Official Newsletter of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma
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January 2010
Vol. 25. No. 1
Official Newsletter of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma
ABSENTEE SHAWNEE
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Li-Si-Wi-Nwi “Among the Shawnee”
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George Blanchard
Governor
Dan Little Axe Sr.
Lt. Governor
Alecia Onzahwah
Representative
Governor’s Report
Hello Fellow Tribal Members:
November and December have been very busy, and
I hope, productive for Tribal Government. Due to
diligent, hard work by our finance department we have
now come to know the true and factual state of the
Tribe’s financial status.
According to the financial department, the 2009 budget was authorized on projected income from all Tribal
entities totaling $2,600,000.00. The actual revenue
turned out to be only $1,300,000.00. This is half of
the projected income. Due to this shortfall, the fund
balance has dropped about $1,000,000.00 leaving the
Tribe short of funds for almost all programs funded
by the General Fund. The Executive Committee and
the financial department have worked hard to make
adjustments for the 2010 budget based on actual revenues and not overly optimistic projections. Other than
children’s programs, all program directors, and Executive Committee members have made drastic cuts and
made sacrifices in order to bring the fund back into the
black. It is the intention of the Executive Committee to
allocate money the Tribe DOES have, not money the
Tribe WILL have, or MAY have. I would like to thank
each and every program director, the finance department, and the Executive Committee members for their
hard work and unselfish budget cuts and sacrifices
made in making this happen.
The Executive Committee has worked very hard on
the Organizational Chart and we think we now have a
workable chart for Tribal operations. I want to thank
2
Michelle Lopez
Secretary
Anita Chisholm
Treasurer
all Executive Committee Members for their work and
input on this matter. Official notice should be made in
the next few weeks.
I realize this report sounds rather pessimistic, but let
me assure you that is not my intention. I promised to
be truthful and give you all honest answers and that
is what I am doing. Although the budget is in need of
repair, I feel that the efforts made will help us to operate in the black and become more stable financially in
2010.
It is my hope, and the hope of my family that every
one had a merry Christmas, and a safe and happy new
year.
I’ll do my best to have a more upbeat report next
month.
Secretary’s Report
Tribal members,
I would like to start off by saying I hope everyone was
truly blessed with the holidays. I hope you will be able
to stick to you New Years Resolution.
I hope 2010 will be a prosperous year for the tribe and
that we can come together and make things happen for
our tribe.
In November I attended the Annual G2 convention in
Las Vegas as a board member of TEC Inc. It was very
interesting to learn more about the gaming industry
and what will be coming in the future for gaming. Lots
of information and classes on different topics such as
The Absentee Shawnee News January 2010
The Evolution of Gaming Regulation: How the Economic Downturn Impacted Gaming Control, Indian
Gaming and the Obama Administration it was very
informative.
The first of December, The Treasurer and I along with
other staff attended the Journey to Justice Summit on
Violence against Indian Women in Oklahoma at Oklahoma City this too was a very informative summit.
Lt. Governor Jefferson Keel of the Chickasaw Nation
and newly elected President of the NCIA delivered the
summit keynote address on violence against Indian
women and also in attendance was Chris Chaney, Deputy Director from the Office of Tribal Justice, Dept.
of Justice. He spoke during the luncheon also and was
very informative.
Did you Know?
This is a major problem in Indian country and although much work still needs to be done to reduce
violence against American Indian women. If you or
someone you know needs help please don’t hesitate to
call one of the help lines listed above.
This is a new year and its time to start thinking about
serving your tribe by being on a board or commission.
If you our interested on serving on any of the Boards,
Committees, or Commissions please send a letter of
interest to my office. We currently have openings.
However you may only serve on one board at a time.
Well that’s all I have at this time and hope everyone is
doing okay. Please feel free to stop by my office.
Thank you, Secretary Lopez
Treasurer’s Report
I am looking forward to Christmas. I love all the
excitement and fun times with family and friends. The
atmosphere of sharing, caring and laughing with all
those we love dearly has always been treasured moments in my life. Down through the years I had some
wonderful times at Christmas. I hope that is the case
for you and your family.
I had planned to attend the old photo’s workshop, the
Elders Pow Wow and the Veterans dinner as stated in
my last article. Unfortunately I couldn’t make it for
January 2010
various reasons. I understand all three events went
well for all who attended.
All Nations Bank had some good news for the EC this
month. The new leaders of the bank feel we could
possibly see the opening of the branch on the campus
complex in 2010. Following that we could also see
a branch open in the OKC area in 2011. The loans
have increased greatly at the bank this past year and
we expect to see even more growth in 2010. Perhaps
this will be the year AllNations really starts moving
forward. We hope so. Finally what was forced to a
screeching halt in the summer of 2005 can start that
upward spiral of growth.
Budgets are currently being negotiated. The 2009
Budgets were reduced from the prior year and we have
found that our budgets for 2010 will require another
cut. Unfortunately we aren’t bringing in the capital
we need to cover our general fund. We have collected
all the indirect cost we can from our grants/contracts
but we still aren’t bringing in enough to cover our
general fund budget. Our collections from the casino,
taxes, etc. are getting better but we still aren’t where
we should be. All we can do is cut our expenditures
where we can until we can bring new monies and new
business into the Tribe. I’d really like to challenge
our ASEDA, Inc. group to get on the ball and help
our Tribe move forward in the economic development arena. We should be able to start our 2009 audit
shortly after the first of the year. I am sure we’ll get a
clean audit for 2009. That will make two clean audits
for 08 and 09. Hooray!
Well I think I’ll sign off here for the month. Thank
you for your comments and concerns and keep them
coming. I enjoy hearing from each of you. As you
start 2010, I pray that each of you have a beautiful
new year that is filled with a lot of love and caring.
Pray for our Tribe that we will continue to grow and
bring in new programs that will benefit all our families. I know the Tribe is having a hard time financially
but we are improving and will continue to do so with
your prayers. The economy is down all over the
country and our tribe is no exception. One thing we
can always count on is that “things always get better
eventually”. Next year should be even better!
The Absentee Shawnee News 3
4
The Absentee Shawnee News
100%
$1,656,976.04
$112,099.05
$78,464.47
$136,772.53
$136,732.13
$90,822.35
$128,026.10
$249,111.18
$83,173.92
$212,084.00
$155,951.25
$150,440.15
MV for April reflects a returned ck.
MV for May reflects a returned ck.
