AST 477 Class of 2025 Graduation Banquet

www.astribe.com

THE ABSENTEE

SHAWNEE NEWS

Volume 35, No. 06

June 2025

AST 477 Class of 2025 Graduation Banquet

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe 477 Department held a graduation banquet for

the 477 Class of 2025 graduates on May 3.

The event, held at the AST Multi-Purpose

Building, was for active 477 participants

that graduated from high school, college

or vocational schools.

The graduates and members of their

family were treated to lunch, cake and

the presentation of honor cords and certificates. 477 staff Stephanie Martinez and

Melinda Ferrell presented the cords and

AST Treasurer Joseph Blanchard present-

ed the certificates.

Tribal member Wes Wilson was the

keynote speaker. He is a certified Question, Persuade & Refer (QPR) trainer

and a Nationally Certified Life Coach.

He currently serves as a manager at the

Southern Plains Tribal Health Board,

where his work centers on suicide prevention, prescription drug advocacy and

mental wellness .

“Us being here today, our ceremonies,

our way of life – this celebration, these

are all answered prayers from our grand-

parents and great-grandparents.” Wilson

said, “You being here today and you being

successful, those are answered prayers.

You’ve chosen to use your breaths to

better yourself, to better your life, to

strengthen for our Shawnee people.”

477’s mission statement is just that – to

strengthen and help one become self-sufficient. Each graduate completed the

goals set forth in the 477 program and

now has the tools for success.

Briana Ponkilla, 477 Executive Director told the grads to keep setting goals

and rely on the support system they have.

“Follow the path that works best for you.

We’re proud of you. You should be proud

of yourselves.” Ponkilla said, “Celebrate

your accomplishment. Celebrate this

time in your life.”

If you want more information about

the 477 Program or to see if you are eligible to apply for services, check out

their webpage at https://www.astribe.

com/477-program, call them at (405)

878-4545 or email: 477program@astribe.

com.

Top Left Photo (L-R): Front row - Eva Grass, Stormy Little, AST Treasurer Joseph Blanchard, Erika Blanchard. Back row – Nolan Shawnee, Silas Wahpekeche, Kanynn Kaseca.

Top Right Photo: Melinda Ferrell presents Stormy Little with her graduate cord. Bottom Left Photo: Keynote speaker tribal member Wes Wilson. Bottom Right Photo: 477

graduate Nolan Shawnee poses with his family.

Absentee Shawnee Police Recognition Week

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe recently

designated the second full week of May

as Absentee Shawnee Police Recognition

Week. A resolution was passed April 16,

2025 creating the proclamation.

National Police Week is recognized in

May and the Absentee Shawnee Tribe

wanted to honor and recognize the AST

Police Department for their support of

our tribal community, especially the

tribal youth.

The resolution in part states, “the Absentee-Shawnee Tribal Police Department is a vital piece to the safety of our

tribal people and to our Tribe’s Sovereignty, therefore the Absentee Shawnee

Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma would like

to celebrate and thank them for their

work and dedication.”

The AST Education Department

helped spearhead the resolution. Education Director Tresha Spoon said this

special week came to be as a way to get

the tribal kids to trust the police, “We are

trying to change the view of tribal police

in our community. “

The Education Department held several events to honor the AST Police. They

provided them with breakfast, organized

a luncheon with the EC, held a community meet and greet at Brendle Corner

with members of the police department

and took the afterschool youth to tour

the AST police building.

AST Tribal Youth Program Coordinator Blake Goodman acknowledged the

police staff at the luncheon. “We want to

celebrate you guys for all the hard work

that you do. A lot of times you get a bad

rap in the community because of things

you have to deal with but we appreciate

you very much.”

Tribal police officers perform the same

work as local or state police departments

while they continue to uphold tribal sovereignty. They are sometimes the first responders on scene yet their hard work often goes without any acknowledgement.

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe is proud to

recognize our tribal police department

for all their hard work in protecting our

tribal people and tribal lands.

Photo (L-R): AST Secretary Misty McGirt, AST Lt. Governor Diane Ponkilla, AST Governor

John Johnson, AST Treasurer Joseph Blanchard Back row L-R, Captain Steven Crisp, Police

Specialist II Linda Day, Patrol Officer James “JP” Neely, Safety Officer John Lantz, SORNA

Investigator Rickey Jones, Investigator Jason Reid, Emergency Manager Levi Walker, Patrol

Officer Jamon Reid. Not pictured – Director of Public Safety Brad Gaylord, Captain Jason

Brinker, Patrol Officer Josh Bledsoe, Patrol Officer Lisa Williams, Patrol Officer Anthony Hicks,

Patrol Officer Trevor Palmer, Patrol Officer Jeremy Spradlin.

2A www.astribe.com

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

GOVERNOR’S REPORT

John Johnson, AST Governor

Hello Tribal Menmbers,

Summer is here and school is officially out. Congratulations to all the 2025

graduating seniors, all the college graduates and even the little kindergarten

graduates. You have all done an amazing

job and I am proud of you and all your

achievements. Keep up the hard work

and continue to grow your future.

I attended the second annual Treaty

Day in OKC at the state capitol. It was

a huge turnout; many tribes from around

Oklahoma were in attendance. With the

GOVERNOR

John Johnson

Lt. GOVERNOR

Diane Ponkilla

LT. GOVERNOR’S REPORT

Diane Ponkilla, AST Lt. Governor

Hello Everyone,

Sending my Condolences and many

prayers to all who have recently lost a

loved one. Congratulations to the graduates of 2025 remember you have accomplished a big step into adulthood continue to strive for higher be proud and love

yourself.

