Mr. Scott Miller of our Language Program to be asked

to give opening prayers at the Tribal Nations Conference and the Earthworks Commemoration. It was wonderful to hear our Shawnee language spoken at these Ohio functions.

consider in our own policies.

Language

The Absentee Shawnee Language Program has been working on ways for Absentee Shawnee

tribal members to access language materials. We have uploaded 17 pre-recorded lessons on the

tribal member login page of the Tribe’s website, worked with both the CCDF youth and Camp

Ne ko te youth this past summer, and provided Shawnee words for the new Afterschool Center

to name a few of our projects. Although these may seem like simple tasks, it takes some time

to research pronunciations and now spelling words in the Shawnee alphabet.

We have now embarked on a new project to use technology to help hear how words are pronounced along with seeing them written. As you may have noticed in last month’s newsletter,

the Shawnee Word List came with a QR Code. The QR Code can be scanned with a smartphone

and the content on the page is spoken in our Shawnee language. This should help everyone

whether you are beginning to learn to speak Shawnee or need a refresher. However, we do understand that the pronunciation of words may slightly differ from family to family, but the idea

is to hear the words as a guide to speak Shawnee.

Since the beginning of 2023, the Language program has been conducting surveys which are

available on the website. To date, we have received 102 responses. Of the different measurable

responses, it has been concluded that a vast majority of respondents do not speak any level of

Shawnee, which is alarming. To put this into a greater perspective, we have created a depiction

of a Shawnee person and colored him according to the amount of Shawnee spoken for the indicated time periods. It is the very harsh reality we all are facing today.

There is no singular reason for the decline of our language. Our best resource for learning

Shawnee is to talk with elders and family members who are still able to speak Shawnee.

The Absentee Shawnee Language Program is a resource for tribal members to access language materials and assist in learning the Shawnee language. Our material may not be perfect,

but we try our best to create something for all to learn. We can provide language materials,

audio, and classes, but tribal members must take up the initiative to learn to speak Shawnee to

keep our language alive.

Without language there is no culture, without culture there is no tribe.

For general language questions and information, please contact the department by phone or

email at ASTLanguage@astribe.com.

Your concerns are important to us. Ne yi wa for the continued support of our department as

we continue to make changes to our programs to better serve the Tribal community. Please feel

free to contact me, Carol Butler, at 405-275-4030 ext. 3525 or cbutler@astribe.com if you have

any questions or concerns.

Pa po ne ke s’fwa

Winter Month (December)

For this month’s word list, we will review phrases from previous months and place a QR Code to scan

with a smartphone for the audio. The QR Code is a tool to heard the words and phrases so

AST Library Newsletter

Welcome to the December 2023 edition of our library newsletter!

Te ka m’fi ge mo ti ke yi

Don’t brag about yourself.

Te ka ki k’yi wa

Don’t be jealous.

Te ka wi wi ne ge lo s’ko ta

Don’t play with fire.

P’sa k’fe ke ni to na h’wi pa

Let’s go deer hunting.

Hi la me wa pe

It’s turning cold.

We si ko ne

It’s going to snow

First, I want to express my thanks to all our patrons & tribal members who have visited the

library either in person or virtually. I am hopeful to grow our library collection and programs.

There are currently over 74,000 eBooks and audio books available with the Libby app. We

encourage you to check out our websites.

The holiday break is a great opportunity to create memories and continue family traditions.

These children's books offer a unique and diverse perspective on the holiday season,

highlighting the traditions and stories from Native American cultures. "A Coyote Solstice

Tale" and "Coyote Christmas: A Lakota Story" feature the mischievous and clever Coyote

character, while "Native American Night Before Christmas" puts a cultural spin on the classic

Christmas tale. "The Christmas Coat: Memories of My Sioux Childhood" is a heartwarming

story about a young girl's generosity and kindness during the holiday season, and "Circle of

Wonder: A Native American Christmas Story" follows a young boy that is drawn by the spirit

of his beloved grandfather to a bonfire in the mountains, where he shares a "circle of wonder

and good will" with an elk, a wolf and an eagle. These books are not only great for children to

read or watch on YouTube but also serve as educational resources for learning about Native

American traditions and cultures.

These books are available either on YouTube, Amazon or your favorite bookstore.

Ke fe qi lo

Wash your face.

Ho wa ne ta p’po lo

I’m full.

Gi ke we ya fi we ki to wi mi le ma ta la me wa ti ho wa se li si mi mo wa

We all need to pray for blessings.

Hi ke si wi nwi to wa?

Do you speak Shawnee?

Ne mi ta si wi nwi to wa

I want to speak Shawnee.

Ka we yi ki me li we pa hi se si wi nwi to wa yi qa!

