OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA (2020)

OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA

LI-SI-WI-NWI “AMONG THE SHAWNEE”

WWW.ASTRIBE.COM

October 2020

Vol. 31, NO. 10

COVID-19 Relief Fund Programs Approved

***NOTICES***

MASK DISTRIBUTION

The AST Office of

Emergency Management

still has masks available

for tribal members. They

can either be picked up

at the checkpoint

Monday – Friday

8 am – 4:30 pm or they

can call Assistant

Emergency Manager

Levi Walker at

275-4030 extension 6268

to request masks to be

mailed to you.

Chad Larman

Emergency Manager

AST Health System

now is providing a 24/7

AST Health System

24 Hour LIVE

CORONAVIRUS

(COVID19)

Information Number:

(4025) 695-1787

COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program:

The COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program is designed to

help alleviate the risk of energy utility service disconnection

(i.e. electricity, gas, propane or heating oil/wood).

Details and the application can be found at: COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program

https://www.astribe.com/covid-19-energy-assistance-program

86th

Semi -Annual

General Council Meeting

October 31st

NOTICE

NOTICE

Effective 9/1/2020

Schedule Change

COVID-19 Drive-thru testi

ng available on Tuesdays from 5:30 pm-7:30 pm

Drive-Thru

ANTIBODY testing available on Thursdays from 4:30 pm-6:30 pm

COVID19 &

Testing

COVID-19Antibody

Drive-thru testing available on Wednesdays from 5:30

pm-7:30

Bring proper

identification

Remain in your vehicle

Wear a mask

pm

On behalf of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma,

the Executive Committee has established the following

COVID-19 Relief Funds Programs. The Executive Committee understands the impact this pandemic has had on our

AST community and wants nothing more than to help serve

our people. With this being said, the following programs have

been opened on 9/28/2020:

Little Axe Health Center

blood drawn

405.447.0300Thosewil notnotbebeiallonwedg testedentry

Be prepared to have

into the clinic

COVID-19 Drive-thru testing

available on 1st & 3rd Tuesdays

Testing is available to

anyone ages 10 and older

from 5:30 pm-7:30 pm

ANTIBODY testing available on

1st & 3rd Thursdays from

4:30 pm-6:30 pm

Shawnee Clinic

405.878.5850

COVID-19 Drive-thru testing

available on 2nd & 4th Wednesdays

from 5:30 pm-7:30 pm

Testing is open to public.

Fore testing inquiries, please call:

405.695.1787

Remain in your vehicle.

Bring proper identification.

For Antibody Testing...

Wear a mask

Be prepared to have blood drawn.

Those not being tested will not be

allowed entry into the clinic

Testing is available to anyone ages 10

and older.

COVID-19 Energy Assistance Application Submission

Options: NO FAXES

By AST website electronic application Electronic Form:

COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program

By mail to AST Enrollment Department, 2025 S. Gordon

Cooper Dr., Shawnee, OK 74801

Downloadable Form: COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program PDF

By appointment with AST Enrollment Department

By email to energyassistance@astribe.com

Qualification Requirement:

COVID-19 Energy Assistance Eligibility:

Must be an enrolled member of the Absentee Shawnee

Tribe of Oklahoma on or before June 1st, 2020

Must be 18 years of age or older

Must have a copy of AST tribal members updated CDIB

card (attached to application)

Must complete the COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program application for AST tribal member

Energy bill must be in the enrolled AST tribal member

and/or spouse’s name (if in spouse’s name, spouse must

reside in the home. AST member & spouse must attached

driver’s license or state issued IDs) NO EXCEPTIONS

All Applications MUST BE SUBMITTED ON OR BEFORE FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30th, 2020

COVID-19 Energy Assistance Required Documents:

A completed COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program application

Copy of updated AST CDIB

Copy of Driver’s License or State issued ID (AST member

and/or spouse, as needed)

Copy of energy utility (payment) statement

Eligible Age:

Must be 18 years of age or older, enrolled member of the

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma on or before June 1st,

2020.

Application Dates:

Application Acceptance Begins Monday, September 28, 2020

@ 8:00 AM CST -- Application Acceptance Ends Friday, October 30, 2020 @ 11:59 PM CST

Benefit:

One-time payment of $300.00 for eligible AST enrolled tribal

members

Future Closings:

Veteran’s Day

Thanksgiving Holiday

Nov. 11, 2020

Nov. 26-27, 2020

COVID-19 Home Relief Program:

The Absentee Shawnee COVID-19 Home Relief Program is

designed to decrease evictions/foreclosures, prevent homelessness and increase home stability by helping Absentee

Shawnee families whose income has been adversely affected by COVID-19.

Details and the application can be found at: COVID-19 Home

Relief Program

https://www.astribe.com/covid-19-home-relief-program

COVID-19 Home Relief Application Submission Options:

NO FAXES

By AST website electronic application (can be completed

electronically from most computers or phones)

Electronic Form COVID-19 Home Relief Program

By mail to AST Enrollment Department, 2025 S. Gordon

Cooper Dr., Shawnee, OK 74801

Downloadable form COVID-19 Home Relief Program

By appointment with AST Enrollment Department

By email to homerelief@astribe.com

Qualification Requirement:

COVID-19 Home Relief Eligibility:

Must be an enrolled member of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe

of Oklahoma on or before June 1st, 2020

Must be 18 years of age or older

Must have a copy of AST tribal members updated CDIB card

(attached to application)

Must complete the COVID-19 Home Relief Program application for AST tribal members

Home mortgage or rental contract must be in the enrolled

AST tribal member and/or spouse’s name. (if in spouse’s

name, spouse must reside in the home. AST member &

spouse must attached driver’s license or state issued IDs)

NO EXCEPTIONS

All Applications MUST BE SUBMITTED ON OR BEFORE

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30th, 2020

COVID-19 Home Relief Required Documents:

Completed COVID-19 Home Relief Program application

Copy of updated AST CDIB

Copy of Driver’s License or State issued ID (AST member

and/or spouse, as needed)

Copy of mortgage (payment) statement or copy of rental

lease/agreement

W-9 From Landlord / Lender - completed.

COVID-19 Home Relief Payment NON-ELIGIBILITY: (this is

not a comprehensive list)

Contract for deed payments

Homeowner’s Insurance

Homeowner association fees

Eligible Age:

Must be 18 years of age or older, enrolled member of the

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma on or before June 1st,

2020.

Application Dates:

Application Acceptance Begins Monday, September 28, 2020

@ 8:00 AM CST -- Application Acceptance Ends Friday, October 30, 2020 @ 11:59 PM CST

Benefit:

Executive Committee is providing a one-time relief payment

of $500.00 for those who are experiencing affects from this

pandemic. This will be a one (1) payment per tribal member.

HAVE A HAPPY

AND SAFE

HALLOWEEN!

2

Executive Committee

October 2020

John R. Johnson

Governor

Kenneth Blanchard

Lt. Governor

Ezra DeLodge

Joseph Blanchard

Secretary

Treasurer

Governor’s REPORT

Representative’s REPORT

Tribal members,

Ho wa se ke sa ke! (Good day!)

www.astribe.com

Alicia Miller

Representative

ALICIA MILLER

AST Representative

JOHN R. JOHNSON

AST Governor

The Complex has returned to Phase II of reopening. Phase II is listed below:

hh AST Complex will be open to tribal members by appointment only, no visitors.

hh Maintain one entrance and exit at the complex manned by AST Police to perform

temperature checks on each employees.

hh Maintain six feet distance between employees.

hh When interacting with the public you will need to wear proper PPE (i.e. N95 Mask, Gloves,

Eye Protection, etc.) If tribal members must enter a building for business purposes, please

only allow TWO tribal members at a time to do business.

hh Utilize curb service if your department can do so safely. Follow CDC and OSDH Guidelines

for reopening day care centers.

hh All staff at building blocks will need to wear a procedure mask or homemade mask at all

times while in the building.

hh Procedures will need to be developed on drop off and pick up locations to minimize people

entering and exiting the building.

hh Disinfecting of building each day before children and employees enter to protect the children and employees.

For the protection of all personal and tribal members, we will continue to follow the set guidelines that

have been set in place until further notice.