MV for Aug reflects a returned ck
NOTE:
$123,298.91
TOTAL COLLECTIONS
0.24%
$3,970.30
$1,010.00
$125.00
$290.00
$100.00
$140.00
$162.50
$195.00
$117.50
$190.00
$275.00
$355.38
$1,009.92
Miscellaneous
$150,084.77
$155,676.25
$211,894.00
$83,056.42
$248,916.18
$127,863.60
$90,682.35
$136,632.13
$136,482.53
$78,339.47
$111,089.05
$1,653,005.74
6.53%
77.44%
6.36%
1.60%
7.83%
$108,167.70
$1,283,183.00
$105,445.63
$26,466.98
$129,742.43
$11,747.37
$74,073.00
$12,589.94
$4,644.61
$8,034.13
$9,702.24
$53,236.00
$5,514.53
$2,317.10
$7,569.60
$11,461.41
$100,608.00
$8,039.34
$1,418.42
$14,955.36
$5,074.47
$110,911.00
$7,716.60
$3,947.86
$8,982.20
$7,638.50
$60,000.00
$10,532.94
$1,288.98
$11,221.93
$7,314.45
$98,732.00
$7,810.92
$1,252.70
$12,753.53
$9,207.56
$217,527.00
$9,511.98
$1,841.43
$10,828.21
YEAR-TO-DATE
% OF
TOTAL
COLLECTIONS
DECEMBER
NOVEMBER
OCTOBER
SEPTEMBER
AUGUST
JULY
JUNE
MAY
$3,992.80
$60,000.00
$7,456.64
$1,722.03
$9,884.95
$9,073.01
$181,743.00
$7,538.09
$2,199.15
$11,340.75
$6,070.96
$125,239.00
$7,358.43
$3,161.33
$13,846.53
$122,288.99
Thank you,
Belinda Collins, Controller
TOTAL TAXES
If you have any questions or needs, please call 405-275-4030
ext 162 and I will be glad to assist you in any way I can.
$13,201.74
$116,114.00
$8,309.81
$909.99
$11,549.23
The Absentee Shawnee Tribe’s Finance Department has a very
hard working group of people and it is an honor to work with
them and at the Absentee Shawnee Tribe. This department
would like to extend a special thanks and note of appreciation
to the Executive Committee for providing the tools, resources
and support to enable the finance staff to accomplish what
has been accomplished. A special thanks and note of appreciation to Program Managers and employees of the Tribe
for their assistance and dedication in our group effort toward
accomplishing our goal. Now that we are caught up, we are
dedicated to continue our efforts in this direction.
$13,683.19
$85,000.00
$13,066.41
$1,763.38
$8,776.01
In the effort to cut costs, we are combing the Grants duties
with the Assistant Controller duties and have hired a Staff
Accountant II / Reconciliations - Journal Entries. We are
proud to announce that we have hired a Tribal member for
this position.
Sales (6%)
Gaming % of free cash
Employee (1%)
Severance (8%)
Motor Vehicle
FY-2008
YTD TAX COLLECTIONS
(thru12/31/2009)
After the interview process a selection was made for an Assistant Controller. Genevieve Foster was selected. She has
been with the Tribe since June of 2007 and she has held the
position of Staff Accountant II/Cash management and Grants
Accountant before her promotion to Assistant Controller.
Genevieve has an accounting degree and has sat for the CPA
exam. We are very proud to have Genevieve on our team.
Congratulations, Genevieve!
APRIL
The Finance Department has begun preparation for the 2009
Audit. Once the 2009 Audit is completed we will begin the
Indirect Cost Proposal for 2011. It is imperative the accounting / bookkeeping be caught up and continues to stay caught
up so that audits go smoothly. Audits affect the ability to
submit indirect cost proposals which affects grants. We expect
the audit to be completed by the end of May so that we can
prepare the indirect cost proposal; which is due by June 2010.
MARCH
The Tribe has submitted the 2010 indirect cost proposal and
expects an approved rate in March 2010.
FEBRUARY
Our 2008 audit was completed late August 2009. Accounting
was caught up and financials were completed through June
2009 for the second quarter and then again for October 2009
for the third quarter.
JANUARY
The Finance Office has made great progress in getting the day
to day activities flowing efficiently and effectively through
communication between our offices and the Programs. In
working together, we have found the most time effective and
cost effective process for transacting business. Thanks to the
Executive Committee and all the programs for their support
and understanding during this endeavor.
TAX
CATEGORY
FINANCE DEPARTMENT
JANAURY 2010
January 2010
CONSTITUTION REVISION MEETING
January 16, 2010
9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
LITTLE AXE RESOURCE CENTER
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
BRIANA PONKILLA (405) 275-4030 or bponkilla@astribe.com
WANT FREE TAX SERVICE?
FREE E-FILING?
Of course you do. Volunteer attorneys, staff and law students will be available at the following times and places to professionally prepare your federal and state tax returns and
e-file them, all at no cost to you.
Absentee Shawnee Tribal Complex
Building 3 (Treasurer’s Offices)
9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Friday, January 22, 2010
Friday, March 5, 2010
Friday, February 12, 2010
Friday, February 19, 2010
Friday, February 26, 2010
Friday, February 5, 2010
Friday, March 19, 2010
Friday, January 29, 2010
Friday, March 12, 2010
Just bring to the site all your tax documents: W-2’s, 1099’s, childcare provider information,
driver’s license(s)/photo id(s), social security cards (copies are acceptable), and any other
documents you think may be necessary to prepare your taxes. Copies of your 2008 tax
returns would be helpful, but not required. If you want refunds deposited in your checking
or savings accounts, we need the bank routing and account numbers.
Sponsored by: Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma
Oklahoma Indian Legal Services, Inc.
January 2010
The Absentee Shawnee News 5
The following are Resolutions passed
during the month of November 2009
EXECUTIVE RESOLUTIONS:
E-AS-09-96
11/30/09
Establishes Holidays for Calendar Year 2010 as set out
herein. Vote: Lt. Governor: Yes; Secretary: Yes; Treasurer:
Yes; Representative: Yes
New Years Day
January 1, 2010
Martin Luther King Day
January 18, 2010
Presidents’
Day
February 15, 2010
Good Friday
April 2, 2010
Memorial Day
May 31, 2010
Independence Day
July 5, 2010
Absentee Shawnee Day
(Monday after the dance) August 2010 (TBD)
Labor Day
September 6, 2010
Veterans Day
November 11, 2010
Thanksgiving HolidayNovember 25 & 26, 2010
Christmas Holiday
December 23 & 24, 2010
New Years Day
December 31, 2010
E-AS-09-97
11/30/09
Approves and accepts Jessalynn Rae Ann Panther, Dakota
Eric Panther, Terry Wayne Alford and William Panther IV
as enrolled members of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of
Indians of Oklahoma as of the date of this resolution. Vote:
Lt. Governor: Yes; Secretary: Yes; Treasurer: Yes; Representative: Abstain.
E-AS-09-98
11/30/09
Grants voluntary relinquishment of membership of the
Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma to Jennifer Ann Onzahwah, provided that she is accepted into
the Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma. Vote: Lt. Governor: Yes;
Secretary: Yes; Treasurer: Yes; Representative: Yes
E-AS-09-99
11/30/09
Adopts the revision of the Children’s School Clothing Allowance Program General Guidelines be revised and the
updated guidelines (attached) will supersede any existing
School clothing allowance Program General Guidelines;
EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2010. (Attachment) Vote: Lt.
Governor: Yes; Secretary: Yes; Treasurer: Yes; Representative: Yes
6
E-AS-09-100
11/30/09
Does notify the Governor of the State of Oklahoma and the
OWRB that it asserts tribal water rights within the tribal
jurisdictional boundaries of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe
of Oklahoma, and desires to engage in government-togovernment discussions and negotiations with state officials
concerning these rights and resources. Vote: Lt. Governor:
Yes; Secretary: Yes; Treasurer: Yes; Representative: Yes
LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTIONS:
L-AS-09-21
11/30/09
Authorizes and approves the purchase of the Series B
COPS Bonds for the Joint Venture Project in the amount of
Two Million Three Hundred Forty Thousand Dollars and
no cents ($2,340,000.00), EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY.