Let’s get serious to speak Shawnee!

Book: "A Coyote Solstice Tale", ages 5-8

Book: "Coyote Christmas: A Lakota Story", ages 6-9

Book: "Native American Night Before Christmas", ages 3-5, available in the AST

Library & OK virtual library.

Book: "The Christmas Coat: Memories of My Sioux Childhood", ages 5-8

Book: "Circle of Wonder: A Native American Christmas Story", ages 9-12, available

in the AST Library.

May you be blessed with Joy, Love & Peace this Holiday Season!

You can now apply for a AST Library card online!

https://form.jotform.com/230804193039150

https://libbyapp.com/library/okvirtuallibrary

https://www.librarycat.org/lib/ASTribe

December 2023

www.astribe.com

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma

Building Blocks III C.d.C

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

It’s the holiday season and that means Building Blocks has been busy.

We had ‘Community Involvement’ on October 18th with Shawnee Fire

Trucks and CPN Police Vehicles at Building Blocks. The children loved

getting to see in the vehicles & talk to the fire and police people.

Then on October 31st the tribal departments came to our center and

passed out Halloween goodies to our children. We give a BIG THANK

YOU to all who came to the center that morning.

16051 Little Axe dr. Norman, OK 73026

Phone: (405) 360-2710 Fax: (405) 360-2726

newsletter

In the center

“Maybe Christmas doesn’t come from a store.

Maybe Christmas…perhaps…means a little bit

more!” — The Grinch.

Christmas season is finally here and its the

best time of the year! *Cue Mariah Carey

Christmas Anthem*

Last month we soaked up the last little bits of

warmth and sunshine throughout the day, had

a delicious Thanksgiving lunch provided by

the wonderful Ms. Donna and Ms. Denica,

said “Welcome Back” to Ms. Cheri, and took

our Christmas Pictures!

in the classroom

In December our kids are learning

about a variety of different

subjects. Infants are learning about

Maurice Sendak, Healthy Bodies,

Celebrations around the World, and

Nursery Rhymes! Our Toddlers and

2's are learning about the Winter

Season and our 3's class is learning

about Buildings!

Mark your calendars! Pioneer Library

Systems will be sending out their

librarian to visit with the center on

December 8th!

So many exciting things this month.

Please enjoy our pictures on the

next page!

reminders

Mrs. Donna

and Mrs. De

nica

preparing Th

anksgiving lun

Our staff and children love to do arts and crafts for the holidays. The

teachers enjoy displaying the children’s art and doing themed bulletin

boards. Many activities were done for Thanksgiving. Also, the center

is preparing for Christmas, with lots of art projects and gifts for

parents. We will have Christmas Parties in our classrooms on

Thursday, December 21st at 3p.m.

We are currently hiring staff, if you are interested in applying visit

https://www.astribe.com/employment for applications and to see

what positions are available.

Building Blocks is accepting waiting list applications for all of our ages;

6 weeks through Pre-K/4 Year Olds. If you are interested in getting

your child on our waiting list please call and we can email you a

waiting list application or you may stop by to fill one out.

Building Blocks will be closed on December 22nd and 25th.

We hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday season.

Nov. 29th- Christmas Pictures

Dec. 5th- Happy Birthday, Ms. Cheri!

Dec. 17th- Happy Birthday, Ms. Joselyn

Dec. 22nd- Closed

Dec. 25th- Closed; MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Dec. 30th- Happy Birthday, Ms. Skye!

December 2023

6A www.astribe.com

AST Elders Council President Twila

Parker presents AST ICW Director

Shawnee Martinez a check from

the Elders Council in the amount of

$1000.00 for ICW for Christmas.

Elders Council Thanksgiving Lunch

AST Veterans Association Thanksgiving Dinner

December 2023

www.astribe.com

Jiliyan – Happy Birthday to my

beautiful baby daughter! Stay

true to yourself & don’t settle for

anything less.

Momma loves her girl!

Happy Birthday

Dad & Anthony!!

Love,

Cherokee/Mommy

Jiliyan – Have a Happy Birthday

sister! Hope it’s a great one!

Love your brothers, Joplin & Justin

Jiliyan - Hope your birthday is a

most beautiful one! Just like you!

Love, Aunt Bee

Congratulations

Tribal Member Hollis Breeding recently signed his Letter Of Intent to

attend Mid-America Nazarene University in Kansas where he earned

a baseball scholarship. He is currently a Senior at Norman High and

starts for the varsity baseball team.