I have received many “Thank you” for the Education Gift Cards for all Tribal Students. These cards

were distributed to help with electronic cost for virtual learning or in school learning. If you haven’t

already, you may request an application from

educationaid@astribe.com or it may be found on the AST webpage. After completion you may submit

to the same email address with all required documents or by US mail. Please allow 3-4 weeks to

process your applications.

With COVID-19 strongly affecting the way the tribe functions the tribe will not be have a regular General Council meeting this October. We will hold a General Council

reporting session. All Executive Committee members will give their yearly reports on a Zoom conference call. You may watch this session live from your laptops or

smartphone from the comfort of your home. Should you have any questions,

comments or concerns you may email them prior to the meeting.

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe was among 7 tribes in Oklahoma that received funding awards from

the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) as announced

by the United States Attorney Offices on Wednesday, August 26, 2020 at a press event in Tulsa, OK

that I attended. The tribe’s Domestic Violence department received $407,000 to update our tribal

codes, policies, and

procedures in preparation for exercising special domestic violence criminal

jurisdiction under the Violence Against Women Act. If you have questions you may contact my office

or the Domestic Violence office at 405-275-4030.

Once again, please continue to follow all CDC guidelines and wear your mask for the safety of yourself

and others.

It is easily stated the pandemic is the primary driver of most of our activities in our tribal offices on top

of working on everyday government and program matters. I appreciate the input tribal members are

providing on the daily and weekly basis. Your feedback is invaluable and as an Executive Committee

(EC) member, I hear you. We (the EC) are working towards meaningful transparency, be better in

providing up to date public information including the COVID funds and actions, and strive for an overall

better tribal government. Please understand many issues were not created overnight and will not be

solved overnight but we have a communicative EC and will work together to provide the best solutions

till our goals and objectives are met.

We held the monthly EC meeting on Wednesday, September 16, 2020, and passed 2 additional

COVID-19 programs for the AST membership. The first is the COVID-19 Home Relief Program providing a $500 one-time payment for mortgage or rent, and the other is the COVID-19 Energy Assistance

Program providing one-time assistance of $300. Applications for both are available on the tribal website

and have an ending program date of Friday, October 30, 2020. The EC continues to work on additional

programs for our tribal people and we are being mindful of the time we have to expend these funds.

October is General Council month and with the best (health) interest of the tribal membership and to

follow the CDC guidelines in regards to congregating, the EC is determining on how to best to conduct

General Council. General Council reports will still be assembled and provided to the membership at the

end of the month. If you would like a hardcopy mailed to you, please contact the Office of the Secretary

and they will accommodate your request.

As we continue to deal with the fallouts of this pandemic – economically, socially and physically, please

take the extra precautions (as one can take) as we enter the cold and flu season. The CDC is making

recommendations along with the Indian Health Service to take your flu vaccine early this year. We also

do not know how the COVID vaccine will react within our bodies (if available & if taken). Unfortunately,

Oklahoma is ranked #4 amongst the states for positive COVID outbreaks. Native Americans have the

higher positive cases in Oklahoma. So please continue to wear a mask when out in public, social distance when possible and use hand sanitizer containing 60% or more alcohol.

Ne yi wa! (Thank you!)

Alicia (Aly) Miller

Tribal Representative

Cell: 405.287.5247

Email: aliciam@astribe.com

Secretary’s REPORT

Ezra DeLodge

AST Secretary

Tribal Members,

I hope all is well and we are taking our precautions during these difficult times. Also, my thoughts and

prayers go out to those suffering and to those who have lost loved ones to this terrible virus.

Currently, a majority of my time in office has been dedicated to addressing the numerous concerns

brought on by Covid-19 and how we (EC) are utilizing the appropriated funds to mitigate those issues.

It is a monuments task to say the least. I hope the services initiated, so far, are offering some relief. We

(EC) are still working hard to provide more relief and services to you the tribal members.

As always if you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact my office or my cell.

Respectfully,

Ezra M. DeLodge, MBA

Thank you,

ezrad@astribe.com

Cell Ph. 405-432-0733

Governor Johnson

AST COVID-19 Education Aid Program

Seeking position of CEO for ASEDA

REMINDER:

The AST COVID-19 Education Aid Program deadline was on September 30th.

The cards can be used through December 2020, and receipts will need to be

turned in to the Finance Department. It is a Mandatory Requirement to have

receipts turned in by December 31st. Those who submitted their applications

prior to the ending date can still email any questions to educationaid@astribe.

com, call Tribal Enrollment @ (405) 275-4030 and/or make an appointment to

pick up their card(s) or request to have them mailed.

Newsletter Subscription

Name:

Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

Future submissions for the AST newsletter can be mailed in or

emailed to:

newsletter@astribe.com

Mail to AST Media Department.\

219 E. Walnut

Tecumseh, OK 74873

Call 405-598-1279 or Fax 405-598-0221

Chief Executive Officer

The Absentee Shawnee Economic Development Authority, (ASEDA, Inc.)

is a federally charted tribal corporation dedicated to sustaining, expanding,

and attracting business that benefits the Absentee Shawnee Tribe, (AST)

and its tribal members. The ASEDA Board is seeking to hire a Chief

Executive Officer to manage the ASEDA organization, oversee its multiple

ongoing projects, business operations, manage staff, and launch projects

that have been identified as important to the growth of the AST. This position will be responsible to develop strategies to enhance, create, and build

the AST economic development and revenue diversification activities,

including the complex analysis of data related to planning, financing, tax

incentive packaging, marketing, and business assistance programming.

More importantly, this position would be responsible to develop long and

short-term economic and community development goals.

A complete job description will be available on

https://aseconomicdevelopment.com/home/. Candidates are required

to submit a cover letter and a resume electronically, to Mr. Tim Burg at

tburg@shawneeforward.com.

The selection process will be made by the ASEDA Board with input from

the AST Executive Committee.

October 2020

Executive Committee

Treasurer’s REPORT

JOSEPH BLANCHARD

AST Treasurer

Hello and Good Day to Everyone!

Before I get started, let me say “Happy Birthday!” to all those who were able to celebrate another year.

Likewise, I want to say “Congratulations!” to those who have witnessed the birth of a new family member, or welcomed new additions because of a recent marriage. Sadly, I send my sincerest condolences

to family who remain from those who have walked on.

This is one of my favorite times of the year, Fall. Temperatures start to drop (no more 95* degree days,

high humidity or severe weather), High School Softball and Football seasons begin and of course, the

return of Oklahoma Football (Boomer!). If your child participates in extracurricular events, send a copy

of their schedule and I’ll do my best to come be supportive. I always enjoy a good bag of popcorn, a

Frito chili pie, soda, and good competition. But the best part is the seasonal change as Mother Nature

displays her show of colors, and typically we would be getting prepared for Bread Dance ceremonies. I

can’t wait for the opportunity to be back out there again with my extended relatives, friends, and family.

It has been a whirlwind of events these last couple months. Your Executive Committee has been hard at

work, engaged in discussion on how to improve our membership’s situations and how best to address

their concerns. I understand there are many questions about the process and how we’ve been conducting the People’s business during this Pandemic. It has not been an easy task, especially with the

constant updates to the guidelines and stipulations as set forth by the U.S. Treasury on the appropriate

use of the CARES Act monies. Plus, there’s concern about when this will end, or when the next wave

will hit, and how bad will it be?

These facts are compounded by the misconception, misinterpretation, and misunderstanding being

spread amongst our community. As mentioned during this year’s campaign, I promised the voters I

would always read documents to become completely aware of the material before making an informed,

sound decision. Additionally, I would not just “rubber stamp” my name when approving resolutions. It is

my hope you have taken the time to view the Regular EC meetings that are posted on the AST Tribal

Website, in the “Member’s Only” section. This allows each member a chance to become more informed.

This month’s report will be one of the longest I will submit as I attempt to explain the data and provide

other pertinent information.

As I have read and researched material, I discovered there is a U.S. Legislator from New Mexico who

has put together a House Bill for an “Extension” to Tribal Nations on expending these funds. As I have

suggested, we are waiting to see if this gains any ground. To date, that I am aware of, NO Native American community or organization has requested an Extension to the U.S. Department of Treasury. As

such, I have requested from the Governor’s office to compose and submit a letter on behalf of our Tribe

to Treasurer Steve Mnuchin. Any additional time of three (3) to six (6) months would allow us the opportunity to reassess our situation and make a better decision. My concern is if this were accepted, and we

had spent all the money by the deadline, then what would we use to assist membership at that point?