I would like to apologize to the ones

who felt like I was having a Director’s

meeting during General Council. I wanted to let the department director’s under

my oversight introduce themselves and

explain what assistance was available to

the AST Members. I am always available

to answer questions and direct you to the

appropriate department within the AST.

SECRETARY’S REPORT

Misty McGirt, AST Secretary

SECRETARY

Misty McGirt

Greetings Tribal Members,

I hope everyone has been staying

healthy and doing well. My apologies for

my newsletter absence for last month it’s

been a very busy time. We had General

Council April 26 we had 107 tribal members attend it is always a pleasure to see

everyone. My office had a coloring contest for the adults who attended General

Council Ne yi wa to all who participated they were all beautiful. Our Agriculture Department had a Plant distribution

TREASURER’S REPORT

Joseph Blanchard, AST Treasurer

TREASURER

Joseph Blanchard

REPRESENTATIVE

Anthony Johnson

Hello fellow AST Tribal Members, Family, and Friends:

I’m not sure about you but this year is

blazing by. School is out, kids have started their summer programs or sports, and

folks are planning trips to the Zoo, lake,

or out of state. Before I get too far into

my report this month, let me be one of the

first to extend “Congratulations!” to the

Class of 2025. I know it was mentioned

last month but in the last few weeks, I received word from several parents about

their child’s success.

This year’s group of graduates, that I am

aware of, has the most student-athletes in

our Tribes history. At last count, we have

6 young women who have signed “Letters

of Intent” to continue their education and

athletic careers at the college or university

level. The thing that impresses me most

about this group is their diversity, which

isn’t just the traditional sports. Of course

there is basketball but we also have the

new sports golf, track and wrestling. At

the 477 Graduation Ceremonies, I teased

the families in attendance, “Y’all better

tell your sons, nephews, and grandsons to

get on the ball because the girls are kicking their butt.”

As I get on with this month’s discussion, the first thing I want to mention is

the AST Economic Development Survey.

REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORT

Anthony Johnson, AST Representative

Hello Tribal Members,

I hope everyone is well. May was a busy

month for my office. We supported the

tribe with our Cultural Preservation staff

at tribal consultation events in Oklahoma

City last month, celebrated “AST Police

tribes/nations facing the unknown right

now, it is important for all the tribes to

work together and to get familiar with

the treaties that were put into place many

years ago. We must rely on those treaties

now and make sure they are not being

compromised.

I also attended the Tribal Municipal

Symposium in Hochatown Oklahoma.

The Choctaw nation is collaborating with

the city municipal on a safety plan regarding the issues of the McGirt case and outcome. They will reach out to surrounding

cities and tribes on these issues. If this

becomes more wide spread I will look

into a safety plan for us as well.

June 2025

The 94th Semi-Annual was a good turnout even with bad weather. It was good

to see you all there. If you was unable to

attend you may view the full video on the

AST website at astribe.com. I look forward to seeing you all again in October.

Should you have any questions please

reach out to my office or you may call my

assistant at the information below.

Thank You

John Johnson - 405-275-4030 ext. 3500

governor@astribe.com

Alvina Barnes - 405-275-4030 ext. 3501

alvinab@astribe.com

Thank you

On Tuesday, May 13th was wear blue

day in honor of AST Police Department

and on Wednesday, May 14th the education department honored the Police

Department with a luncheon. Thursday,

May 15th and 16th I and Secretary McGirt assisted the Agriculture Department

with starter vegetable plant distribution.

There were a total of 201 starter plants

distributed.

I have not traveled any this month and

attended a few meetings which were located at the AST complex. The Tribe is

still monitoring the changes occurring

with the US Stateswww Government and

the affect it may have on the Tribes. Stay

weather safe and check on elders and

family members during these unpredictable times.

Blessings to All

May 15-16. Our staff did really well with

growing all the starter plants in the green

houses we have and to help the community to get started in gardening. We had

201 participants that came by and picked

up starter plants. We hope to see pictures

of everyone’s gardens and look forward

to seeing everyone at upcoming events

we will be having be looking for information on the tribal website and Facebook

page or if you have any questions feel

free to contact us. The month of May was

MMIP awareness month. I attended a remembrance walk held at the CPN’s May

19th. It was disheartening for governor

Stitt’s recent vetoed of a bill that would

have helped fund and investigative unit

to help solve cases that surround Missing

Murdered Indigenous People. In 2015 he

signed Ida’s law. His judgement has not

been good for our Native American tribes

in Oklahoma. The other Executive members and I are keeping up the news on the

things Trump and Stitt are doing daily

and working with other organizations

and tribes to get through this.

That is all I have to report at this time

if you have any questions please call my

office 405-275-4030 EX. 3505.

It should appear in this edition along with

the QR code and link to sign up. Submissions will be received until the end of June

and the information will be compiled

then shared with the Executive Committee, ASEDA Board, and our membership.

This data is highly important as we will

utilize some of the information to direct and improve the Long-term Strategic Plan for the Tribe, gather input from

members for future improvements, and

create new dialogue for the direction the

Tribe should be headed.

Also, this past month, the Tax Commission voted to approve changes and

updates to the license plate. However,

they are asking members for their input

on the selection of a new design. Once

those results come back, they will submit

resolutions for the EC to approve formally. As mentioned previously, we understand there may be some who don’t want

to change so that has been incorporated

into the thought process. At your earliest

convenience, please submit your selection to let your voice be heard.

In my latest meeting with Finance, we

talked about the upcoming Mid-Year

Budget Reviews, where we’re at in the annual Audit process, and the submission of

our Indirect Cost (IDC) Proposal for Year

2026. This past year, we were able to submit the proposal early to get in the Que

and negotiate the percentages prior to the

end of December. This was the first time

I am aware that our Tribe had the rate in

hand prior to the beginning of the Calendar year on January 1.