Kiera Leighann Herrod Named

Miss Native American OKCPS 2023-2024

Kiera Leighann Herrod is the daughter of Thomas Herrod and Jordan Spoon, granddaughter of Eric

Spoon and Lafonda Johnson and of the late Randall Dean Herrod and Paula Herrod. Kiera is in the 7th

grade at Rodgers Middle School, where she is an A-B student. She enjoys baking, playing the tenor saxophone in her school marching band and spending time with her brothers Lucas and Titan. Kiera is an

enrolled member of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe and is of the Mvskogee Creek, and Citizien Potawatomi

Nation Tribes as well.

Congratulations

LEGAL NOTICE

December 2023

8A www.astribe.com

P H O N E D I R E C T O RY - D I R E C T N U M B E R S

O F F I C E O F T H E T R I B A L S EC R E TA RY

2025 S. GORDON COOPER DRIVE, SHAWNEE, OK 74801 • PHONE: 405.275.4030 • EMAIL: SECRETARY@ASTRIBE.COM • WEB: WWW.ASTRIBE.COM

AST Complex – (405) 275-4030

Toll Free - 800-256-3341

All Nations Bank…………………………………………(405) 273-0202

Brendle Corner…......……………………………………(405) 447-3372

Building Blocks….........…………………………………(405) 878-0633

Building Blocks III LA….....……………………………(405) 360-2710

Court………………………......…………………………(405) 481-8575

Domestic Violence…………….....………………………(405) 273-2888

Enrollment……………………….....……………………(405) 481-8650

Food Pantry………………………...……………………(405) 481-8640

Gaming Commission………………....…………(405) 360-9270 x1110

Housing Authority………………………………………(405) 275-1050

Human Resources……………………….....……………(405) 275-1468

ICW………………………………………………………(405) 395-4490

Media………………………….…………………………(405) 598-1279

OEH/OEP…………………….…………….…….………(405) 214-4235

Police…………………………………………(405) 275-3200/275-3432

Social Services…………….…………………….…….…(405) 878-4723

Tax Commission…….……………….……………….…(405) 481-8600

Thunderbird Casino Norman…….……….……………(405) 360-9270

Thunderbird Casino Shawnee…………….….…………(405) 273-2679

Tribal Store Little Axe……………………………………(405) 364-0668

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe will be closed

Monday, December 25 - Christmas

Wishing You and Your Family the Peace

of the Season.

DECEMBER 16th, 2023

CONCHO ERC, CONCHO, OK

Gourd Dance @2p Supper Break @5p Dance to Follow

From our family to yours we wish you a very Merry Christmas!

We are ready to help you with all your financial needs.

Call or come in and see us.

HEAD STAFF

MC: Burl Buffalomeat

HS: Roger Davis

HMD: Bobby James

HLD: TheresaLynn Kiley

HBD: Kurt Blackwolf

HLG: Leona Goodblanket

Honored Elder: Merle Big Medicine Lopez

Honored Veteran: Jesse Hamilton

Co-Host: StarHawk Society and Women’s

Auxiliary

AD: Marshal Williamson

TINY TOT CONTEST (ages 0-6)

BOYS WINNER TAKE ALL

GIRLS WINNER TAKE ALL

$50+Scooter

$50+ Scooter

2 Consolations

2023 Gordon Cooper Dr. • Shawnee, OK 74801 • (405) 273-0202

www.anbok.com

For More Information, Please Contact Shelby White Thunder via Facebook Messenger

or Sandra White Thunder 405-287-9222

Sponsors are NOT responsible for ANY thefts or accidents. DRUGS AND ALCOHOL ARE

ABSOLUTELY PROHIBITED!

www.asthealth.org

December 2023

Section B

ASTHS December 2023 Monthly Update

American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/ANs) are at Higher Risk ofDeveloping Serious Complications from Flu

The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses. Flu vaccines help to reduce the burden of

flu illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths on the health care system each year. This season, all flu vaccines will be designed to protect against the four flu viruses

that research indicates will be most common. Everyone 6 months and older should get an annual flu vaccine, ideally by the end of October. Vaccination of

people at higher risk of developing serious flu complications is especially important to decrease their risk of severe flu illness.

Flu is a Leading Cause of Pneumonia

Flu and pneumonia rank among the top 10 causes of death for American Indians and Alaska Natives. American Indians and Alaska Natives are more likely to die from pneumonia and

flu than are US residents of other races.

Across the U.S., Flu Causes Hundreds of Thousands of Hospitalizations Each Season

American Indians and Alaska Natives are at higher risk than others for:

•

Pneumonia and bronchitis

Hospitalization

Death

Flu poses an even greater risk to American Indians and Alaska Natives who:

•

are young children or elders

are pregnant women

have diabetes, severe obesity, heart disease, or asthma and other lung problems

Flu symptoms can include:

• Fever*

• Cough

• Muscle or body aches

• Fatigue (feeling very tired)

• Chills

• Sore throat

• Headache

• Runny or stuffy nose

* Not everyone with flu will have a fever

Benefits of Flu Vaccination

The Native American Caregiver Support Program provides assistance to non-paid family members caring for elders (55 and older) and to grandparents raising grandchildren such as:

•

Flu vaccination reduces your risk of getting sick, being hospitalized, or dying from flu.