Many have asked, “Are we going to receive another disbursement? Or, “how come the EC won’t approve another payout? It’s our money.” The answer is not simple, especially since Finance has received

at least ten (10) updates from Washington, D.C. I recently was approved in the U.S. system to obtain

these notices on behalf of our Tribe. As with Grants, there are restrictions on how these funds can be

spent. There are 8-9 individual pots of money and most of that is earmarked or restricted to certain

departments, programs, or use. The Government utilized a composition

formula to determine how each Tribe received their specific amount. The criterion was based upon HUD

community numbers, business and/or enterprise annual expenses (including Casino, C-Store, Health,

and Housing) and total employees.

On March 27, 2020, the United States Congress passed Public Law 116-136. In addition to other

CARES Act appropriations, the Bill allocated $8 billion in funds from the United States Department of

Treasury to be allocated to Federally Recognized Indian tribes to respond to the Coronavirus pandemic.

These allocations were done in two rounds of disbursements. Combined, the Absentee Shawnee Tribe

received a total distribution in the amount of $33,101,482, during May and June.

Since that time, the Tribe has expended approximately $11.7 million dollars. Of that total, 87% has gone

directly to Tribal members to address their specific needs. As of this writing, three forms of direct distributions have been allocated to Tribal members. These include $155 gift cards to Elders; $3,000 to all

AST adults and $1500 to all AST minors, to address general financial needs caused by the Pandemic.

$500 is available for all AST students to address educational expenses related to coronavirus for the

2020-2021 schoolyear.

www.astribe.com

3

By comparison, as of this writing:

●● The Sac & Fox Nation budgeted for two payments of $1,000 in direct assistance to adult

Tribal members and two payments of $250 for minors along with laptops/chromebooks for

students.

●● The Seminole Nation allocated $500 in direct assistance and $500 for education/technology

assistance.

●● Citizen Potawatomi Nation instituted multiple relief programs primarily aimed at assisting

elders and students, but did not allocate funds for direct assistance to the general populace.

●● The Kickapoo Tribe allocated one payment for $1,000 and $250 for education/technology

assistance.

Currently, the Tribe has multiple projects planned including: emergency screening facilities, a food

storage facility, and new modular facilities for veterans and elders. The Tribe will also utilize funds to

assist multiple AST entities. In order to ensure the safety of guests and employees of the Absentee

Shawnee Tribe, the Tribe is looking to install air filtration systems on the main complex, All Nations

Bank, and at both Thunderbird Casino locations. Tribal entities such as All Nations Bank and Thunderbird Casino have encountered numerous unforeseen expenses due to shutdowns, emergency staffing,

supplies, equipment, emergency screening equipment, and the need to alter office space to ensure

social distancing is being adhered. Uncovered financial needs of the Tribe’s Housing Authority and

Economic Development related to the coronavirus pandemic are also being considered.

Including direct assistance, total funds allocated to respond to the Covid-19 pandemic has been budgeted at approximately $23,255,955. This total includes the addressed high priority needs of the Tribe,

budgeted at $13,815,110 plus $9,440,845 in direct Tribal member assistance. Remaining funds will be

used to cover unanticipated supply costs, as well as instituting programs to assist

Tribally owned businesses, rental assistance, energy assistance, and food and PPE assistance,

to name a few.

For those who want to say the EC has not been responsive to your needs is a false and misleading

statement. At the most recent Regular EC meeting, we passed two (2) resolutions, which will provide

Energy and Rental Assistance, $300 and $500, respectively. I think the information shows we have

attempted to support our People first and foremost. Not everyone will agree on how the services are

provided but they are there to assist as many as possible, and certainly not just a select few. As many

of my staff can attest, I put in lots of hours weekly and am often the last one to leave campus daily.

Before I conclude, I want to publicly acknowledge the Staff of the Enrollment, Finance, and Social

Services departments. Thought the public does not see it, they have performed well during the last

several months, even with all the added pressure. They have gone above and beyond to approve

applications, process assistance checks, distribute Education gift cards, in addition to maintaining their

normal workloads. It is a thankless job but everyone notices when they fall behind, or misplace an

application. I appreciate them for their dedication, persistence, and making my job that much easier.

Also, I am grateful to those members who have been unwavering in their support. As I run into many of

you at events or while out shopping for supplies, I always try to acknowledge those I know with a smile

or wave. Your advice, discussion, and perspective are helpful as it pertains to me making decisions.

Contrary to some opinions, I do hear and listen to our members. If we haven’t met yet, don’t be shy to

introduce yourself.

Should you have any questions, do not hesitate to call my office or send me an email.

Neyiwa!

Joseph H. Blanchard

To summarize:

●● AST Elders 55+ are eligible to receive $3,155 each in direct assistance

●● AST Adults 18 – 54 are eligible to receive $3,000

●● AST Minors 0 – 17 are eligible to receive $1500 with an additional $500 for school age

children.

Resolutions

The following are the Resolutions passed through

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

EXECUTIVE RESOLUTIONS:

ABSENTEE-SHAWNEE TRIBE OF INDIANS OF OKLAHOMA

REGULAR EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

E-AS-2020-47

A RESOLUTION DULY PROPOSED BY THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE OF INDIANS OF OKLAHOMA TO PROCLAIM THE

MONTH OF OCTOBER DOMESTIC/FAMILY VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH.

E-AS-2020-49

A RESOLUTION DULY PROPOSED BY THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE OF INDIANS OF OKLAHOMA AUTHORIZING AND

APPROVING THE AST SUBAWARD POLICIES AND PROCEDURES MANUAL.

LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTIONS:

ABSENTEE-SHAWNEE TRIBE OF INDIANS OF OKLAHOMA

REGULAR EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

L-AS-2020-21

A RESOLUTION DULY PROPOSED BY THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE OF INDIANS OF OKLAHOMA AUTHORIZING

AND APPROVING A BANCFIRST (CARD MEMBER) PURCHASING CREDIT

CARD WITH A CREDIT LIMIT OF TWO THOUSAND DOLLARS AND NO CENTS

($2,000.00) FOR MELISSA LOPEZ, DOMESTIC VIOLENCE DIRECTOR OF THE

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE OF INDIANS OF OKLAHOMA, EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY.

L-AS-2020-22

A RESOLUTION DULY PROPOSED BY THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE OF INDIANS OF OKLAHOMA HEREBY AUTHORING AND APPROVING THE AST COVID-19 HOME RELIEF PROGRAM, NOT TO

EXCEED ONE MILLION, SIX HUNDRED TWENTY NINE THOUSAND, FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS AND NO CENTS ($1,629,500.00)

L-AS-2020-23

A RESOLUTION DULY PROPOSED BY THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE OF INDIANS OF OKLAHOMA HEREBY AUTHORING AND APPROVING THE AST COVID-19 ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM,

NOT TO EXCEED NINE HUNDRED SEVENTY SEVEN THOUSAND, SEVEN HUNDRED DOLLARS AND NO CENTS ($977,700.00)

Tour of Seminole Nation Food Distribution Center

On September 11, 2020, the

Executive Committee of the

Absentee Shawnee Tribe

were hosted by the Seminole

Nation of Oklahoma, as they

toured the USDA Food Distribution Center at Mekusukey

Mission in Seminole, Oklahoma. During the tour, Food

Distribution Manager Rex Hailey, a Desert Storm Veteran

and member of the Seminole

Nation Honor Color Guard,

discussed the benefits of the

program.

Governor John Johnson, Ezra DeLodge, Alicia Miller and SN Distribution Center manager Rex Hailey. Also in attendance not in photo, AST EC member Joseph Blacnhard.

Photo courtesy of JBlanchard

In his explanation, Mr. Hailey displayed his genuine care and passion for assisting Seminole Nation Elders and the many other participants receiving assistance within Seminole County and the surrounding community. He was able to

answer questions regarding the costs for the facility, shared information about

the number of people serviced monthly and provided an estimate of annual operating expenses.

Mr. Hailey talked about when the Seminole Nation changed the format and

made it more of a store atmosphere. In doing so, they purchased Point of Sale

(POS) registers, scanning systems, carts and hand held baskets, walk-in refrigerator andfreezer, and additional shelving. This improvement allowed members

to enjoy a regular shopping experience without any unnecessary hassle and the

chance to obtain fresh produce.