Vote: Lt. Governor: Yes; Secretary: Abstain; Treasurer: Yes;
Representative: Abstain
L-AS-09-22
11/30/09
Authorizing and approving the liquidation of Four Hundred
Forty-five Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty-eight Dollars
and zero cents ($445,888.00) from the Merrill Lynch investment accounts and authorizing and approving the use of
those funds to purchase the Series B COPS bonds, EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY. Vote: Lt. Governor: Yes; Secretary:
Abstain; Treasurer: Yes; Representative: Abstain
L-AS-09-23
11/30/09
Authorizes and approves the reinvestment of remaining
funds necessary from Li Si Wi Nwi Health, Inc. to complete the purchase of the Series B COPS bonds for the Joint
Venture Project, EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY. Vote: Lt.
Governor: Yes; Secretary: Abstain; Treasurer: Yes; Representative: Abstain
SPECIAL GENERAL COUNCIL
MEETING
February 20, 2010
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Little Axe Resource Center
Discuss Constitution Revision
items ONLY
The Absentee Shawnee News January 2010
FROM THE ELECTION COMMISSION:
TRIBAL MEMBERS the following calendar shows the office hours for the Election Commission for the
month of January. The office will be open Monday thru Friday for the first week in January 8:00 a.m. - 12:00
p.m. and 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.. Then starting the 12th of January the office will be open only on Tuesday and
Thursday from 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. The February Tribal Newsletter issue will contain the calendar showing
the Election Commission’s office hours for the rest of the year.
FROM THE ELECTION COMMISSION:
This is to announce the offices up for Election in 2010 and to remind everyone that is interested in filing for office that the filing period is January 1, 2010 to January 10, 2010. (Excluding weekends and Holiday.)
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
POSITION
TERM
FILING FEE
Lt. Governor
Treasurer
Representative
2 Year
2 Year
2 Year
$500.00
$500.00
$500.00
ELECTION COMMISSION
January 2010
Election Commissioner
Election Secretary
3 Year
3 Year
$125.00
$125.00
The Absentee Shawnee News 7
The following people have filed for elective office but have not been certified by the Election Commission.
Executive Committee
Lt. Governor
Isaac Gibson
Treasurer
Scott Miller
Tribal Representative
Roy Larney
No Photo
Available
Dan Little Axe Sr.
Kathy Deere
Jeff Gibson
No Photo
Available
Alecia Onzahwah
Briana Ponkilla
Betty Watson
Election Commission
Election Commissioner
Election Secretary
No Photo
Available
Sabrina Little Axe
Meredith Wahpekeche
8
The Absentee Shawnee News January 2010
January 2010
The Absentee Shawnee News 9
CURRENT JOB POSTINGS AS OF
December 14, 2009
Says for the month
GAMING COMMISSION
-Surveillance Director
COURT/LEGAL/POLICE
-Supreme Court Tribal Judge
First I want to apologize for last months mistake
in “The Governor’s Corner”. #8 Sweep the floor.
Ka-ge-ki-ti yo-mi ti-ta-pi-ke-fa-ke is correct.
Are you cooking?
1.a hi-ke ke-sa-lo?
2. I’m going to boil some tea.
2.a me-sa-se-ke-wi-po ne-si ko-lo-fi.
3. I like to eat eggs.
3.a ho-wi-wi le-we ne-we-ke-ti-ni.
4. Lets go to the movies.
4.a ka-pi-wi pi-ka-pa.
5. Did you bring lunch?
5.a hi-ke pi-ni-po?
6. I want to drive.
6.a ne-mi-ta pa-ma-se-ki.
7. Stop the car, I’m walking.
7.a ni-ke-ni-no yo-mi mi-ke-le-qi, na-si-ke-tofa
8. When can we eat watermelon?
8.a ti-ne-wa li-qi ta-pe se-ke-ti-ma-ke na-mege-pa?
9. Do you smoke?
9.a hi-ke pi-po-ta-fe-wi?
10. Lets go to pick pecans.
10.a ka-pi ki-fa-me-ne-ka-pa.
11. I moved to a different house.
11.a ko-ti-ke we-ke-wi ne-ta-hi-ge.
12. Have clean thoughts.
12.a ka-ho-fa-pe-ta-ha-pe-wi.
I hope you all enjoy these sayings. Learn them
and then teach them to some one else. Keep our
language alive.
George
10
EDUCATION
-Coordinator Tribal Youth Program
BUILDING BLOCKS
-Part-Time Teacher
-(2)Food Service Preparation Specialist
-(2)Teacher
-Program Assistant
-Master Teacher
-Assistant Teacher
HEALTH
-Physicians Assistant
-Dental Assistant
-Registered Nurse-Diabetes
-Patient Benefit Advocate/Billing Technician
FAMILY SERVICES
-Social Services Director
ICW
-Child Protection/Foster Care Worker
MIS
-Programmer
Job descriptions will be available online:
http://www.astribe.com/Employment.html
If you have any questions about the job positions and
their job descriptions you can also contact Natalie in the
Human Resources Department at the Absentee Shawnee
Tribe of Oklahoma at: (405)275-4030 ext. 170
The Absentee Shawnee News January 2010
New Years and Resolutions
It’s the New Year and many of us have a New Years resolution…losing weight, exercising more/getting in shape,
and eating right or healthier usually make the list. Making small behavior changes over time will help us improve
our lives to live happier and longer.
Helpful tips to guide eating healthy include:
Setting realistic goals to fit you. Losing 50 lbs in 3 months is both unrealistic and harmful aim at losing
7% of your body weight. For instance a 200 lb individual should aim for losing 14 lbs to decrease the risk
of diabetes by 50%.
Don’t give up the foods you like, sometime you will crave them even more.
Cut your portions in half.
Limit meals with fried foods to less than two times a week.
To increase vegetable consumption, try adding lettuce and tomato to your sandwich, this gives you a ½
serving of vegetables.
Add your choice of fresh fruit for a snack (apple, banana) instead of chips or candy this will save at least
100 calories.
Helpful tips to guide increasing physical activity include:
Choose activities you enjoy and can do regularly.
Take a brisk 10 minute walk for breaks.
Park your car further away at the store or work.
Recruit an exercise partner.
Keep a pair of walking/running shoes in the car or at the office.
Visit the Absentee Shawnee Fitness Facility or the Resource Center for an exercise plan to fit your exercise
needs.
Be patient and don’t give up. You may not see a huge difference right away; behavior change takes time, commitment and encouragement. Don’t beat yourself up if you get off track and give yourself a pat on the back for what
you have accomplished. Baby steps are the key to sustaining changes. For more information to help you reach
your health goals please contact the Absentee Shawnee Wellness Program for nutritional information and a fitness
program to fit your needs. Feeling good and having the best possible health is good for everyone.
Contact information:
Shawnee Wellness Facility: 405-878-4702
Diabetes Program: 405-360-0698
Little Axe Resource Center: 405-364-7298
January 2010
The Absentee Shawnee News 11
Diabetes and Heart Disease
·Eat less fat and salt.
·Eat more fiber: whole grains, fruits, vegetables,
and beans.