Flu vaccination can reduce the risk of having a heart attack in people who have heart disease.

In people who have diabetes, flu vaccination can reduce the risk of being hospitalized with flu or from their diabetes.

Flu vaccination has been shown in some studies to reduce severity of illness in people who get vaccinated but still get sick.

Getting vaccinated yourself may also protect people around you, including those who are more vulnerable to serious flu illness, like babies and young children, elders, and

people with certain chronic health conditions.

Take 3 Steps to Fight Flu

Get yourself and your family a flu vaccine each year before flu activity begins in your community. Getting vaccinated this season may be more important than ever if there is both

flu and COVID-19 activity at the same time.

Take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs.

• Wash your hands often

• Cover your coughs and sneezes

• Stay home if you are sick

Take flu antiviral medicine if prescribed.

• Antiviral drugs are different from antibiotics. They are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaled powder) and are not available over-the-counter.

Does Flu Vaccine Work Right Away?

No. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against influenza virus infection. That’s why it’s best to get vaccinated before

influenza viruses start to spread in your community.

Get a Flu Vaccine At:

•

Indian Health Service, tribal, or urban health clinics and doctor’s offices

Pharmacies or grocery stores

Local health department

If you have not received your flu vaccine for this year, contact your primary care provider and set up an appointment for a visit.

Wash Your Hands

December 3-9 is also National Hand Washing Awareness Week, so now is also the time to help stop the spread of the flu virus. Think of yourself as a human petri-dish that grows all kinds

of icky bacteria and is the warm and cozy home for all kinds of viruses. Washing your hands regularly can prevent many flus, flu-like illnesses, common colds, conjunctivitis, pharyngitis,

tonsillitis, bronchitis, bronchiolitis, pneumonia, Coxsackie viruses, Streptococcus, Pneumococcus, TB and more from growing, spreading or from entering your body.

Hot Tips for Building Resiliency and Celebrating Hand Washing Awareness Week

Wash your hands when they are dirty and BEFORE eating.

“Good” hand washing techniques include using an adequate amount of soap, rubbing the hands together to create friction and lift the germs from the skin, and rinsing under

running water. Hands should be washed for a minimum of 15 seconds.

Wash your hands after using the washroom (includes changing diapers), after blowing your nose, after touching raw meat, poultry, or fish, after handling garbage, visiting or

caring for sick people, and after handling pets, animals or animal waste.

DO NOT cough into your hands, use a tissue if possible.

DO NOT sneeze into your hands, use a tissue if possible

Above all, DO NOT put your fingers into your eyes, nose or mouth. These are the only portal of entry into the human body for respiratory infections and washing can reduce

your risk significantly

Protect yourself. Protect your community.

Get vaccinated. Protect the circle of life.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

Little Axe Health Clinic

•

The construction trailers are now gone and the front drive has been asphalted.

All of the exterior framing for the Pharmacy expansion has been completed and the “tie-in” to the main clinic has been completed. Curbs are currently being poured. The expected completion date (ECD) is January.

The ribbon cutting for the new Primary Care, Dental and Behavioral Health was held on Nov 2nd! Front entry to Primary Care to be completed in December.

PlusCare and Specialty will relocate to what is now Primary Care in Feb/Mar 2024.

Substantial completion/occupancy of the Little Axe Expansion is expected for April 2024!

November 2023 Health Employee Awards of the Month

Employee of the Month: Sarah Lawerance, Lead Fitness Specialist

Team of the Month: Health Promotions/ Diabetes and Wellness

Special Leadership Award: Laurie Webber, PRC Specialist/ LPN

Chris A. Larkin, MBA, FACHE, CHC

Executive Director

December 2023

2B www.astribe.com

Little Axe Health Center Opens New Primary Care Area

Absentee Shawnee Diabetes and Wellness Program

Staying Healthy & Feeling Strong During The Winter Holidays

December is usually a time of the year where most people feel it’s justifiable for the

abundance of over-eating and a lack of exercise. We want to encourage you to start

this new year on the right foot. Based on studies, the majority of people tend to gain

extra additional weight during the holiday season. Excessive eating is claimed to be the

main cause for weight gain, but it is also due to lack of physical activity and exercise.

