# The Absentee Shawnee News (2013) > Briefs, arguments, decisions, and more. URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aabsentee%3A95df4286938af332 ## Record - **Collection:** Tribal code - **Document type:** Tribal code ## Text The Absentee Shawnee News May 2013 Inside This Issue... Pages 2-6 Executive Committee Reports General Council Meeting Pictures Page 9 Horse Shoe Bend Page 10 Golf Scramble Photos Page 12-13 Candidacy Letters Page 15 Mother’s Day Wishes Page 16-17 May Birthdays Page 18 Veterans Association Page 19 Title VI Menu Page 20 TERO Page 23 Indian Child Welfare Page 25 The Music Within You Page 27 AST Health Page 29 Election Results & Absentee Ballot Form Page 30 Reed Candidacy Letter Vol. 27 No. 17 Sunday, May 12th Executive Committee George Blanchard Governor Teri Reed Secretary Issac Gibson Lt. Governor Governor’s Report Greetings Relatives and Friends, Attendance at the 71st Semi-annual General Council was a good sign that interest in Tribal Governance is good. I view this interest as something we can keep in front of us as we plan for the future. We hear that there needs by the spoken comments during the question/answer period that we will address. I know that the Executive Committee has heard you and will strive to resolve these issues as we move ahead as a Tribe. We need to come together as one group, and not divide ourselves as it often happens. Please be well, take care of your family and loved ones. Visit with me when you can. Respectfully, George Blanchard, 26thGovernor. ANNIVERSARY THUNDERBIRD CASINO POW WOW JULY 4-5-6, 2013 Little Axe, OK MC: SAMMY “TONE-KEI” WHITE HEAD MAN DANCER: WOLFY LEITKA HEAD LADY DANCER: LESLIE REALRIDER HEAD SINGER: FOREST WALKER HEAD GOURD DANCER: ADAM PROCTOR ARENA DIRECTOR: SAM HOWELL ABSENTEE SHAWNEE COLOR GUARD SUPPER EVERY EVENING @ 5PM ARTS AND CRAFT VENDORS WELCOME CALL: LEONARD LONGHORN 405-481-0674 or SUE BLANCHARD 405-312-4621 All contestants must be in full regalia and number in full display during Grand Entry each night and dance July 4th during inter-tribal dancing. All decisions made by the powwow committee are final. 2 NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ACCIDENTS, INJURIES AND LOSSES --DRUGS, ALCOHOL ARE PROHIBITED Kathy Deere Treasurer Jeffrey Gibson Representative Lt. Governor’s Report May 2013 I hope this article finds all of you in good health and spirits. Spring is finally here, nice weather. It is time for gardening and yard mowing. Which reminds me that if you need lawn mowing assistance and meet the criteria please contact Reta Harjo @ 275••4030, Ext. 128 and if you would like a garden plowed Mary Billy is keeping the list of people who are doing gardens; Mary can be reached at 275-••4030, Ext. 146. The Executive Committee has been conducting monthly department head meetings for a long time; I decided to have intra-••departmental staff meetings on a bi-••monthly basis. We had our second staff meeting Tuesday morning. I think this is a good thing; we all become familiar with what each department is doing. It is a helpful tool for planning, time management and communications. The staff seems less reluctant to speak as people tend to be, when in a larger group. We are still requesting equipment from the GSA and continue to be provided with nice and useful equipment. At a later date we will provide you with an inventory of what the tribe has received. On April 12, 2013 we conducted an inspection on the parking lot at the Harrah Smokeshop. The inspection went well. The Bureau of Indian Affairs was unable to attend; however, we spoke with them via telephone and e-••mail. The Southern Plains Regional Transportation Office complimented the Tribe on a good job. Earlier on, we asked that you complete a questionnaire regarding a transit program for the Tribe. Many of you completed and returned the forms; others completed the form at General Council. We are printing a blank form in this issue of the Tribal News Paper and asking, if you have not completed the form yet, if you would please complete and return the form to the Absentee Shawnee Tribe, 2025 S. Gordon Cooper, Shawnee, OK 74801, Attention: Mike Wood, Transit Program. Thank you for taking the time to provide the information to us. I hate to report that we still have not heard from the Interior Board of Indian Appeals on the Probate cases or Tribe with jurisdiction issue. It’s the same case but is being called by different names. Hopefully we will hear something soon. We have been told that IBIA does not have a time limit for handing down decisions. It has been favorable for us up to this point. We are thinking positive. Respectfully, Isaac Gibson, Lt. Governor day care center in Little Axe, more improvements to Thunderbird Casino in sm Norman, and several other projects. of the they Executive Committee the Grand Opening of the new Harrah Smoke All building, remained optimistic that weFor exp members are working hard to make year productive and profitable for did Shop, the demolition of Tecumseh Square,this would re-open. improvements Former Tribal Secretary Michele Lopez did sal our tribe. to Horse Shoe Bend, ground breaking on the new day care center in Little a great job with the help of the tribe and theand bui Axe, more improvements to Thunderbird insurance company in getting the business upthe HARRAH SMOKE SHOP Casino in Norman, and several other projects. and running again small portable buildingsma The Harrah Smoke Shop is located at 19857 NE 23rd in in aHarrah Oklahoma. All of the Executive Committee members are (480 SF). We experienced very little down The Grand of this location tookbut place past month. working hard toRe-Opening make this year productive and time, sales this drastically decreasedI after theexp profitable tribe.be interesting to take building burnedatdown. thoughtfor it our would a look back how tragedy turned sale HARRAH SMOKE SHOP into triumph for our tribe in 2013. buil Th The original Harrah Smoke Shop bu building was approximately 2,400 Th square feet and was built in 1978. This an property was purchased by the tribe in Sm 1992 and was subsequently used as a Th bu sid smoke shop. In 19 years of service, Th wi very little was done to update or an a maintain the building. The drive through area was in a state of disrepair Sm G sid and unusable. Thewas Grand Opening for the new building took pr place in March 2013. The new building is 2400 win pa square feet and is divided for two businesses. a l TheHarrah Smoke Shop is located on burned the east side and The Smoke Shop to the Go includes a drive through window. The west half Pi ground in 2011 due to some wild fires pro the building is a lease space. With the help of an that through area. The the moved Lt. Governor’ s office,the the BIA Roads program pa community behind us, many Co was utilized stood to complete the parking lot. of our customers remained loyal, and all 4 of our employees remained with us. Though devastated at the loss of the building, they remained optimistic that we would re-open. De Pic Re an Re Co sh De De Re Pa Re sh De Previously, the market value of the buil Pa building belongs to the tribe, not theLop Sm Former Tribal Secretary Michele The Harrah Smoke Shop is located at 19857 NE 23rd in Harrah Oklahoma. The Grand ReOpening of this location took place this past month. I thought it would be interesting to take a look back at how tragedy turned into charged with overseeing rebuilding triumph for our tribe in 2013. Pictured are employees Tribe, did a great job with ofthethethe help of and the tr Previously, the market value of the build members of the Executive Committee, including building was financed by a combination and the insurance company inthe gettin (L-R) Treasurer Deere,toGovernor building belongs theinfusion tribe,Blanchard, notfrom Sm profits, a small capital Representative Gibson, and running Secretary again Reed the the business up and in charged with overseeing the rebuilding (Lt. Governor Gibson not shown). Smoke Shop p Funds. There is no loan on the building small portable building SF). We building was Flurry financed by (480 a combination Manager Debbie and General Manager Paul McIntire are holding the infusion ribbon. experienced very little down from time,the bu profits, a small capital Previously, the market value of the building sales drastically after the Funds. There is nodecreased loanbuilding on thebelongs building was less than $100,000. The building down. to the tribe, burned not the Smoke Shop business and I was charged with overseeing the rebuilding The original Harrah Smoke Shop building was project for the tribe. The new building was approximately 2,400 square feet and was built financed by a combination of insurance money, in 1978. This property was purchased by the Smoke Shop profits, a small capital infusion tribe in 1992 and was subsequently used as a from the tribe, and the use of BIA Roads Funds. no loan onOpening the buildingfor andthe the market smoke shop. In 19 years of service, very little was There Theis Grand new done to update or maintain the building. The value of the property is expected to exceed building took place in March 2013. drive through area was in a state of disrepair $500,000. It was important that we completed The newwithout building is away 2400oursquare this project signing profits fe and was unusable. investors or acquiring a loan that would T The Harrah Smoke Shop burned to the toand is divided for two businesses. ground in 2011 due to some wild fires that eat away our profits. The building is a great Report Smoke is located on