I have diabetes—why should I worry about
·Stay at a healthy weight.
heart disease?
If you have diabetes, you have a high risk for hav- ·If you smoke, ask your doctor to help you stop.
·Take the medicines your doctor prescribes for
ing a heart attack or a stroke. You are more likely
to get heart disease—and at an younger age—than you.
·Ask your doctor if you should take aspirin every
someone without diabetes.
day.
Where can I learn more about diabetes and
There are things you can do to reduce your risk
heart disease?
for heart disease. Learning about the ABCs of
American Diabetes Association
diabetes can help you control your condition and
Telephone: 1-888-342-2383
stay healthy.
Web site: www.diabetes.org
American Dietetic Association
What are the ABCs of diabetes?
A stands for the A1c test. This test measures your Telephone: 1-800-366-1655
Web site: www.eatright.org
blood sugar over the past three months. It is the
American Heart Association
best way to know if your blood sugar is under
Telephone: 1-800-AHA-USA1
control. Ask your doctor for an A1c test at least
Web site: www.americanheart.org
two times a year. Get the test more often if your
blood sugar stays too high or if your doctor chang- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Telephone: 1-877-232-3422
es your treatment plan. The A1c goal for people
Web site: www.cdc.gov/diabetes
with diabetes is below 7 percent.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Telephone: 301-592-8573
B stands for blood pressure. High blood pressure makes your heart work too hard. Your doctor Web site: www.nhlbi.nih.gov
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and
should take your blood pressure at every office
KidneyDiseases National Diabetes Information
visit. The blood pressure goal for people with
Clearinghouse
diabetes is below 130 over 80 (this is the same as
Telephone: 1-800-860-8747
130/80 mm Hg).
Web site: www.niddk.nih.gov
C stands for cholesterol. “Bad” cholesterol, or
low-density lipoprotein (LDL, for short) cholesterol, builds up and clogs your arteries. Ask your
doctor to check your cholesterol level at least once
a year. The LDL cholesterol goal for people with
diabetes is below 100 milligrams per deciliter
(100 mg per dL).
What can I do to reduce my risk for heart disease?
·Ask your doctor what your ABC numbers are and
what you can do to reach your target ABC numbers.
·Exercise every day.
12
The Absentee Shawnee News January 2010
January 2010
The Absentee Shawnee News 13
Are American Indians and Alaskan Natives more likely to die from
2009 H1N1 than the general population?
A recent investigation found that American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/AN) are 4 times
more likely to die from 2009 H1N1 than the general population. (from CDC, 12/11/2009)
The H1N1 Flu (also called swine flu) vaccine is available at AST Clinics!
We have seen dozens of cases of confirmed flu in our clinics!
The 2009 H1N1 vaccine is available for Tribal members if you are in one of the high-priority groups:
Pregnant women;
Children and Caregivers to children under 6 months of age;
People with underlying health disorders like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.
For more information about H1N1 flu, call one of the AST Clinic’s:
Shawnee Clinic
Little Axe Clinic
878-5850
447-0300
HEY PARENTS/CAREGIVERS
Happy New Year! From Contract Health
Start the New Year off Right! Make your resolution to help the next generation. How?
Schedule a Vision Screening and Dental Exam Today!
DENTAL EXAMS
Dental disease is preventable. Prevention at an early
age will give children a cavity free life.
Children should see a dentist by their first birthday
and from then on have a yearly cleaning.
VISION SCREENING
To provide effective preventive care for children
a yearly vision exam should be done.
Eye exams should start at the age of kindergarten or first grade.
The staff at the AST Dental Arts Clinic want to provide our children every opportunity for healthy teeth.
Call the dental clinic at 405-447-0300 to schedule your
child’s appointment.
Contract Health provides Optometry Services up
to $350.00 per year for eye exam, eyeglasses
and/or contact lenses for eligible citizens.
Any questions call Contract Health at 800-878-4702
or local 405-878-4702.
Any questions, please feel free to call Contract
Health at 800-878-4702 or local 405-878-4702.
14
The Absentee Shawnee News January 2010
CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY
Growing up Safe: It’s a four-step process. As children grow, how they sit in your car, truck or SUV
should change. Save your child from injury or death by observing all four steps:
STEP 1: Rear-Facing Seats: For the best possible protection keep infants in the back seat, in rear-facing
child safety seats, as long as possible up to the height or weight limit or the particular seat. At a minimum, keep infants rear-facing until a minimum of age 1 AND at least 20 pounds. The top of the child’s
head should be well contained within the shell (unless the manufacturer’s instructions state otherwise)
not less than 1 inch from top of shell.
STEP 2: Forward-Facing Seats: When children outgrow their rear-facing seats (at a minimum age 1 AND at least 20 pounds)
they should ride in forward-facing child safety seats, in the back seat, until they reach the upper weight or height limit of the
particular seat (usually around age 4 and 40 pounds)
STEP 3: Booster Seats: Once children outgrow their forward-facing seats (usually around age 4 and 40 pounds), they should
ride in booster seats, in the back seat, until the vehicle seat belts fit properly. Seats belts fit properly when the lap belt lays
across the upper thighs and the shoulder belt fits across the chest (usually at age 8 or when they are 4’9” tall).
STEP 4: Seat Belts: When children outgrow their booster seats (usually at age 8 or when they are 4’9” tall) they can use the
adult seat belt in the back seat, if it fits properly (lap belt lays across the upper thighs and the shoulder belt fits across the chest).
REMEMBER: ALL CHILDREN UNDER 13 YEARS OF AGE SHOULD RIDE IN THE BACK SEAT. Always read the
child restraint instructions and the vehicle owner’s manual.
If you have any question or concerns about your child’s car seat, call for an appointment with the AST Indian Child Welfare
Department to inspect the car seat and to answer your questions. The ICW staff members are certified child passenger safety
technicians through Safe Kids Worldwide.
AST Indian Child Welfare Department, Melissa Lopez and Jackie Denny, (405) 275-4030.
The Domestic Violence Department would like to give a
huge thank you to the “Quilt
n Queens” for their donation
of quilts, stuffed animals,
crayons, and coloring books.
The “Quilt n Queens” chose to
donate to the AST Domestic
Violence Program because of
the victims and their children
that are affected with domestic violence. These items are
from left to right:
all needed for the victims and
Margaret Ellis, Family Services
their children when they have
Rick Short, Family Services
had to leave a violent situation
Tresha Spoon, Family Services
with nothing.
Kimberly Stephens, Family Services
Janet Jeske, Quilt n Queens
Sherry Jeske, Quilt n Queens
January 2010
Quilt n Queens
We meet two times a month to sew
quilts all year long. This year we
did over 100 quilts, and in December we give quilts to several
different organizations.
Quilters are:
1. Sherry Jeske
2. Ann Jeske
3. Sharon Howard
4. Doris Lyons
5. Connie Rawls
6. Ruth Suddock
7. Mary Spencer
8. Janet Jeske
15001 Valley View Rd.
Shawnee, Oklahoma 74801
275-2502
The Absentee Shawnee News 15
Journey to Native Justice Summit 2009
The purpose of the Summit was to bring together key stakeholders and representatives from
tribal, state, local, and federal agencies to discuss how to improve the systemic response to
violence against Indian women in Oklahoma. The Journey to Justice Project convened the
tribal and state leadership to discuss and confront the issues and barriers facing Native
American victims of interpersonal violence in Oklahoma. The Summit took place on December 2nd and 3rd ,2009 in Oklahoma City.