Besides the customer area, the EC was given a look behind the scenes and how

the Center stores non-perishable items, condenses and recycles cardboard, and

the types of machinery operated to load and unload orders. Each employee must

obtain certification to operate the pallet jacks, forklifts, and company vehicles.

The AST Executive Committee is grateful to the Seminole Nation and Chief Chilcoat for the opportunity to tour their facility, and visit with staff and personnel. We

look forward to Mr. Hailey coming to our location in the near future to assist with

set-up of our new facility on the corner of Benson Park Road and SH 177 in

Shawnee, OK.

Neyiwa (Mvto)!

Article submitted by Joseph Blanchard

4

Tribal News

October 2020

www.astribe.com

TAX COMMISSION

~ TAG AGENCY ~

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA

2025 SOUTH GORDON COOPER DRIVE

SHAWNEE, OK 74801

NOW ACCEPTING

Credit/Debit

Effective May 1 2019, the tag

office will

be accepting credit and debit cards.

Please note: a convenience fee of

2.75% will be added.

July 27, 2020

RE: MOTOR VEHICLE QUESTIONS

AST Tribal Members,

Per the Executive Committee, the AST tag office is operating under Phase 1 protocol. We are taking necessary

steps to limit exposure to Tribal members. Due to COVID-19, the tag office will be closed to the general

public until further notice.

The staff will be doing its part in helping to alleviate any motor vehicle concerns by continuing to process through

the outlined procedures below:

FOR NEW REGISTRATION:

405.481.8600 ~ Fax 405.214.4225

tax@astribe.com

Please email: tax@astribe.com or Call: (405)481-8600 for further instructions.

FOR RENEWAL:

OPTION #1- BY MAIL

●● Please include copies of your CDIB, valid Oklahoma driver license, current Oklahoma insurance.

OPTION #2- BY DROP BOX (Shawnee location only: west entrance of AST Police building)

●● Please include copies of your CDIB, valid Oklahoma driver license, current Oklahoma insurance.

OPTION #3- BY EMAIL tax@astribe.com

●● Please include copies of your CDIB, valid Oklahoma driver license, current Oklahoma insurance.

PAYMENT OPTIONS FOR ALL TRANSACTIONS

●● Payments accepted at this time: Check, Cashier check, Money order, Credit or Debit card. **In order to

process by Credit/Debit, we will need the Credit Card Authorization form located on www.astribe.com or

forms will be next to the drop box.**

NOTE: Please be patient with us as we work through this difficult time and understand we will work diligently to

get your motor vehicle documents back to you as quickly as possible by mail. For any questions regarding

penalties/amount owed due to closure please call the number listed.

You can use the drop box for your business with the Tax

Commission.

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE

TAX COMMISSION

For the Tax Commission, you will need to contact them

by phone or email, to let them know that you have left

documents to get a vehicle tag.

2025 S. GORDON COOPER DRIVE

SHAWNEE, OK 74801

(405)481-8600 ● Fax: (405)214-4225 ● Email: tax@astribe.com

NEW REGISTRATIONS:

Documents Needed:

-

Valid Oklahoma Driver’s License

Valid Oklahoma Insurance

Enrollment Card

Notarized Title

Notarized Bill of Sale or

Purchase Agreement

Lien Entry Form (if you are making

payments)

Lien Release Form (if previous owner had

lien)

NOTE: You may be asked to provide supporting

documentation for verification purposes.

PROCESS STEPS:

1. After receiving all necessary motor vehicle

documents, we will enter the data into our

tag program and process the payment.

2. Then we will Email/Fax/Mail the Application

form for you (Tribal Member) to sign; don’t

worry about the notary portion. Please sign

and send Application back.

3. Once signed Application is received we will

complete the process.

4. All items will be mailed to you. Includes:

AST Title, Registration, Application, Receipt,

and Tag.

NOTE: All documents for New Registrations

must be mailed in or left in drop box at the

Shawnee Campus Police Station.

The drop box location is on the west

entrance of the AST Police Building.

RENEWALS:

tax@astribe.com

405.481.8600

fax: 405.214.4225

Documents Needed:

-

Valid Oklahoma Driver’s License

Valid Oklahoma Insurance

Enrollment Card

PROCESS STEPS:

1. After receiving all necessary motor vehicle

documents, we will enter the data into our

tag program and process the payment.

2. After processing the renewal we will mail

you the Registration, Receipt, and Decal.

NOTE: All documents for a Renewal must be

emailed, mailed in or left in drop box at the

Shawnee Campus Police Station.

TAG PRICES:

1-4 YEARS

$85

5-8 YEARS

$75

9-12 YEARS

$55

13-16 YEARS

$35

17-Over YEARS

$15

PENALTY

$0.25 A DAY

FY-2020

YTD TAX COLLECTIONS

(thru 8/31/2020)

Make sure you get the

next issue!

Issues come back to us not being

delivered...make sure your address is

correct!

Don’t miss a minute of tribal news and

information!

Anyone needing to be on the mailing list

Please Call the AST

enrollment or email us at

newsletter@astribe.com

Health News

October 2020

SHAWNEE CLINIC

405.878.5950

LITTLE AXE HEALTH CENTER

405.447.0300

www.astribe.com

5

PLUSCARE

405.447.0477

ASTHS October 2020 Monthly Update

The Annual Zombie 5K Fun Run will be a virtual event this year along

with a reduced event for Trunk or Treat, due to the pandemic and appropriate safety measures and precautions being in place to protect our

community and our Tribal members. More information will be sent out

via Facebook and via the Website for Health about the event soon. Title

6 received their new hot meal delivery vehicles in September. Once

properly tagged and insured, they will be brought online servicing our

program recipients with better meal selections and assured services

with the new vehicle fleet. This is a huge investment in taking care of our

Native American program participants from around the service area, and

will secure years of continued services to those who are in need! We

especially “thank” the Executive Committee and Emergency Management for their support in assuring the best equipment and services were

funded for the Title 6 program recipients with CARES Act Funding during

this protracted pandemic in our National State of Emergency and with

our growing homebound population who require these services more

than ever!

We are also fighting COVID-19 with hosting drive through testing

events weekly along with antibody testing. The COVID-19 Information

Line is 24/7 and here to help our Tribal members and other patients with

their pandemic questions. Your Health System has continuously been

open for access to care, and remains open 7 days a week to assure

services are continued for our patients. We also continue to provide

carryout and delivery of Title 6 meals to our members with thousands of

meals being provided to date by Dos Owens and her team to our most

vulnerable population!

Reducing exposure through unnecessary travel, accelerated personal hygiene, and remaining in good health as well as wearing a mask

will continue to greatly diminish the threats to our community! Please

continue to work hard on this national campaign with us to end the

COVID-19 pandemic through information, best practices, safe actions,

and overall safety for you and your family. While the tribe continues to

do all it can to protect you and your family, it is also a shared sacrifice to

also care for your own family, tribal community, and those whom depend

upon you for resources, support, and assistance. Let’s continue to work

together to defeat COVID-19 in our Native American and surrounding

communities by protecting our most vulnerable population, our Elders

and our other high-risk populations!

The outstanding star performers of the Health System continue to

shine and we thank them all for their contributions to our patients, their

fellow employees, and the tribe, especially during our unprecedented

times! Employee Awards and awardees will be announced next month

for appropriate recognition. The AST Health System thanked all of our

employees for all they do for our patients and for the community during

September’s Annual Employee Appreciation Month this month. It was a

nice week of employee activities and recognition, and we appreciate all

of our staff for their service to the Tribe and community!

Please follow our COVID-19 page on the Health System Website as

well as follow us on Facebook and the AST Tribe’s Government Page for

the latest information regarding access to services and support.

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

Executive Director

NOTICE EFFECTIVE 9/1/20

COVID-19 testing held on the

1st & 3rd Tuesdays from 5:30

pm-7:30 pm

ANTIBODY

testing held on the

1st & 3rd Thursdays from 4:30

pm-6:30 pm (Antibody testing

is only available at LAC)

Bring proper

identification

Remain in your

vehicle

Wear a mask

COVID-19 testing held on 2nd &

4th Wednesday from 5:30 pm7:30 pm

Be prepared to

have blood drawn

Those not being

tested will not be

allowed entry into

the clinic

Testing available to

anyone ages 10 and

older

*Note: If it is raining or adverse

weather, testing will not be conducted.