thewill east for ourShop tribe and the improvement moved through the area. The community stood asset Greeting Tribal Members: increased revenueafor the business. It This year is shaping up to be a great year behind us, many of our customers remained result sidein and includes drive through for our tribe in moving forward. We have a loyal, and all 4 of our employees remained is expected that sales will increase by at least window. west halfisthe now that The the new building open.building This number of projects moving forward including with us. Though devastated at the loss of the 30% Secretary’s a lease space. With the help of the 3 is an example of our tribe turning tragedy into triumph. I want to thank the members of the Executive Committee for their support and the numerous people who were involved in the planning, design, and execution of the plan. I am very proud of what we accomplished. BUSINESS ENTERPRISE UPDATE Some big changes are planned for the Convenience Store and Restaurant in 2013. We’ve cleared out an area at the back of the store and have plans to install a small gaming venue. This will work in partnership with Thunderbird Casino, and will work much like travel stop-gaming casinos run by many tribes across Oklahoma. The initial plan calls for 30-50 machines to be in place before fall. The parking lot to the west of the store will be enlarged and resurfaced to accommodate the increased traffic for the store and the new satellite police station. Changes to the exterior of the Store and Restaurant are also being investigated as an enhancement to the changes being made at the casino. We want the casino, convenience store, and restaurant to all have a similar design and feel so that they work together to create visual cohesiveness. The casino exterior design has yet to be determined. Once the design is firmed up, we will look to see how the exterior of the Store and Restaurant can be changed to look similar to the casino. Paul McIntire was named as the new General Manager of our two Smoke Shops and Restaurants last month. Paul has been working for the tribe for the past year as a Business Project Manager and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the job. He worked for the tribe previously (2006-2008) as the Enterprise Chief Financial Officer before taking a job as Commerce Chief Financial Officer for the Seminole Nation. Paul has many years’ experience in the banking business. TOBBACO COMPACT I have attended numerous State and Tribal Leader’s meetings on the ensuing termination date of our Tobacco Compact in June. Most of the tribes in Oklahoma have Tobacco Compacts that are expiring in June and many of them have been amiable to the idea of joining forces in our negotiations. This is great news for the smaller tribes who lack the leverage of large sales volumes. I lobbied for a 4 year extension, and twenty-nine tribes agreed to seek an extension of our current compacts until August 2017. Governor Blanchard was among the tribal leaders that signed the letter in that meeting. I am hopeful that we will be able to obtain this extension as we currently have a strong compact that provides revenue for our programs. BIG JIM YOUTH AWARDS This award is for AST High School Seniors nationwide and will be presented in May of this year by the Education Department. The awards include Academic and Athlete of the Year for both male and female (4 awards total with each award a $1,000 scholarship). The purpose of the award is to recognize outstanding performance and to encourage 4 higher education for our tribal youth. The judges for the award will be an unbiased and independent group of non-AST members who are knowledgeable in the fields of education and athletics. PHONE SYSTEM IMPROVEMENT The phone improvement committee has been working to improve the service to the complex and we have implemented several improvements which will enhance our service to you. A few people “want the old phone system”. The old system was: the receptionist answers the phone and if she is on another call or at lunch, the caller can leave a voice message. We still have this system available today. All you have to do is press 0 for the operator. To make this option more apparent, we moved the instruction of “press 0 for the operator anytime” from the end of the script to the top. The voice prompt system is an enhancement to the old system and people can get through to departments to leave message after hours or during lunch. A few people say they “don’t know the extension numbers” for people or departments. We are adding a second tier of departments/numbers for numbers that are frequently called. This includes our police department and health clinics as well as the Executive Committee members.The committee has been working to add all of our employees to the employee directory. We’ve also made up some “refrigerator-type magnets” listing of all of our departments with extension numbers that will be available at the receptionist office. Extension numbers are published on the back cover of every newsletter and are available on the website. The receptionist is giving out the extension number as she transfers people to a specific department. That way, if you get cutoff or have to call back…..you will know the extension number. The receptionist does a good job of answering calls, but to make it even easier, she has been equipped with a headset so she can answer calls while she is in the adjoining mail room. These are just a few of the improvements that we have planned. We brought in a focus group of 5 tribal members to help us with ideas for improving our phone service. We appreciate their help and input with this ongoing process. Our improvement committee consists of Becky Prewett, Rico Coon, Paul McIntire and Colleen Butler. CASINO UPDATE The Casino is off to a great year and we are very excited about our current and future promotions. The Norman Casino is giving away a 2013 Chevrolet Crew Cab truck that is fully loaded on April 20th. The Shawnee Casino is giving away fishing packages every Friday and Saturday in April that include fiberglass fishing boats, trolling motors, fishing poles, and tackle boxes. Both Casinos will continue the popular $500 hourly cash drawings on Friday and Saturday from 6pm to 10pm. The Casino also continues to offer $10 Free Play to all Absentee Shawnee Tribal Members in addition to the weekly Match Play offered. GENERAL ELECTION The next general election will be on Saturday, June 15th, 2013. I encourage you to get out and exercise your right to vote. If you have any issues or concerns that you would like addressed in the newsletter, please let me know. Teri Reed , Tribal Secretary teri@astribe.com 405-275-4030 Ext 104 Treasurer’s Report Greetings TRIBAL MEMBERS, I love spring especially in the month of MAY like the saying goes, April showers, bring May flowers! We appreciate the great turnout for the 71st Semi-Annual General Council meeting. We hope you enjoyed, visited, and participated in the various department’s surveys, handouts, etc. Remember to vote in June for the Runoff Election and if not going to be around to request your absentee ballot which is in the newsletter and watch the deadline to submit those to the election office. My condolences to those tribal members who have lost loved ones. • 2012 Annual Audit has begun for the Absentee Shawnee Tribe. The Finance department has begun gathering requested data to conduct the audit. It usually takes about three to four months to complete the audit. • AST Health Board Authority and LSWN Board Meeting, held every third Tuesday, Little Axe Health Facility, Little Axe, OK. Serves as Ad Hoc non-voting member. Monthly reports of Executive Director, Clinic Administrators, Department/Program Directors, financial, and activities of health facility are presented. We would like to extend to the Health Board members appreciation and thank you for serving on the Health Board. The Board consists of Troy Little Axe, Chairman, Greg Terrell, Secretary, Lisa Johnson-Billy, Nathan Boren, Surya Pierce, Sandra Vaughn, and Lancer Stephens. • Monthly Program/Departmental Directors meeting. Each director comes every third Monday and gives a monthly update on their program/department. We, as the Executive Committee, appreciate these departments who take the time to come and give us an update every month and prepare monthly written reports. We understand they may have circumstances occur that prevent them from coming to the monthly meetings. THANK YOU! • Elders’ Monthly meeting are held every third Saturday, either at AST Resource Center or Title VI Bldgs, 10 am. If you are 55 years and older, please come join us for fellowship, food, and fun times together. Fund raisers, outings, and cultural activities are planned monthly. Participated in the annual audit for the Elders’ Council along with Meredith Wahpeche, and Stella Little. • Thunderbird Casino Monthly financial meeting with General Manager, Dillon Byrd, Controller, myself, and/or other Executive Committee Member, who are available, to go over the monthly financials. • Constitutional Revision committee. If you are interested in joining the constitution revision committee, call Eddie Brokeshoulder, 275-4030 X148, for the date and time of next meeting. • Attended the United Indian Nations in Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas (UINOKT), meeting Stroud, OK. This group has been around since late 1996 and their purpose is to promote unity among the tribes in Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas. At these meetings we have 15 