OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE (2021)

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ABSENTEE

SHAWNEE NEWS

www.astribe.com

OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE

January 2021

AST Receives COVID-19 Vaccine

We are proud to announce that the Absentee-Shawnee Tribal Health System received its first shipment of the Pfizer COVID-19

vaccine. Vaccinations began for frontline workers and Tribal leadership December 17th. Governor John Johnson of the AbsenteeShawnee Tribe received the first dose.

“Today is a great day for the Absentee-Shawnee Tribe,” said Governor Johnson. “I’m very proud of our Health System…they do so

much for our people.”

ASTHS will follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommended vaccination distribution schedule in a threephase plan.

Deirdre Yarbrough (ASTHS Public Health Director) administers the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to Governor John Johnson

www. astribe.com

Executive Committee

Governor’s

REPORT

Executive Committee

JOHN JOHNSON

AST Governor

GOVERNOR

John Johnson

LT. GOVERNOR

Kenneth Blanchard

Happy New Year!! I hope

everyone had a good holiday

season and this newsletter finds

you in good health. 2020 was a

tough year for all of us but with

the COVID-19 vaccine now in

use; I believe 2021 will be a

much better year.

I hope everyone was able to

take advantage of the multiple

CARES relief funds that were

made available. The 2nd General

Welfare Relief Fund was

hopefully a help to all during

the holiday season. I know

our finance and enrollment

departments have worked very

hard on getting everyone’s

applications processed and

financial assistance out to the

tribal members. So I want to

thank the employees that are in

these departments for all their

hard work.

On December 12th, 2020,

the annual AST Children’s

Christmas party was held.

Although it looked very different

from previous years due to

COVID-19, there was still a good

turnout. The children that came

to the drive-thru event received

a gift card, AST blanket and

goodie bag. I want to thank all

the volunteers that helped with

the set-up and distribution of this

event for the AST children.

As I close, please continue to be

aware of COVID-19 and follow

all safety precautions. Wear

a mask; wash your hands and

social distancing is encouraged at

all times. By following all safety

precautions and even getting the

vaccine hopefully we will be able

to better manage COVID-19 and

have an even better 2021!

Governor Johnson

SECRETARY

Ezra DeLodge

January 2021

Representative’s REPORT

Alicia Miller AST Representative

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

I would like to begin by wishing

you and your family a very happy

New Year. A new year brings a

renewed hope for a better year for

ourselves, our loved ones and the

world around us. The roll out for

the vaccine has commenced, at the

time of writing this article, which

definitely provides optimism for

many. If you opt-in for the vaccine

inoculations please read and educate

yourself on which vaccine you will

be getting, its possible side effects

and follow-up for the additional

dose. The CDC has developed a

new tool, V-safe, as an additional

layer of safety monitoring to

rapidly detect safety issues with

COVID-19 vaccines. V-safe is a new

smartphone-based, after-vaccination

health checker for those who receive

COVID-19 vaccines. Please visit

www.cdc.gov for more information

on this new tool as well as updated

COVID-19 quarantine times and the

approved vaccines.

I will be working with the Executive

Committee members to fill

vacancies on our tribal boards, and

currently, the Cultural Preservation

Department is taking letters of

interest for the Cultural Preservation

Committee and for the NAGPRA

Board. If you are interested, please

send a Letter of Interest (LOI) to

Secretary DeLodge @ ezrad@

astribe.com for consideration.

I would also like to welcome Mrs.

Michele Nowell, the new AST

Human Resources Director. She is

an HR professional with 20 years

of experience and we are excited

she has joined our team and I look

forward to a productive partnership

on behalf of the tribe.

My office is working to host the

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance

program, set to begin in February, to

help income eligible AST members

prepare and file their 2020 state and

federal income tax forms. Due to

COVID, coordination is presenting

slight challenges but once everything

is organized more details will be

released in next month’s newsletter,

as well as postings to the tribal

website and social media.

In conclusion, please continue to

have a safe New Year and stay

warm-‘til next month.

Ne yi wa! (Thank you!)

Alicia (Aly) Miller

Tribal Representative

Cell: 405.287.5247

Email: aliciam@astribe.com

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

Absentee Shawnee Tribal Members, 18 years of age

or older, interested in serving on:

The Cultural Advisor y Council

Please submit your Letters of Interest with resume

attached to:

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma

Secretary Ezra DeLodge

2025 S. Gordon Cooper Drive

Shawnee, OK 74801

FROM THE ELECTION COMMISSION:

TREASURER

Joseph Blanchard

The Filing Period for Elective Office in 2021.

A tribal member may file for office, January 1 to January 10 (excluding

weekends and holidays.) Hours to file are 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and

1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Potential candidates please consult the Election

Ordinance for the procedures and qualifications when running for elective

office.

The following positions will be open for the Elections to be held in 2021.

REPRESENTATIVE

Alicia Miller

ELECTION COMMISSION

Position

Filing Fees

Deputy Commissioner

$215.00

Election Secretary

$133.00

Commission Member #1

$215.00

Commission Member #2

$174.00

Term

3-Year Term

1-Year (Unexpired Term)

3-Year Term

2-Year (Unexpired Term)

January 2021

www. astribe.com 3

Applications accepted:

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma

Education Department

Jan. 1st –March 31st

Finalists announced:

May/June 2021

2025 South Gordon Cooper Drive

Shawnee, OK 74801

(405) 275-4030 Ext. 6242

AST Education Department: Big Jim Youth Awards

youthaward@astribe.com

We will begin taking applications for the 2020-21 Big Jim Youth Awards on January 1, 2021.