As some will remember, the Budget

Mid-Year Review was implemented in

2021 when I discovered that many of our

Grants and other funding sources were

not spending accordingly, then submitting an overabundance of Purchase Orders and Requests at the last minute in

the Fall of 2020. We began this as a protective measure for all Programs to coordinate monthly expenses by creating a

dashboard that shows the Administrator

and direct EC Oversight how much remains in their budget reports they receive

monthly. Honestly, it was a way for them

to reconcile their own data with their submissions to confirm numbers matched

and they could track their purchases.

In conclusion, I want to say “Happy

Father’s Day!” to all the Dads, Step-dads,

Uncles, and Grandpas. The importance

of your role as a mentor, advisor, and protector are highly important to the success

of our families and children. Make sure

your loved ones take you out for lunch

or dinner. That is all I have for now and

I look forward to the conversations and

visits. Should you have any questions, do

not hesitate to call my office or set up a

meeting to speak with me directly.

Week” which was hosted by the Education department, and my office attended the May Town Hall event at the Little

Axe Health Center that was hosted by our

Health System staff. Thank you to all of

our tribal, health system and casino employees, for all the hard work each of you

do. June will continue to be a busy month

as my office prepares to welcome a youth

worker from the 477 Summer Youth Em-

ployment Program. Should you have any

questions or need any assistance, please

contact my office by phone or email.

Ne yi wa!

Secretary McGirt

Neyiwa!

Joseph H. Blanchard

Phone: (405) 531-3512

Email: adjohnson@astribe.com

Sincerely,

Anthony “Tadpole” Johnson

Tribal Representative

June 2025

www.astribe.com 3A

FROM THE ELECTION COMMISSION:

Tear Off 

Tribal Members:

The Annual Election will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2025. The voting polls will be located

at the Little Axe Resource Center on Peebly Road, 1970 156th Ave NE, in Norman, Oklahoma and

at the AST Health Multipurpose Building, 2029 James L Edwards Lane, on the Tribal Complex

in Shawnee, Oklahoma. The polls will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at both locations.

APPROPRIATE POLL BEHAVIOR

According to the Election Ordinance Article VIII Section 1 – The official polling sites and

adjoining Tribal Grounds are neutral grounds; therefore, there shall be no campaigning or loitering

on Election Day by any person. It shall be the duty of the Election Commission to request that

Tribal police, be present at each polling place and be responsible for maintaining order, prevent

campaigning, and loitering during the election process.

In order to comply we suggest that you do not campaign in any fashion. For example:

No “vote for. . .”sticker on cars

No campaign clothing

No disbursement of campaign material

No counseling as to who to vote for

Do not loiter at poll site:

1. Arrive

2. Register

3. Vote

4. Exit

BALLOT

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA

ANNUAL ELECTION

JUNE 21, 2025

VOTING INSTRUCTIONS: Cast your vote by placing an [X] or [] mark in the box next to the

candidate name of your choice. Any other mark outside the box will be considered a spoiled ballot.

ELECTION COMMISSION

COMMISSIONER (3 Year Term)

James Cody Spybuck, Jr.---------------------------------

YES

NO

DEPUTY COMMISSIONER (2 Year Term Prorated)

Unless there is a line, each voter should be at the poll no more than 10 minutes outside of voter

booth. Each voter may take all the time they need to read the ballot to vote in the private booth but

should not “visit” with Commissioners or other voters at the poll site.

No Filing

SECRETARY (3 Year Term)

Any visiting of voters must occur outside of the Poll Site and adjoining Tribal grounds.

No Filing

Voting Polls close at 6:00 p.m. Voter has to be in line in order to vote.

Policies and Procedures states:

There shall be no campaigning on property of polling site. This includes signs, person to

person, clothing, etc. or within 200 ft. of the polling site. On Election Day all signs must be

over 200 ft. away from the edge of tribal property that contain poll sites.

Nature Hunt

Po ki mi we ke s’fwa

(poh kah mah wee kee s’thweh)

Plum Month

June

June is the month when sand plums are ripe and ready to pick. Some eat them off the tree and others

may make jelly and other food out of them. Many Shawnees also like to play ball. June is the month

when ball tournaments are held all over.

Ma qe lo – run

Ka ma sa ni – catch the ball

(may qee loh)

(kay may say nah)

Ke ti n’he wa pa – we won

Ke ti n’ha ko pa – we lost

(key tah n’hee way pay)

(key tah n’hay koh pay)

So s’ti lo – slide

(soh s’tah loh)

Ke ma ti m’hi – safe!

(key may tah m’hah)

Hi pe ta fe lo – hustle

Ke lo fa pi ke la ko pe – you’re out!

(hah pee tay the loh)

(key loh thay pah key lay koh pee)

Ke mo ta lo – steal the base

(key moh tay loh)

Pi pa ke

(pah pay kee)

(may may key chee lah

qah)

hi ne qi

(hah nee qah)

(poh kah mah thah)

s’ke ti ma ke

(s’key tah may kee)

se ko ni ke

(see koh nah kee)

Ka k’ge ta la mi – watch the pitcher

Ni ti mi ka ko – everybody help

(may nee tay hay koh)

(nah tah mah kay koh)

Ho wa ka qi s’ki mi wa pa – time to play ball

(hoh way kay qah s’kah mah way pay)

(pee tah moh kee)

Ha mo

(heh moh)

M’ta qe

(m’teh qee)

(kay k’chee tay lay mah)

Ma ne ta ha ko – have a good time

Pe ti mo ke – make a goal

As it warms up, take some time to see what nature has outside and

learn what some things you may see everyday in Shawnee!

ma ma ke ge li qi

Po ki mi fi

Na n’pi ke la ko – throw the ball

(nay n’pah key lay koh)

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

(cheh kee wee yeh thah wee kah toh wah mah lee meh teh leh mee weh tah hoh weh see lah sah mah moh weh)

We all need to pray for blessings.