to 25 tribes represented. Goals are to have a website, press release, and lobbying efforts of all tribes in Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas. Next meeting TBD. • Representative Bob Cleveland, District 20-Cleveland, Garvin, McClain, and Potawatomi Counties. Beverly Felton, Executive Director invited Mr. Cleveland to come tour the LSWN health facility and he stated he has been using the facility and will have his wife and family come use our facility, too. He stated if we ever needed some assistance he would gladly help us. • AICCO Women in Leadership Roundtable, State Representative Lisa Johnson-Billy and I were panelists. The newly crowned royalty from the Changing Winds Society, Miss Indian OKC-Raven Morgan (Cheyenne); Jr. Miss Indian OKC-Chyna Chupo (Seminole); and Little Miss Indian OKC-Akiane Bates (Shawnee) were present. It was an honor to encourage these young ladies to strive to be the best they can be and never quit or give up on their goals. These young women have stepped forward to represent their tribes, OKC and Native Americans in general at 60 plus events throughout the coming year. Congratulations to them all. • CDFI (Community Development Financial Institution) Grant-Action Planning Meeting of Steering Committee. Grant was submitted February 28, 2013 and should know in August if awarded.Attendees were Gene Davis,AllNations Bank, Anita Chisholm, Tribal Member, Rick Short, Glenna Jones, Kristie Coker-Bias, Eddie Brokeshoulder, and I. Discussion on creating initial infrastructure, market analysis, legal infrastructure, and organizational structure. Next planning meeting, Thursday, 5-23-13, 3pm, Governor’s Conference Room. If anyone is interested in being on this committee, please contact Eddie Brokeshoulder, 275-4030, Ext. 148. • Burial/Funeral Benefits with CCI, (Heidi Offutt and Randy Carter) meeting to discuss potential and additional benefits to current burial assistance services. NEWS FLASH • Sally Jewell the 51st Secretary of the Interior was officially sworn in on Friday, April 12 at the Supreme Court of the United States. Jewell begins her first day in office meeting some of the Department’s more than 70,000 employees. She also began to hold meetings on important issues before the Department, including energy development, conservation, Indian Affairs and youth engagement. Jewell said. “At Interior, we have vast responsibilities to the American people, from making smart decisions about the natural resources with which we have been blessed, to honoring our word to American Indians and Alaska Natives.” www.doi.gov news release • Oklahoma City Schools Harding Charter Preparatory High School and Classen School of Advanced Studies have been named among the top 50 high schools in the nation. Harding Charter is No. 23 on the list; Classen is No. 36. “This is an honor to have two schools in our state recognized among the best schools in the nation,” State Superintendent Janet Barresi said. “We applaud the work of the educators at these schools who train their students to be completely prepared for the demands of college and the work force in the 21st Century and to be good citizens.” For more info see website www.thebestschools.org • Indian Gaming, According to “Alan P. Meister, PhD’s, article in the “Casino Lawyer”, Spring 2013. “In 2011, it is estimated that direct and secondary impacts of Indian gaming totaled approximately: $81.8 billion output; 686,000 jobs; $26.8 billion in wages; $11.0 billion in federal, state, and local tax revenue; and $1.4 billion in direct payments by tribes to federal, state, and local governments”. “The states that made the largest positive contribution to nationwide gaming revenue growth in 2011 were large Indian gaming states with healthy growth rates: Oklahoma, Arizona, Washington, and California.” For more information on the Indian Gaming Industry Report, (2013 Edition) recently released. www.indiangamingreport.com The Finance Department employees and Controller, Belinda Collins, are deserving recognition as they daily continue the never ending processes for the financial side of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe. Without their tireless dedication and commitment we could not keep the financial transactions processes flowing! My appreciation to the Financial Consultant, Eddie Brokeshoulder, who continues to assist me with numerous projects, attend meetings where I cannot attend, and consulting decisions in the office of Treasurer! Also, sincere appreciation and thanks to Arlene Herrera who serves as Administrative Assistant to me and Enrollment. We appreciate all your phone calls, emails, and visits. May God continue to bless you and yours! See below articles from AllNations Bank, Finance Department, and Financial Consultant, Eddie Brokeshoulder. Respectfully yours, Kathy Deere, Tribal Treasurer Finance Department May 2013 The Finance office continues our efforts in keeping the day to day activities flowing effectively and efficiently through communication between the Finance office and Programs. In working together, we have found the most time effective and cost effective processes for transacting business. Tribal Members and Native Employees allowing clinic and pharmacy visits to be claimed on their medical insurance coverage from private insurance or other coverage is very beneficial to the Tribe’s health systems. Any cost not paid by your insurance company will be paid by Tribal health system funds. You will not be asked to pay a deductable or any charges not covered by your insurance. Using your coverage allows the health systems to charge your insurance for the service rather than it being paid in full from the health system funds. This in turns enhances the entire program and allows more services to Tribal members. In addition, any funds paid by the Tribe on claims filed with your insurance helps to meet your deductibles. The Tribe’s 2010 and 2011 Audits are “unqualified”; which when compared to an educational grading scale is an A. We are prepared for the 2012 audit coordinating business entities that will roll up into the tribe’s audit. Auditors are currently. The 2013 Indirect Cost Proposal was submitted to the National Business Center (NBC) on September 4, 2012. NBC is seven months behind due to budget cuts thus staff cuts. Our rate is up from 17.74% for 2010 to 21.98% for 2011 and our rate for 2012 is 22.35% and is expected to increase for 2013. We were assigned a negotiator and I have been working with that negotiator since April 11, 2013. Hopefully our rate will be approved soon. The finance department for 2013 is completing accounting by the 10th day of the month which has been extended from the 7th allowing the health finance to provide reports necessary for adjusting inventory and accounts receivable. Financial reporting for the Health Authority and Li Si Wi Nwi, Health Inc. boards for Absentee Health Systems, Shawnee and Little Axe (LSWN) continues. The Finance staff has completed the March reconciliations for financial. It is imperative the accounting staff continue to stay ahead of all of the accounting so that audits go smoothly, so that Indirect Cost rates will stay up to date as well. Indirect cost proposals cannot be submitted without completed audits as the audit is used to calculate the proposal. There are many processes in place in your Tribe’s accounting department that ensure we keep accurate records of transactions. The Tribe’s accounting “What you have in your mind, your talents, processes must be in compliance with GAAP; your native abilities, no one can take from you. (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) and When you die you take them with you. Use them GASB (Governmental Accounting Standards diligently while you are here.” Board) and these rules are updated sometimes -Alfred A. Montapert annually. The Tribe currently has compact funds of 5 presentation did not happen due to technical problems with laptop computer. As Tribalthe members inputvital is very and vital improving our Tribal Government for our next BIA and I H S, 51 Grants. In addition, Tribeyourand toimportant improving ourtoTribal Government operates on a General Fund generation. and an Indirect for our next generation. esolutions Cost Fund. The new clinic building payments are current and have been and projections The following are Resolutions passed are that they will continue to be current going through April 17, 2013 forward. EXECUTIVE RESOLUTIONS The Absentee Shawnee Tribe’s Finance E-AS-13-31 04/17/13 Department has very hard working group of Establishes that the 72nd Semi-Annual people and it is an honor to work with them, AST Native Community Development General Council Meeting for the Absentee Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI): A planning meeting with consultant the Treasurer’s office and atAST theNative Absentee Financial Institution (CDFI): A planning non-profit loanTribe Kristi Coker-Biaz and AST CDFI steering committee was held to develop a strategy for Shawnee fund of Indians of Oklahoma be Shawnee Tribe. The Finance Department consultant Kristi Coker-Biaz action plan for starting meeting a CDFI. Thewith steering committee agreed to start with creating set initialfor infrastructure, October 5, 2013 @ 10:00 a.m. Thunderemploys 14: with 7 (50%) being ASTmarket Tribal andwith AST CDFI steering committee was held toand bird developing analysis assistance from First Nations Oweesta Corporation developing our legal Casino Event Center / Warrior Room, infrastructure.and In attendance were Gene Davis, AllNations Bank, Anita