High school seniors of both genders within the 50 United States are eligible to apply for these

awards for the 2020-21 school year. Applications will be accepted from January 1 to March 31,

2021 by US mail or email. Official transcripts will be accepted via email or as a hard copy.

Faxed copies will not be accepted. The official application form will be available in December

2020 at www.astribe.com under the Education Department. The $1,000.00 award is in the form

of a scholarship to the college or university where the award recipient will attend for the fall

2021 semester. The scholarship must be used for the fall 2021 semester.

□ $1,000 Scholarship Big Jim Academic Achievement Award (Male)

□ $1,000 Scholarship Big Jim Academic Achievement Award (Female)

□ $1,000 Scholarship Big Jim Athlete of the Year (Male)

□ $1,000 Scholarship Big Jim Athlete of the Year (Female)

STUDENT INFORMATION

Name: ___________________________________________________

(LAST)

(MI)

Tribal Enrollment #:

We will begin accepting applications for the following awards:

•

(FIRST)

Address: _________________________________________________________________________________

Big Jim Academic Achievement Award (Male and Female)

Big Jim Athlete of the Year (Male and Female)

(STREET)

Home Phone: (

(CITY)

)

(STATE)

Cell Phone: (

(ZIP)

)

Email:

Individuals are encouraged to nominate deserving high school seniors. You may nominate

yourself. Please refer to the application for required documents. Eligible nominations will be

judged by a panel of (non-AST) experts assembled specifically for this purpose. The intent is to

bring together an unbiased group of experts to evaluate the applicants in an impartial and

unbiased environment. Their decisions are final with respect to all matters concerning these

awards. Awards will be announced in May/June 2021.

HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION

High School Name:

City:

State:

Guidance Counselor:

We encourage ALL Absentee Shawnee High School Seniors to apply.

(FIRST)

(LAST)

Sport:

Award recipients will be recognized as the 2020-21 Big Jim Academic Achievement Award

winner or the Big Jim Athlete of the Year. In addition to this recognition the award recipients

will receive the $1,000.00 scholarship to be used towards their education and the advancement of

their career.

Coach:

Position:

(FIRST)

(LAST)

Indian Education Director:

Questions on these awards program should be addressed to:

Phone #:

All Absentee Shawnee High School Seniors are eligible and encouraged to apply.

If applying for both Academic Achievement and Athlete of the year, applicant must provide two (2) separate

applications and sets of supporting documents.

Absentee Shawnee Tribe

Education Department

c/o Tresha Spoon

2025 S. Gordon Cooper Drive

Shawnee, OK 74801

405.275.4030 Ext 6242

youthaward@astribe.com

Documents to be included with application:

□ Official High School Transcript (emailed copies sent directly from school personnel will be accepted)

□ Tribal Enrollment Card (copy)

□ Resume of Accomplishments and Activities

□ Letter(s) of Recommendation (Educator/Coach/Tribal/Church)

□ 500-word Essay: How do you feel your accomplishments (knowledge/training) as well as your being an

Absentee Shawnee Tribal member will influence your future plans?

□ Video (optional): no more than 10 minutes in length

PLEASE fill out EACH BLANK completely and return by the Deadline.

ABSENTEE BALLOT REQUEST

I, ______________________________________, hereby certify that I am or will be an Eligible

(Print Name)

Voter of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe on or before March 20, 2021. I cannot physically

be present to cast my Vote at the March 20, 2021 Primary Election, therefore, I am

requesting an Absentee Ballot be mailed to me at the following address.

Name (please print): ___________________________________________________________

(first)

(middle)

(maiden)

(last)

Address:____________________________ City: _______________St: _______Zip:________

CDIB#:______________________________

Date of Birth: ______________________

Signature: ____________________________

Date:______________________________

All REQUESTS must be returned to the Election Commission by the deadline date of

February 28, 2021

Mail to:

Absentee Shawnee Election Commission

P.O. Box 741

Tecumseh, OK 74873

Fax to:

Fax # (405) 273-1337 (Do not fax to any other fax #)

Phone: (405) 275-4030 ext. 6271

Toll free number 1-800-256-3341 ext. 6271

Deliver in Person to:

Election Commission Office located in the Tribal Court Building

All eligible voters are entitled to vote either at the Polls or by Absentee Ballot.

This form may be duplicated for your convenience.

Disclaimer: This election may be affected by pending litigation.

Any required changes will be published in the newspaper as soon as

possible.

______________________________________________________________________________

ELECTION COMMISSION USE ONLY

Received: _____________________ Approved:____________________ Disapproved: _______________

If Disapproved (reason): _________________________________________________________________

Denial Letter Mailed:___________________________ Ballot Mailed:_____________________________

_______________________________________

Election Commission/Representative

Tribal frontline employees first

to get vaccinated

www. astribe.com

January 2021

From top, L-R, Deirdre Yarbrough (ASTHS Public Health Director) administers the vaccine to Mark Rogers, ASTHS executive director, Dr. Gregory

Reading, Chiropractor, Travis O’Dell, ASTHS/AST MIS Director, Michelle Wollenzin, Director of Clinical Services Chad Larmen, AST Emergency

Manager, Sandra Vaughn, ASTHS Board Chairwoman, Brad Gaylord, AST Police Chief, Governor John Johnson and Yarbrough give thumbs up for the

vaccine.