It is very important to have fun and enjoy the holiday season, but you also want to

stay healthy at the same time. Try not to wait until next year to put your health and

happiness first, make goals and a game plan now! Here are some useful tips that may

help you stay focused for a better healthier you:

1. Eat Before Eating Out— It is best to eat before going out due to overindulging.

2. Select Treats— Try to make a plan to select treats that you eat in a wise manner.

3. Avoid Skipping Meals— Don’t skip meals especially breakfast. Not eating will

only make it where you eat more and choose poor choices later in the day. Skipping

meals may lead to counterproductive results.

4. Drink A Lot of Water— This can curb your appetite as well as keep you hydrated

at all times.

5. Shop Well for Yourself— It is very important to stock up your kitchen with

healthy food and snacks. The more convenient they are the more likely you will

eat them. Instead of thinking what you shouldn’t eat, promise to eat at least 3 to 5

servings of veggies per day.

6. Eat Less More Often— Instead of having 2 enormous meals, have 5 small ones.

Eat dinner early and have a nice walk afterwards.

7. Set Realistic Goals— Aim for at least 30 minutes per day and try new activities so

you can find something you really enjoy. Be aware that if you plan for more the 30

minutes of activities you could burn out and it may lead to disappointment.

8. Prioritize Your Workout— Try to exercise early in the morning while everyone

else is still asleep so there are no distractions or even after work so it helps you

clear your head of holiday stress before engaging with your family.

Absentee Shawnee Tribal (AST) Health System’s Little Axe Health Center opened

a new primary care area on Thursday, November 2nd following a ribbon cutting

ceremony hosted by Health Executive Director Chris Larkin.

“Reaching a milestone like this can only be achieved through incredible teamwork.

I am honored to work alongside those whom I consider the best in the business,” Mr.

Larkin said.

AST Executive Committee members, along with Health Board Member Max

Tahsuda, participated in opening the new primary care area and received a detailed

walkthrough along with attending tribal elders.

The newly-constructed area contains 36 exam rooms divided into three pods,

including three minor procedure rooms and an isolation wing with two exam rooms.

Each pod contains one specialized medical practice area: internal medicine, pediatrics,

and family medicine.

The health system’s staff worked tirelessly to move equipment and supplies from the

department’s initial southern location to the new eastern section beside the behavioral

health department.

These tips will hopefully help with avoiding weight gain during the winter holidays,

As part of the ongoing expansion project, a new entryway to the new primary care

but will also allow you to enjoy yourself and have a great time with family and friends.

area will be opened as soon as its construction is completed in December 2023.

Happy Holidays!

PACT ACT & VIETNAM, COLD WAR ERA VETERANS

VIETNAM

The PACT Act, signed into law August 10, 2022, expands

health care and benefits for Vietnam era Veterans.

PACT Act Health Care Eligibility

Veterans who served in these countries during specific

time periods are eligible to enroll in VA health care

effective August 10, 2022.

Republic of Vietnam

January 9, 1962 - May 7, 1975

Thailand

Any U.S. or Royal Thai base

January 9, 1962 - June 30, 1976

Guam or American Samoa

(or in their territorial waters)

January 9, 1962 - July 31, 1980

Laos

December 1, 1965 September 30, 1969

Cambodia

at Mimot or Krek,

Kampong Cham Province

April 16, 1969 - April 30, 1969

Johnston Atoll

(or on a ship that called there)

January 1, 1972 - September 30, 1977

The law expands health care and benefits for

Veterans who participated in certain nuclear

response or cleanup activities:

Enewetak Atoll

January 1, 1977 December 31, 1980

Palomares, Spain

January 17, 1966 March 31, 1967

Thule, Greenland

January 21, 1968 September 25, 1968

Toxic Exposure Screenings

As a general matter, there are several types of

possible exposures or hazards Veterans may

have experienced during their military

service, including:

Air Pollutants

Chemicals

Radiation

Warfare Agents

Occupational

Hazards

ON NOVEMBER 8, 2022: VA will begin incorporating toxic

WERE YOU EXPOSED TO

BURN PITS, HERBICIDES,

OR OTHER TOXINS

WHILE IN THE

MILITARY?

PACT Act Benefits

The PACT Acts adds two new

Agent Orange presumptive conditions:

Monoclonal gammopathy of

undetermined significance (MGUS)

High blood pressure (hypertension)

4 EASY WAYS TO GET STARTED WITH CLAIMS

Apply online at

VA.gov/health-care/apply/

application/introduction

Call the toll-free hotline

877-222-8387 Mon – Fri,

8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. ET

Learn more at

VA.gov/disability/

how-to-file-claim/

Visit a VBA Regional Office

VA.gov/benefits/

offices.asp

Mail a completed, signed

Application for Health Benefits

VA Form 10-10EZ

Bring a completed, signed VA

Form 10-10EZ to the nearest VA

Medical Center or clinic.