Chisholm, Tribal Member, Rick Short, Members, 2non-AST tribal members, 5 develop a strategy for non-profit loan fund rd Little Axe, Oklahoma. Jones, Kristi Coker-Bias, Treasurer Deere and I. Our next planning meeting is Thursday, May 23 at 3 (36%) being non-natives. This Glenna department as action plan for starting a CDFI. The steering E-AS-13-32 04/17/13 p.m., Governors Conference room. If you or you might know of someone who might be interested in being on always would like to extend athis special thanks agreed startplease with creating committee or servingcommittee as member of our board ofto director’s, contact Eddie Brokeshoulder, 275-4030 Authorizes and approves the Absentee eddieb@astribe.com. and note of appreciation tox 148 theor Executive initial infrastructure, developing market Shawnee Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma, Committee for providing the tools, resources, analysis with assistance from First Nations through the Chief of Police of the Absenand support to enable the finance staff to Oweesta Corporation and developing our tee Shawnee Tribal Police Department, to reach its accomplished goals and to continue legal infrastructure. In attendance were apply for the U.S. Department of Justice FY with this effort. A special thanks and note Gene Davis, AllNations Bank, Anita Chisholm, 2013 Smart Probation: Reducing Prison Popof appreciation to Program Managers and Tribal Member, Rick Short, Glenna Jones, ulations, Saving Money, and Creating Safer Employees of the Tribe for their assistance Kristi Coker-Bias, Treasurer Deere and I. Our Communities Grant. and dedication in our continued group effort next planning meeting is Thursday, May 23rd E-AS-13-33 04/17/13 toward accomplishing our goal. If you have any at 3 p.m., Governors Conference room. If you Approves and accepts Eric Lynd Wahpekequestions or needs, please call 405-275-4030 ext or you might know of someone who might che, Mirissa Bethany Mullins, Zachary Lee 162 and I will be glad to assist you. be interested in being on this committee or James, Landon Jayse Hernandez, Camden Respectfully, serving as member of our board of director’s, Blake Downs, Cayden James Downs, AnnaBelinda Collins, Controller please contact Eddie Brokeshoulder, 275-4030 x bella Rai Casteel, Stormy Ray Wolfe, Dean 148 or eddieb@astribe.com. Owen Wilson and Daveny Amour Little Specialty Crops Workshop: Attended a Axe as enrolled members of the Absentee crops workshop sponsored by Otoe-Missouria Shawnee Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma as and Ponca Tribes in Red Rock, Oklahoma. of the date of this resolution. Report The workshop was held in conjunction with E-AS-13-34 04/17/13 Hello Tribal Members, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Community Development Financial Extension and USDA Risk Management agency, Appropriates and approves Thirty-Seven Thousand Dollars and No Cents ($37,000.00) Institutions Fund designed to provide demonstration and hands- to the Music Department from the General The 71st Semi-General Council has come and on experience of specialty crop production. gone. The office of Treasurer would like to Crops such as vegetables, fruits, herbs and Fund. thank each one of you for participating and other crops can be grown successfully. If you picking up financial information. Financial are interested in developing or starting a information is like a storm tracker keeping you garden, please contact me at 405-275-4030 x 148 updated and informed. or eddieb@astribe.com. The following activities I have been involved Gardening 101 Workshop: Attended a and participated: Gardening 101 workshop sponsored by Sac and Financial Reports: Reviewed and analyzed Fox Nation in conjunction with Oklahoma monthly General Fund and Indirect Cost State University Cooperative Extension Service encumbrance financial reports of Treasurer. of Shawnee, Oklahoma. Instructor was George Absentee Shawnee Economic Development Driever, Ph.D. extension educator; topic was Authority, Inc. (ASEDA): Attended monthly “Organic Approaches to Home Gardening”. ASEDA board meeting to discuss future In closing, thank you for your participation in business venture partnership that will be the 71st Semi-General Council meeting. The enhanced by a certification in an 8(a) business office of Treasurer looks forward to your development program. questions and concerns. I can be reached at R Financial Consultant 405-275-4030 x 148 or eddieb@astribe.com. Community Development Respectfully, AST Constitution Revision Committee Eddie Brokeshoulder (CRC): The AST Constitution Revision Financial Consultant Committee continues to have monthly meetings discussing revising the Constitution. AST CONSTITUTION REVISION COMMITTEE Our most recent attempt was to showing a SEEKING VOLUNTEER TRIBAL MEMBERS video of our current Executive Committee Executive / Legislative functions and three (3) Are you interested in participating and being a part of a better tomorrow? members of Big Jim and White Turkey Bands performing legislature function and process Are you an Elder or Youth willing to at the 71st Semi General Council meeting. The better the Absentee Shawnee Tribe, if video presentation did not happen due to so please contact: Eddie Brokeshoulder at 405-275-4030 x 148 technical problems with laptop computer. or eddieb@astribe.com As Tribal members your input is very important 6 Camp Nikoti Tribal Youth Program presents... Melokami Youth Camp 2013 THANK YOU to all tribal program staff who helped make this year’s camp a success and full of fun for the youth! Woman in Leadership Luncheon/Panel Discussion American Indian Chamber of Commerce of Oklahoma - OKC Chapter Keynote Speakers: (From left to Right)  Lisa Billy  Kathy Deere  James Lambertus Oklahoma House of Representatives Absentee Shawnee Tribe Host/Chair of AICCOK– OKC Chapter DATE: April 10, 2013 Created by: Carol Butler TERO Office Assistant Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma 7 WHITE TURKEY BAND POW-WOW HONORING: STUDENTS AND GRADUATES MORE INFORMATION CALL: GWEN SWITCH Info about the Pow-Wow: 405 204-9612 TWILA PARKER Date/Time: Meeting will be May 11th at 10:00am. Meetings vary in length, but usually last at least an hour. Participants /Ages: 6th grade to 12th grade. The Youth Council is open to all students in this grade range. EDWINA BUTLER-WOLFE Where: 405 488-4569 AST Complex Building 1 May 18, 2013 When: 405 229-8052 Location: Horse Shoe Bend Community Building 46309 Garrett’s Lake Road, Shawnee, Ok 74801 Time: 2:00 pm until 5:00 pm Gourd Dance 5:00 until 6:00 pm Dinner Transportation: Parents will be responsible for bringing and picking up their child. What is it? : The Youth Council is a way for students from the surrounding AST communities to work together and bring to light things they need help with in their school. It is also a way for students to work and learn how they can create a difference for the tribe and their own community. We explore different prevention topics, volunteer in the community, and also explore further educational options. Questions: For Further questions please contact Tresha Spoon at 275-4030 ext. 121, or Blake Goodman at 364-7569. 6:00 until 7:00 pm Gourd Dancing 7:00 p.m. Grand Entry and War Dancing Drugs and Alcohol Not Allowed. Committee not responsible for accidents or theft. HEAD STAFF: HEAD LADY DANCER: EBEN WATASHE HEAD MAN DANCER: BRANDON BUTLER HEAD GOURD DANCER: CODY MORRIS HEAD SINGER KESKO WALKER MC: JAMEY NOBLE ARENA DIRECTORS: RANDALL WATSON STUART ROLETTE ART AND CRAFT VENDORS: $25.00 SET UP FEE (BRING YOUR OWN TABLES AND CHAIRS) Join us for an exciting week of athletic competition in Oklahoma City & Shawnee, June 9-­‐15, 2013 Athletes representing Indian nations, bands and tribes from across the United States will gather to share their talents in the spirit of the “World’s Greatest Athlete” and Native American Legend….Jim Thorpe! Featuring 11 sports: (ENTRY DEADLINE MAY 1, 2013) Tennis, Softball, Basketball, Golf, Track & Field, Cross Country, Wrestling, Stickball, Martial Arts, Beach Volleyball, 5K Run *Plus an Oklahoma Native American High School All Star Football Game on Friday, June 14th For more information contact or to get an entry form: 1-­‐405-­‐208-­‐9253 or info@jimthorpegames.com For Tribal members that are participating, if you have photos taken and would like in an e-mail to stiger@astribe.com them put in our newsletter, please send 8 May is a busy busy month for Building Blocks, we have many exciting things going on!!!!! We will be starting off the month with our annual “Muffins for Moms” in celebration of Mothers Day! This is always a big success and we are looking forward to it once again. The family breakfast turned out well also, its always nice to see families come together at special events like that, it definitely makes a difference in each child’s day. The last day of school is around the 23rd and that means all the big kids will be here. All the teachers will start planning field trips, so be on the look out for those dates. Since it’s going to start getting warm we will open the splash pad up at the end of the month. Look for letters from your teachers about what to bring and what days they will be having their water day. Building Blocks will be closed Monday May 27th to observe Memorial Day!!! We hope everyone has a fun safe weekend. Lauren MAy Building blocks cdc interim director 2025 S. Gordon cooper Dr. Shawnee, OK 74801 Phone 405-878-0633 Fax 405-878-0156 HORSE SHOE BEND AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM: May 2013 News