It's only available

at LAHC

6

Health News

October 2020

PURCHASED REFERRED CARE NEWS

The AST Purchased Referred Care

Team is here to assist you.

Please follow the PRC guidelines. Keep a copy on hand and update your information.

To update your patient information, please see patient registration.

SHAWNEE CLINIC

PURCHASED REFERRED

CARE

HAS MOVED.

We are now located in

SHAWNEE CLINIC (BLDG. 17)

Our phone numbers have NOT changed.

EASY ACCESS

Purchased Referred Care is

conveniently located in

Little Axe Health Center and in

Shawnee Clinic, Building 17.

8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday – Friday

Closed on Holidays

All facilities closed the first

Wednesday of the month

from Noon to 5pm.

EMERGENCY AND URGENT

CARE SERVICES

PRC for a currently enrolled AST citizen who

resides in the defined catchment area and needs

emergent or urgent care.

1. Call the On-Call nurse at 405.447.0300, option

9 for triage.

2. Notify PRC on the next business day or within

72 hours after your ER visit. Notification does

not assure authorization of payment.

However, if you do not notify PRC within 72

hours, your bills will not be paid.

3. For AST citizens with no insurance, evidence

must exist that your visit was medically

necessary. Medical priorities have been

established for determining which referrals can

be authorized for payment.

4. For AST citizens with insurance, evidence must

exist that a third-party resource has made the

determination such services were “emergency

care” or “urgent care.” Such evidence my

include payment from private insurance.

5. In the event that you receive a bill from a

provider, please provide a copy to PRC. You

may leave bills at the Little Axe Health

Center PRC office or the Shawnee Clinic PRC

office.

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

BILLING & PAYMENT INQUIRIES

Little Axe Health Center & Shawnee Clinic

REFERRAL MANAGEMENT

Little Axe Health Center

REFERRAL MANAGEMENT

Shawnee Clinic

Glendine Blanchard, PRC Director

Darla Gatzman, PRC Specialist

Lena Carroll, Claims Processor

Jennifer Wells, PRC Technician

Keli Mitchell, PRC Specialist

Debi Sloat, PRC Deputy Director/RN

Lee Ann Sommer, PRC Health Specialist/RN

Leslie Davis, PRC Health Specialist/LPN

Lawana Martin, PRC Specialist, Medicaid Patients

Flo Mann, PRC Specialist, AST Patients/LPN

Laurie Webber, PRC Specialist, IHS Patients/LPN

Carrie Stanley, PRC Specialist, Medicaid patients/

Medical Assistant

LITTLE AXE HEALTH CENTER PRC

405.701.7951 (Please follow voice prompts)

405.447.0300 (Secondary)

SHAWNEE CLINIC

405.878.5950

SHAWNEE CLINIC PRC

405.878.5850 (Primary)

405.878.4702 (Secondary)

LITTLE AXE HEALTH CENTER

405.447.0300

PLUSCARE

405.447.0477

www.astribe.com

Tribal News

October 2020

SHAWNEE CLINIC

Little Axe Health Center

405.878.5950

Behavioral Health

405.701.7987 ~405.447.0300

LITTLE AXE HEALTH CENTER

405.447.0300

Pandemic Fatigue/Covid-19 Cabin Fever

With the Covid-19 pandemic as a mental health professional I have seen a

trend where suppressed trauma has resurfaced its ugly head back in to our

lives. I say “our” lives because mental health professionals are not immune

from mental health issues. My decision to become a mental health profession comes from my terrible decisions, bad choices, and trauma that have

happened to me. But this Covid-19 cabin fever has me stuck in my mind and

it is more than the ‘terrible decisions and bad choices” that are becoming

unsuppressed in my mind. With it brings the trauma I imposed on my family

and loved ones. And then with that brings the shame and guilt for what I did.

The trauma and hurt I caused from my alcoholism and drug addictions are

definitely not reasons for my decision to become a mental health therapist.

As matter of fact I never 100% truly opened up my mind or I should say my

soul to the pain I caused until this covid-19 pandemic happened. So it has

become a soul issue for me.

My issues are unique to me but the covid-19 pandemic has a simultaneous effect on the overall mental health of everyone in the entire world and

it is because we are stuck in our minds. That is why I call the phenomenon

“Covid-19 cabin fever.” It is a crossroads in life! I am sure elders and wise

ones from many different ethnic backgrounds who may have predicted this

pandemic have names and explanations for it but “crossroads’ is the word

that comes to my mind because to me that is what this is; a crossroads for

everyone in this world. And that is because it is a life changing event for the

human race. And while we are stuck in our minds; we are letting the suppressed stuff come out and it is not only affecting our lives but everyone else

who loves us and lives with us. So when we are releasing OUR suppressed

trauma we make a chain reaction that can reactivate suppressed trauma

in others and that really affects the family dynamics of an already dysfunctional family with traumatic history. And that is why mental health is so very

important right now.

I don’t have the answers or the cure all solution but I do know if you do not

do anything about it to take care of yourself mentally, spiritually, physically and emotionally the pandemic fatigue will not only continue; it won’t get

better. There are so much more complexities to pandemic fatigue, I just

used my own example to help people understand how important it is for

you to make an effort to take care of your mental health and you do that by

making an appointment with behavioral health, going to a sweatlodge, NAC

meeting, church, AA/NA meetings, Wellbriety meeting, overcomers meeting,

celebrate recovery, traditional ceremonies, etc… or whatever you do spiritually that benefits your mental health as well as your spiritual health. I wish I

had more time to write more but this is my first article, so I will keep it short

and simple. Hopefully you will hear more from me soon.

Neyiwa.

John Soap, Jr., LPC, CRC

AST Behavioral Health

www.astribe.com

Shawnee Clinic

Behavioral Health

405.561.7810 ~ 405.878.4716

PLUSCARE

405.447.0477

7

8

Tribal News

October 2020

www.astribe.com

Happy Birthday

to the Oct AST Members

Abma, Meadow Elisa

Adams, James Michael

Aguinaga, Aaron Juan

Aguirre, Jose Raul

Ahtone, Caylen Evreaux

Alford Jr., Elroy Raymond

Alford, Herbert Vearl

Almanza, Kaiya Damon

Anderson, Charlie Beckett

Anderson, Jenna Elizabeth

Ardrey, Wanda Marie

Armendariz, Christy Ann Louise

Ash, Earl James

Aspen, Andrew James

Atwood, Joseph Eugene

Bailey, Beverly Jean Loving

Balch, Shannon Eugene

Barnard, Legacy May

Barriga, Sommer Rae

Battise, Tara Christine

Beach, Brodie Aaron

Beartusk, Jonah Edward

Bell, Caleb Walker

Bell, Elijah Michael

Belvin Jr, Jessey Lee

Bender, Jason Allen

Bettelyoun, Michael Vincent

Bhandari, Dasan Krishna

Bittle Jr., James Carl

Bittle, Ketcher Austin

Bittle, Trinity Morgan

Blackbear, Jorey Rian

Blanchard Jr., George Melvin

Blanchard, Alex Gordon

Blanchard, Bryson Dale

Blanchard, Ellie Jo

Blanchard, Jared Dillon

Blanchard, Kevin Owen

Blood, Jennifer

Bond, Brandon Curtis

Boyd, Alexander James

Bradley, Mary Louise

Bradley, Michael Joseph

Brady Jr., Cecil Edgar

Brady, Carlie Noelle

Brady, Ryan Fletcher

Breedlove, Cynthia Kay

Brittain, Shaye Dawn

Brokeshoulder, Aaron Dean

Brokeshoulder, Randall James

Brooks, Nathanael Shawnee

Brown, Kane Alexander

Brown, Kristopher Todd

Brummett, Spencer Keith

Bryce, Todd Kaden

Buckley, Dillon Wayne

Bui, Bennett Van

Bulock, Marley Kaylynn

Burggraf, Thaddeus Todd Lee

Byers, Sebastian Michael

Cagle, Sheryl Lynette

Call, Kelly Edward

Campbell, Charlotte Lynn

Carolina, Jarric Dequan

Carpenter, Glenda Carol

Caudillo, Natalie Adelle

Chapman, Atira Vonne

Chisholm, Candace Lauren

Chupp, Angela Marie

Citty, Dora Mae

Clayton, Raven Roxanne

Coddington, Cameron Michael

Coddington, Hailey Elaine

Cody, Aidan Jacob

Coleman, Janice Sue

Coley, Sherry Ann

Colungo, Khia Jayde

Condra, Melanie Rochelle

Cook Jr., Henry James

Coriz, Benjamin Allen

Cottrell, Steven Thomas

Creek, Ralph Jimmy Ray

Crossley, Burton Jay

Crossley, Jeffery Mark

Cypret, Isaac Matthew

Dalitz, Christi Lynn

Daugherty, Steven Neil

Davis, Brock Mason

Davis, Kimber Lee

Davis, Mary Louise

Davis, Rain E.