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

Se se pi li to

(see see pah lah toh)

I KE

MO

TI YA HE

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE

I

VISION ZERO

I

SAFER STREETS SAVE LIVES

COMMUNITY

INPUT

SCAN THE QR CODE TO

COMPLETE THE SURVEY

OR VISIT

HTTPS://ARCG.IS/G5D8E

SURVEY

BACKGROUND:

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe was awarded a Safe

Streets for All (SS4A) planning grant from the

United States Department of Transportation for

the creation of a Safety Action Plan (SAP). The

goal of the SAP is to reduce and eliminate serious

injuries and fatal crashes on roadways in the

Absentee Shawnee Tribe SAP study area by

identifying roadway safety problems and roadway

locations with the most significant safety risks.

I KE

MO

TI YA HE

WE NEED YOUR INPUT!

YOUR FEEDBACK WILL:

Help identify unsafe

roadways.

IO

Help create safer

roadways.

Help achieve the eventual

goal of zero roadway fatalities

and serious injuries.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT

THE AST SAP INITIATIVE, VISIT:

ARCG.IS/G5D8E

June 2025

4A www.astribe.com

Education Department: Tribal Youth Programs

Camp Nikoti Afterschool program youth are finishing the year strong. We are averaging 12-15 students each day to close the year. They have been working hard to get

through testing and studying hard to prepare for it. They have also been playing games and enjoying their time playing outside.

We attended two different schools Indian club meetings over the past month. We went to Little Axe High Schools Indian Club meeting and brought snack and drinks to

celebrate their seniors. We also went to Tecumseh’s Indian club meeting and brought them snacks and drinks as well to celebrate their seniors. The Step grant bought each

schools seniors a cake to celebrate them. We also attended the Little Axe Schools Tribal Consultation and their Indian Education Parent Committee meeting.

The Little Axe Soccer program has been slowed by rain this year. We had a strong turnout of 70 plus kids sign up to play which is up from last year. We have only been able

to play 4 games so far this season, but hope to get at least three more games in to close the year. The season will finish up on May 31st.

The public safety club meetings over the past two months have gone really good. We had a guy that worked with the BIA Fire prevention program come out and speak with

the youth about what he does. He shared with the youth all the different experiences he had gone through and all the different things that his job entails. He also allowed the

kids to see his equipment and different tools that they use. The youth got to use one of the sprayers they use to help contain fires in small areas.

We also did a community meet and greet with our Police Department as part of our safety club and Police Recognition week. We worked as a department to get a resolution

passed to celebrate and recognize our AST Police department for all the work that they do. We got our Police Recognition week resolution passed to coincide with National

Police Week, which was May 11th through May 17th. Our department worked to schedule events for each day of the week:

•

Monday of that week we provided the PD with breakfast from Chick-Fila,

•

Tuesday we did a wear Blue Day for the entire tribe to honor and celebrate our PD.

•

Wednesday we organized a luncheon for the AST PD and Executive Committee. Our afterschool youth worked Tuesday afternoon to help make cookies, brownies, and

a cake for the PD as well as helped Tresha, the Education Director, to make potato salad for the luncheon. The HR department provided gifts for each officer.

•

Thursday we did the community meet and greet at Brendle Corner with Officer Jones and Officer Neely as part of the Public Safety Club Meeting for the month.

•

Friday we took our afterschool youth to tour the AST PD building and our afterschool youth worked hard the entire week to make the AST PD pictures and crafts to

show their appreciation for them and gave them to the PD.

Lastly we took our afterschool youth bowling on a Friday afternoon for all the hard work they put in during Police Recognition Week. We are super proud of them for the hard

work, love, and appreciation they showed toward our AST PD. Thank you to everyone that helped support us and our AST PD during Police Recognition Week.

NOT IC E

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SUBMIT AN ARTICLE OR STORY

Please give us a call at (405) 598-1279 or send an email to media@astribe.com

All articles for the next month’s issue are DUE by the 15th of the current month.

Unfortunately we can only accept ONE PICTURE PER BIRTHDAY PERSON, not per birthday wish.

June 2025

www.astribe.com

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

Building Blocks had an amazing May. ‘Muffins for Mom’s’ was a huge

success. Thanks to all who came and celebrated our Marvelous

Moms!

Friday, June 13th @ 3:00p.m. Building Blocks

will have ‘Donuts with Dads’ in celebration of

our Fantastic Fathers!

Sunday, June 15th is Father’s Day.

Building Blocks will be closed Thursday, June

19th in observance of Juneteenth.

Summer is officially here; Friday, June 20th.

Remember to drink lots of water and wear

sunscreen when doing outside activities. Enjoy

the summer sunshine.

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.

Have a Great June!

SKIP THE SUMMERTIME BLUES

WITH THE RIGHT BANK

Summertime. It’s the perfect time to kick back and relax... that is, if you’re banking

with the right bank.

Is your current bank everything you want it to be?

If not, you may want to take a look at AllNations Bank.

Here your transactions, both in branch and online, are quicker and easier than ever;

whether you’re opening a checking, savings, or Christmas Club, looking at

investments such as CDs, or applying for a home mortgage or vehicle loan.

If you’d like to learn more about the peace of mind that comes from banking with

the right bank, visit our website at www.anbok.bank, call us at (405) 273-0202 or

visit your local branch.

2023 Gordon Cooper Dr.

Shawnee, OK 74801

(405) 273-0202

www.anbok.bank

5A

June 2025

6A www.astribe.com

Adult Services

AST

477

Help with

GED/HS

Diploma?