Students during Spring Break had activities planned all week long. Monday was a movie day, students watched a classical movie, “The Sound of Music” in the morning, and afternoon we had activities outside playing baseball. Tuesday morning Jimmi Norris and Margaret Starkey of the Diabetes Department of the Absentee Shawnee Health Clinic had a presentation to the students of eating healthy. Students received a backpack of informational brochures and healthy treats. Also a dinner plate was given to each student to take home. The afternoon Rosie Tallbear, Fitness Facility Director of the Absentee Shawnee Wellness Department planned activities with students outside. Wednesday activities we had Evelyn Pablito, Water Pollution Prevention Program of the OEH Department of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe. Evelyn coordinated a Scavenger Hunt and Recycling Activity. Students walked in the field at Horse Shoe Bend collecting bugs, looking for tracks of animals and taking photos on the nature walk. Evelyn had students do some worksheets about recycling and students were given a bag of treats. Thursday and Friday activities was coordinated by Jenifer Sloan, Director of the MSPI Program of the Absentee Shawnee Behavioral Health Program. Students from Horse Shoe Bend was transported to the Neil Gwaltney Ranch in Shawnee for the two days of activities; students learned about the horse and how to ride a horse, games, and creating art in nature. Also students went on a nature walk. I would like to thank the Absentee Shawnee Maintenance Department for setting the inflatable up for our students to use during Spring Break. Students had a big time bouncing in the inflatable. Also like to thank everyone as mentioned above for their time in educating our young students. And thank the parents for allowing their children to attend the Spring Break activities. The White Turkey Bank sponsored the Horse Shoe Bend After School Program Easter Egg Hunt. Students colored 224 eggs on Wednesday, March 27, and hunted the eggs on March 28. Three age groups were as follows: Kindergarten, First and Second Grade, and Third and up. Each group had a prize egg and the one who had found the most eggs. Winners were Brendan Winter, Jordan Coody, Damon Wilson, Zach Fife, Jayden Robinson. Like to thank the following ladies: Gwen Switch, Janet Jeske, June Buckner, Kay Wallace, Charlett Ellis, Jennifer Castaneda, Melissa Lopez, and Ramona McCoy for providing the boiled eggs. As the school year is narrowing down, the after school program will be planning activities for the summer. We will be focusing on subjects like math, science, history, and physical activities. Schedule for the summer will be: Monday thru Thursday, 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Activities will start on June 3, 2013 thru July 18, 2013. On March 29, 2013, the Sac and Fox Nation donated $10,000.00 to the Horse Shoe Bend After School Program. I am very appreciative for their generous donation. The funds will go toward the students’ supplies at the center and snacks. And we are able to pay our tutors for their services to the students that attend the after school program. The Sac and Fox Nation had made a donation last year of $10,000.00. RUBEN WILSON Ruben was honored with the Citizenship Award in his Fourth Grade Class at North Rock Creek School. He is very helpful and masters all his school studies. Ruben has been attending the Horse Shoe Bend After School Program for two years. He is the son of Calvin and Annie Wilson, and is a member of the Sac and fox Tribe of Oklahoma. JORDAN COODY Jordan received the Scholar Award for the third time this school year. He is in the Second Grade at North Rock Creek School. Jordan is an outstanding student and works hard in his studies at Horse Shoe Bend After School Program. He is tutored by Caitlin Wells from Oklahoma Baptist University. Jordan is the son of Kyle and Kenna Coody. Jordan is a Tribal member of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma. ALHIJAH GIPP Alhijah was honored with the Achiever Award in his Kindergarten Class at North Rock Creek School. He is a very talented student and shows good sportsmanship in our outside activities we have at the Horse Shoe Bend After School Program. He is the son of Kyle and Jamie Gipp and is a Sac and Fox Tribal member of Oklahoma. GABRIEL FIFE Gabe has won the STEM Award for the third time this school year. He attends Earlsboro Elementary School. Gabe excels in all his school work and is an excellent student. He likes to play all sports and is very athletic. Gabe is the son of Stephen and Theresa Fife and is a Tribal member of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe. JAYDEN ROBINSON Jayden has been honored to be a mascot to run in the Little Olympic at O.B.U. Track on May 3, 2013. Jayden competed with other runners and came out first place for this position. He attends South Rock Creek School and is in the First Grade. CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!! As our program has grown and is progressing we have received calls from students from other colleges in Oklahoma to do their internship projects with our after school students. Faith Brown, student at Northeastern University has been traveling to the Horse Shoe Bend at least once a month to work with Desiree Johnson with her internship project. Faith has 3 semesters before receiving her degree in education. I have an awesome staff of tutors that help our young students daily. Thanks to Elaine, Stuart, Randall, Caitlin, Joanna, Lauren, Heather, Meagan, Nicole, Macy, Dakota, Haley, Chris, and Captain. If you have any questions about the Horse Shoe Bend After School Program please call 405-481-0397. Thank you, Edwina Butler-Wolfe, Director Horse Shoe Bend After School 9 Oklahoma Inter-tribal Diabetes Coalition S A V E T H E D A T E 4 th Annual th Benefit Golf Scramble 4 A n n u a l B e n e f i t G o l f S c r a m b l e Pictures Friday, April 19, 2013 8:30 a.m. Shotgun Start (Rain cancellation date – Friday, May 3, 2013) Firelake Golf Course 1901 S. Gordon Cooper Drive Shawnee, OK 74801 (405) 275-4471 • 4 Man Scramble ($240/team or $60/person) • 1st, 2nd, 3rd Flight Prizes Awarded • Proximity Contests: Longest Drive, Straightest Drive, Closest to the Pin st player to make a hole in one: 2 holes designated • $300 to 1 ANDY WARRIOR, RANDY EDGE, Prize REP. JEFF GIBSON • Door Prizes: T-shirts, gift certificates, and maybe even a kitchen sink! Come and support the Coalition’s efforts in raising awareness and advocating for diabetes prevention in Oklahoma. KEVIN BLANCHARD Deadline to register: Monday, April 15, 2013 by 5:00 p.m. No on-­‐site LEVI registration LITTLECREEK SEE REGISTRATION FORM FOR SHAWNEE KICKAPOO & SPONSORSHIP OPTIONS TANYA RICHARDSON For more information, contact Lea Caufield: LEVI LITTLECREEK, MIKE WOOD, SECRETARY TERILea.caufield@chickasaw.net REED 580-421-4532 x82266 See registration form for payment details Contact Diabetes and Wellness Department at REP. JEFF GIBSON, ROY CHARLEY, DAVID LITTLE 10 Wills Clinic May 16th, 2013 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Little Axe Resource Center Call OILS at: (405) 943-6457 or 1-800-658-1497 To make an appointment, if anyone needs assistance with will before, then call same number to make arrangements for an appointment to meet with an OILS attorney. If you’d like to submit an ad or article give us a call at (405) 598-1279 (405) 481-0558 or send us an e-mail at stiger@astribe.com ALL ARTICLES FOR THE NEXT MONTH’S ISSUE ARE DUE BY THE 20TH OF THE CURRENT MONTH Unfortunately, we can only accept one picture per birthday person, not per birthday wish. Are you at risk for diabetes, have diabetes or know someone who does? Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes and affects millions of Native Americans. Many people are unaware that they have diabetes or pre-diabetes. Native Americans are twice as likely to develop Type 2 diabetes than others. Some common signs and symptoms include: • Frequent infections • Blurred vision • Cuts/bruises that are slow to heal • Tingling/numbness in the hands/feet • Recurring skin, gum, or bladder infections Often people with type 2 diabetes have no symptoms. Some ways to prevent and manage diabetes is through healthy lifestyle behaviors. One question that many people with diabetes or pre-diabetes often ask is “What can I eat?”. The American Diabetes Association states that you do not have to be deprived or restricted. The key factors are learning what are the “superfoods”, how much of it you can have and how often. Getting into the habit of eating a healthy diet helps you manage diabetes and prevent complications caused by diabetes. The following foods are listed on the American Diabetes Association web site as” superfoods”. Try to incorporate as many of these foods into your daily meal plan to enhance the nutrient content of your meals. The foods listed have a low glycemic index (causes slower rise in blood glucose after eating) and provide key nutrients that are lacking in the typical western diet such as: • calcium • magnesium • potassium • vitamins A, C, and E. • fiber Beans,dark green leafy vegetables, citrus fruit, sweet potatoes, berries, tomatoes, fish high in Omega-3 fatty acids, whole grains, nuts, fat-free milk and yogurt. To learn more about eating these superfoods and recipes visit diabetes.org and sign up for Wellness and Healthy Eating classes at the Little Axe Clinic. Call Sidna McKane to sign up at 405 701-7977. Source: American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.org AST COUNTRY ASTAST PHARMACY NEWS PHARMACY NEWS  Visit our new, convenient drive-thru at the Little Axe location for refill drop off or pick up!!  