Oklahoma presents many challenges due to the checkerboard jurisdiction, which leaves native women (who are victims of these crimes) without the ability to seek justice. These legal
loopholes and gaps in the criminal justice system result in a lack of offender accountability.
Domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and dating violence are interpersonal violence
crimes that destroy families, communities, and the lives of the victims. This was a historic
summit that presented the problems and showcased the effective tribal strategies from Oklahoma tribes and sought solutions to the problems from the tribes in attendance.
Those that attended from the Absentee Shawnee Tribe was Kimberly Stephens, Domestic
Violence Advocate; Anita Chisholm, Treasurer; Michelle Lopez, Secretary; Sheila Harjo,
Director of Self-Governance and Domestic Violence Committee Member; Briana Ponkilla,
Domestic Violence Committee Member, Yvette Moore, Domestic Violence Committee Member, and Wynona Coon, Tribal Member.
Kimberly Stephens and Anita Chisholm
16
The Absentee Shawnee News January 2010
Health Outreach
Winter Clothing Donations to the Children of Aii Early Head Start
From left to right:Chris Walker, Executive Director of Health (AST); Debra Daugomah, Health & Disabilities
Manager (Aii Early Head Start); Dr. Marilynn Parker-Jones, Director of Behavioral Health (AST); Kayci
Miller, Business Operations Coordinator (AST)
The Health Program has embarked on a new endeavor: Project S.C.H.O.O.L. (School and Community Health
Outreach for Optimal Living). This new project is a collaboration between departments within the Health Program
to provide health outreach and education to our local schools and communities. Thru this project, our organization
is able to offer educational health services and preventative screenings in a school and/or community organization
setting to improve the health and wellness of both children and adults.
In early 2009, our Dental Hygienist, Angie McElrath, began providing dental screenings and fluoride treatments
to Head Start programs in Norman, Shawnee, and Cushing.
Project S.C.H.O.O.L. provided Dental and Behavioral Health information and screenings at the Jefferson Elementary (Shawnee) Health Fair in October 2009, where there were over 200 families in attendance. Our staff for
that event consisted of: Angie McElrath, Andrea Wahwasuck, Dr. Marilynn Jones-Parker, Jenifer Sloan, Kayci
Miller, and Chris Walker. The children received temporary body art and toys (donated by Sonic) as incentives for
participating at our booths. Project S.C.H.O.O.L. also donated a bicycle and helmet to the school, which became
the Grand Door Prize of the evening.
Project S.C.H.O.O.L. recently entered into a partnership with the University of Oklahoma American Indian Institute’s Early Head Start in Tecumseh. Sylvia Swanson, RN, of the Shawnee Clinic has been exceptional in providing assistance and training to their staff. Dr. Marilynn Jones-Parker, Director of Behavioral Health, is also doing
a phenomenal job in working with the Early Head Start in Tecumseh to do some training with their staff and to
incorporate healthy play activities with the children. In November 2009, Project S.C.H.O.O.L. donated winter
clothes and pajamas to the children that attend the Aii Early Head Start.
Project S.C.H.O.O.L. also reached out to 5 families in need during the Holidays by providing baskets filled with
household items.
Our staff is honored to be able to offer such great and honorable services to our schools and communities. More
Health Outreach events will be taking place in the near future… we’ll keep you posted!
January 2010
The Absentee Shawnee News 17
Tribal Health Programs would like
to extend a welcome our newest employee. As of Monday, Dr.
Brandon Rogers is our new dental
director. Previously, Dr. Rogers
worked at the Cherokee Nation as
staff dentist and dental clinic supervisor at the Redbird Smith Clinic
in Sallisaw and the Three Rivers
Health Center in Muskogee. Additionally, he continues to serve as a
clinical instructor at the University
of Oklahoma College of Dentistry
Department of Endodontics.
Depending on the season, Dr.
Rogers likes to spend his weekends hunting, fishing, golfing, and
watching football. His perfect
vacation is a trip to the Fiji islands
with no cell pone, email, or worries, while kicking back and listening to his favorite band the Eagles.
18
Community Health & Prevention
Tribal Health Programs would like
to welcome Libby Brakefield and
would like to welcome two new
employees to the Tribal Health pro- Clarence Yarholar to Behavioral
Health. Both individuals will be
grams.
counseling and conducting case
management for clients.
Patricia Yarholar is the coordinator of the SDPI Community DiFor the past year, Libby worked at
rected Grant housed in Community a substance abuse treatment clinic
Health & Prevention. Before the
in Oklahoma City. Libby makes
coming to work at the Absentee
her home in Purcell with her husband and son. She enjoys spending
Shawnee Tribe, she worked at
time with family and in the sumthe Cheyenne-Arapaho, Sac and
mer plays co-ed softball. Libby
Fox Nation, and the Association
describes her perfect vacation as
of American Indian Physicians.
touring European countries and
Patricia has been married to her
spending time on the beaches of the
husband for 32 years and they have Mediterranean, while listening to
one son. They are expecting their
Aerosmith’s Greatest Hits.
1st grandson in mid-December and
thrilled to be grandparents.
Clarence comes to the Absentee
Shawnee Tribe from the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town. He has worked
Tara Conway is the Dietitian for
with Eagle Ridge Treatment Centhe Health Programs. As a register, Norman Alcohol Treatment
tered/licensed dietitian and certiCenter, and was a student counselor
fied diabetes educator, Tara will
in Behavioral Health with the Abprovide nutrition counseling to all
sentee Shawnee Tribe in 2002.
patients seen through the health
Clarence describes his perfect
programs. Before coming to the
vacation as sitting at home and beAbsentee Shawnee Tribe, Tara
ing waited on hand and foot, while
worked for the Cheyenne Arapaho, listening to Motown.
WIC, and as a food service director in a hospital setting. Tara makes Libby will spend the majority of
her time at the Little Axe Clinic
her home in Piedmont with her
and Clarence at the Shawnee
husband and 2 sons.
Clinic.
The Absentee Shawnee News January 2010
MSPI
Aka
“Following in Our Footsteps”
Meth/Suicide Prevention
Absentee Shawnee Tribal Behavioral Health Program
Behavioral Health encompasses the approach of holistic
health. Our motto works from the S.E.M.P.S. model.
MSPI is off to a great start! Our mission is to prevent
meth and suicide rates of children ages 12-19 years of
age by engaging them in alternative activities. Pottawatomie County has the 3rd highest suicide rate in
the state of Oklahoma.
Meth is being made in pop bottles. It is called “shake
and bake”.
How can we help?
We use “creative arts expression”. So far we have
karate lessons, guitar lessons, Native American arts
& crafts. It is exciting to offer children an alternative
that will bring culture into their lives.
We will also educate children of the effects of meth
and suicide. Both suicide and meth can impact family and friends in ways that words cannot describe.
We will be learning:
How to make moccasins
beading
bows and arrows
drums
Native art
Basket weaving
Dream catchers
Just to name a few.