Need

assistance

with clothes

for new job?

QUESTIONS?

CONTACT US!

ONLINE APP:

Need

Behavioral

Health

Services?

Need help with

reinstatement

fees?

Need Job

Training?

Youth Services

Unemployed

or

Underemployed?

Need small

business

assistance?

Need

assistance

for clothes

with new

job?

Assistance

with

Drivers Ed?

Tutoring

Extracurricular

Expenses

AST

477

Help with

GED/HS

Diploma?

Need

education

assistance?

Homeless?

Need

Childcare?

Child need

school

supplies?

(JOM)

Need

education

assistance?

Tuition

Assistance

Need help

finding a

job?

Graduation

Expenses

NOT INCOME BASED

OPEN TO ALL NATIVE AMERICANS

NOT INCOME BASED

OPEN TO ALL NATIVE AMERICANS

The 477 Program is designed to provide resources and support to

help individuals and families become economically self-sufficient

while reducing the need for short-term social service intervention.

The 477 Program is designed to provide resources and support to

help individuals and families become economically self-sufficient

while reducing the need for short-term social service intervention.

421 N. Beard St. Shawnee, OK 74801

(405) 878-4545 | 477program@astribe.com

https://www.astribe.com/477-program

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*Must reside in Cleveland, McClain, Oklahoma or Pottawatomie Counties

*Tribal ID Required

QUESTIONS?

CONTACT US!

ONLINE APP:

214 N. Oklahoma St. Shawnee, OK 74801

(405) 878-4545 | 477program@astribe.com

https://www.astribe.com/477-program

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Sca cation

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*Must reside in Cleveland, McClain, Oklahoma or Pottawatomie Counties

*Tribal ID Required

AST 477

Semester Completion Incentive Program

MUST BE AN ACTIVE 477 PROGRAM PARTICIPANT TO RECEIVE INCENTIVE

The AST 477 Semester Completion Incentive Program is designed to encourage and celebrate student success

by providing a Gift Card for students who maintain a grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 and above.

Deadline to submit for each term are as follows:

Spring Semester: 5pm on June 30th, 2025

*REPORT CARDS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER DEADLINE

Eligibility:

Students Pre-K through 5th Grade will receive a $50.00 gift card.

6th-12th Grade will receive a gift card based on Grade Point Average (GPA)

Process:

When a report card is received, 477 Youth Case Manager reviews the report card to determine if it is complete

and if the student is eligible for the award. The amount for students in grades 6th-12th will depend on the

GPA level. The incentive award will be disbursed directly to the eligible student in person or by mail. Gift cards

will be ordered in July. Each participant will be called once gifts cards come in. Report cards should be legible

with School, Student Info and student grades. Screen shots or photos taken of the computer screen will NOT

be accepted.

Choice of Gift Card:

Amazon, Walmart or Best Buy

Break Down:

3.5-above= $75.00

3.0-3.4=$50.00

2.5-2.9=$25.00

2.0-2.4 =$15.00

Email Grades:

477program@astribe.com

Success Story

Caelynn Blanchard

AST Tribal Member

I applied to the 477 Youth Program, which helped me secure a summer position in

procurement. After the summer, 477 guided me to the Afterschool Program, where I

was hired full-time to work with children. Upon graduating from high school, I

considered attending college but decided to take a year off to determine my path.

During that time, I consulted with my coworkers and my 477 case manager, who

assisted me in enrolling in college. I have now completed my first year and thoroughly

enjoyed the experience. The 477 Program has been instrumental in my journey,

providing invaluable support and motivation toward my success.

Just released: Our podcast, Among

the Shawnee is now available to watch

on YouTube. This inaugural video

features the AST ICW team sharing

their heartfelt stories and the urgent

need for foster homes for our tribal

kids. Tune into our first video podcast

to learn more. Subscribe to our channel,

Absentee Shawnee Tribe to watch.

Podcast is also still available on Apple,

Spotify, SoundCloud and the Absentee

Shawnee Tribe website.

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

June 2025

www.astribe.com

Happy heavenly birthday

momma! You should be here

but you’re not. I know you are

watching over us. Thank you for

being the best mother ever.

Love always, Sherrie, Joplin,

Jiliyan & Justin

7A

Congratulations to 4A State

Shot Put Champion Kiara

Stallin. She had an undefeated

season, conference champion,

regional champion and now

state champion 2025.

Joseph Crossley, 79, of Shawnee, Oklahoma passed away Tuesday, May 6, 2025.

He is a member of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma.

Joseph was born in Wichita, KS on November 11, 1945 and graduated from Rose Hill High School in 1963.

In January 1963 he joined the Navy, received an Honorable discharge then in August 1966 went on to attend

college at Wichita State University earning his Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering in 1973 and his

Master of Business Administration in 1975. Shortly after he completed his degrees he started a family and

moved to Texas. In Texas he worked for Texas Instruments. He was able to retire from T.I. at an early age and

moved to Shawnee, OK.

He was preceded in death by - his parents, Basil and Eleanor Crossley of Bethel Acres, OK; His sister-in-law

Tessie Crossley, sister Ruth Harder and brother Orin Crossley.

He is survived in passing by his brother Burton Crossley of Elmo, Tx and his sister Rachel Crossley of Choctaw,

OK – along with his four children, Son, Jesse Crossley & wife Narda Crossley and their children Ricardo and

Lennox Daughter Caroline Crossley & Bryan Suhy and their children Caelin, Brody, and Eleanor Daughter

Cathleen Crossley & husband Mason Riley and their children Wren and Jean-Michel Son John Crossley &

Megan Kinney; and other extended family members and friends.

Joseph was a son, a brother, a cousin, a nephew, an uncle, a father and a

grandfather. He will be missed.