As of January 1, 2012, Oklahoma State Law mandates that a current, state issued photo ID be on file for both the patient and the representative picking up for EVERY fill of ANY controlled medication.  Deliveries of controlled medications will no longer be allowed.  Both Shawnee and Little Axe pharmacy locations fill prescriptions for members of all tribes, but outside prescription orders are restricted to Absentee Shawnee Tribal citizens with established charts.  If you would like to receive a text message to your cell phone when your medications are ready for pick-up, please alert the pharmacy staff and provide us with a current cell phone number.  The following are a few tips to help us be more efficient in our delivery of pharmacy services to you:  Present insurance cards each time you pick up or drop off a prescription  Keep us informed of changes in address, phone number and other contact information.  Let the Pharmacy staff know if the prescription is going to be picked up or needs to be delivered.  When requesting refills, please provide 24 hours’ notice and either the refill number, which is located above your name on the prescription label, or the names of your medication. KITCHEN Early Bird Breakfast $4.99 2 Eggs/Bacon or Sausage/Hash Browns Biscuits & Gravy or Toast & Coffee (Not valid on Saturday or Sunday. 1 coupon per customer.With coupon. No substitutions We are open through the lunch hour!! **BOTH PHARMACY DEPARTMENTS ARE CLOSED WITH THE CLINICS THE FIRST WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON OF EVERY MONTH TO COMPLETE ADMINISTRATIVE DUTIES** Check out our daily homemade lunch specials! Something different every day! If you have any questions at any time, feel free to call either Pharmacy or stop by and speak with one of our Pharmacy staff. We are happy to assist you with your pharmaceutical needs! Hours of Operation: Little Axe: 7am-5:30pm Monday-Friday Shawnee: 7am-6pm Monday-Friday Sunday - 7am to 7pm Monday - 7am to 3pm Tuesday - 7am to 3pm Wednesday - 7am to 8pm Thursday - 7am to 8pm Friday - 7am to 9pm Saturday - 7am to 9pm Open 7 Days A Week! 366-7220 (In Front of Thunderbird Entertainment Center Next to AST Smoke Shop) 11 Edwina Butler-Wolfe Elect Me for Governor and Together we will Build For the Future (BFF)! Old issues: I have always been a candid person and speak my mind on issues. So first let me say I appreciate that financial information needed for you our Tribal citizens is being disclosed. Yet we are due more – much more. Such as: why didn’t we know that the Clinic was having financial problems? Why haven’t we previously been advised about our third party income and how it’s being used? How is our Casino’s doing and how can they offset the sequester (removal of certain funds automatically from a budget) happening within our Programs? When was the last time we saw a financial report on them? At General Council? I noticed in our AST newsletter that the BancFirst President had indicated that the next interest payment was to be made but what about the principal payment? New issues: Let’s look at some other things going on with the Tribe? Why doesn’t the Health Board provide a monthly report for the General Council? It was good to know who serves on our Health Board and I thank the Treasurer for stating who was on the Board. A question I have is ‘Are Tribal citizens aware that all appointments done by the Health Board and for Committee’s are reviewed by the Governor’s office before the Executive Committee approves them?’ I have requested previously to see Health Board meeting minutes and been denied these meeting minutes. Why? I am a concerned Tribal citizen and should have access to the business of the Tribe, as should you. I believe our Committee’s and Boards should be subject to the ‘Open Records Act’ unless under an Executive or closed session. I will put that into place if I’m elected. Concerns about the possibility of the Citizen Potawatomi’s (CP) taking the Mission Hill Hospital over and what impact that might have to the Tribe? It’s my understanding that if the CP’s take that building over they would have to do a lot of repairs and it could potentially be a service offered to all people if they open it as their own. We still need to get our law suit settled about our land rights here at the Tribe so that if the CP’s consider further development as a township or have other expansion plans we will have our own land base to work off of. If elected that will be one of my major priorities. As for now I would like to know what is the status of our lawsuit? What actions have been taken so that we can remedy being on CP leased land? Nepotism still appears to be an issue within the Tribe. We need to look at this issue and ensure that hiring practices get the best qualified applicant for the position. An example of nepotism is the hiring by the Health Administrator of her son’s significant other as her receptionist at the Clinic. If elected I will work on making our Human Resources system work for our people and get the best qualified applicants. I noticed that the Governor has been given signature authority for the Tribe to enter into contractual agreements between the AST and ASEDA, Inc. I hope this signature authority is after the Executive Committee has reviewed and approved off on the contracts to be entered into not just giving the Governor carte blanche authority. In ending I realize I’ve asked many questions. These are tough questions but need to be asked for our people. I want our youth to have a land base that is their own. I want them to have health services that they can be assured of. I want the best for our people and I want your help to do it. Elect me and I will do the work for you! I am committed to our future, to our people, to Building for the Future – BFF! Edwina Butler-Wolfe 405 488-4569 ebutler405@yahoo.com Absentee Shawnee Tribe Transit System (2013) This questionnaire is to gather information to determine the need for transportation services within the tribe’s jurisdictional boundaries. Services: Monday thru Friday 8:00 – 5:00, special exceptions for weekends. We will provide transportation to and from the following in (VANS OR BUSES): TIGER FAMILY REUNION THE TIGER FAMILY REUNION HAS BEEN SCHEDULED FOR MAY 25 AT THE POST OAK AREA AT THUNDERBIRD LAKE. START AT 10am TILL 10pm. BRING A COVERED DISH OR DRINKS! ALSO BRING SOME GAMES AND YOUR LAWN CHAIRS!! EVERYONE WELCOME! ! Clinic (Little Axe) Clinic (Shawnee) AAA Oklahoma News Release www.AAA.com www.facebook.com/AAAOklahoma www.twitter.com/AAAOklahoma Wal-Mart Grocery Stores Tribal Complex What other needs do you think you would have from the transit system? 1. 2. 3. Tribal member signature: Name: Address: Contact #: FHA Transit Coordinator questions call Mike Wood at 275-4030 Ext.112 or cell (405) 432-9652. 12 Contacts: Chuck Mai (405) 753-8040 / (405-209-8260 chuck.mai@aaaok.org Danial Karnes (918) 748-1074 / (918) 935-9318 danial.karnes@aaaok.org Tornado Safety Tips from AAA Oklahoma NEWS from AAA Oklahoma, April 15, 2013 – Storm season is here, when Mother Nature most often unleashes her fury on the Sooner State. AAA Oklahoma wants you to be prepared and offers the following tips for those who find themselves in the path of severe weather or a twister. Seek Shelter Do not try to outrun a tornado. Instead, stay calm and seek shelter. • At home or work, seek shelter in the central part of the building, away from windows. Basements or storm shelters are the best havens. If this is not an option, take cover in the bathroom, closet, interior hallway or under a heavy piece of furniture or mattress. • If you are in your car, abandon your vehicle and seek shelter in the nearest building. Never try to outrun a tornado. Your vehicle will offer no protection from a twister. Plus, it is impossible to know which direction a tornado may decide to go. • If you are caught in the open, with no buildings available to you, find a ditch, ravine or low-lying area and lie flat. Stay away from roadway overpasses. • People living in mobile homes should leave them and seek shelter elsewhere. Protect your Property Prepare before the storm strikes. • If a tornado watch has been issued, move cars inside a garage or carport to avoid damage from hail that often accompanies tornadoes. Keep car keys and house keys with you. • If time permits, move lawn furniture and yard equipment inside. They could be damaged or act as dangerous projectiles causing serious injury or damage. • Shut off the water supply to your washing machine when not in use. • Make an inventory of possessions and store the list off-premises. If belongings are damaged, this list will help facilitate the claim-filing process. While tornadoes are deadly, a severe storm can be just as dangerous due to lightning, heavy rain and the possibility of flooding. Prepare now for all forms of severe weather. Vera (Gibson) Dawsey Hello All! Many issues have come to my attention as well as reinforce other situations I have been speaking about all along. These issues are regarding the current Executive Committee members’ handling of nepotism in the work place, low employment rate for AST members, as well as the handling of programs that were created to benefit tribal members but don’t operate to their fullest capacity. 2013 AST Secretary Candidate Hello All! Many issues have come to my attention as well as reAs many of you know General Council was recently held at inforce other situations I have been speaking about all the Little Axe Clinic on April 6 . This is supposed to give tribal along.an These issues areelected regarding the current Executive members opportunity to ask our officials questions and voice our concerns.members’ However, not one direct answer given to Committee handling ofwas nepotism in the work those asking the questions. For those who weren’t present at place, lowI would employment for AST members, as well General Council, like to fill you in.rate One tribal member who used to work for the AST of Health system askedthat Governor Blanchard as the handling programs were created to benefit how he could be fair and objective with his daughter Beverly Felton is tribal members but don’t operate to their fullest capacity. Executive Director over the AST Health System. If she wasn’t working of you know General Council recently held at inAs themany best interest of employees and the tribal members,was how could we as tribal members be fair and in fixing the the Little Axe expect Clinichimonto April 6thassist . This is supposed to give problem? His reply was that he didn’t want her to accept the job as Executive Director. That wasn’t the question tribal members an opportunity to ask our elected officials the tribal member asked, so the tribal member gave an example by stating Health Executive Director Beverly questions and our However, notDirector one Felton direct Felton solely hired and voice supervises her concerns. daughter-in-law who also lives with andanswer that was anwas given to those unethical (I would like to add after this announcement General Council, Director Felton moved I would like askinghiring the practice. questions. For those who weren’tatpresent at General Council, her daughter-in-law under the supervision of her friend/ clinic administrator, maybe in the hopes that no one to fillnotice.) you Governor in. One tribalwasmember used to Ms. work for the ASTFurthermore, Health system asked would Blanchard asked, “Whowho was going to hold Felton responsible?” the tribal member questioned how is it other haven’t bothered to investigate the Governor Blanchard how he Executive could Committee be fair Members and objective with his daughter Beverly high turnover rate for employees and medical providers who are quitting as quickly as they start working for our Felton is Executive Director over the AST Health System. If she wasn’t working in the health programs? A suggestion was conducting an employee satisfaction survey to evaluate Director Felton’s best interest of employees and Blanchard’s the tribal members, how members performance as an Executive Director. Governor response was he wasn’t overcould Director we Feltonas buttribal the Health Boardhim governed concerned havethe said problem? Ms. Felton has used scare tactics was with that he didn’t expect to her. be However, fair and assistemployees in fixing His reply employees stating in a clinic meeting announcing that she has the EC’s (including her dad’s) full support to fire want her to accept the job as Executive Director. That wasn’t the question the tribal anyone she feels needs to. How is this type of intimidation in the work place ethical and not a conflict of member so satisfaction the tribal member gave an stating Health Executive interest? As forasked, the employee survey, Governor Blanchard saidexample it should be upby to the employees to do aDirector survey like that. I’d like to see howsolely far Ms. Felton would allow that to go. My her question is who will listen to the Beverly Felton hired and supervises daughter-in-law who also lives results and make the necessary changes? The truth of the matter is that the EC are the people who appoint the withBoard. Director Felton thattheir was unethical hiringbusiness practice. would Health If the Health Boardand isn’t doing jobsan to make sure that unethical practices(Iaren’t taking like to add place aren’tannouncement questioning the extremely high turnover rate for employees, (including medical providers) then afteror this at General Council, Director Felton moved her daughter-in-law WHO ELSE WILL STEP UP TO MAKE NECESSARY CHANGES? FACT: The EC has the power to do all of that! under the supervision of her friend/ clinic administrator, maybe in the hopes that no Obviously Secretary Reed isn’t going to stand up and propose change! For those who know anything about one would notice.) Governor Blanchard “Who was Felton’s goinginternet to hold Ms. Felton facebook, Secretary Reed as well as members of our AST Healthwas Boardasked, are “friends” on Director facebook page and areFurthermore, able to read what Ms. feels she needs toquestioned put on the internet for the to see. responsible?” theFelton tribal member how is world it other Executive ComMs. Felton has put on the internet that she was going on a “firing spree (at the clinic),” also that she put on the mittee Members haven’t bothered to investigate the high turnover rate for employees internet that she knows people who are more scared of catching the flu than of catching an STD’s, as well as tell and medical providers aretoquitting astribal quickly aswhile they start working for our health the world personal family business inwho an attempt slander other members, at the same time advertising for our AST Health Systems. Director Felton also went so far as to request help in taking a business programs? A suggestion was conducting an employee satisfaction survey to evaluate class to “help out in [her] job.” Shouldn’t she already have that education and ethics since she is heading up such performance asofan Executive Director. Governor Blanchard’s response aDirector big businessFelton’s venture? How does the behavior Governor’s daughter reflect our tribe? It’s an embarrassment was he wasn’t over Director Felton but the Health Board governed her. However, concerned employees have said Ms. Felton has used scare tactics with employees stating in a clinic meeting announcing that she has the EC’s (including her dad’s) full support to fire anyone she feels needs to. How is this type of intimidation in the work place ethical and not a conflict of interest? As for the employee satisfaction survey, Governor Blanchard said it should be up to the employees to do a survey like that. I’d like to see how far Ms. Felton would allow that to go. My question is who will listen to the results and make the necessary changes? The truth of the matter is that the EC are the people who appoint the Health Board. If the Health Board isn’t doing their jobs to make sure that unethical business practices aren’t taking place or aren’t questioning the extremely high turnover rate for employees, (including medical providers) then WHO ELSE WILL STEP UP TO MAKE NECESSARY CHANGES? FACT: The EC has the power to do all of that! Obviously Secretary Reed isn’t going to stand up and propose change! For those who know anything about facebook, Secretary Reed as well as members of our AST Health Board are “friends” on Director Felton’s internet facebook page and are able to read what Ms. Felton feels she needs to put on the internet for the world to see. Ms. Felton has put on the internet that she was going on a “firing spree (at the clinic),” also that she put on the internet that she knows people who are more scared of catching the flu than of catching an STD’s, as well as tell the world personal family business in an attempt to slander other tribal members, while at the same time advertising for our AST Health Systems. Director Felton also went so far as to request help in taking a business class to “help out in [her] job.” Shouldn’t she already have that education and ethics since she is heading up such a big business venture? How does the behavior of Governor’s daughter reflect our tribe? It’s an embarrassment to say the least and these are questions that our current administration should be asking. Instead, Governor Blanchard stated at General Council, “I don’t have a problem with her [Beverly, Health Director/ Daughter].” The current EC should know that I have had several people tell me that when they were seeking medical care outside of our health programs, where our former medical staff work, they have been told they quit and could no longer work under Ms. Felton because she was unethical and “doesn’t know what she is doing.” I have heard allegations that Ms. Felton brushed an incident under the rug involving a friend/non-tribal employee taking it upon himself to change a patient’s prescription without the knowledge of the Dr. and hand delivering it to pharmacy. This person is still working for our Health Programs and I shouldn’t have to tell Ms. Felton THAT’S A FELONY! Tribal members have been fired for much less under Ms. Beverly Felton. It’s not just about how much money is in the bank, it’s also about good consistent care to our community instead of our community members going in to find out another medical provider has been run off. Why can’t she keep these professional employees happy? When is someone impartial going to act in the best interest of the tribe as a whole and NOT the best interest of a friend or their own child? I challenge Secretary Reed and the rest of the Executive Committee to explain those things to me. They have apparently given the approval to Ms. Felton to fire people, but the EC doesn’t have the authority to improve ourselves as an employer and improve our services to our own people? I question that! Secretary Teri Reed hardly even spoke when she was spoken to at General Council. Isn’t that our time to get answers out of the