January 2021

www. astribe.com

Cultural Preservation

The Cultural Preservation Department

has continued to carry out essential

day to day operations to ensure the

department continues to function

properly. Currently, three staff members

are available in the office from 8 a.m. to

5 p.m. These staff members include the

Director, the Administrative Assistant

and the Gift Shop Manager. The

Librarian, THPO and THPO Specialist

are currently working remotely Monday

through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Gift Shop

1In accordance with the Tribe’s

protocols and reverting back to Phase I

of opening, in-store shopping at the gift

shop is currently unavailable. However,

we are allowing curbside pick-up.

Please call the Gift Shop Manager, Mrs.

Merry Rodriguez, for more details.

During the last month, the Gift Shop

Manager has been working diligently

to refill the current stock. We have an

assortment of new AST logo bearing

merchandise. We also will be receiving

new shipments from Pendleton and Nu

Trendz.

In addition to the new products,

currently, we are still running a 20%

sale on last season’s Pendleton products

and Minnetonka Shoes. So, if you

have any questions, please call Mrs.

Rodriguez. She can be reached at (405)

275-4030 ext. 6310.

Library

The library is still currently closed to

all visitors. Ms. Casey Wilson, our

Librarian, is still working with other

libraries on protocols that will ensure

the safety and protect the health of all

visitors.

THPO

Our THPO Program continues to

make great strides and advancements.

The THPO staff has steadily been

receiving Section 106 projects from

various Federal Agencies. Over the past

month, the THPO, Ms. Devon Frazier,

has received 365 new Section 106

projects for review. In conjunction with

receiving projects, she has consulted on

323 projects. The THPO has also taken

part in numerous teleconference calls.

FCC/TCNS

In lieu of the shutdowns from the

novel coronavirus (COVID-19)

pandemic, the incoming workﬂow of

new and modified telecommunications

projects has been steady for the TCNS

program. The THPO Specialist,

Ms. Ashley Brokeshoulder, has

been busy reviewing, researching

and given recommendations to the

telecommunications industry. Over the

past month, she has received 98 new

telecommunications facility projects for

review. In conjunction with receiving

projects, she has reviewed, researched

and gave recommendation for the

clearance of 77 telecommunications

projects.

Events

Due to the Tribe reverting back to

Phase I and the gift shop closing to just

curbside pick-up, we have cancelled our

Twelve Days of Christmas Giveaways

event. We still would like to hold the

event, but at a later date. Please be on

the look-out in future publications or on

the Facebook page for announcements.

November’s National American

Indian Heritage Month’s events were

a success. The winners of our different

events are as follows:

Gift Shop Promotion Spend-to-Win

Wheel – Ms. Darla Gatzman, Dr.

Elizabeth Saladin, and Ms. Kellie

Pierson; Spirit Days Facebook

Challenge – Ms. Andee Frazier;

Language Kids Video Facebook

Challenge – Ms. Madison SwitchFixico.

Congratulations to all the winners!

January is Stalking Awareness Month

It’s not a joke, it’s not romantic, it’s not ok!

January is National Stalking Awareness Month (NSAM)! Stalking is a prevalent crime that often co-occurs with domestic violence. Stalking is a pattern

of behavior directed at a speciﬁc person that causes fear. Stalking can be

an extension of power and control in an abusive relationship, and many

abusers stalk their partners both during the relationship and after the

relationship has ended. On average, intimate partner stalkers are the most

persistent and dangerous to their victims. Stalking is a terrifying and psychologically harmful crime in its own right as well as a predictor of lethality:

in 85% of cases where an intimate partner attempted to murder his partner, stalking occurred the year prior to the attack. Though millions of men

and women are stalked every year in the United States – with a frequent

co-occurrence of domestic violence -- the crime of stalking is often misunderstood, minimized and/or ignored. We all have a role to play in identifying

stalking and supporting victims and survivors.

Signs of stalking:

�

Contacting you constantly

Obtaining details before you provide them

Monitoring you excessively

Showing up unannounced

17 percent of Native American and Alaskan Native women have been

stalked in their lifetime.

(Futures Without Violence)

More than 4 in 5 AI/AN women (89 percent) have experienced stalking by

a non-Native perpetrator. (NCAI Policy Research Center)

If you are experiencing stalking or if you have any questions please reach out to us for assistance. All of our services are conﬁdential and judgement free. You may call us at 405-273-2888 or email us at

ASTintakes@gmail.com. Please follow us on Facebook @ASTRisingwarrior.

You may also visit our webpage for additional information www.astribe.

com/domestic-violence.

This project was supported by Grant No. 2015-TW-AX-0016 awarded by the Oﬃce on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions,

and recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice, Oﬃce on

Violence Against Women.

Your concerns are important to us. We

thank you for the continued support of

our department as we continue to make

changes to our programs, in order to

provide the best service to our Tribal

community. My door is always open

so please feel free to contact me, Carol

Butler, at 405-275-4030 ext. 6245 or

cbutler@astribe.com.

Ask about our “AST Preferred Checking”!