United States Department of the Interior

BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS

SOUTHERN PLAINS REGIONAL OFFICE

P.O. BOX 368

ANADARKO, OKLAHOMA 73005

NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY

OF

AN ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS

FOR

THE PROPOSED RIGHT-OF-WAY ROAD EXPANSION ON ABSENTEE SHAWNEE

TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA TRACT 820-201-H, POTAWATOMIE COUNTY, OKLAHOMA

The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Southern Plains Regional Office announces the availability of and

invites public comments on the Environmental Assessment (EA) & Finding of No Significant Impact

(FONSI) for a proposed right-of-way (ROW) road expansion on Absentee Shawnee Tribal Trust property

820-201-H. The site for the proposed ROW road expansion is located approximately 3.6 miles (straightline distance) northeast of the town center of Tecumseh, Oklahoma. The purpose of the proposed action

will be to create access from the 2.50-acre 820-201-H allotment to a 40-acre Absentee Shawnee Trust

Tract (820-201-C) to serve Absentee Shawnee Tribal Members. The proposed project will consist of

extending an existing gravel road section 330ft east-west and 30ft north-south to reach the 820-201-C

tract.

Based on the EA dated February 2024, which analyzes the potential impacts of the proposed action, it has

been determined that the proposed action will not have a significant impact on the quality of the human

environment, therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement is not required and a FONSI has been signed

by the Regional Director, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Southern Plains Regional Office.

The EA and FONSI are available for review at the BIA Southern Plains Regional Office in Anadarko,

Oklahoma. Arrangements to review the EA and FONSI should be made with Michael Hardsaw prior to

your visit. Mr. Hardsaw can be reached at 405-933-3678 or via email at michael.hardsaw@bia.gov.

The FONSI is a finding on environmental effects, not a decision to proceed, therefore it cannot be

appealed. 25 CFR 2.7 requires a 30-day appeal period after the decision to proceed with the action is

made before the action may be implemented. Appeal information will be made publically available when

the decision to proceed is made. THIS IS NOT A SOLICITATION FOR BID ON CONSTRUCTION.

Written comments and/or questions related to the EA and FONSI should be directed to:

Bureau of Indian Affairs, Southern Plains Regional Office

Attn: Michael Hardsaw, Interim Regional Environmental Scientist

P.O. Box 368

Anadarko, OK 73005

June 2025

8A www.astribe.com

4th Annual Starter Plant Distribution

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe will be closed

Thursday, June 19th - Juneteenth

www.asthealth.org

June 2025

Section B

ASTHS June 2025 Monthly Update

Measles Awareness

Measles cases in 2025

As of May 8, 2025, a total of 1,001 confirmed* measles cases were reported by 31 jurisdictions: Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida,

Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland,

Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, New

York City, New York State, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania,

Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington.

There have been 14 outbreaks (defined as 3 or more related cases) reported in 2025, and 93% of confirmed cases (928 of 1,001) are outbreak-associated. For comparison, 16 outbreaks were reported during 2024 and 69% of

cases (198 of 285) were outbreak-associated.

What is Measles?

What can someone do to protect against measles?

Measles can be prevented with an MMR vaccine. These vaccines prevent

against three diseases: measles, mumps and rubella (sometimes chickenpox

with MMRV). Someone is at risk for measles if they have not been fully vaccinated or have not had measles in the past.

The vaccine is recommended for all children at 12 to 15 months of age and

again as a second dose at four to six years of age. If a person has not received

a second dose of the vaccine between four and six years of age, it may be given at any age thereafter. The two doses of vaccine normally provide lifelong

immunity.

If you have questions or concerns regarding the vaccine, we encourage

individuals to speak with their trusted health care provider.

Is the measles vaccine effective?

Yes, it is very effective. Two doses of MMR vaccine are about 97% effective

at preventing measles, and one dose is about 93% effective.

According to the CDC very few individuals who get two doses of measles

vaccine will still get measles if exposed to the virus. If someone gets the

measles, but is fully vaccinated, they are more likely to have a milder illness.

Measles is a very contagious disease that is an airborne, extremely infectious, and potentially severe rash that can cause severe illness, complications

and death. The disease is reportable in Oklahoma and is caused by the measles virus. Measles is also known as Rubeola, 10-day measles, hard measles,

and red measles.

How do I know if I am protected from or vaccinated for measles?

Why is there more measles activity?

Nationally, the rates of people vaccinated against measles have been high

and stable since the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program began measuring

vaccine coverage in 1994. In 2017, the overall national coverage for MMR

vaccine among children aged 19–35 months was 92.7%. However, MMR

vaccine coverage levels continue to vary by state, with 11 states in 2017 having MMR coverage levels of less than 90%. At the county or lower levels,

vaccine coverage rates may vary considerably. Pockets of unvaccinated people can exist in states with high vaccination coverage, underscoring considerable measles susceptibility at some local levels.

Between January 1 and April 4, 2025, the Centers for Disease Control and

Prevention (CDC) has been notified of 607 confirmed U.S. cases of measles

in 22 jurisdictions and six outbreaks (defined as three or more cases), with

the largest outbreak in Texas and New Mexico accounting for more than

90% of cases. Most of these cases were among children and adolescents who

had not received a measles vaccine or whose vaccination history was unknown. Three measles deaths have been reported so far this year: one in an

unvaccinated adult in New Mexico and two in unvaccinated school-aged

children in Texas.

What are the symptoms of measles:

Measles starts with a fever, soon after it causes a cough, runny nose and

red, watery eyes. These early symptoms begin to appear about 7-14 days

after a person is infected, but it can be as long as 21 days. Two to three days

after symptoms begin, Koplik spots (tiny white dots) may appear inside an

infected individual’s mouth on the cheeks. Three to five days after symptoms

begin, a rash of tiny, red flat spots appear, beginning at the hairline and

spreading down the rest of the body over the next few days. When the rash

appears, a person’s fever may spike to more than 104˚F.