S - piritual
E - motional
M- ental
P- hysical
S- ocial
Have you ever felt the tension in your shoulders? Symptoms of stress can affect the body such as headaches,
tension, moodiness, agitation. We can help! Our staff
offers a wide variety of specialties that can help with coping skills to decrease the effects of stress on your body.
Many people have the misconception that going to see a
“counselor” is because you are “crazy”. This statement
is so far from the truth. Talking to a professional without
fear of others knowing your stress and problems can
help decrease the effects on your body. Can you imagine restful nights, less tension, using alternate ways to
cope with issues? Let us help you become the “whole
person” you are!
As always, our services are confidential and secure.
We promote the wellbeing of the “whole person” within
the context of their culture.
MSPI is planning a summer retreat for those active
participants!
We welcome you and your children to join us in this
wonderful program!
Remember our children are “Following in Our Footsteps”!
For more information call
Kristy Morrell, MSW
MSPI Coordinator
405-878-4716
January 2010
The Absentee Shawnee News 19
20
The Absentee Shawnee News
January 2010
January 2010
The Absentee Shawnee News 21
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
to my handsome grandson Robert Alford
I love you.
Happy 7th Birthday Jaxson!!
G-Low
Happy Birthday Karen Brewer!!
From Mom, Dad, Jocelyn &
We love you!!
Jaeger
Media
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Happy 43rd Birthday Daddy!
to my two
(Calvin L. Wilson)
beautiful daughters B.J. and Sandra Kayle
We Love You & So Does
I love you,
Mommy!
Mom
Ruben
&
Katie Wilson
Happy 18th birthday, Chels!
Love Lil.
To Brian Onzahwah
Happy Belated Birthday
on December 29th
and Happy New Year.
PROUD OF YOU.
With love from your family.
Happy Belated Birthday
Jennifer Onzahwah
December 31st. and
Happy
New Year.
To the best sister anyone
could ever ask for.
Love, Debbie
we wish all a very happy birthday
clay foreman jan.2
mary foreman jan 14
elijah foreman jan.26
patrick watson jan 21
pat johnson jan 22
best wishes to all
from the kasecas and foremans
Happy 4th Belated Birthday to my “BB”
Braylon Dean Colbert
happy birthday
December 29th
uncle pat we're ready to go ride 4-wheelers again
We LOVE You!!
Love Momma, J-Dizzle, and Daddy Michael
love kantynn and kanynn
Dustin!!
Happy Birthday, Orrin!!!
happy birthday
From Briana, Charlie, Jaxson, Jocelyn, &
cousin patrick watson will you swing me
Jaeger
love kanynn
In the month of November-the AARP honored Native Elders with approximately 300 attendees at the ceremony at
the Will Rogers Theatre in OKC in which 94 year old Martha Ellis Edwards was honored at the ceremony.
Congratulations Martha Ellis Edwards
from your family
22
The Absentee Shawnee News
January 2010
INTERESTING FACT...
THE MEDIA DEPARTMENT’S
Did you know that the average chocolate bar in the U.S. contains at
least 8 pieces of an insect in it? Harvesting of the cacao beans
occurs in the tropical countries of South America with low sanitation levels. Cacao treee beans are cut and piled in the farmer’s
field where they ferment for 6 days. During this process, children
and adults walk over the piles; insects, rodents, small animals and
other living things that make their nests in the piles. Actually
the U.S. Department of Health publishes a book entitled “The Food
Defect Action Levels” in which they listed unavoidable defects in
food (insect, rodents etc.) all allowed by FDA.
www.interestingfacts.org
uhh...chocolate anyone??
Our Apologies
Due to an error the following tribal members' names were not included in the 2010 Absentee
Shawnee Tribe calendar on the "In honor of the memory" page: Geneva Maxine (Brown) Larney, Pauline Bullfrog Senoya, Charlene (Masquat) Atwell, William Squire, Mary Elizabeth
Brown. However, additional calendars have been printed with these names included. On behalf
of Media we apologize.
MISSING
Lost tag 5525
if found return to Absentee Shawnee Tax Commission
thank you.
January 2010
The Absentee Shawnee News 23
ASTI funded its first Scholarship
recipient in October of 2009 and
would like to update the community on Mr. Wilson's experience at
the 2009 AISES Conference. The
following is a narrative written by
Mr. Wilson describing the conference, what the experience meant
to him and he includes as an introduction, some statistics about the
conference for those that may be
unfamiliar with it.
Just some stats:
Denver airport I finally made it to
Portland early Thursday morning.
While at the conference I met a lot
of different people from all over
the world. I believe it was safe to
say that I was the only Absentee
Shawnee tribal member in attendance. I felt honored to tell the
people I met about our tribe and
how they helped fund my trip. I
met other young people that will
one day lead not only their tribes
but our government as well.
2009 National Conference
Statistics
All day Friday and till noon Saturday I attend different sessions
that taught tips for success, resume
builders, and making your first impression the best impression. Also
serving as an ambassador for the
University of Oklahoma I attended
area, regional, and national caucuses. During the national caucus
I was one of five that helped the
University of Oklahoma bid for
the national conference of 2012.
Unfortunately the board picked
Anchorage Alaska.
Total Conference attendance:
1449
College Students: 478
Professionals:
341
High School students & chaperones: 92
Exhibitors and Sponsors: 538
Number of Organizations Exhibiting: 170
Corporations:
28
Government Agencies:
55
Universities/Colleges:
55
Non-profit organizations: 32
Total number of Concurrent Sessions: 4
Members of ASTI,
I would like to say thank you very
much for helping me attend the
American Indian Science and Engineers Society National Conference
in Portland Oregon last month. I
met so many people that are willing to help me succeed in life. If it
wasn't for the help of the Absentee
Shawnee's ASTI program I would
not have been able attend.
After almost being snowed in at the
24
tribe as well.. Theres a reason why
your here, its up to you if you take
advantage of experience. This is
one of the few times when future
leaders can come together and
begin solving some of the problems
we face today. It all starts today, it
all starts with a handshake.." Solo
Green
"its not about where you are walking from, its where you are going.."
Again I say thank you for your
help.
Wesley Wilson
Saturday afternoon I had a chance
to travel and see the city. Myself
along with others from the University traveled to the seafood district
and china town to sample some of
the find dining that Portland offers.
Again I can't express my gratitude
to the tribe for helping me attend
the AISES National conference.
If it wasn't for funding from the
University of Oklahoma, Shell,
Google, and the Absentee Shawnee
Tribe I couldn't have afforded the
trip. I'll leave with a few of my favorite quotes I heard while attending the conference.
"Why are you here? You are not
only representing yourself but you
The Absentee Shawnee News
January 2010
Building Blocks
The day is almost here. The new Building Blocks Child Development Center located on the Absentee Shawnee
Tribal complex is about to open. The proposed opening date is January 19th. The center will consist of nine classrooms, ranging in rooms for infants to school age. There is a dining room area for the children to have breakfast
and lunch. A work room gives teachers numerous resources to plan developmentally appropriate lesson plans
for their classrooms. A large indoor play area will be available for teachers and children to use during inclement
weather. Four of the older children’s classrooms and the indoor play area are equipped with The TeachSmart®
Learning System. This will give an extended learning opportunity for all the children within the center. Two large
televisions are located in the indoor play area and will have access to educational programming. Anyone entering
the area of the center where the classrooms are located must be permitted access by a staff member. This allows
staff to know what visitors are in the center at all times. There is a separate playground for the infant and toddler
children giving them a safe area to play. The older children can use the large playground without worry of injuring
the younger children. There will be many learning opportunities for all ages of children at the new child care center.