You can either be an Absentee Shawnee Tribe Member

or an Employee of the Tribe or one of the Absentee

Shawnee Tribe’s businesses:

 Free Value Checks

 .25% rate reduction with auto debit on consumer loan rates

 Interest bearing account

 $25.00 minimum to open the account

 No minimum to earn interest

 No monthly maintenance fee

 Free direct deposit option

 Free ATM/Debit Card

 Free Online Banking & Bill Pay

 Free Online Electronic Banking Statement

 Free check images with statement

 Free 1 year rental of a 3x5 safe deposit box or 6 months free rental

of a 5x10 safe deposit box (based on availability)

 Free Notary Service

 FDIC Insured

For more information contact us at

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

or 114 E. Main St, Calumet, OK 73014, PH (405) 893-2240

Member

FDIC

January 2021

www. astribe.com 6

Common questions and answers about COVID-19 Vaccination, direct from the CDC

How many shots of COVID-19 vaccine will be needed?

All but one of the COVID-19 vaccines currently in Phase 3 clinical trials in the United States

need two shots to be effective. The other COVID-19 vaccine uses one shot.

Do I need to wear a mask when I receive a COVID-19 vaccine?

Yes. CDC recommends that during the pandemic people wear a mask that covers their nose

and mouth when in contact with others outside your household, when in healthcare facilities,

and when receiving any vaccine, including a COVID-19 vaccine. Anyone who has trouble

breathing or is unable to remove a mask without assistance should not wear a mask. For more

information, visit considerations for wearing masks.

Are there special considerations on who should get the COVID-19 vaccine first?

At first, there will be a limited supply of COVID-19 vaccine. Operation Warp Speed is working

to get those first vaccine doses out once a vaccine is authorized or approved and

recommended, rather than waiting until there is enough vaccine for everyone. However, it is

important that the initial supplies of vaccine are given to people in a fair, ethical, and

transparent way. Learn how CDC is making COVID-19 vaccine recommendations, including

recommendations if there is a limited supply, based on input from the Advisory Committee on

Immunization Practices (ACIP).

If I have already had COVID-19 and recovered, do I still need to get vaccinated with a COVID19 vaccine when it’s available?

There is not enough information currently available to say if or for how long after infection

someone is protected from getting COVID-19 again; this is called natural immunity. Early

evidence suggests natural immunity from COVID-19 may not last very long, but more studies

are needed to better understand this. Until we have a vaccine available and the Advisory

Committee on Immunization Practices makes recommendations to CDC on how to best use

COVID-19 vaccines, CDC cannot comment on whether people who had COVID-19 should get

a COVID-19 vaccine.

Why would a vaccine be needed if we can do other things, like social distancing and wearing

masks, to prevent the virus that causes COVID-19 from spreading?

Stopping a pandemic requires using all the tools available. Vaccines work with your immune

system so your body will be ready to fight the virus if you are exposed. Other steps, like

covering your mouth and nose with a mask and staying at least 6 feet away from others, help

reduce your chance of being exposed to the virus or spreading it to others. Together, COVID19 vaccination and following CDC’s recommendations to protect yourself and others will offer

the best protection from COVID-19.

Do I need to wear a mask and avoid close contact with others if I have received 2 doses of the

vaccine?

Yes. While experts learn more about the protection that COVID-19 vaccines provide under

real-life conditions, it will be important for everyone to continue using all the tools available

to us to help stop this pandemic, like covering your mouth and nose with a mask, washing

hands often, and staying at least 6 feet away from others. Together, COVID-19 vaccination

and following CDC’s recommendations for how to protect yourself and others will offer the

best protection from getting and spreading COVID-19. Experts need to understand more

about the protection that COVID-19 vaccines provide before deciding to change

recommendations on steps everyone should take to slow the spread of the virus that causes

COVID-19. Other factors, including how many people get vaccinated and how the virus is

spreading in communities, will also affect this decision.

When can I stop wearing a mask and avoiding close contact with others after I have been

vaccinated?

There is not enough information currently available to say if or when CDC will stop

recommending that people wear masks and avoid close contact with others to help prevent

the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19. Experts need to understand more about the

protection that COVID-19 vaccines provide before making that decision. Other factors,

Continued on page 7

When can I stop wearing a mask and avoiding close contact with others after I have been

January 2021

www. astribe.com 7

vaccinated?

There is not enough information currently available to say if or when CDC will stop

recommending that people wear masks and avoid close contact with others to help prevent

the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19. Experts need to understand more about the

protection that COVID-19 vaccines provide before making that decision. Other factors,

including how many people get vaccinated and how the virus is spreading in communities,

will also affect this decision.

Are there other vaccines that can help prevent me from getting COVID-19?

There are currently no available vaccines that will prevent COVID-19. However, multiple

agencies and groups in the United States are working together to make sure that a safe and

effective COVID-19 vaccine is available as quickly as possible.

A flu vaccine will not protect you from getting COVID-19, but it can prevent you from getting

influenza (flu) at the same time as COVID-19. This can keep you from having a more severe

illness. While it’s not possible to say with certainty what will happen in the winter, CDC

believes it’s likely that flu viruses and the virus that causes COVID-19 will both be spreading

during that time. That means that getting a flu vaccine is more important than ever.

What percentage of the population needs to get vaccinated to have herd immunity to COVID19?

Experts do not know what percentage of people would need to get vaccinated to achieve

herd immunity to COVID-19. Herd immunity is a term used to describe when enough people

have protection—either from previous infection or vaccination—that it is unlikely a virus or

bacteria can spread and cause disease. As a result, everyone within the community is

protected even if some people don’t have any protection themselves. The percentage of

people who need to have protection in order to achieve herd immunity varies by disease.

For more information visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/faq.html

With cool weather around the corner,

soups are a fun way of warming your

family up. This chicken noodle soup

can be made at home and your family

will love all it’s rich flavors!

Let’s make some

soup!!