Davis, Ryan Kyle

Davis, Scarlett Marie

Deardorff, Angela Dawn

Deere, Josiah Ahinska

Dees, Elizabeth Yvonne

DeLodge, Brendan Joseph

Diehl, Chelsea Elizabeth

Dominguez, Stormy Sky

Dry, Breanna Joyclynn

Dry, Karlee Nicole

Durmon, Ryland Ryder

Eason, Liam Malachi

Eckles, Steven George

Edwards, Shawnee Dawn

Ellis, Allison Krista

Ellis, Henryetta

Ellis, Kevin Mark

Ellis, Kimberly Marie

Ellis, Linda Jean

England, Jacoby Randall

Fife, Austin Scott

Foley, Katrina Dawn

Foreman, Eli Zane

Foreman, Sidney Brian

Foreman, Wesley Josiah

Frazier, Anthony Lawrence

Gall, Rebecca Sue

Gibson, Bernice

Gibson, Collin Lane

Gibson, John Arnold

Gibson, Susan Renee

Gibson, Tyler Logan

Gillihan, Layton Douglas

Gillmore, Jamie Mack

Gilman Jr., Thomas Eugene

Gilman, Tomi-Lynn Sophia

Gomez, Julian Alanzo

Gonzales, Cortney Raeanne

Gonzalez, Kathrine Mary

Green, Shai Leigh

Green, Tristin Eaon

Gregory, Derek Ryan

Gregory, Jacob Samuel

Griffin, Craig Robert

Hardeman, Uriah Terez

Harjo, Baylor Scott

Harjo, Bryleigh Marie

Harjo, Kaleb Emery

Harjo, Linda Marie

Harjo, Stathan Ray

Harjo, Tatum Kenzie

Harjoe, Dawn Nicole

Haumpy, Lijuan Myki

Hayes, Jaeger Koen

Healy, Shawna Susan

Helvy, Camber Nicole

Herrera Jr., Robert Manuel

Herrera Jr., Ruben Pilar

Herrera, Eian Anthany

Herrera, Michael Alexander

Herrera, Rosalynn Macie

Herrin, Susan Rena

Hockemeyer, Azlynn Marie Nicole

Holderness, Nichole Ann

Hood, Nova Dean

Hough, Marrisa Louise

Houston, James Andrew

Huerta, Martin Thomas

Hunt, Janice-Marie Littlecreek

Huntington, Hayven Irene

Irvin, Timothy Logan

Isaac Sr., William

Jackson, Mary-Ann

Jimerson III, Robert E

Johnson # 039752, David Leroy

Johnson Sr., Josie Ed

Johnson, Antwone Reese Dejuan

Johnson, Chan Van Ness

Johnson, Cheveyo Lachaim Kavi

Johnson, Emma Lee

Johnson, Erica Lynn

Johnson, Jessica Lynn

Johnson, Katie La Rae

Johnson, Maddison Brooke

Johnson, Manuel Steve

Johnson, Mark

Johnson, Patience Mackenzie

Minnie

Johnson, Sean Allen

Johnson, Shannon Renay

Johnson, Stevi Mahri

Jones, Zackery Dene

Kastl, Victoria Autumn

Kauley, Charlotte Jayne

Kelly, Joseph Austin

Kilmer, Brittany Michelle

Kilmer, Ethan Allen

Kirby, Robert Micheal

Kleine, Elizabeth Ann

Kobs, Alexander Francis

Kringlen, Zaine Aloysius

La Plant, Isaac Joseph Leigh

Laplante, Amanda Carol

Lasenberry, Lawrence Layton

Brooks

Leath, Alexander Jake

Leatherman, Rosalie Helen MarieAnn

Leedom, Christopher Donald

Leedom, Stephen Wayne

Lewelling, Avis Jewel

Lindsey, Kendall Ray

Little Creek, Frank Dwight

Little Jim, Gabriel Clint

Little Jim, Justin Dale

Little, Freddie Don

Little, Travis Shane

Littlebear, Anthony Karlin

Littlebear, Brett Cason

Littlebear, Lois Gwen

Littlecreek, Aaron Dale

Littlecreek, Dalton Dale

Littlecreek, Melissa Richelle

Littlehead, William Douglas

LittleJim, Gracey Lorene

Longhorn, Lance Calvin

Longhorn, Lydia Kye

Longhorn, Ryan Wade

Longhorn, Stephanie Lee

Longhorn, Vernice Correne

Longman Sr., Henry Daniel

Longman, Ciara Lynn

Lossie, Colton Lewis Cain

Lowe, Kerry Denise

Lucas Spybuck, Misty Rosileah

Mack, Dewayne George

MacK, Jaslynn Marie

Mack, Kailas Dail

Mack, Melissa Ann

Mack, Secote Vholoce

Martinez, Marina Cristine

Masquas, Katlyn Alexzandrea

Matthews, Anthony Edward Scott

Mattingly, Erin Paige

Maxfield, Sky Colisa

Maxwell, Meagan Renee

McBride, Aaron Wayne

McBride, Lillian Kaye

McCuddy, Queta Cara

Megehee, William Sean

Merrell, Marleigh Jaye

Miller, Anna Mae

Miller, Brody Scott Glenn

Miller, Kale Donovan

Miller, Scott Alan

Mills, Colby Richard

Monk, Jessica Rita

Montgomery, Jessica Lynn

Morgan, Avin Tyler

Morgan, Letitia Rhea

Morgheim, Sianna Rayn

Morton, Rhianna Elizabeth

Motes, Christopher Cole

Murphy, Carsyn Lucille

Myers, Rachel Johnnice

Neese, Branden Hunter

Newton, Colt Allen

O’Toole, Chelsey Marie

Odell, Edna May

Oldham, Blake Wayne

Oldham, Rachel Elaine

Onzahwah, Glorious Serinity

Onzahwah, Theodora Marie

Panther Hargrove, Leah Dakota

Panther Sr., Donald Eric

Panther, Dakota Eric

Parker, Royce Ahle

Pawnee, Gabriella Kathleen

Perryman, John Lewis

Perryman, Lillie D Blanchard

Peter, Terrance Nicholie

Petersen, Marsha Ann

Pine, Kyler Evan

Ponkilla, Brigette Nicole

Powell, David W

Raadmae, Brian David

Ramirez, Antonio

Rapos, Christal Nasebewa

Rathbun, Nicholis Lee

Ressler, Linda Kay

Rickard, Janice Renee

Rivas, Becky Marie

Roach, Tanya Emma

Robison, Burtis Charles

Rochon, Yvonne Lorraine

Rock, Patricia Ann

Rolette, Robbin Louise

Rolette, Travis Anthony

Rose, Shaji Tecumseh

Rudloff, Emma Leann

Salazar, Ellen Diesta

Salisbury, Alyssa Rose

Sanchez, Airez Pete

Sanchez, Itzel Itzury

Scarberry, Valerie June

Schulenberg, Justin Michael

Schulenberg, Tina Yvette

Scraper, Benjamin Alexander

Self, Braydon Wayne

Serena, Barbara Jean

Shaffer, Nicholas Keith

Shawnee, Maeliah Lachelle

Shields, Darian Alexandrea

Shirey, Caeden Carlsen

Sloan, Michael Ray

Sloat, Jeromi Wayne

Sloat, Zaurhea Elayne

Smith, Jema Rose

Smith, Shannon Dana

Soap, Matthew Dylan

Spoon Jr., John Wesley

Spoon, Canaan Lee

Spoon, Christina Ann

Spoon, Preston Gabriel

Spoon, Steven Paul

Spriggs, Philip Jeffery

Spybuck, Brandi Christine

Squire, Gwendale Lynn

Stacey, Nils Greg

Starr, Eric Glen

Starr, Tricia Suzanne

Stewart, Wanda Louise

Stone, Donnie Darnell

Sullivan, Pamela Kay

Sultuska, George A

Surface, Ian Robert

Switch Jr., Douglas Vaughn

Switch, Aaron Christopher

Tallchief, Bobby Eves

Tapia, Carlito Cruz

Taylor Jr., James Robert

Taylor, Amanda Mae Alice

Taylor, Gail Anne

Taylor, Shelly Bennie

Thapa, Blake Lee

Thompson, Brody Patrick

Thompson, Wyatt Dane

Thorpe III, George

Thorpe Sr., Ronnie Allen

Thorpe, Davis Mackenzie

Thorpe, Derrick James

Thorpe, Patricia Ann

Thorpe, Taj Robert

Tiger Yanez, Autumn Reyna

Tiger, Aaron Dewayne

Tiger, Anthony John

Tiger, Attison Elaine

Tiger, Cynthia Caylin

Tiger, John Charles

Tiger, Kaley Jean

Tiger, Waylen Michael Ray

Todd, Laurie Dawn

Tolbert, Jaleigh Renee

Torbett, Lori Ann

Turner, Georgie Ann

Tyner, Dwight A.

Upman, Ronald David

Vasquez, Jonathan Louis

Vasquez, Kayla Nicole

Vaughn, Nathan Michael

Voyles, Danielle Rose

Walker, Randall Dean

Wallace, Tambi Dawn

Walley, Danny Lloyd

Walley, Erik Austin

Walley, Steve Allen

Warrior Sr., Lucian Jay

Warrior, Necon Andrew

Warrior, Watasha Nichole

Wasley, Lewis Daniel

Watkins III, Irvin Lee

Watson, Aaron Wayne

West, Raiden Aaron

White, Cynthia Diane

White, David Leroy

White, Eli Abbott

White, Evan James

White, Keyle Marie

White, Nicholas Clay

Whittaker, Blake Matthew

Whittaker, Brantley Jai

Wicks, Raequan DeMario

Wilkerson, Amy Marie