Call the Benefits hotline

(for specific questions)

at 1-800-827-1000

Work with an accredited VSO

VA.gov/ogc/apps/

accreditation/index.asp

U.S. Department

of Veterans Affairs

POST - 9/11

exposure screenings. Every Veteran enrolled for VA health care will

receive an initial toxic exposure screening and a follow-up screening

at least every five years. Eligible Veterans who have not enrolled will

have an opportunity to enroll and receive the screening.

Family members or dependents of a deceased Veteran may qualify for various VA benefits due to the additional disabilities defined in the

PACT Act if they meet eligibility requirements. More information for survivors is available online at VA.gov/PACT.

4 EASY WAYS TO APPLY FOR VA HEALTH CARE

GULF WAR

Learn more and sign up at VA.gov/PACT

Download the VA Health and Benefits App

Call us at 1-800-MyVA411 (1-800-698-2411)

Find a VA at VA.gov/find-locations/

You may be eligible

for VA health care

and compensation.

Learn more at VA.gov/PACT

Have questions?

Call 1-800-MyVA411

(1-800-698-2411)

December 2023

www.astribe.com

DECEMBER 2023

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SALIBURY STEAK

MASHED POT/GRAVY

BRUSSEL SPROUTS

MIXED FRUIT

BBQ CHICKEN

POT. SALAD

ROLL/MANDARIN

ORANGES

EGG ROLL

STIR FRY VEGGIES

RICE

PINEAPPLES

MERRY

CHRISTMAS

HAM

YAM PATTY

GREEN BEANS

ROLL/CRISP

SOFT TACO

LTCO

REFRIED BEANS

SALSA/FLUFF

BAKED CHICKEN

WILD RICE

VEGGIES

PEARS

DECEMBER 20

23VI CLOSED FOR

TITLE

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL

CLEANING

CHICKEN FAJITAS

BELL PEPPERS &

ONIONS

TORTILLA/FRUIT

GRILLED CHEZ

SANDWICH

VEGGIE SOUP

CHILI W/BEANS

CRACKERS

CARROTS

PEACHES

TITLE VI CLOSED FOR

CLEANING

DECEMBER 7, PEARL HARBOR REMEMBERANCE DAY*MENU SUBJECT TO CHANGE*

PEARL HARBOR- DECEMBER 7, 1941

LUNCH SERVED MONDAY – THURSDAY 11 AM TO 1 PM SHAWNEE SITE

LUNCH SERVED MONDAY – THURSDAY 12 PM TO 12:30 PM AT BRENDLE CORNER

A DATE WHICH WILL LIVE IN INFAMY NO MATTER HOW LONG IT MAY TAKE

US TO OVERCOME THIS PREMEDITATED INVASION, THE AMERICAN PEOPLE

BREAKFAST SERVED FRIDAYS 9 AM TO 11 AM SHAWNEE SITE

IN THEIR RIGHTEOUS MIGHT, WILL WIN THROUGH TO ABSOLUTE VICTORY!

BREAKFAST SERVED FRIDAYS 10 AM TO 10:30 AM AT BRENDLE CORNER

PEARL

HARBOR

REMEMBERANCE DAY

CABBAGE STEW

CRACKERS

CAKE

BEANS w/HAM

TURNIP GREENS

CORNBREAD

BOILED EGG

TOAST

SAUSAGE PATTIES

TITLE VI CLOSED FOR

CLEANING

OATMEAL

SAUSAGE PATTIES

MUFFIN

SCRAMBLED EGGS

SAUSAGE GRAVY

BISCUIT

SCRAMBLED EGGS

BACON

TOAST

TITLE VI CLOSED

TITLE VI CLOSED FOR

CLEANING

DECEMBER 2023

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL

DECEMBER 7, PEARL HARBOR REMEMBERANCE DAYPEARL HARBOR- DECEMBER 7, 1941

A DATE WHICH WILL LIVE IN INFAMY NO MATTER HOW LONG IT MAY TAKE

US TO OVERCOME THIS PREMEDITATED INVASION, THE AMERICAN PEOPLE

IN THEIR RIGHTEOUS MIGHT, WILL WIN THROUGH TO ABSOLUTE VICTORY!

DECEMBER 21, WE WILL HAVE BREAKFAST

OR SERVED

DECEMBER 22 – DECEMBER 29 – TITLE VI WILL BE CLOSED FOR CLEANING. NO MEALS WILL BE DELIVERED

DECEMBER

21, WE WILL HAVE BREAKFAST

HOMEBOUND WILL GET A 5-DAY MEAL BOX ON DECEMBER 21.