If you’re unsure whether you have received the vaccine, you can search

for your records on our public portal, Shot Records (oklahoma.gov). If you

think you received measles containing vaccine as a child but were born in

another state, your vaccine record may be located in that state’s vaccine registry. Also look for hard copy vaccination records that may have been saved

from your childhood, such as in a baby book.

If you were born in 1957 or after and are unable to locate written documentation of an MMR vaccine, immunity (positive IgG result), or infection

(positive IgM result or other confirmatory test), speak with your health care

provider about what to do and if you need the MMR vaccine.

Does someone sick with measles need to isolate from others?

If an individual is diagnosed with measles, the health department will

work with the individual to determine when it is safe to return to work/

school/daycare/public settings. Usually, an individual can return when they

have had a rash for more than four days.

What should I do if I travel somewhere with a measles outbreak and return home feeling ill?

If you are sick with a fever within 21 days after traveling, you should call

your health care provider or local county health department. At that time,

you should provide them with information on your symptoms, where you

traveled and your vaccine history.

After returning from a trip, it is advised to pay attention to your health

for three weeks after returning. If you think you have measles, please do

not show up at any healthcare facility or health department without calling ahead of time. When you call ahead, explain your symptoms and travel

history so they can tell you how they can see you while protecting other

patients and healthcare providers in the building.

References:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2025. Measles Cases and OutSymptoms may last for one to two weeks. Measles can be serious in all age breaks. https://www.cdc.gov/measles/data-research/index.html

groups, however individuals at higher risk for severe illness and complica- Oklahoma State Department of Health. 2025. Measles. https://oklahoma.

gov/content/dam/ok/en/health/health2/aem-documents/prevention-and-pretions include:

paredness/infectious-disease-prevention-and-response/fact-sheets/Measles.

• Children younger than 5 years of age.

pdf

• Adults older than 20 years of age.

• Pregnant women.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

• People with compromised immune systems.

Shawnee Health Center

How does the measles virus spread?

NEW SHAWNEE HEALTH CLINIC!

The virus can spread person-to-person through the air when an infected

person coughs or sneezes. The virus can stay in the air for up to two hours

39665 Benson Park Road, Shawnee, OK 74801 (adjacent to Tecumseh

after an infected person leaves an area and cause other people breathing that

Lake)

air to become infected.

Groundbreaking held Mar 19, 2025 (Anticipate completion in late 2026)

Measles can also be spread by contact with nose and throat secretions

from sick people, or by touching a contaminated surface. Infected people May 2025 Health Employee Awards of the Month

can spread the virus four days before their rash starts through four days

Employee of the Month: Bonnie Collett, Medical Lab Technician

after the rash appears.

It is so contagious that if one person has it, up to 90% of the people ex- Team of the Month: Business Office

posed to the sick individual will also become infected if they are not protectSpecial Leadership Award: Jordan Harvey, Pharmacy Manager (Shawnee)

ed (previously infected or vaccinated).

Early nonspecific symptoms may include the following:

Chris A. Larkin, MBA, FACHE, CHC

Executive Director

June 2025

2B www.astribe.com

Public Health Department

Car Seat

Car Seat Checks &

Installation Education Thursday, July 17th,

(Available until out)

are

ves etter

a

e

b

L

g,

is

lin

fal ealth g!

h

in

l

l

ca

Fun activities

for everyone!

Safety

Check

Car seats for those in need

Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System

2025

2:00-6:00 PM

Little Axe Health Center

15951 Little Axe Drive, Norman, OK 73026

FALL INTO

WELlNESS

Health Fair 2025

Put

on

swe

ater a

a

com

e ge nd

t

bet

ter

!

Friday, October 3rd

From 2:00-4:00 PM

Raffles!

Door

prizes!

little Axe health center

15951 Little axe drive, norman, ok

Contact: Beverly Felton 405.701.7190 or bfelton@astribe.com

Contact Rita Hunnicutt at 405.561.7868 or Rhunnicutt@astribe.com

30 Minute Sheet Pan Sausage & Veggies

4 servings

Look Out For

Medicare

Phone Scammers!

HOW TO DEAL WITH PHONE SCAMMERS:

1. DO NOT give your personal information

out to anyone from an unrecognized number.

2. If you do end up speaking to someone, hang

up immediately and block their number.

Prep time 10 min, total time 30 min

cal/serv: 366

Sausage, sweet potato, broccoli, and bell peppers seasoned with olive oil, garlic, Italian

seasoning and roasted to perfection. This quick 30-minute meal is a low-carb, healthy and

packed full of flavor dinner option that is also great for meal-prep too!

Ingredients

12-16 ounces Smoked Turkey or Chicken

Sausage (about 3 cups)

2 cups sweet potato (diced into 1/2'' cubes)

2 cups broccoli florets

1 cup bell pepper (chopped (any colors you

like))

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

2 tablespoons olive oil

3. Visit www.donotcall.gov to add your name

and number to the DO NOT CALL list. Let us

know if you need assistance.

If You Have Medicare

Questions We Can Help!

You have an insider with 15+ years of experience in

Medicare right here at AST Health! Al Triggs takes

care of hundreds of our elders and is standing by to

take care of any of your Medicare-related needs.

2 cloves garlic minced

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-step instructions

1. Pre-heat oven to 400F.

2. Slice the sausage into 1'' rounds. Dice the sweet

potatoes into small 1/2'' cubes.