Wilkinson, Briar Arland

Williams #547504, Matthew Lee

Williams, Amber Ann

Williams, Angela Marie

Williams, Charles Scott

Williams, Darlena Kaye

Williams, Timothy J.

Williams, Timothy John

Willis, Christy Danielle

Wills, Chevelle Adyson

Wilson, Bridgette Nicole

Wilson, Cadense Raydale

Wilson, David Anthony

Wilson, Kamrie Dawn

Wilson, Linda Sue

Wilson, Tanya Ann

Wilson, Terry Wayne

Wolf, Christian Seminole

Wolf, Mariana Julianne

Wolfe, Fanya Gayle

Wood, Darla Sue

Woody, Derek Wayne

Wright, Michael Roosevelt

Wunderlin, Tyler Jay

Wyatt, William Thor

Yandell, Paisley Alexis

Yates, Kaitlin Cheyenne

Congratulations to

Mya Blanchard!

If you have a birthday or an

anniversary to submit for next

month’s newsletter,

you may email to

newsletter@astribe.com

Congratulations to Mya Blanchard! Mya is the daughter of Eric

and Jessica Blanchard. Her paternal grandparents are Duke

and Fredith Blanchard of Little Axe, OK; her maternal grandparents are Linda Cotten and Dirk Walker of Birmingham, AL.

Mya placed first in the 68th Annual Cherokee National Holiday

- Youth 1-8 Category. Mya designed and sewed the ribbon skirt

and matching mask shown. When asked about her contemporary design and inspiration, Mya commented, “My inspiration

came from the many hibiscus flowers of Honolulu, HI. Nature

has so many designs to offer.”

October 2020

Tribal News

Title VI UPDATE

DUE TO THE COVID 19 AND THE ELDERS BEING VULNERABLE WE

WILL NEED TO WAIT UNTIL NEXT HALLOWEEN TO HAVE OUR

HALLOWEEN BINGO AND COSTUME CONTEST. WE MISS SEEING

EVERYONE.

We will continue handing out meals on Mondays at the Shawnee Meal

site from 10 am to 2 pm. Homebound will continue getting meals also

on Mondays Only.

Congratulations to Rick Burns,he is our coloring contest winner

for August!

If you have any questions or comments,

please feel free to contact us at 405-275-4030 ext. 6227

Or email me dowings@astribe.com

www.astribe.com

9

10

October 2020

Tribal News

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma

Child Care Development Fund Programs

2025 S. Gordon Cooper Dr.

Shawnee, Ok. 74801

(405)432.8411 FAX: (405)878-0156

Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) Programs

October 2020

We hope you and your family continue doing well. Due to this

unprecedented national health emergency we have been doing

what we can to keep the CCDF grant in compliance and learning

about what we can do to assist families in this pandemic. We are

still accepting applications for AST Child Care Assistance if you

need child care assistance and would like to apply. The application is on the AST website under Services/Child Care. We offer

assistance to any Native child with a CDIB who live in our service

area of Cleveland, McClain, Oklahoma and Pottawatomie Counties. The parents or guardians must meet certain income guidelines but we would encourage anyone to apply. We can also offer

services for families who are unemployed with a three (3) month

job search eligibility period. The families can choose any OKDHS

www.astribe.com

Licensed Child Care Provider that is convenient for them.

We are also still offering the Relative Home Provider care type

where a relative who lives in a separate residence can care for an

eligible child. We will have the application and guidelines on the

AST Website under the Services/Childcare page. Applicants who

wish to utilize the RHP will need to be eligible for AST Child Care

prior to RHP approval. Please contact me or LaNora Buswell,

CCDF Specialist, if you have any questions.

The After School Program unfortunately had to be closed early. We are still on hold with the Afterschool Program on the AST

Complex. We will provide notification as soon as a decision is

made regarding reopening. We did recently hold a backpack/

school supply distribution event for ASP students that we have

serviced in the previous semesters. If you or your family need

afterschool child care assistance please contact us or apply

through the child care assistance program and we can help find a

provider that will be able to provide your child care needs.

Our goals through the CCDF grant, Building Blocks enterprise

and the After School Programs is to provide quality child care to

Native and non-native children in our communities. We do this by

our innovative ideas on curriculum and staying abreast of all training and requirements to maintain higher levels of care. We strive

to be the best and be better than the best every day.

If you are interested in any of these programs or have any questions please feel free to contact me or LaNora Buswell at the

number above or by email, astchildcare@astribe.com.

Ne yi wa! (Thank you)

Briana Ponkilla

CCDF Coordinator

Building Blocks III CDC

Phone 405.432.8411 ~ Fax 405.878.0156

Email: briana.ponkilla@astribe.com ~ lanora.buswell@astribe.com

From the office of AST Education Department ~ FYI

Tresha Spoon

HASKELL INDIAN NATIONS UNIVERSITY - PRESIDENTS CORNER

Dr. Ronald Graham, President

DUEL ENROLLMENT ONLINE COURSES ARE NOW BEING

OFFERED

Haskell is now offering Duel Enrollment classes to High School Juniors and Seniors

in all Oklahoma BIE high schools commencing Spring Semester (January). This is a

new Haskell Pilot Program where both Juniors and Seniors will be able to take online

courses toward their Bachelor’s degree while still attending high school. Further, “all

fees will be waived.” High School Juniors and Seniors will be able to take up to 18

units before transferring to Haskell (or another college of your choosing) to complete

your chosen degree programs after graduation. As a high school student, you will

soon be able to experience college classes without leaving the comfort and support

of your home. You may ask…how does this work? As a Duel Enrollment student

you will be taking online classes that will count towards your high school credits for

graduation and credits toward college at the same time. You can use these completed credits to transfer to Haskell Indian Nations University or to another college

of your choice.

Our administration will be working with each of your schools to identify a liaison for

you to contact and help you enroll and with any questions that you may have in the

near future. In addition, you can contact our Admissions Office at 785-749-8454 or

the Registrar at 785-749-8440 with any questions. Let our folks know that you are a

new (or interested) Duel Enrollment student when you call and they will take all the

time that you need to answer questions. Another excellent resource to contact would

be your Director of Education, Tresha Spoon at 405.275.4030 Ext. 6242.