DECEMBER 22 – DECEMBER 29 – TITLE VI WILL BE CLOSED FOR CLEANING. NO MEALS WILL BE DE

ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS, FEEL FREE TO CALL US AT 405-716-6315

HOMEBOUND WILL GET A 5-DAY MEAL BOX ON DECEMBER 21.

DECEMER 25, MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!! FROM THE TITLE VI STAFF

ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS, FEEL FREE TO CALL US AT 405-716-6315

DECEMER 25, MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!! FROM THE TITLE VI STAFF

HEALTH BUZZ!!

Merry Christmas and Happiest of Holidays! I hope this finds everyone happy, healthy, and safe. My wish is that you have been able to spend

time with family and friends.

Our last event for the year was held on Saturday, November 4, 2023, where we served lunch, provided dementia education, and played bingo

with about 90 attendees. There were some wonderful prizes including a 50” TV, gift cards, food boxes with turkeys, and a FitBit. A huge thank

you to our amazing volunteers: Jason Bender, who did an incredible job calling our bingo games, Lisa Harrington, Joseph Holtzclaw, Sarah

Lawerance, and Shea Warden of the ASTHS Diabetes & Wellness department, Twila Parker, President of the AST Elder Council, and Shirley

Atkins, Rita Robertson, Charlotte Ellis, and Billie James. Our volunteers are the best and ensure our events are successful!

If you were able to join us, were you aware that you were doing something good for your health? Yes, bingo is actually good for you! We

provide bingo at events because we want you to have a good time and win a great prize, but we also know that bingo has cognitive, physical,

and emotional benefits!

First, a little history on this beloved game - bingo was popularized in the United States after a

traveling salesman from New York spotted a carnival as he passed through Georgia. He noticed

people playing a game using hand-stamped boards and beans. He learned that the game was

called “Beano,” and that the game derived from a lotto game played in Europe. On his return to

New York, he experimented with numerical combinations on the beano boards and invited his

friends to test out the game. As the story goes, one of his guests mistakenly called out “bingo”

instead of “beano” after a winning combination of numbers and the new name stuck.

I mentioned earlier that bingo is good for you - but how exactly?

Loneliness is not good for anyone’s wellbeing. Maintaining social connections through activities such as bingo helps reduce stress

levels, depression, and anxiety. It provides the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends and gives us a sense of belonging.

Playing bingo helps sharpen our cognitive functioning. It’s good exercise for the brain to listen for the numbers called out and to try

to quickly locate them on the board. Bingo is great for reinforcing skills such as concentration and short-term memory, which tend to

decline with age.

And as we age, we lose some of our coordination skills. Bingo requires players to use their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills

when dabbing numbers or placing markers on their bingo cards. Maintaining and improving these skills can be crucial for older adults,

as it allows them to maintain their independence and perform daily tasks

Stay warm. Stay safe. Stay engaged with those around you. We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

If you or someone you know would benefit from Savvy Caregiver in Indian Country, please email me, Gayla Temple, at gtemple@astribe.com

or adpi@astribe.com, or call 405.827.8216 or 405.561.7870. You can also visit the Seeking Hope webpage. Go to the AST Health System’s

website, asthealth.org, click on “Programs and Prevention”, and click on “Seeking Hope”.

Warmest regards,

Gayla Temple

Dementia Care Specialist

Alzheimer’s Disease Program Initiative

4B www.astribe.com

LITTLE AXE HEALTH CENTER ..................................................... 405-447-0300

Administration

AST

HEALTH SYSTEM DIRECTORY

Business Office

Little Axe Dental

Health Information Management

LITTLE AXE HEALTH CENTER ..................................................... 405-447-0300

Lab/X.Ray

Administration

Optometry

Business Office

Patient

Benefit

Advocates

Little Axe

Dental

Primary

Care

Health Information Management

Public

Health

Lab/X.Ray

Security

Optometry

Electronic

Health

Record

Patient Benefit

Advocates

Physical

Therapy

Primary Care

Behavioral

Health .................................................................................. 405-701-7987

Public Health

Little

Axe Purchased Referred Care ........................................................ 405-701-7951

Security

Diabetes

Wellness

...............................................................................405-701-7977

Electronic&Health

Record

Pharmacy

...............................................................................................405-292-9530

Physical Therapy

CompleteCare

Home

Health...................................................................405-701-7987

405-701-7085

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

Behavioral

Health

Transportation

........................................................................................405-701-7603

Little Axe Purchased Referred Care ........................................................ 405-701-7951

Diabetes & Wellness ...............................................................................405-701-7977

SHAWNEE

CLINIC ............................405-878-5850 OR 877-878-4702 TOLL FREE

Pharmacy ...............................................................................................405-292-9530