Representative Onzahwah made a comment about ‘life long learning begins here’. We have adopted that phrase to
be our motto. You will find it posted at the entrance to the center. An open house will be planned for the children
and their families of the child care center. Watch for the grand opening to be set at a later date. If you have questions about the new center, please contact Donna Campbell at 878-0633. To obtain an application for the waiting
list for the child development center come to 4000 N. Kickapoo. The children and staff at Building Blocks would
like to thank the parents and family members who attended our annual Thanksgiving Dinner. Children really enjoy
when parents come to their ‘school’ to eat with them.
Donna Campbell
Director
January 2010
The Absentee Shawnee News 25
Education Department
The following are current programs administered by the Absentee Shawnee Tribe Education Department:
•
Academic (K-12) Program: assists with academic related expenses, and a portion of funds can be used for schoolrelated athletic program expenses. Program has a maximum funding limit for the academic year.
•
Zahn Program: established from a trust fund, program can help with some graduation expenses, and awards two
(2) incentives: one for GED recipients and one for High School graduates. Program has a maximum amount of
funding for graduation expenses.
•
Job Training Adult Education Program: funds for vocational training at accredited vocational institutions. Program has a maximum funding limit for the calendar year or per program.
•
Higher Education: Education Incentive Award Program: funds for undergraduate degrees, one associates or
bachelors degree, at any accredited college or university. Funding levels are determined based upon grade point
average and full-time or part-time status.
•
Graduate Scholarship Program: funds for one master’s degree or one doctoral degree, and can fund for one graduate admissions test. This program has funding levels based upon full-time and part-time status.
All funding is based upon the availability of funds at the time of application.
Attention:
All applications and guidelines are available at www.astribe.com. Click on Services and select Education.
There are no deadlines for the Job Training Adult Education Program, but you must submit your application documents at
least three weeks prior to the beginning of the course to ensure funding is available and can be disbursed to the institution.
Deadline for submitting spring 2010 semester applications for the Education Incentive Award Program was December 23rd,
2009. If you are still interested in taking courses for the spring 2010 semester please contact us immediately for more information.
For more information, please call Tresha Spoon at (405) 275-4030 ext. 121 or 1-800-256-3341 or email to tresham@
astribe.com.
AST/EOC Tech contract courses still available:
The Absentee Shawnee Tribe has an agreement with Eastern Oklahoma County Technology Center to offer courses for tribal
members and employees. More information is available on the tribe’s website at www.astribe.com, click on the Adult
Career Development link. No online courses are covered in the contract. All courses are campus-based courses only. The
contract covers tuition and books, additional supplies required for the courses are the responsibility of the tribal member.
Eligible courses are short-term courses, no full-time programs. This contract covers up to $6,000.00 worth of tuition and
books for tribal members, once this amount is depleted the agreement ends. A catalog of fall/winter 2009 courses can be
found at www.eoctech.org.
We have been into this agreement for a couple of years and we need to fulfill this agreement as soon as possible. For tribal
members interested in taking a course, the application is available for download or a copy can be picked up at the Education
Department. Tribal members need to make an appointment to meet with the Education Director, Tresha Spoon, to complete
the application process. Please bring your completed application and a copy of your tribal enrollment card.
If you have any questions, please call Tresha Spoon at (405) 275-4030 ext. 121 or email to tresham@astribe.com.
26
The Absentee Shawnee News
January 2010
AST Elders Council
Saturday, January 16, 2010
10:00 a.m.
Resource Center Little Axe
Fundraiser chili dinner following meeting
January 2010
The Absentee Shawnee News 27
Absentee Shawnee Tribe Veterans Association
On the evening of December 9th, approximately 50 plus members and guests of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe Veterans
Association gathered at the Tribe’s Title 6 Building to celebrate yet another eventful year. The dinner held that evening was
the Association’s 4th annual Christmas Dinner. The fifty plus in attendance ranks second only to the group’s first dinner in
2006, which attracted 53 and was held at Thunderbird Casino. Governor George Blanchard, along with his wife Sue, was on
hand as the Tribal Executive Committee representative and offered the remarks as well as the invocation and benediction.
The night’s Guest Speaker was Randy Atkins, who shared a slideshow. Mr. Atkins is Assistant Principal at Western
Height’s Middle School, in Oklahoma City. Mr. Atkins is currently working with the Alabama Historical Commission and
the Fort Morgan Foundation to have a memorial erected for the Civil War ironclad USS Tecumseh at Fort Morgan State Park
in Gulf Shores, Alabama. The memorial is also planned to contain information about the Shawnee leader – Tecumseh, for
which the ironclad ship was named.
The group was also joined by a special guest, all the way from Afghanistan, Private first Class Shawnee Tapia, son
of Tribal member Linda Day, who is a member of the Association. He will be returning to his post shortly. The Association
honored PFC Tapia with an organizational coin and the Warriors Medal of Honor.
Six veterans and five spouses (associate members of the organization) were honored during the evening’s events.
Three members where honored posthumously including: Jesse Alford, accepted by wife Karen Wiggins; Harold Tiger, accepted by wife Luvenia Tiger; and Linda Charley, accepted by husband Roy Charley. Also receiving awards were veteran
members: Elroy Alford Sr., David Haskins, Shawnee Tapia and Gerold Vanderburg.
The following ladies were honored with the New AST Veterans Association Spousal coins: Mary Birdtail (wife of
member Richard Birdtail), Stella Little (wife of David Little), Kay Snake (wife of Lewis Snake) and Danielle Voyles (wife
of David Voyles).
The Association also welcomed new member Keith Longhorn during the event.
The next AST Veterans Association meeting will take place at the Thunderbird Casino meeting room (far Southeast
end of Casino) on Wednesday, January 13th and will begin at 7PM. Meetings are open to all Veterans. For more information on the Absentee Shawnee Tribe Veterans Association you can call John Vanderburg at (405) 275-4030 ext. 205 or 1-800
256-3341 ext. 205.
28
The Absentee Shawnee News
January 2010
ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA
REALTY DEPARTMENT
Thursday, MARCH 11, 2010
ABSENTEE SHAWNEE RESOURCE CENTER
Little Axe, Oklahoma
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
In a joint venture Oklahoma Indian Legal Services (OILS) and the Realty Department will conduct a
free will clinic at the Absentee Shawnee Resource Building in Little Axe, OK. OILS will be available
on-site to assist with questions and the preparations of a Last Will and Testament for Tribal members
ONLY.
Appointments will be in 45 minute increments, sign in 15 minutes before scheduled time with the
following items;
1.A drivers’ license or state ID
2.A tribal ID card with enrollment number
3.Ownership information or quarterly statement from OST
4.Legal descriptions for each of your real property holdings
5.If you wish to specifically bequest personal property, please bring a good description of that
personal property. (Jewelry, furniture, etc.)