Nutrition Corner

A S T

D I A B E T E S

A N D

W E L L N E S S

LET’S MAKE...

Ingredients:

2 teaspoons olive oil

3 medium carrots

-thinly sliced

 2 medium ribs of

celery

-thinly sliced

 1 small onion

-diced

 4 cups fat-free,

low-sodium chicken

broth

 1.5 pounds boneless,

skinless chicken

breast

-visible fat removed

-cut into bite-size

pieces

 3 cups water

 3 tablespoons fresh

parsley

-minced

 1/2 teaspoon dried

thyme

-crumbled

 1/4 teaspoon salt

 1/4 teaspoon black

pepper

 6 ounces dried

no-yolk noodles



1. Heat the oil in the saucepan, or stockpot, on

medium heat. Cook the carrots, celery, and

onion for 3 minutes, or until the carrots and

celery are tender and the onion is soft, stirring

frequently. Stir in the broth, chicken, water,

parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.

2. Secure the lid. Cook on high for about 12

minutes.

3. Stir in the noodles and cook on low to medium heat.

Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender,

stirring frequently. Serve in 2 cup servings and enjoy!

WEAR A MASK

Nutrition Facts: Serving Size: 2 cups, Calories: 282 kcal,

Sodium: 324 mg, Total Carbohydrate: 27 grams, Protein: 30 g,

Exchanges: 1.5 starches

For more information:

https://recipes.heart.org/en/recipes/chickennoodle-soup

January 2021

www. astribe.com

ASTHS January 2021 Monthly Update

Holiday safety with the increased spread of COVID19 is of paramount importance this year. Many have cited the recent increase in infections of COVID

due to the Thanksgiving Holiday not being as safely planned as many healthcare leaders had hoped, along with increased public exposure due to retail

shopping for Christmas. As cases, hospitalizations, and deaths continue to increase across the United States, the safest way to celebrate the winter holidays

is to celebrate at home with people who live with you, according to the CDC.

Gatherings with family and friends who do not live with you can increase the

chances of getting or spreading COVID-19 or the ﬂu. The COVID-19 pandemic has been stressful and isolating for many people. Gatherings during

the upcoming holidays can be an opportunity to reconnect with family and

friends. This holiday season, consider how your holiday plans can be modiﬁed to reduce the spread of COVID-19 to keep your friends, families, and

communities healthy and safe. CDC offers the following considerations to

slow the spread of COVID-19 during small gatherings. These considerations

are meant to supplement—not replace—any state, local, territorial, or tribal health and safety laws, rules, and regulations with which all gatherings

must comply. Some of these common sense recommendations are keeping

groups small and holding events with appropriate separation and with masks

on in well-ventilated areas; limit traveling, and if sick, quarantining and not

participating in group events. Several factors can contribute to the risk of

getting and spreading COVID-19 at small in-person gatherings. In combination, these factors will create various amounts of risk. Consider the following:

Community levels of COVID-19 – High or increasing levels of COVID-19

cases in the gathering location, as well as in the areas where attendees are

coming from, increase the risk of infection and spread among attendees. Exposure during travel: Airports, bus stations, train stations, public transport,

gas stations, and rest stops are all places travelers can be exposed to the virus

in the air and on surfaces. Location of the gathering – Indoor gatherings,

especially those with poor ventilation (for example, small enclosed spaces

with no outside air), pose more risk than outdoor gatherings. Duration of the

gathering: Gatherings that last longer pose more risk than shorter gatherings.

Being within 6 feet of someone who has COVID-19 for a cumulative total of

15 minutes or more greatly increases the risk of becoming sick and requires

quarantine. Number and crowding of people at the gathering: Gatherings

with more people pose more risk than gatherings with fewer people. CDC

does not have a limit or recommend a speciﬁc number of attendees for gatherings. The size of a holiday gathering should be determined based on the

ability of attendees from different households to stay 6 feet (2 arm lengths)

apart, wear masks, wash hands, and follow state, local, territorial, or tribal

health and safety laws, rules, and regulations. Behaviors of attendees prior to

the gathering: Individuals who did not consistently adhere to social distancing

(staying at least 6 feet apart), mask wearing, handwashing, and other prevention behaviors pose more risk than those who consistently practiced these

safety measures. Behaviors of attendees during the gathering with supporting

safe practices are paramount to assure the protection of everyone! Remember:

“Your mask protects me, my mask protects you.”

Due to increased exposures in the community, our Health System has

had to quarantine employees out of an abundance of caution, and due to becoming symptomatic in a few instances. This is done to protect the patients,

tribal members, and employees so services can continue, although they may

be interrupted or suspended from time to time. Please know we are working

hard to balance CDC safety precautions and other guidelines to maintain our

services to you and your family during this time of increased exposures and

spread of the COVID-19 infection.

CLOSURE NOTICE:

EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY SHAWNEE CLINIC AND

SHAWNEE SAMEDAY ARE CLOSED UNTIL

FURTHER NOTICE.

Shawnee Pharmacy (405.878.5859) drive-thru

open from 11am to 7pm Monday-Friday close on

Saturdays/Sundays.

We have temporarily moved other services to the

Little Axe Health Center (405.447.0300).

Our PlusCare Clinic is still here to serve you with

adjusted hours Monday-Friday from 11:00 am to

7:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday 9:00 am to 5:00

pm. Last patients are accepted 30 minutes prior

to closing. The Little Axe clinic will maintain

normal business hours.