Requirements for duel enrollment vary from state to state, so students should check

with their high school counselors and education advisors to find out if they qualify for

Haskell’s Duel Enrollment classes. In general, students must be at least 16 years

old and have a high school GPA of at least 2.5. Students will need permission from

parents/guardians and a high school counselor or principal. Among the classes

being offered through Haskell’s Duel Enrollment program include college writing,

college math, communications, history, art, biology, and many more. Again, “all fees

are waived” for students qualifying for this program.

--------For k12 Administration--------Recently a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was forwarded to all of the Oklahoma BIE k12 schools. So far Riverside Indian High School and Shawnee Public

Schools have signed the agreement. All High School Principals and Superintendents are encouraged to contact me direct at 785-813-2054 if they did not receive

a copy of the MOU for review if interested in this initiative. With the current health

challenges within the communities, there have been a few computer glitches. We

will respond to your needs immediately.

Tribal News

October 2020

www.astribe.com

11

Indian Child Welfare

The Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) is a federal law that seeks to keep American Indian children with American Indian families. Congress

passed ICWA in 1978 in response to the alarmingly high number of Indian children being removed from their homes by both public and private

agencies. The Absentee Shawnee Tribe continuously seeks applicants who can meet the requirements for certification through the tribe in

order to provide children with culturally appropriate homes.

The Indian Child Welfare Department (ICW) was developed to provide temporary or permanent care for Absentee Shawnee children placed

into tribal or state custody. Child protective services (CPS) and promoting safe and stable families (PSSF) offers intervention to protect children and provide services to help families with any difficulties causing the safety of their children to be at risk. ICW aggressively works toward

preserving the family, however, court involvement may be required, if a child’s safety cannot be controlled, out-of-home placement may be

necessary.

Frequently Ask Questions

Question

Can ICW intervene on private custody matters?

Can ICW hire an attorney for private custody matters?

Answer

No.

No.

ICW has the discretion to ask for a transfer but a parent, case

Can ICW take custody away from the Department of Human

worker, or either Judge of state or tribal court may object to the

Services (DHS)?

transfer.

Contact the ICW office to request a foster care provider and/

How do I become a foster care provider and/or adoptive parent? or adoption packet, the applicant(s) must pass a criminal background check, finger printing and home study.

Is there a cost for becoming an adoptive parent?

No. ICW is not an adoption agency.

Do grandparents have rights to get visitation when a grandchild No. In the State of Oklahoma, the Supreme Court has ruled that

is taken into custody of DHS?

grandparents do not have visitation rights.

No. ICW intervenes and advocated for the best interest of the

Does ICW intervene on behalf of the parents?

child.

You may report to the ICW office at ICW@astribe.com or the

Who do we report abuse/neglect to?

DHS abuse hotline at 1-800-522-3511.

If you are or know someone who may be interested in becoming a foster care provider or adoptive parent, ICW continuously seeks culturally

appropriate, safe and nurturing homes for Absentee Shawnee custody children. Please contact the ICW office at 405-395-4490 or fostercare@

astribe.com for more information.

Cultural Preservation Update

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

properly. Currently, we have three staff members working daily in the office from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. These staff members include the Director, the

Administrative Assistant and the Gift Shop Manager. The remaining three

staff members (THPO, THPO Specialist and Librarian) are working remotely Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Gift Shop

The Gift Shop is currently closed to all visitors. However, in accordance

with the Tribe’s protocols, once Phase II is entered, we will be allowing

tribal members to come in and shop by appointment only. However, 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.

2.

3.

4.

5.

All are required to cover their mouth and nose with PPE (masks)

when shopping in the Gift Shop.

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.

b. NO children allowed.

Avoid close contact (Social Distance)

a. Please keep 6 feet between you and other customers

Use hand sanitizer as often as possible

Sorry…NO public restroom is available. Temporarily closed due

to COVID-19.

We have also placed decals on the floor to help with social distancing,

have had plexiglass installed in front of the register for protection and

hand sanitizer stations have been installed for use.

During the last month, the Gift Shop Manager, Mrs. Merry Rodriguez, has

been working diligently to refill the current stock. We have an assortment

of new logo bearing merchandise available for purchase such as t-shirts,

hats, cups, polo shirts, and cardigans. We also have new shipments from

Pendleton, Crazy Crow and El Paso Saddle Blanket and an assortment of

beadwork.

In addition to the new products, currently, we are running a 20% sale on

last season’s Pendleton products and Minnetonka Shoes, and we still have

some previous season zip up hoodies and long sleeve shirts on sale for

$5.00. Sizes vary from 2X and up. So, please once the tribe enters Phase

II, call and make an appointment to come shop with Mrs. Rodriguez. She

can be reached at (405) 275-4030 ext. 6310.

Library

The library is currently closed to all visitors. Ms. Casey Wilson, the

Librarian, is working on protocols that will ensure the safety and protect

the health of all visitors. More information will follow in the future.

THPO

The THPO program has continued working remotely to make sure federal

projects do not go un-reviewed. Ms. Devon Frazier, the Tribal Historic

Preservation Officer, and Ms. Ashley Brokeshoulder, the THPO Specialist, continues to answer all incoming Section 106 correspondences. They

have also taken part in numerous teleconference calls with different federal agencies.

Grants

As previously mentioned in last month’s article, in response to the novel

coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, extensions to all grants were applied

for within the department. The extensions were granted, and all grants

have been extended for another year to ensure the department is given the

opportunity to best utilize and expend awarded funds to the fulfillment of

the department’s goals.

On July 15th, the department received some good news. The library was

selected by the Institute of Museum and Library Services to receive the

FY2020 Native American Basic grant. Currently, the department is still

waiting to hear if the applications for the THPO grant and the ANA Language grant were selected to receive funding.

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, in order to provide the best service to our Tribal community. My door is always

open so please feel free to contact me, Carol Butler, at 405-275-4030 ext.

6245 or cbutler@astribe.com.

12

Tribal News

October 2020

www.astribe.com

SEEKING ALTERNATES

FOR

ELECTION COMMISSION

The Election Commission is seeking individuals to

serve as alternates.

Alternates must meet the requirements listed in the

Election Ordinance.

If you are interested: Please submit your letter of

interest to Shirley Adkins “Acting” Commissioner

via E-Mail renee_adkins@att.net.

Once we receive your letter of interest, we will begin

the process.

A VERIFIABLE COPY OF CDIB CARD MUST BE ATTACHED FOR EACH MEMBER

FOR MINORS: A COPY OF LEGAL CUSTODY/GUARDIANSHIP PAPERS (IF APPLICABLE)

*** ALL TRIBAL MEMBERS MUST HAVE A COMPLETED APPLICATION***

ADULT

MINOR

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE OF INDIANS OF OKLAHOMA

GENERAL WELFARE RELIEF FUND APPLICATION

The Executive Committee of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma has declared

that a General Welfare Emergency does exist due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. All Adult tribal

members who are eighteen (18), on or before June 1, 2020, will be eligible for $3000.00. All

enrolled children, 17 and younger, on or before June 1, 2020 will be eligible for $1500.00

through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) funding. All tribal

members must meet one or more of the following conditions as a result of the COVID-19

Pandemic: (Please check all that apply)

 Need of Medical Supplies and/or

Equipment

 Financial or Economic needs

 COVID-19 symptoms resulting in

quarantine or social distancing

 Furlough from Employment

 Considered High risk due to medical

health and/or age

 Need of Food items

 Termination of Employment, or

inability to gain employment

 Daycare, School, or any Educational

Institute Closure

 Difficulty in making rental payments,

mortgage payments, and utility

payments.

(INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED)

I hereby certify that I have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, including but not limited

to the list above.

Name: ____________________________________

Enrollment #: __________________

Mailing Address: ________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

Signature: __________________________________

Date: _________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature: _______________________________________________________

ALL DISBURSEMENTS WILL BE HANDLED ACCORDINGLY AND IN A TIMELY

MANNER.

***DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE***

Date Received:

Enrollment Verified:

Finance Verified:

Family Name:

Amount Paid:

# of Children:

Date Paid:

Verified Child Enrollment:

Check #: