# Absentee Shawnee Tribe Receives Funding for (2024) > Briefs, arguments, decisions, and more. URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aabsentee%3A83f267c170bf6b40 ## Record - **Collection:** Tribal code - **Document type:** Tribal code ## Text www.astribe.com THE ABSENTEE SHAWNEE NEWS Volume 34, No. 12 December 2024 Absentee Shawnee Tribe Receives Funding for Porter Bridge Replacement Project The Absentee Shawnee Tribe was recently awarded $13,793,400 for the Porter Bridge Replacement Project in Norman. The award is part of a new round of funding through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which will allow for the build, repair or modernization of regionally significant bridges in 19 states. The United States Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) made the announcement. This monumental allocation to the tribe was the ONLY award for any tribe in the country and the ONLY request awarded in the state of Oklahoma. The funding will replace the bridge on Porter over the Little River. It is located between Tecumseh Road and Franklin Road. The 87 year-old bridge, which is located on an emergency route, is prone to flooding. “I am so happy that we received this funding. We have many tribal members that live in the Norman community and see this as a very important project. We look forward to working with the City of Norman. “Said AST Self-Governance Director Twyla Blanchard. “Having a new and better bridge will keep not only our tribal members but also the citizens of Norman safe for many years to come.” The tribe partnered with the City of Norman, who also owns and maintains the bridge, on this project. City of Norman Transportation Engineer David Risland praised the tribe’s efforts saying, “We are so grateful for the partnership and support of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe,” he said. “They have collaborated with the City of Norman on a multitude of projects over the past two years, which has opened up additional funding opportunities for infrastructure improvements across the community. These joint efforts illustrate their visionary leadership and create a better Norman for everyone.” Design of the bridge is underway. Future activities will include continued design, environmental studies and permitting. The bridge is expected to be under construction in 2027. Oklahoma tribes consistently rank high in the nation on their contribution to local roads. Left Photo (L-R): AST Self-Governance Director Twyla Blanchard; AST Representative Anthony Johnson and AST Lt. Governor Diane Ponkilla stand on the Porter bridge which will be replaced in 2027. Right Photo: Flooding on the Porter bridge. Native American Heritage Month Celebrations Left Photo: On November 12, Norman Mayor Larry Heikkila passed a proclamation proclaiming November as American Indian/Indigenous Peoples’ Heritage Month in the city of Norman. Accepting the proclamation were AST Representative Anthony Johnson, AST Governor John Johnson and Kiowa Tribal Vice-Chairman Jacob Tsotigh. Right Photo: AST Governor John Johnson was one of the featured speakers during the Native American Heritage Celebration at the state capitol on November 20. The event was sponsored by Cheyenne Arapaho MMIP Chapter. Pictured with Governor Johnson are tribal members and sisters, Akiane Bates, former Jr. Miss Indian Oklahoma 2019-2021 and Aria Bates, Miss Oklahoma Indian Biker Princess. Photos (L-R): Members of the Riverside Indian School Color Guard are pictured along with the Princesses who performed the Lords prayer in sign language. Princesses on the second floor rotunda of the state capitol. 2A www.astribe.com EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE GOVERNOR’S REPORT John Johnson, AST Governor GOVERNOR John Johnson Hello Tribal Members, Merry Christmas everyone, I hope you enjoyed your Thanksgiving and surrounded yourself by family and friends. I attended the National Congress of American Indians in Las Vegas in November. There was a lot of interesting agenda items. The importance of the conference was to make sure all Native American people got out and voted in the upcoming presidential elections. The presidential election this year was very important to the people of the United States, I hope you was able to cast your vote. Mr. Larry Heikkila the Mayor of the City of Norman, requested that I attend LT. GOVERNOR’S REPORT Diane Ponkilla, AST Lt. Governor Lt. GOVERNOR Diane Ponkilla Greetings Tribal Members, I would like to offer my sincerest condolences to all who have lost a loved one. I hope the holidays are extra special with everyone and their families. As we approach the end of 2024 and into the colder weather, I would like to express how important it is to be prepared. The HVAC department is assisting with heater checks to the AST elderly and homeowners. The Lt. Governor and Secretary have dual oversight of the Agriculture; on Monday, October 28, 2024 we spent the day with the staff Chelsi Peacock, Seth Jimenez and Bobby Armstrong. I wanted to see the process of caring, feeding and daily operations and mainly the work ethics of the staff. This department has been the main challenge of all the departments under the Lt. Governor oversight. I would like to have an Agriculture Coordinator and staff with the same goals and work ethics to accomplish what this department needs to succeed. Chelsi Peacock, Agriculture Administrative Assistant submitted a brief summary to keep tribal members updated on the cattle. The Ag Dept. welcomed 7 calves from the Holdenville herd, which completes the births from that group and 9 AI (artificial inseminated) heifers are expected December 2024 November’s monthly council meeting. At the meeting he read a proclamation proclaiming the month of November as “Native American/Indigenous Peoples Heritage month”. It was an honor to attend this meeting. I am very excited that surrounding areas are acknowledging the Native American people and dedicating the month of November for Heritage month. The Oklahoma State capital also held an event that I attended for Native American Heritage month. At this event I was asked to give a brief introduction of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe. Force50Foundation presented Native American Melodies at the Riverwind casino this year in honor of Veterans Day. It was the first time I attended this event and I have to say it was very well planned. I met with the past Oklahoma Governor George Nigh, Tom Cole, Governor Bill Anoatubby with Chickasaw Nation, and guest speaker Wes Studi. I look forward to the next invitation. For more information you may search the host online at: Force50Foundation.com With the upcoming holidays approaching please be patient as we prepare for upcoming events. Should you have any questions, comments or concerns, please feel free to contact myself or my assistant: John Johnson 405-275-4030 ext. 3500 Alvina Barnes 405-275-4030 ext. 3501 to deliver in December. 7 cows were cull due to their age; they served their purpose on the farm, leaving 2 generations of calves. On November 05, 2024 Tecumseh Vet came to the farm to do health check, vaccinations and weigh some of the cattle. The farmhands Seth Jimenez and Bobby Armstrong attended 2 conference’s, they learned the importance of soil health and proper grazing practices from NRCS and are now BQA certified. Stacy Coon was hired as the Maintenance Director Stacy has been within the maintenance department for 11 years. With his knowledge and history with the tribe I believe Stacy will excel and be a great asset not only to the maintenance department but to the Tribe. October 31, 2024 the AST complex had Trick or Treater from Building Blocks I, II and CTSA visiting each department. Building #2 had the Governor, Lt. Governor, BIA, Courts, Election Commission and Agriculture department handing out treats to our little visitors. Myself, Secretary and Representative was invited to judge the ASHA costume contest and crockpot cook off. As the Lt. Governor I have attended plenty of meetings, met with a lot of associates on different matters and I am looking forward to 2025 to further my knowledge and experiences with the Absentee Shawnee Tribe. Ni yi wa. October Meetings: 10/02/24: Court @ 10am 10/03/24: SSSA RFP’s @10am 10/05/24: 93rd Semi-Annual General Council @ 10am 10/08/24: Gaming Commission @ 11am 10/11/24: Construction @ 10am 10/14/24: Closed (Indigenous Day) 10/15/24: Health board @ 8:30am 10/15/24: Special TEI Shareholders @ 2pm 10/16/24: Governor DeWine @ 8:30am 10/16/24: Executive Committee @ 10am 10/17/24: BIA Budget @ 9am 10/17/24: Maintenance Budget @ 10am 10/17/24: Lt. Governor Budget @ 11am 10/17/24: OEH Budget @ 1pm 10/17/24: Agriculture Budget @ 2pm 10/21/24: Sponsored Programs Budget @ 1pm 10/23/24: ASHA Board @ 9am 10/25/24: Construction @ 10am 10/28/24: Agriculture @ 9am-3:30pm 10/29/24: Dance Grounds @ 9am 10/30/24: Out of Office 10/31/24: Trick or Treaters @ 9:30am11am October 2, 2024- I attended a meeting concerning our courts @ 10:00am held at the governor’s conference room at the AST complex. At 12:00pm our employee committee held an employee appreciation luncheon for our employee’s. October 3, 2024- I attended a CTSA meeting @ 9:00am held at the Kickapoo complex. October 5, 2024- General Council was held @ 10:00am at the Thunder Bird event center. October 11, 2024- I attended a construction meeting with staff and Lt. Governor @ 10:00am. October 15, 2024- I attended a TEI Shareholders board meeting @ 2:00pm held at the casino. October 16, 2024- Ohio governor Dewine visited the AST complex @ 8:30am we had breakfast and took him on a tour of the campus. 10:00am an executive meet- ing was held followed by a health board shareholders meeting @ 1:00pm held at the governor’s conference room. October 21, 2024- I had six meetings scheduled for this day. I attended 3 due to scheduling conflicts. I attended a 477 meeting @ 8:30am held at the governor conference room. Following after we had our weekly round table meeting @ 11:00am due to other executive members being on travel we had not had our weekly meeting this month. At 1:00pm I attended a CTSA meeting. October 22, 2024- I attended Rising Warrior’s (domestic violence) walk from 10:00-10:30 held at the Little Axe Health center. Followed by a gaming commission meeting I attended @ 11:00am. October 23, 2024- I attended the housing board meeting @ 9:00am. October 24, 2024- Rising Warrior (domestic violence) held (Continued on 3A) You may also email me: governor@astribe.com alvinab@astribe.com Thank you SECRETARY Misty McGirt TREASURER Joseph Blanchard SECRETARY’S REPORT Misty McGirt, AST Secretary REPRESENTATIVE Anthony Johnson Greetings Tribal Members, I hope everyone had a great Turkey Day this is a great time to spend time with family. Congratulations to the children who won the Halloween coloring contest and great job to all who participated you all did a great job. My apologies with all the slander circling on Facebook regarding my family and I. No one can control how people want to act. Just know there is always another side to the story I would never condone in the allegations being made against me by individuals on Facebook. I don’t mind explaining in person my door is always open for Tribal Members to come visit. During this path month these are the meetings I have been attending: December 2024 www.astribe.com 3A SECTRETARY’S REPORT (Continued from Page 2A) another walk at the Absentee-Shawnee complex I attended along with Lt. Governor Ponkilla. I had an ASEDA call meeting @ 3:00pm. To wrap up this day I attended along with Lt. Governor Ponkilla and Rep. Johnson a Little Axe football game they honored the tribe for helping the school with jerseys. October 25, 2024- I attended a construction meeting @ 10:00am held at the governor’s conference room. Saturday October 26, 2024- I attended a monthly elders meeting @10:00am held TREASURER’S REPORT Joseph Blanchard, AST Treasurer Hello fellow Tribal members, Family, and Friends: I hope this month’s submission finds you well, enjoying the memories being created, and able to spend quality time with your loved ones this Holiday season. For those missing one around the table, I hope the Creator provides strength and comfort to get you through those tough times. These last few months have been exhausting with the number of meetings, discussions, and other everyday items that come up throughout the business day; not to mention the additional travel and obligations to represent the Tribe at National Conferences. Earlier this summer, I requested the Executive Committee to send a Director or staff member to the National Congress of REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORT Anthony Johnson, AST Representative Hello Tribal Members, It has been a busy fall season for my office. In October, I traveled with our Cultural Preservation department for the 2024 Texas Tribal Consultation Meeting in Canyon, TX. My office helped welcome children from Building Blocks and CTSA for the Trick-Or-Treat event at the tribal complex. Our Housing Authority held a crock pot and costume contest for Halloween that I helped judge with Lt. Governor Ponkilla and Secretary McGirt. In November, I traveled with our 477 staff to the 2024 Western Regional 166/477 Training Conference in Auburn, WA. Our 477 department is thriving and provides resources and support to help tribal members become more economically self-sufficient. To learn more about these resources, contact the 477 depart- at the multipurpose building. October 31, 2024- I helped my staff hand out candy to the children that stopped by at 9:00am, 10:00am I had a meeting for surveillance for our agriculture department. Here is what is going on in some of my departments: Enrollment- as of October we are finally 4,700 Tribal members! Our exact total is 4,718 members. Rising warrior (Domestic Violence)New buses, train and train station will be ready and out in the community by mid-December. Sexual assault grant was awarded and will continue into 2025. Kaitlyn one of our coordinators was awarded the victim advocate of the year award through Pottawatomie and Lincoln County’s CCRT (Coordinated Community Response Team. We have had 60 clients from Jan-Jun and 18 active cases. If you or anyone you know suffer from domestic violence please don’t hesitate to reach out. ICW- we have had 107 CPS cases, 36 guardianship cases, 40 - support services cases, 17 - deprived tribal and state case. Reminder our ICW is located at 1318 E. independence Shawnee, Oklahoma. Our ICW staff stays busy helping our children. They are a great group with so much passion to make sure our children are safe and taken care of. Human Resources- we currently have 605 employees as of October. Agriculture Department- we have 158 head of cattle. Before I wrap up my report I would like to share some exciting news for my family we will be welcoming my last and final baby girl in February. That’s all I have to report at this time if you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact my office. American Indian (NCAI) annual meeting. This is the largest gathering of Tribal Nations and Native Leaders at any point in the year. It is one of the most important sessions where decisions, legislation, and proposals are submitted, which affect all 570+ Governments. Though it didn’t garner the interest I had hoped for, it was our biggest contingency sent to date (8). Several of the staff grasped the relevance of my request and were able to pick up an abundance of information and establish new contacts from other Tribes, to network with in the future. Additionally, during our visit, Governor Johnson and I were able to attend a Presidential Rally for the Harris/Walz Campaign, just days prior to the election. It was the first time either of us had the chance to view and see how they do things on the National level. In conversation with one of my colleagues, she men- tioned there had not been a Democratic visit to Oklahoma since the Michael Dukakis campaign in the 90’s. I want to express my appreciation to all those members and employees who came out to register and chose to participate in the electoral process. That being said let me switch gears to express my thoughts on the recent election. Some may remember my prior comments about how the last four years have been very beneficial to Tribal Nations with the Biden administration. I expressed concern to our Governor in a recent update and how I expect the new Presidency to potentially end this movement. This could be highly detrimental to our system, especially with the ongoing arguments the 39 Tribal Nations have had the last couple years with the current Oklahoma Governor. When one throws in the issues in Education and the posi- tion of State Superintendent Walters, it appears darker days are looming, at least for the foreseeable next two years. As we enter the last month, many of our youth will be transitioning into their Winter sports of basketball and wrestling. This season will be the first in the last two decades I won’t have someone to support on the gym floor, which will be a unique experience. As my calendar opens up and there is a little more free time, send me a copy of your child’s schedule if you would like me to attend. I always enjoy good competition, a bag of hot popcorn, and a Frito chili Pie. In closing, let me be the first to wish you “Merry Christmas!” I look forward to seeing everyone in the upcoming New Year. God Bless you! ment at: (405) 878-4545 or 477program@ astribe.com. My office was also invited to participate in a pop up Narcan demonstration event in November with the Tribal Opioid Response (TOR) grant staff at the Shawnee Clinic. The demonstration was well attended by community members and clinic staff. Narcan can help save the life of an individual who has overdosed on opioids. Our TOR grant staff helps supply our community with free Narcan and training. They can be reached at: (405) 701-7987. Should you have any questions or need any assistance, please contact my office at: (405) 531-3512 or adjohnson@astribe. com. Hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday season. Ne yi wa! Secretary McGirt Respectfully, Joseph H. Blanchard Tribal Treasurer Sincerely, Anthony “Tad” Johnson, Tribal Representative Left photo taken at the AST Housing Crock Pot Cook Off competition. Right photo was taken at the Narcan demonstration event in partnership with the AST Tribal Opioid Response grant team, at the Shawnee Clinic. Representative Johnson is showing community members how to administer Narcan to someone who may have overdosed on opiates. The individual on the ground in the demonstration pic is AST tribal member Jayden Watson and he works in the Diabetes & Wellness Department at the Little Axe Health Center. University of Central Oklahoma students with AST Treasurer Blanchard at the East Central University Tribal Summit, October 24, 2024. Tribal member George Blanchard was recently honored at the 56th Algonquian Conference on October 25. The event was held at First Americans Museum in Oklahoma City. He was one of 12 honorees who were recognized for their language efforts. Blanchard has been passionately teaching Shawnee language for almost 40 years. AST Representative Anthony Johnson said “This is a great appreciation of George carrying on the language”. 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. December 2024 4A www.astribe.com The Absentee Shawnee Tribe was recognized for their continued dedication to Little Axe Public Schools Athletic Program. The recognition was given during senior night on October 24. “We appreciate the Absentee Shawnee Tribe for their ongoing support of our athletic programs for student athletes. Their commitment has made a significant impact on our students, and we are beyond thankful for their partnership,” said Little Axe High School Athletic Director Terry Rogers. Left Photo (L-R): Little Axe HS Athletic Director Terry Rogers; Little Axe Superintendent Dr. Jay Thomas; AST Lt. Governor Diane Ponkilla; AST Secretary Misty McGirt; Little Axe Public Schools School Board President/Tribal member Beverly Felton; AST Representative Anthony Johnson; Little Axe High School Principal Trey Kirkpatrick. AST Cultural Preservation Co-Hosts Inaugural THPO School Images courtesy of THPO School Participants and AST Media Last week, November 4th – 8th, THPO School finally became a reality! The Absentee Shawnee Tribe – Cultural Preservation Department partnered with Nighthawk Consulting and The University of Oklahoma – Native American Studies to put on the first ever THPO School. The concept of the THPO School was first talked about by Mrs. Sheila Bird of Nighthawk Consulting. She knew the challenges and the overwhelming responsibilities that come with being a new Tribal Historic Preservation Officer from knowing the laws, to reading reports from federal agencies, to working in the field and monitoring, to consultations. After many talks, Carol Butler, Cultural Preservation Director, jumped at the idea to co-host this school. The inaugural class was comprised of THPOs and other staff from the Absentee Shawnee Tribe, Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma, Tule River Indian Tribe of California, Peoria Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma, Seminole Nation of Oklahoma, Modoc Nation, and Delaware Tribe of Indians. The class and field portion of the school were taught by some incredible individuals who are experts in their fields. Mrs. Sheila Bird discussed preservation laws. Mrs. Dina Bazzill, Environmental Corporation of America’s Vice President of Cultural Resources and Tribal Coordinator discussed Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Telecommunications. Ms. Carol Butler discussed the tribal side of the FCC and the TCNS system which is used for consultation. Mrs. Sheila Bird discussed the lawsuit that was filed against the FCC (UKB vs. FCC). Mr. Chip Smith, a retired assistant with 43 years of experience with the US Army Corp of Engineers and in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil works, discussed the Clean Water Act, waters of the US and Section 106 regulations and policy. Ms. Stephanie Rainwater, a biologist and ecological project manager for LJA Environmental Services, discussed Endangered Species and the different acts and triggers for Section 106. She also did a walk through and discussed habitats, wetland delineations, and ordinary high water marks of the stream. Ms. Molly Gibb, Search and Rescue/Recovery K9 handler, discussed searches and training of the K9s. She, also, took the dogs in the field for a search. Mr. Kevin Nolan, director of Applied Anthropology Laboratories in the College of Science and Humanities at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, was the lead archaeologist. He led the participants in Phase I surveys and led the discussion of what are the red flags to look for in bad cultural resources reports. He, also, provided the basics of geophysical applications (GPR). Ms. Ashley Mason-Burns-Meerschaert of the Museum of Osteology discussed how to distinguish and recognize bones and teeth. December 2024 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 Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma Building Blocks III C.D.C. 16051 Little Axe Dr. Norman, OK 73026 (405)360-2710 FAX: (405)360-2726 Building Blocks II is a 5 Star, OkDHS Licensed Center. Our hours are 7a.m. to 6p.m. Monday-Thursday. We take children ages 6 weeks through Pre-K (4-5Yr Olds). Building Blocks Teachers and Children love to do Christmas Activities and Projects. The Holiday season is a busy time at Building Blocks. We are open to the public and accepting waitlist applications by email or in person. We are collecting Donations for the Tecumseh Nursing Home’s Elders through December 19th. Donations accepted are Throw-Blankets and Non-Slip Socks. Our 3 & 4 Year olds will deliver the Donations to the Nursing Home on December 20th. Director: Skye Foreman Sforeman@astribe.com Assistant Director: Renee Richardson Rrichardson@astribe.com Building Blocks Christmas Program will be in the evening on December 13th. CLOSURES Closing at 12pm- Wednesday, December 4th December 24th & 25th January 1st Classroom Christmas Parties will be December 20th at 3:00p.m. Happy Holidays from our Building Blocks family, to yours! Pa po ne Ke s’fwa (pay po nee key s’thway) Winter Month (December) December is called Pa po ne Ke s’fwa (Winter Month) since the climate changes to cold weather. The word for winter is pa po ne (pay po nee) or pa po ke (pay po key) for winter time. It is also a time for family and friends; however we do not have a word for Christmas or Jesus since the Shawnee religion and beliefs are not like the Christian world. When we do pray, we talk to Ma ta la me wa ti (may tay lay mee way tah) Great Spirit; Ko ko m’fa ni (ko ko m’thay nah) our Grandmother; and Ne ma so m’fi (nee may so m’thah) our Grandfather to ask for help and to have pity on us. Wa pe – cold Ya pa po n’ka ke – North Ko ne – snow Pe ta ne ka pa – our coats (way pee) (yay pay po n’kay key) (ko nee) (pee tay nee kay pay) Pa po ne – winter Ho wa li ko te wa – peace (pay po nee) (ho way lah ko tee way) Hi qa la te wa – love We sa ke ta ha wa – hope (hah qay lay tee way) (wee say key tay hay way) Ya li wi qa ke se ti wi ta wi pi ge ka fi ke ho wa si pa po ne (yay lah wah qay key see tah wah tay wah pah chee kay thah key ho way sah pay po nee) - Geese flying south means winter is coming Ya pa po n’ka ke ho ge t’ke ke sa ke – Cold air comes from the north. (yay pay po n’kay key ho chee t’key key say key) Hi la me wa pe – It’s getting very cold. (hah lay mee way pee) We si ko ne – It’s going to snow. (wee sah ko nee) Qe li he ka ke so we pe ta ne ka pa – We need our coats (qee lah hee kay kee so wee pee tay nee kay pay) K’ya ke so ho – Dress warm (k’yay key so ho) He ne ko ge! Si li no ke ka no la p’wi! Ne yi wa! Tribal Member Corner: December Article: Can we reduce the clinic monthly training to 2 hours only, and be open more for the tribal members. Maybe we can issue $10 monthly Wal Mart cards, for vegetable purchases, for our food pantry participants. Some tribes, offer elders 60 and up, temporary part-time positions within the tribe. Not sure, if there are enough participants, but something to review. It would be good to review, other tribe services and what they offer, and of course design our own. President Biden offered a formal apology, for the abuses committed by Native Boarding Schools, October 25, 2024. My Grandmother, Anna Washington-deceased, Eastern Shawnee, attended Carlisle Boarding School. (Carlisle Indian Industrial School). She attended school with Jim Thorpe, he was a grade higher. My grandmother told me, she couldn’t speak the Shawnee Language. I had a chance, several years ago, to travel to Carlisle, Pennsylvania to see where my grandmother went to school or area. Of course, the school was not there, just the cemetery. It was a long distance from Shawnee, Oklahoma. Many green hills and pastures there. I encourage members, to write articles for our paper. Attend a church service. Happy holidays. Eileen Pearce, Tribal Member Questions, Comments: Lapearce@att.net 405.227.2036 or text. LEGAL NOTICE 5A December 2024 6A www.astribe.com The Department of Justice through its Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation (CTAS) awards an Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) - Tribal Youth Program, Five-Year Grant to the AST Education Department The AST Education Department received a Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation (CTAS) - Purpose Area 9 grant in the amount of $500,000. Purpose Area 9 - Tribal Youth Program, specifically the Harvesting Change Enhancement/Expansion Grant (Category 3), is a competitive grant through the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. Prevention services under Purpose Area 9 include: to impact risk factors for delinquency and promote protective factors. This may include mentoring, youth development, anti-gang education, truancy and school dropout prevention programs, after-school programs, anti-bullying programs, and programs that emphasize youth, family and community engagement. This grant supports staff and programming for the Little Axe After School Program at Brendle Corner, the AST Public Safety Club, and Indian Club support at local schools (Little Axe, Tecumseh, and North Rock Creek) among other objectives. Director of Education – Tresha Spoon, Tribal Youth Program Coordinator - Blake Goodman, and Tribal Youth Resource Specialist - Shay Fixico wrote the grant and submitted it as part of the Tribe’s CTAS application. The Director of Education facilitated CTAS Director’s meetings beginning in January 2024 until the submission date in an attempt to bring directors and staff together to see how they can improve the Absentee Shawnee Tribal justice system for our youth and families. Directors and staff from the following departments were invited to these meetings: Courts, ICW, Police, Domestic Violence, and Grants. The Police, Domestic Violence, Education, and Grants staff were present at most if not all meetings. The Education Department staff were strong advocates and early contributors to the CTAS Purpose Area (PA) 3 – Tribal Justice Systems Program - Bureau of Justice Assistance. The Tribe also received Purpose Area 3 in the amount of $900,000. Director of Education, Tresha Spoon, writes “the Education Department staff looks forward to being a part of reaching the goals and objectives for PA 3 and improving resources and access to our Tribal Court system. It was our intent to include a staff position within PA 3 to help tribal program and service providers work more closely with our youth and families who need resources while they are going through our justice system in an effort to support a successful outcome.” As cited on the Bureau of Justice Assistance’s website: This solicitation provides federally recognized tribes and tribal consortia an opportunity to apply for funding to aid in developing a comprehensive and coordinated approach to public safety. Many of the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) existing tribal government-specific programs are included in and available through this single Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation (CTAS). The Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 CTAS refers to the DOJ’s tribal government-specific competitive grant programs as purpose areas (PA). Applicants may select the PA(s) that best address their tribe’s concerns related to public safety, criminal and juvenile justice, and the needs of victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking. Following are the seven PAs and their DOJ components: PA 1: Public Safety and Community Policing Tribal Resources Grant Program – Hiring and Equipment/Training [Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office)] PA 2: Tribal Justice Systems Strategic Planning Program [Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), COPS Office, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP), Office for Victims of Crime (OVC)] PA 3: Tribal Justice Systems Program (BJA) PA 4: Tribal Justice System Infrastructure Program (BJA) PA 6: Children’s Justice Act Partnerships for Indian Communities (OVC) PA 8: Youth Healing to Wellness Courts (OJJDP) PA 9: Tribal Youth Program (OJJDP) Note that, in FY 2024, PAs 5 and 7 are not included in CTAS. (https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/o-bja-2024-171911) Education Department: Tribal Youth Programs The Camp Nikoti’s Afterschool Program currently has 19 students enrolled in the program. There are 14 AST tribal youth, and three youth that are enrolled in other tribes. They have been working hard to keep up with their homework, and working to improve their skills in all areas using the workbooks that we got them. Valerie Scarberry with Native Connections came out and spoke with them this past month and did a Pumpkin coloring contest. The winner from the elementary youth and the winner from the middle school/high school youth each got a $25 gift card. We also had a Halloween party for the youth where they got snacks, drinks, and a bag of candy. We attended the Native American Student Career Opportunities with Tinker Air Force Base hosted by the Sac n Fox Nation in Stroud on October 23rd. There were 12 schools that attended ranging from grades 7th-12th. We talked with students about the different programs the tribe provides and gave away several items to all the students. We also attended North Rock Creek’s High School NASA (Indian Club) meeting on November 8th. We did a beading activity with them making a beaded Indian corn for them to take home. We started the meeting with 8-10 students, but ended up working with about 20 students. While we were working, we talked about the Indian corn and how we use it in our tribe. The students had a lot of fun and really enjoyed getting to do a hand’s on activity. They invited us back in the spring to do another activity with them. We also set up a date to do an activity with Mustang High School’s Indian Club in the Spring. We will be attending Little Axe High Schools next Indian Club meeting on November 14th, and are working to do an activity with Tecumseh High School’s Indian Club soon. Lastly, we want to give a very special shout out to two of our Program youth. Nick Sanders-McClellan (Senior at LAHS) and Kelin Sanders-McClellan (Sophomore at LAHS) both qualified and ran in the Class 3A State Championship race for Cross Country. They were the only two runners from Little Axe High School that qualified this year. They have been a part of our Afterschool program for 6-7 years and have been a part of our Summer Camps and other programs. We are very proud of them and the success they have achieved. Congratulations to them both. December 2024 www.astribe.com 7A Jiliyan – Happy 20th birthday to my beautiful daughter. Keep being the wonderful, amazing young woman you are! Momma loves you so very much and your brothers do too. Love, Joplin & Justin Happy 4th Birthday Sissy we love you so much! - Mama, Daddy, & Sissy Jiliyan – Happy birthday to my beautiful niece. Hope your day is a great one. Love, Aunt B Jil, Happy birthday to our lovely wonderful (never mean) sister. Love brothers, Joplin & Justin Good morning I would like to see if it is possible to put back in place the Christmas Gift Card for the Seniors or Tribal Members by check or WALMART Gift Cards. Congratulations to tribal member Aaliyah Shawnee, a senior at Glenpool High School, who signed her letter of intent to play basketball with Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, OK. She is the daughter of Derrick and Isha Shawnee and granddaughter of Darla Gatzman. It is much appreciated when they do this, but it is appreciated if the Elders or Tribal Members can make that decision for what their family needs. I believe last year it was Christmas Hams, but there was no notification until days before Christmas in which makes it hard for anyone to partake in this event if they are traveling. Janene Alford A big congratulations to Jasmine Martinez on All Academic and All Conference honors for the 2024 cross country season! She attends Loyola University New Orleans. Follow Us on Social Media Absentee Shawnee Tribe eetribe AST Rising Warrior hosts Walk United Against Domestic Violence AST Veterans participated in Norman’s Veterans Day Parade on November 10th December 2024 8A www.astribe.com P H O N E D I R E C T O RY - D I R E C T N U M B E R S O F F I C E O F T H E T R I B A L S EC R E TA RY 2025 S. GORDON COOPER DRIVE, SHAWNEE, OK 74801 • PHONE: 405.275.4030 • EMAIL: SECRETARY@ASTRIBE.COM • WEB: WWW.ASTRIBE.COM AST Complex – (405) 275-4030 Toll Free - 800-256-3341 All Nations Bank…………………………………………(405) 273-0202 Brendle Corner…......……………………………………(405) 447-3372 Building Blocks….........…………………………………(405) 878-0633 Building Blocks III LA….....……………………………(405) 360-2710 Court………………………......