Please note that hours are subject to change and

we will resume regular hours as soon as possible.

For additional questions, please call 405.447.0300.

Immunizations will be shipped to us and arriving as early as December 2020

and into January 2021. We are following the CDC, I.H.S., and OSDH guidelines in their recommendations for immunizations. Generally, health workers,

ﬁrst responders, and then targeted elders and other high-risk personnel will be

amongst the ﬁrst to be offered the vaccination. Special attention is also being

considered for cultural leaders identiﬁed to Health by the Executive Committee as tribal national treasures for a higher priority in receiving the vaccination to protect cultural language speakers and other identiﬁed personnel who

are targeted for accelerated vaccination. This two-series immunization for

COVID will be provided several weeks apart from the initial vaccination, so

it is imperative once you start the vaccine you ﬁnish it to receive its full effect

and protection!

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

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

information regarding access to services and support. Let’s continue to work

together to defeat COVID-19 in our Native American and surrounding communities by protecting our most vulnerable population, our Elders and our

other high-risk populations.

Proudly we recognize our outstanding star performers, and thank them all

for their contributions to our patients, their fellow employees, and the tribe,

especially during our unprecedented times! Employee Awards and awardees

are listed below for recognition of outstanding efforts with ensuring great customer service to our patients and other employees/staff (both the External/

Internal Customers)! The AST Health System always strives to make your

health its top priority, and you all make a difference for our health system and

the health and wellness of all of our patients – “THANK YOU” for all you do!

January Health Employee Awards of the Month

Employee of the Month: Tara Swalla,

AST Pharmacy, Shawnee

Team of the Month: Dr. Marty Lofgren, Medical Director, and Michelle Wollenzin, Infection

Control & Public Health COVID Tracing Team

Special Leadership Award:

Dayna Dick, Health HR Director

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

Executive Director

January 2021

www. astribe.com 9

(L-R) Jay Wendroff, Cheri Hardeman, Londa Robertson,

Dr. Marty Lofgren, Mai Le, Renissa Jackson, Chris Larkin,

Chrys Ranells, Dee Dee Alford.

CompleteCare Home Health

CompleteCare Home Health is a subsidiary of ASTHS and has recently become a Five-Star rated home health agency,

according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS). Medicare- certiﬁed home health agencies are analyzed

based on a star rating system. Each agency’s performance is based on several indicating factors of care and improvement in patients including: medication management, improvement in patient mobility, and hospitalizations while in

the agencies care. A ﬁve-star rating is the highest any agency can receive.

We do not take this honor lightly, CompleteCare Home Health is dedicated to our patients and families. Our trained

professionals go the extra mile and make the extra home visits, or calls to the physicians to ensure our patients receive

the highest quality of care. Our staﬀ is passionate about home care and they ensure that our patients receive quality

care speciﬁc to their needs. We are not a cookie cutter agency, we are an extension of your health care family here at

ASTHS.

If you are wondering when is the right time for home health care, we are here to help. While every situation is unique,

CompleCare Home Health is dedicated to helping you understand your choices and stay informed so that you can make

the right decision for you or your loved one.

A recent hospitalization or an acute chronic illness that requires professional monitoring can be diﬃcult for families to

manage on their own. Our team of experienced caregivers work closely with your physician and family to provide optimal healing in the ideal environment – your home.

During this extreme health crisis in the world, you can rest assured that CompleteCare Home Health is here for you and

will safely, accurately and professionally provide you the care you need. If you are unsure if you qualify please give

our oﬃce a call for a free assessment of needs. Our staﬀ will walk you through step by step to help ensure you get the

care you or your loved one needs. Medicare pays 100% of the home health beneﬁt and most insurances are accepted.

If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to Chrys Ranells, CCHH DON @ 405.701.7085.

January 2021

Aguirre Perez, Mabel Beatrice

Alford Jr., Paul Leon

Alford, David Wesley

Alford, Sandra Kaye

Altman, Garrett Michael

Anderson, Kaiden William

Anderson, William Chase

Armstrong, Frank Lee

Barber, Joeseph Leeroy

Barbosa, Cash Cisco

Barfield, Amandia Quaymmie

Barton, Brittany Lynn

Bates, Terri Elaine

Baumgarner-Springer, Kaden

Alexander

Bayliss, Jeffery Channing

Beach, Cary Sue

Bearden, Tammy Sue

Bettelyoun, Kelan Chase

Bittle, Boston Warrior

Blalock, William Charles

Blanchard II, Aaron Gabriel

Blanchard, Bernice Starr

Blanchard, Chelsey Kolesha

Blanchard, Chester Vernon

Blanchard, Cory Eugene

Blanchard, Terance Blaine

Blanchard, Twyla Gayle

Boston, Nathan Daniel

Bouquet, Giovanni Lucas

Boyd, Ladarius Eugene

Bragg, Ronald Lee

Brannon, Tyneeka Alexandria

Bread, Christina L.m.