Administration

CompleteCare Home Health................................................................... 405-701-7085

Business

Office........................................................................................405-701-7603

Transportation

Health Information Management

Lab/X-Ray

SHAWNEE CLINIC ............................405-878-5850 OR 877-878-4702 TOLL FREE

Patient

Benefit Advocates

Administration

Contract

Health

Business Office

Physical

Therapy Management

Health Information

Primary

Care

Lab/X-Ray

Public

PatientHealth

Benefit Advocates

Behavioral

Health ................................................................................... 405-878-4716

Contract Health

Diabetes

Wellness ...............................................................................405-701-7977

Physical Therapy

Pharmacy

........................................................ 405-878-5859 OR 866-742-4977TOLL FREE

Primary

Care

Transportation

Public Health ........................................................................................405-701-7603

AST HEALTH SYSTEM DIRECTORY

Behavioral Health ................................................................................... 405-878-4716

Diabetes & Wellness ...............................................................................405-701-7977

Pharmacy ........................................................ 405-878-5859 OR 866-742-4977TOLL FREE

GENERAL

Transportation........................................................................................405-701-7603

AST Resource Center..............................................................................405-364-7298

Corporate

Compliance Hotline............................................................... 405-701-7135

PLUSCARE ............................................................................................... 405-447-0477

Patient Advocate .................................................................................... 405-701-7623

AST Tribal Complex ...............................................................................405-275-4030

GENERAL

AST

Police

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

405-275-3200

AST Tribal

Resource

Center

..............................................................................405-364-7298

AST

Housing

..........................................................................................405-273-1050

Corporate Compliance Hotline............................................................... 405-701-7135

COVIDAdvocate

Hotline ........................................................................................405-695-1787

Patient

.................................................................................... 405-701-7623

AST Tribal Complex ...............................................................................405-275-4030

AST Tribal Police .................................................................................... 405-275-3200

AST Housing ..........................................................................................405-273-1050

Worried about losing your

SoonerCare

Coverage?

COVID

Hotline ........................................................................................405-695-1787

PLUSCARE ............................................................................................... 405-447-0477

Two ways to renew

UPDATE YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION

CHECK YOUR MAIL

Update your contact information

ie: mailing address, email and

phone number.

Take action quickly to avoid any

disruption in your coverage.

r Tribe

Online at

mysoonercare.org

Respond to the

request for

information

Contact a Patient

Benefit Advocate

Bring the letter to

a Patient Benefit

Advocate

U OR YOUR TRIBE

FOR THOSE WHO NO LONGER QUALIFY FOR

y signing up for

a zero

cost plan,

SOONERCARE

COVERAGE

ou allow

I f y o u n othe

l o n g e r q utribe

a l i f y f o r S o o nto

e r C a r ebill

y o u c o u lfor

d r e c e i v eservices

health insurance

he tribe.

nd to be reimbursed by insurance

ompanies.

This

frees

Our contracted

benefits

advisor up

Little Axe

Health Center: dollars

405-447-0300

with

Legacy

Tribal

Services

help those who are not eligible for

assist in the

Shawnee

Clinic: 405-878-5850

zero available

cost to

plan

helping

Purchase

enrollment

process.

eferred Care dollars go further.

Just give us a call!

www.asthealth.org

Help Yourself

Help Your Tribe

SEE IF YOU QUALIFY FOR A PLAN AT NO COST TO YOU OR THE TRIBE

Help Yourself

Help Your Tribe

SEE IF YOU QUALIFY FOR A PLAN AT NO COST TO YOU OR THE TRIBE

You

Know?

02IF

4 YOU

OpeQUALIFY

n EnroFOR

llmeAnPLAN

SEE

AT NODid

COST

TO YOU

OR THE TRIBE

Open

Enrollment

Medicare2023

: Oct 1

5 - Dec

7, 2023

Medicare:

Oct

- Dec

Marketplace: Nov 1 - Jan

157,, 2022

2024

• When you participate in enrolling

Did You Know?

in insurance plans, it provides

• 60% of the cost to render care

to tribal members comes from

other payment sources outside

of tribal funding?

you with immediate access to

specialized health care services?

Nov 1 - Jan 15, 2023

Did You Know?

2023Marketplace:

Open Enrollment

• If you qualify for and enroll in a

Medicare: Oct 15 - Dec 7, 2022

Marketplace: Nov 1 - Jan 15, 2023

zero-cost plan, it helps

PRC apply funding and deliver

care to more people?

www.asthealth.org

December 2023

This is a copy of a public record, reproduced as it was published. It is not legal advice, and it may not be the version a court would rely on. Check the official source before you cite it.