6.Bring your existing will, if you have one or wish to revise your existing will
7.Date of birth for your children or devisees
Please call Jamie Gipp at 275-4030, ext 125 to schedule your appointment
NOTICE
IIM ACCOUNTS/ADDRESS CHANGES: If you have moved, you will need to contact the Office of
Special Trustee for American Indians (OST) and request an address change form. If you do not have
a current address on file and you receive money in your IIM account, an automatic hold is placed on
your account. You will no longer be able to receive a check until OST receives your new address.
Please note that that OST does not process royalty checks (oil & gas) until the amount in the IIM
account reaches $5.00 and for farming and grazing leases, the amount is $15.00.
Should you have a question about your IIM account you can contact the OST Trust Beneficiary Call
Center at 1-888-678-6836 or online at www.ost.doi.gov.
You will be asked for the first three digits of your IIM account number in order to be transferred to the
area that handles your account. If it is an Absentee Shawnee account, the three digit number will be
“820”.
January 2010
The Absentee Shawnee News 29
30
The Absentee Shawnee News
January 2010
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!
We hope you had a safe and Happy Christmas!
AST Complex will be closed on January 1; no meals will be served or delivered on this day.
Title VI will be having Bingo on January 13, at the Little Axe Resource Center, 11am and we will
be serving lunch. Homebound will be getting a sack lunch on the 12th.
AST Complex will be closed January 18 for Martin Luther King Jr Day; no meals will be served
or delivered.
During the winter months if the Shawnee & Little Axe Schools are closed due to the weather, we
will also be closed.
If you have any questions you can call me at 405-275-4030 ext 169.
Yvette Moore
Title VI Coordinator
FREE Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
still Available!!
OEH personnel will provide and install smoke alarms and/or carbon monoxide detectors for enrolled Absentee Shawnee tribal members living in Pottawatomie, Cleveland, or Oklahoma County.
We will also collect global positioning information to track fire statistics in the tri-county area
over a three year span.
Complete a short survey then schedule a time and date for installation. Surveys are available at
the OEH office and at www.astribe.com.
Please contact OEH at 214-4235 for more information.
January 2010
The Absentee Shawnee News 31
NEED A CAR, TRUCK OR SUV
AS LOW AS $299.00 DOWN - WAC
E-Z APPROVAL - LARGE SELECTION
*FREE LIMITED WARRANTY*
CALL AUTO CREDIT SOLUTIONS @
405-526-4600
AND ASK FOR BIG LARRY OR LITTLE JOHN
Foster Parents Needed!!!
Can you open your home and heart for a foster child.? Foster parents provide a temporary, safe
home for children in crisis. Foster parents are partners with child welfare workers, lawyers and
judges. It is not for everyone but if you have it in your heart - we need you.
• Can you love and care for a child who comes from a difficult background?
• Can you help a child develop a sense of belonging?
• Are you secure in yourself & your parenting Skills?
• Can you maintain a positive attitude toward a child’s parents?
• Can you love with all your heart & then let go?
FOSTER PARENTS PROVIDE A TEMPORARY, SAFE HOME FOR CHILDREN IN CRISIS. THEY
ARE PARTNERS WITH WORKERS, LAWYERS, AND JUDGES. IT IS NOT FOR EVERYONE! CAN
YOU OPEN YOUR HOME AND HEART FOR A FOSTER CHILD?
Many children need a loving home and a family to help them through a very tough time. Please
think about it and talk with your family before you become a foster home. They all need safe, supportive environments!
If you find yourself and your family interested in Foster Care, please contact Melissa Lopez
405-275-4030 ext. 166.
Office of Environmental Health & Engineering
• Tribal Housing Improvements Application
The Tribal Housing Improvement Program’s goal is providing sanitary, safe, and
decent housing for its members by utilizing the following criteria to select the
most “in need” tribal members with homes that are in disrepair but are still suitable for rehabilitation. All applicants must meet the eligibility requirements and
criteria which is approved by the Absentee Shawnee Tribe.
THIP list all applicants by a priority list:
a.
Handicapped/Disabled and Elderly
b.
Income
c.
Family Size/Overcrowded Living Conditions
d.
Condition of Home
Other Programs available:
• Sanitation Facililties Assistance Program
Applictions need to be completed and all necessary documents attached
before the application will be processed.
Applications are available online on the website: www.astribe.com.
Submit completed application to:
Office of Environmental Health & Engineering
Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma
2025 S. Gordon Cooper Dr.
Shawnee, Ok 74801
Absentee Shawnee Tribe Complex
Office of Environmental Health & Engineering, Building 13
If you have any questions, you can reach us by phone at (405) 214-4235
ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBAL PHARMACY
SHAWNEE, OKLAHOMA
The Absentee Shawnee Tribal Pharmacy (Shawnee Location) can fill prescriptions
for enrolled tribal citizens only.
The Absentee Shawnee Tribal Clinic Pharmacy in Little Axe can fill prescriptions for
tribal citizens written by Physicians not located a Tribal Clinic under the following
circumstances:
an
1.
The prescription is for an Absentee Shawnee Tribal citizen who has
established chart at the Little Axe Clinic.
2. The prescription is on the formulary of approved medications and
stocked in
the pharmacy.
The following are a few tips to help us deliver pharmacy services to you more efficiently;
4 Present insurance cards each time you pick up or drop off a prescription.
4 Keep us informed of all changes in address, phone number and other contact
information.
4 Let the Pharmacy staff know if the prescription is going to be picked up or
needs to be
delivered.
4 If you have any questions concerning your prescription please feel free to call
and talk
to our Pharmacist. They are here to assist you with your pharmaceutical
needs.
Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma
Little Axe Clinic • Little Axe Dental Clinic
15702 E. Hwy 9
Norman, Oklahoma 73026
Phone: (405) 447-0300 Fax: (405) 447-2250
Clinic Operating Hours
Monday thru Friday
8:00 a.m. - 5:00
p.m.
Weekends/Federal Holidays
Closed
* Clinic and Pharmacy will be closed the
3rd Wednesday of each month
from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m
Absentee Shawnee Tribe
PRSRT
STANDARD MAIL
U.S. Postage Paid
Permit No. 434
Shawnee, OK 74801
of Indians of Oklahoma
2025 S. Gordon Cooper Dr.
Shawnee, OK 74801
2010
TRIBAL PHONE NUMBERS
Tribal Complex
(405) 275-4030
or
1-800 256-3341
OEP
(405) 273-9966
Building Blocks
(405) 878-0633
Health Programs
(405) 878-4702
or
1-877-878-4702
Little Axe Clinic
(405) 447-0300
Shawnee Clinic
(405) 878-5850
Shawnee Pharmacy
(405) 878-5859
Behavioral Health
(405) 878-4716
LA Resource Center
(405) 364-7298
or
(405) 364-7569
LA Cultural Center
(405) 447-3372
AST Police
(405) 275-3200
or
(405) 275-3432
OEH
(405) 214-4235
AS Housing Authority (405) 273-1050
Thunderbird Casino
(405) 360-9270
Or
1-800-259-LUCK
AST Media Dept
AST Media Dept
(405) 598-1279
Fax (405) 598-1294
This is a copy of a public record, reproduced as it was published. It is not legal advice, and it may not be the version a court would rely on. Check the official source before you cite it.