Brinson Jr, F E

Brown, Harper Janiece

Brummett, Taylor Renee

Burkhard, Valarie Mae

Buss, Autumn Dawn

Byers, Alaric Vaan

Cardwell, Laney Lee

Casteel, Annabella Rai

Chisholm, Mark Wayne

Clark, Emiley Ann

Clark, Sherri Dawn

Coffman, Julie Marie

Coleman, Justin Ray

Colungo, Damien Micheal

Condra, Karri Marie

Coon, Wynona Sloat

Cope, Carter Shaun

Cope, Michell Eldon

Coriz, Matoka Marie

Cox, Micheal Sage

Creamer, Maureen Jessica

Creek, Bessie Lee

Cripps, Jimmy Mark

Crossley, Orin Lee

Crossley, Rachel Ann

Crouch, Jennifer Renee

Cruz, Reyna Jalyssa

Cutler, Breanna Kailee

Dankenbring, Melody Renee

Davis, Rhonda Jean

Day, Vivian Denise

Day, Zander Nicholas

Deer, Braelyn Ariyahna

Deer, Joell Francis

Deere, + Lee

Deere, Clinton Jess

Dibler Jr, Daymon Daniel

Doe, Ms. Jane Sue

Doering, Jordan Marie

Downs, Cooper Maddox

Eckles, Ethan Andrew

Edwards, Connor Sagan-Riley

Ellis, Jackson Matthew

Ellis, Lisa Marie

Ellis, Ryan Mark

Ellis-Ferdig, Brandi Nicole

Estep, Caitlin Oteaka

Felton, Kandice Nicole Grace

Ferdig, Madelyn May

Fire, Orphie Jane

Fixico, Amelia Anne Marie

Flowers, Jasmine Lynne

Foreman Jr., James Louis

Foreman, Anthony Clayton

Foreman, Elijah Bryce

Foreman, Hunter Lynn

Foreman, Mary Ella

Freeman, Jerilyn Kay Barnett

Fritsch, Jaxon James

Fruit, Andrea Dee

Gardner Jr., Larry Dion

Geissler, Jarett Paul

www. astribe.com 10

Gibson, Braxton Reid Caddo

Gibson, Clarence

Gibson, Gloria Lynne

Gibson, Jeremy Lee

Gibson, Jimmy Ray

Gibson, Martha Lynette

Gibson, Ronnie Caleb

Gibson, Walter Ray

Gilman, Howard Floyd

Gonzalez, Xochitl Olivia

Goodman, Thomas Donald

Granstrom, Tyler Michael

Griffin, Lisa Jane

Hall, Bonnee RaeLynn

Hanson, Bentley Robert Jin

Hanson, Carter Liam Edward

Harjo, Nicholas Gerald

Harjo, Tabias Darnell

Harjo, Veyda Rene

Harrington, Carolyn Jean

Harris, Samuel Lee Allen Sabre

Haumpy, Tacie A’lize

Hawk, Quincy Ryan

Heatley, Cashis King

Heatley, Prada DeeAnn

Henderson, Valentina Noel

Hernandez, Janessa Leann

Herrera, Angel Juventino

Hilderbrand, Cameron James

Hill, Keiton James

Hill, Stephen Lee

Hood, Dantel Ruya

Hough, Alyssa Blake

Howe, Angelina Marie

Huerta Trevino, Beautiful Vivianna

Olivia

Humphrey, Lou Ann

Hurd, Tina Louise

Innis, Nicholas Alexander

Irvin, Michael Reed

Isaacs, Betty B

James, Diane Rene

Januszewski, Connie Bradley

Jimboy, Kaden Allen

Jiron, Mary Elizabeth

Johnson Jr., Henry Caddo

Johnson Jr., Josie Ed

Johnson, Bradley Nathaniel Preston

Scott

Johnson, Bruce Dale

Johnson, David Lee

Johnson, Patrick Wayne

Johnson, Pauletta Elephant

Johnson, Tanessa Anah Marie

Kaseca, Thomas James

Kelly, Addison Marie

Kelly, Davis Daniel

Kelough, Manuel LeeWayne

Kelsey, Kyler Seann

Kirk, Mariah Diane

Komahcheet, Nolan Frank

Larson, Brooke Nichole

Leath Jr., William Jake

Leitka, Praise Hanoa

Lester, Bradley Shane

Lewelling, Amber Dawn

Lewelling, Stacie Berlyn

Little Axe Jr., Ricky Lee

Little Axe, Courtney Nicole

Little Axe, Daveny Amour

Little Axe, John Al

Little Axe, Reagan Marie

Little Charley, Keith Eldon

Little, Mia Rachelle

Little, Shea Alexis

Little, Sutton Keith

Little, Troy Don

LittleAxe-Nettles, Aniah Elizabeth

Littlecreek, Catherine

Livsey, Shannon Marie

Longhorn II, Leonard Wayne

Longhorn Moore, Tylee Raquel

Longhorn, Bruce Jerome Allen

Longhorn, Crystal Alaina

Longhorn, La Donna Gail

Longhorn, Shawna Michele

Lovins, Marilyn Sue

Lowe, Charles Jake Kilraine

Lowry, Linda Diane

Mann Jr., Glenn Dale

Mann, Glenn Dale

Mann, Marc Andrew

Marquez II, Quentin Miles

Marriott, Cadence Sunay

Martin, Jared Webster

Martinez, Laronda Ann

Martinez, Naliyha Tewa

Martinez, Sam Littlecreek

Masquas, Aniyah Renee

Masquas, Hazel Lynn

Masquat, Kinsley Rae

Mathany, Connie Ruth

Maxwell, Jimmy Ray

Maxwell, Nellie Tiger

Mazzucco, Tiana Bright Path

McAnally, Makiah Hope

McBroom, Tallon Cole

McCreary, Gabriel David