…………………………(405) 481-8575 Domestic Violence…………….....………………………(405) 273-2888 Enrollment……………………….....……………………(405) 481-8650 Food Pantry………………………...……………………(405) 481-8640 Gaming Commission………………....…………(405) 360-9270 x1110 Housing Authority………………………………………(405) 275-1050 Human Resources……………………….....……………(405) 275-1468 ICW………………………………………………………(405) 395-4490 Media………………………….…………………………(405) 598-1279 OEH/OEP…………………….…………….…….………(405) 214-4235 Police…………………………………………(405) 275-3200/275-3432 Social Services…………….…………………….…….…(405) 878-4723 Tax Commission…….……………….……………….…(405) 481-8600 Thunderbird Casino Norman…….……….……………(405) 360-9270 Thunderbird Casino Shawnee…………….….…………(405) 273-2679 Tribal Store Little Axe……………………………………(405) 364-0668 The Absentee Shawnee Tribe will be closed Tuesday, December 24th - Christmas Eve Wednesday, December 25th - Christmas Have A Holly Jolly Christmas! Indian Taco Sale Indian Taco w Dessert and Drink Beans and Frybread Frybread Only $10 $5 $2 Delivery Available for orders of $30 or More Call or text 405-410-9075 Happy Holidays From Your Friends At 2023 Gordon Cooper Dr. • Shawnee, OK 74801 • (405) 273-0202 www.anbok.com www.asthealth.org December 2024 Section B ASTHS December 2024 Monthly Update December 1-7 is also National Hand Washing Awareness Week, so now is American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/ANs) Are At Highalso the time to help stop the spread of the flu virus. Think of yourself as a er Risk of Developing Serious Complications from Flu The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses. Flu vaccines help to reduce the burden of flu illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths on the health care system each year. This season, all flu vaccines will be designed to protect against the four flu viruses that research indicates will be most common. Everyone 6 months and older should get an annual flu vaccine, ideally by the end of October. Vaccination of people at higher risk of developing serious flu complications is especially important to decrease their risk of severe flu illness. Flu is a Leading Cause of Pneumonia Flu and pneumonia rank among the top 10 causes of death for American Indians and Alaska Natives. American Indians and Alaska Natives are more likely to die from pneumonia and flu than are US residents of other races. Across the U.S., Flu Causes Hundreds of Thousands of Hospitalizations Each Season American Indians and Alaska Natives are at higher risk than others for: • • • Pneumonia and bronchitis Hospitalization Death Flu poses an even greater risk to American Indians and Alaska Natives who: • • • human petri-dish that grows all kind of icky bacteria and is the warm and cozy home for all kinds of viruses. Washing your hands regularly can prevent many flus, flu-like illnesses, common colds, conjunctivitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, bronchitis, bronchiolitis, pneumonia, Coxsackie viruses, Streptococcus, Pneumoccous, TB, and more from growing, spreading, or from entering your body. Hot Tips for Building Resiliency and Celebrating Hand Washing Awareness Week 1. Wash your hands when they are dirty and BEFORE eating. 2. “Good” hand washing techniques include using an adequate amount of soap, rubbing the hands together to create friction and lift the germs from the skin, and rinsing under running water. Hands should be washed for a minimum of 15 seconds. 3. Wash your hands after using the washroom (including changing diapers), after blowing your nose, after touching raw meat, poultry, or fish, after handling garbage, visiting or caring for sick people, and after handling pets, animals or animal waste. 4. DO NOT cough into your hands, use a tissue if possible. 5. DO NOT sneeze into your hands, use a tissue if possible 6. Above all, DO NOT put your fingers into your eyes, nose or mouth. These are the only portals of entry into the human body for respiratory infections and washing can reduce your risk significantly. are young children or elders Does a Flu Vaccine Work Right Away? are pregnant women No, it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop have diabetes, severe obesity, heart disease, or asthma and other lung in the body and provide protection against influenza virus infection. That’s problems why it’s best to get vaccinated before influenza viruses start to spread in your Flu symptoms can include: community. • Fever* • Cough • Muscle or body aches • Fatigue (feeling very tired) • Chills • Sore throat • Headache • Runny or stuffy nose * Not everyone with flu will have a fever Vaccine Side Effects Side effects of the vaccine are usually mild and may include a fever, crankiness, headache, fatigue or soreness at the site of the injection. Benefits of Flu Vaccination Protect Yourself. Protect Your Community. • • • • • Flu vaccination reduces your risk of getting sick, being hospitalized, or dying from flu. Flu vaccination can reduce the risk of having a heart attack in people who have heart disease. In people who have diabetes, flu vaccination can reduce the risk of being hospitalized with flu or from their diabetes. Flu vaccination has been shown in some studies to reduce severity of illness in people who get vaccinated but still get sick. Getting vaccinated yourself may also protect people around you, including those who are more vulnerable to serious flu illness, like babies and young children, elders, and people with certain chronic health conditions. Where Can I Get a Flu Vaccine? You can receive a flu vaccine from: • • • Indian Health Service, tribal, or urban health clinics and doctor’s offices Pharmacies or grocery stores Local health department Get Vaccinated. Protect the Circle of Life. If you have not received your flu vaccine for this year, contact your primary care provider and set up an appointment for a visit. References: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (Aug. 25, 2023). Key Facts About Seasonal Flu Vaccine. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/keyfacts.htm Work Smart, Live Smart. (2023) National Hand Washing Awareness Week: Stop the Spread. https://worksmartlivesmart.com/national-handwashing-awareness-week-december/ CONSTRUCTION UPDATE Shawnee Health Center Take 3 Steps to Fight Flu 1. Get yourself and your family a flu vaccine each year before flu activity begins in your community. Getting vaccinated this season may be more important than ever if there is both flu and COVID-19 activity at the same time. 2. Take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs: • Wash your hands often • Cover your coughs and sneezes • Stay home if you are sick 3. Take flu antiviral medicine, if prescribed. • Antiviral drugs are different from antibiotics. They are prescription medicines (pills, liquid, or an inhaled powder) and are not available over-the-counter. Shawnee Construction: Design and Development are substantially completed. Early bid package was released on Oct 18th. Planning for Shawnee ground breaking has begun (tentative for 1st week in December). Wash Your Hands Special Leadership Award: Lisa Doss, RN Team Lead NEW SHAWNEE HEALTH CLINIC! (Coming Soon) 39665 Benson Park Road, Shawnee, OK 74801 (adjacent to Tecumseh Lake) November 2024 Health Employee Awards of the Month Employee of the Month: Elizabeth Medina, Title VI Driver Team of the Month: Employee Health Chris A. Larkin, MBA, FACHE, CHC Executive Director December 2024 2B www.astribe.com How Can We Help? Please take a moment to fill out our Patient Healthcare Needs Survey to help us continue to meet the needs of our mostvalued patients! Scan the QR Code below! www.surveymonkey.com/r/2024ASTHA This survey takes less than 15 minutes to complete. Your feedback is appreciated! Ne yi wa (Thank You)! PURCHASED REFERRED CARE NEWS New Purchased Referred Care (PRC) Guidelines have been approved effective 10/1/2024. Copies of the new guidelines are available to pick up in person at the PRC offices at the Shawnee Clinic and Little Axe Health Center, MonFri 8am-5pm. A copy of the guidelines will also be available on the ASTHS webpage: https://www.asthealth.org/services/purchased-referred-care. We encourage all tribal members to pick up a copy of the guidelines and review all the benefits offered. Some of the new changes include: OPTOMETRY-benefit increased to $400 every 12 months DENTAL-benefit increased to $2,500 yearly ORTHODONTIC -benefit increased to $5,000 per lifetime for tribal members age 10-26 HEARING AIDS-benefit increased to $7,500 maximum issuance every 3 years REIMBURSEMENTS-no out of pocket reimbursements will be issued without prior authorization For questions or more information feel free to contact the PRC office at: 405-701-7951 or email PRC@astribe.com. December 2024 www.astribe.com 20 MONDAY 2 BEEF FINGERS MASHED POT/GRAVY WINTER MIX FRUIT 9 EGG ROLL VEGGIES/RICE FORTUNE COOKIE 16 23 30 BURRITO SPANISH RICE PUDDING CLOSED FOR CLEANING CHICKEN PATTY SANDWICH CHIPS MANDARIN ORANGES TUESDAY 3 10 CHICKEN POT PIE VEGGIES BISCUIT PEACHES CABBAGE STEW CORNBREAD WEDNESDAY 4 11 17 CHICKEN STIR FRY TORTILLA SALSA/CHIPS PINEAPPLES 18 24 25 31 CLOSED FOR CHRISTMAS EVE SOFT TACO REFRIED BEANS LTOC FRUIT GOULASH OKRA MIIXED FRUIT BAKED POTATO CHEZ,ONIONS,HAM BROCCOLI CLOSED FOR CHRISTMAS HAM BLACKEYED PEAS CORNBREAD FRUIT *MENU SUBJECT TO CHANGE* SHAWNEE SITE AND LITTLE AXE RESOURCE CENTER LUNCH SERVED MONDAY – THURSDAY 11 AM TO 1 PM BREAKFAST SERVED FRIDAYS 9 AM TO 11 AM 24 THURSDAY 5 CORN SOUP CRISP 12 CHICKEN STRIPS MASHED POT/GRAVY BRUSSEL SPROUTS 19 26 CHILI W BEANS CRACKERS CHEZ-ONIONS FRUIT CLOSED FOR CLEANING FRIDAY 6 13 SCAMBLED EGGS BACON TOAST/FRUIT BOILED EGG CEREAL TOAST/FRUIT 20 SCRAMBLED EGGS SAUSAGE GRAVY BISCUIT 27 CLOSED FOR CLEANING 3B December 2024 4B www.astribe.com TRIBAL OPIOID RESPONSE (TOR) NEWS The week of October 23rd through October 31st was Red Ribbon Week! Red Ribbon week is an anti-drug movement that began with the death and murder of DEA Agent Enrique ”Kiki” Camarena. Agent Camarena was committed to ending drug trafficking and as a result he was targeted by his enemies. In 1985, he was kidnapped by the Guadalajara cartel in southern California and murdered in Mexico. Camarena’s friends and family turned grief into action. They chose to honor his life by wearing red satin ribbons to make sure his life’s work was remembered. This local effort grew to a national movement and Red Ribbon week was born. While it has evolved into a movement targeting youth, adults are leading the charge for this movement too. The Tribal Opioid Response project supported Red Ribbon week by hosting two prevention pop ups at the Little Axe Clinic and the Shawnee Clinic. There was popcorn, free Narcan, and good information shared. At each of these events, we also offered a Narcan demonstration. Narcan is a medication that helps save lives by reversing overdoses. Mr. Chris Larkin, Health Executive Director, and Mr. Jason Bender, Director of Security, served as volunteers for the Narcan demonstration at Little Axe. Mr. Larkin was the overdose victim and Mr. Bender was the bystander who administered Narcan. These two added their own touch of flair and levity to this overdose scenario which made it fun but educational for onlookers. At the Shawnee Clinic, Mr. Anthony “Tad” Johnson, AST Representative, and Jayden Watson, Community Health Promotion and Health Educator, served as the actors for our Narcan demonstration. The Representative took on the role of the person who administered the Narcan while Jayden was the overdose victim. The Representative had actually received training on how to administer Narcan so he put those skills to work. Like the Little Axe clinic volunteers, Jayden and Tad hammed it up a little. From TOR to the Narcan demonstration volunteers, ne yi wa (Thank you)! We appreciate you! Do you need Narcan? TOR offers it for free! Contact us by phone, (405) 7017059 or email: TOR@astribe.com. Karen Kaniatobe, TOR Grant Project Coordinator --- Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aabsentee%3A83f267c170bf6b40. Public record. Not legal advice.