3. Add the sausage, veggies and minced garlic to a

large baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and

sprinkle with the Italian spices or your favorite spice

blend. Seasoning with salt and pepper. Toss veggies

Al Triggs

Contracted Benefits Advisor

Legacy Tribal Services

(918) 853-1211

Proudly Serving AST Citizens

with your hands until they are fully combined and

coated with olive oil and spices.

4. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway. Enjoy with

rice, quinoa, in sandwiches or as is for weight loss!

June 2025

www.astribe.com

TUESDAY

MONDAY

2

9

CHICKEN SALAD

SANDWICH

CHIPS

TOM & CUCMBER

SALAD

EGG ROLL

VEGGIE FRIED RICE

COOKIE

16

23

CHICKEN PATTY

OKRA

3 BEAN SALAD

BREAD/PEARS

HOT DOG

POT SALAD

BAKED BEANS

APPLE

30

OPEN FACE TURKEY

MASHED POT/GRAVY

MIXED VEGGIES

BREAD/FRUIT

3

WEDNESDAY

SMOKED SAUSAGE

CABBAGE

CORNBREAD

APPLESAUCE

10

17

24

CHICKEN FAJITAS

BELL PEPPERS &

ONIONS

TORTILLAS

REFRIED BEANS

MANWICH

WAFFLE FRIES

PICKLES/ONIONS

JELL0

TATOR TOT

CASSEROLE

BRUSSEL SPROUTS

CRISP

4

11

THURSDAY

5

BURRITO

SPANISH RICE

REFRIED BEANS

PINEAPPLES

CHEF SALAD

W TURKEY

CRACKERS

JELLO

HAM

YAMS

BLACK EYED PEAS

CAKE

18

COLD CUT SANDWICH

LTOP

CHIPS

COOKIE

25

BBQ CHICKEN

BREAD

BEETS

SALAD BAR*

FRIDAY

6

SCRAMBLED EGGS

SAUSAGE GRAVY

BISCUIT

12

13

19

20

MEATLOAF

MASHED POT/GRAVY

GREEN BEANS

CUTIE

JUNETEETH

NO MEALS WILL BE

DELIVERED OR SERVED

26

PORK & POTATOES

GREEN BEANS

ICE CREAM

3B

OATMEAL

SAUSAGE PATTIES

TOAST

FRUIT

HAM

ENGLISH MUFFIN

FRUIT

27

PANCAKES

SAUSAGE PATTIES

FRUIT

MENU SUBJECT TO CHANGE*

LUNCH IS SERVED FROM 11 AM TO 1PM

BREAKFAST IS SERVED FROM 9AM TO 11AM

SERVING AT THE SHAWNEE SITE AND LITTLE AXE RESOURCE CENTER

HEALTH BUZZZ!!

Mushrooms: A promising Ally in the Fight Against Dementia

Recent research has highlighted the potential benefits of mushrooms in promoting brain health, particularly in the fight against dementia. Certain varieties

of mushrooms, such as lion’s mane, shiitake, maitake , contain compounds that may play a crucial role in improving cognitive function and protecting against

neurodegenerative diseases.

Hericium erinaceus (lion’s mane mushroom) are especially notable for their potential to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein vital for the maintenance

and growth of neurons. Studies suggest that lion’s mane can support brain cell regeneration, potentially slowing the progression of cognitive decline in

conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

Additionally, mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and vitamins, which help combat oxidative stress- one of the key contributors

to dementia. These natural properties may help protect brain cells from damage and improve overall mental clarity.

Pictured below is a variety of medicinal and edible mushrooms such as lion’s mane, oyster, shiitake, and maitake. Incorporating mushrooms into your diet

could provide a simple and natural way to support brain health. Whether in soups, salads, stir-fry dishes, or smoothies, adding these nutrient-packed fungi

can be a delicious and beneficial addition to your daily routine.

(Roasted Shiitake Mushrooms courtesy of Foolproof Living Blog)

While more research is needed to fully understand the extent of their effect, the emerging evidence suggests that mushrooms could be a valuable tool in

promoting brain health and fighting dementia.

If you or someone you know would benefit from the Savvy Caregiver in Indian Country or Music & Memory programs, contact adpi@astribe.com, or call

405-701-7906.

Check out our web-page on the Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System’s website, asthealth.org, click on “Programs and Preventions” and then click on

“Seeking Hope”. You can sign up on line also!

MUSH love,

Lacy Gillean

Dementia Care Specialist

June 2025

4B www.astribe.com

Know Your Native Options

2025 Medical & Dental Open Enrollment: May 1, - June 13, 2025

h Opt Out: AI/AN members are not required to enroll in SoonerSelect. It is

optional. No action is necessary unless you want to join a SoonerSelect health or

dental plan. If you do not opt in to SoonerSelect, you will remain on SoonerCare

and nothing will change. You will not lose SoonerCare coverage.

h Opt In: AI/AN members are eligible to opt in to SoonerSelect. You can enroll in a

SoonerSelect health plan, dental plan, or both. Please note that the opt-in for health

and dental plans are seperate processes. AI/AN members may receive services that

have not been traditionally covered under SoonerCare. These extra benefits vary by

health and dental plan.

Note: Non-Native SoonerCare family members must select a medical and dental plan before

open enrollment closes or the member will be auto-enrolled.

Two Ways to Enroll:

1) Contact an OHCA Choice Counselor via the SoonerCare Helpline At

1.800.987.7767, Option #5.

2) Visit mysoonercare.org to view, compare, and pick a plan that’s right for you.

Please be advised, Patient Benefit Advocates cannnot enroll members in SoonerSelect

Plans but can help navigate the process.

Contact a Patient Benefit Advocate

Little Axe Health Center 405.447.0300

Shawnee Clinic

405.878.5850

www.asthealth.org