McCulloch IV, Grant Howard

McGirt, Travis Wade

McPherson, Alan Lynn

McPherson, Mason Thomas

McPherson-Brittain, Jason Tyler

McPherson-Khalil, Jessica Lynn

McReynolds, Loren Joel

Meek Jr., Jimmy David

Melton, Serena Jo

Melzer, Logan Michael Boyer

Mendoza, Samuel Lee

Merrell, Maddox Andre

Milburn, Michelle Sahara

Miller, Tre Dean

Mitchell, Gage Jaydn

Mitchell, Nycole Morningstar

Montgomery, Nathan Andre Patrick

Morris Jr., John Gilbert

Morris, David Leon

Morris, Lucas Hayden

Munroe, Ellen Marie

Nail, Brandy Diane

Nance, Desmond Ravon

Nance, Eva Renae

Navarro, Eric Roberto

Navarro, Isaac Joseph

Neash, Diondre DaShawn

Ned, Tina Renee

Nelson, Payton Ashlee

Nicholson Jr., Larry Zenith

Nicholson, Victoria Rose

Norred, April Babette

Norton, Jai’Nasha Camille

O’Brien, Connie Frances

Panther, Cheyanne

Panther, Kylie Leaann

Parsons-Squire, Autumn Lynn

Patty, Elsie Wynona

Pawnee, Izabella Danae

Pearce, Kelle Dawn

Pearl Atwood, Donna Sue

Perkins, Kami Dawn

Pewenofkit, Alta Rochelle

Poncho, Octavia Marie

Puckitt, Zesa Lou-Ann

Queen, Marlene Lucille

Ramirez II, Antonio

Ramirez-Beavers, Shakayla Jordon

Grace

Ramirez-Beavers, Shakora Jean Kay

Rapp, Olivia Astrid

Reed, Teresa June

Reeves, Sharon Annette

Renfro, Brandy Nicole

Reyes, Jose Angel

Riden, Carter Daniel

Ridenour, Logan Taylor

Riedel, Brian Alan

Roach, Dawson Wayne

Roberts, Ramona Lee

Robertson, Wanda Lejean

Robison, Tyrel Lane

Rochon, Stephen Arthur

Rolette, Ty Clay

Rose, Neela Mahadevi

Ruimveld, Chad Christopher

Rutledge, Naomii Laiyla

Sam-Ruimveld, Bailey Shae Issi

Balalli

Sanchez, Luciano Lazaro

Sanders, Dylan Wayne

Seber, Jamie Nicole

Seber, Lauren Elizabeth

Serena, Anthony George

Shaffer, Christie Elaine

Shawnee, Keaten Wayne

Shelton, Xavier Race

Sherrill, Quentin Patrick

Shields, Aaliyah Brooke

Shields, Laila Annaliese

Shular, Sandra Jeanne Hood

Sloat, Cilicia Ann

Sloat, Warren Howard

Smith, Al Murray

Smith, Mariah Love

Smith, Ryan James

Snake, Anita Mae Burton

Snake, Barry Gabriel

Sorrells, Sandra Lee

Spoon, Barbara Jo

Spoon, Christopher Jaye

Spoon, Deric Brandon

Spoon, Preston Sha’Queal

Squire, Jimmy Dowell

Starnes, Khalilee Rayne

Starr, Adrien Miguel

Starr, Martin L.

Starr, Rance George

Steinruck, Eugene Donnell

Stewart, Glenn Alan

Stewart, James Clyde

Stone, Brian David

Stricklin, Victor Medrano

Stryker, Rodney Shane

Sullivan, Glenda Ann

Surface, Ashley Katherine

Sutton, Santos Daniel

Switch, Casey Camden

Switch, Hannah Nichelle

Tarbox, Christy Lee

Taylor, Nathan Wayne

Thomas, Joel Elijah

Thornton, Joshua Malcom

Thorpe II, Ronnie Allen

Thorpe Jr., James Francis

Thorpe, Shylah Jean

Tiger, Christoper Blaine

Tiger, Summer Dawn

Tiger, Wanda Little Axe

Tilley, Makiah Lynn

Tolbert, Ashlyn Reilly

Tonyan, Teagan Gwen

Torres, Fernando Jose

Torres, Rosa Marie

Treat, Joshua Steven

Tucker, Winter Dawn

Turner, Timothy Jake

Tyner, Tonia Melanie

Uchida, Nolan Garrett

Vanliew, Kesa La`nae

Wahpekeche, Eric Lynd

Wahpepah, Hazel Paige

Walker, Robert Stanley

Walker, Roger Steven

Warrior, Riley Shayne

Warrior, Tobin Shane

Warrior, Zybelle Rose

Washington, Rebecca Marie

Watkins, Destini Marie

Watson, Daniel Owen

Watson, Matthew Payden

Watson, Patrick Scott

Watson, Shawnee Sharisse

Webb, Kelly Britt

White Thunder, Sheldon Thomas

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Wilson, James Francis

Wilson, Michael Eugene

Wilson, Stephen Edward

Wilson, Wesley Dean

Wise, Landon Kyle

Wolf Sr., Aaron Paul

Wolf, Angel Erica

Wolfe Jr., Houston Hugh

Womack, Kaleigh Patricia

Wood, Shelby Maddison

Woods, Jiya Marie

Wright, Phillip Lawrence

Wunderlin, Donna Jo

Wyatt, James Allen

Yandell, Leon Allen

Yeahpau, Michael Tyrus

January 2021

www. astribe.com

Fiscal Year 2020 - YTD Tax Collections ( through 11/30/2020)

FY-2020

YTD TAX COLLECTIONS

(thru 11/30/2020)

TAX