elected officials representing us? Silence seems to be the theme of Secretary Reed. Last year a tribal member went to Secretary Reed for th assistance involving the tribe’s Building Blocks Daycare. Representative Gibson kicked an AST child out of the daycare because of a history of seizures and said she was a liability to the tribe. This is fact, let them tell you what they want; I have heard the tape recordings and seen the documentation. If you need more, I would be happy to get you in touch with this mother. The AST mother felt her child’s civil rights were being violated according to the American’s with Disabilities Act. After Representative Gibson told the tribal member she was “going against the tribe” by standing up for her child, she turned to Secretary Reed. Ms. Reed said to this tribal member “you are going to have a long hard road ahead of you…” and she didn’t want to “step on anyone’s [other EC members’] toes” by getting too involved. This is just one example of Secretary Reed not advocating for a tribal member due to Ms. Reed’s best interest rather than standing up for what is right. In the April 2013 Newsletter Ms. Reed stated in her campaign letter, “I have the courage to stand up for my beliefs even when it might be easier to just go along with the majority. When I see unjustness, I work to make it right.” Where were your beliefs and efforts when you didn’t want to step on anyone’s toes and declined to stand up for the AST child’s legal rights protected by the ADA? We have had the mentality that we can do what we want because we are a tribe, but this is exactly the type of passive and self-serving leadership that holds us back as a government and betrays tribal members trust in OUR own tribe. How do we expect Ms. Reed to serve us in office when she refuses to advocate for someone even as small as a baby and fails to answer questions for the very people who elected her? It can be appreciated that Ms. Reed chooses to represent us with so much integrity, but let’s make this clear; silence and avoiding conflict with the “majority” is NOT integrity. When many EC members campaign, they will tell you they intend to listen to you and stand up for what is right. Have you seen that with those who have promised you things? I can honestly tell you that I was in great support of Secretary Reed when she first ran. I thought she was going to stand up against “unjustness” and work for us as tribal members; I have yet to see that. She has a low employment rate for AST members at both smoke shops and the restaurant. When is Secretary Reed giving our members the opportunity to support their families and give back to our tribe? Secretary Reed if I am wrong, I encourage you to provide current numbers of how many AST you employ and how many non-AST in the June newsletter. I have heard several complaints from our people searching for work, who can’t get a job with our own tribe. Ms. Reed has been passive and silent about her dealings around ASEDA Inc. (Economic Development Board) by creating ASEDA Enterprises. She is the only stakeholder in the whole organization. Where are her systems of checks and balances, which will make sure that she doesn’t have her hands in all of the cookie jars? Why isn’t ASEDA Inc. allowed to work at the capacity they were formed to, in order to better the tribe economically? It may be possible that ASEDA Inc. could expand our businesses and create more jobs for our people. They have the education and know how to, but Ms. Reed cut them off at their knees and has handicapped them. If you don’t believe me, I encourage you to contact Dan Little Axe and ask him about his presentation at General Council that supports that statement. Edwina Butler-Wolfe said it best when she said our current EC has no transparency, meaning we as tribal members aren’t allowed to know what dealings our EC members are taking part in and how we as a business are really doing. Also, I would like to see the Resolution on the (TRAP) Tribal Revenue Allocation Plan, which is part of the agreement with the BIA, and NIGC, for the monies that come out of the CASINO. I have asked about but no one seems to have it or knows where it is. I would also like to see the letter from the BIA, stating that the Resolution has been ratified by the BIA. Through this agreement, every program in our tribe is supposed to get a percentage of the monies from the casino. These programs include Social Services, Education, Police Department, and more. It is my understanding that all of the programs, with the exception of the Tribal Police, have been funded a smaller portion of monies than in the initial agreement. The Police Department hasn’t received these monies for years. Without ratification from the BIA, no funding changes can be made. If I am not mistaken the Casino could be in jeopardy if there is no ratification. Also, by failing to allocate the agreed funds for our programs, services are being limited to tribal members. Have you ever been told that certain tribal programs are low in funding and can’t help? This may be part of the reason. It’s obvious that there are more questions than there are answers and no one is talking. I challenge any one of our elected officials to answer them, not just because they want back in office but because we deserve that. Currently, there is too much support for nepotism in the work place, low employment rate for AST members, as well as the ignoring the purpose our tribal programs were actually formed for. Let’s change that! Even if you don’t vote for whatever reason, please start in June. If I am elected as your Tribal Secretary this June, my priorities will include advocating or standing up for tribal members, standing up for employees in our tribal businesses and striving for our tribal businesses to engage in ethical business/hiring practices that don’t promote nepotism. I would also like to see the tribal government be more self-sufficient to support our programs such as Social Services, Education, and P.D. Please don’t misunderstand, I don’t have any personal problems with anyone named, instead I have loyalty to the tribe as a whole. If I overlook these issues that hold us back simply because I know the people involved, I would be no better than those holding up real progress. I come with no personal agenda, just the frustration that many of you tribal members feel each time your choice elected official lets you down, betrays your trust, and breaks promises. Please feel free to contact me, my phone number is 405-307-0954 and email address is dawvera@outlook.com Everyone be blessed and thank you, Vera (Gibson) Dawsey, your 2013 AST Secretary Candidate 13 FY-2013 YTD TAX COLLECTIONS (thru 3/31/13) RUN DATE: 04/22/13 YEAR-TO-DATE TOTAL % OF TAXES COLLECTED $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $21,600.62 $1,048,586.00 $38,352.42 $20,940.31 $43,004.79 $30,806.53 1.79% 87.05% 3.18% 1.74% 3.57% 2.56% $0.00 $0.00 $1,203,290.67 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $1,326.75 0.11% $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $1,204,617.42 100% TAX CATEGORY JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY Sales (6%) Gaming % of free cash Employee (1%) Severance (8%) Motor Vehicle Tobacco Refund $5,320.89 $414,328.00 $29,238.39 $15,812.22 $14,481.54 $10,087.72 $5,961.53 $408,888.00 $4,799.87 $5,128.09 $13,521.61 $12,244.26 $10,318.20 $225,370.00 $4,314.16 $0.00 $15,001.64 $8,474.55 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 TOTAL TAXES $489,268.76 $450,543.36 $263,478.55 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 Miscellaneous $970.00 $250.00 $106.75 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 TOTAL COLLECTIONS $490,238.76 $450,793.36 $263,585.30 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER $1,203,290.67 $1,204,617.42 AllNations Bank Security Update 4/22/13 HOW COMPUTER VIRUSES WORK Strange as it may sound, the computer virus is something of an Information Age marvel. On one hand, viruses show us how vulnerable we are -- a properly engineered virus can have a devastating effect, disrupting productivity and doing billions of dollars in damages. On the other hand, they show us how sophisticated and interconnected human beings have become. For example, experts estimate that the Mydoom worm infected approximately a quarter-million computers in a single day in January 2004. Back in March 1999, the Melissa virus was so powerful that it forced Microsoft and a number of other very large companies to completely turn off their e-mail systems until the virus could be contained. The ILOVEYOU virus in 2000 had a similarly devastating effect. In January 2007, a worm called Storm appeared -- by October, experts believed up to 50 million computers were infected. That’s pretty impressive when you consider that many viruses are incredibly simple. When you listen to the news, you hear about many different forms of electronic infection. The most common are: • Viruses: A virus is a small piece of software that piggybacks on real programs. For example, a virus might attach itself to a program such as a spreadsheet program. Each time the spreadsheet program runs, the virus runs, too, and it has the chance to reproduce (by attaching to other programs) or wreak havoc. • E-mail viruses: An e-mail virus travels as an attachment to e-mail messages, and usually replicates itself by automatically mailing itself to dozens of people in the victim’s e-mail address book. Some e-mail viruses don’t even require a double-click -- they launch when you view the infected message in the preview pane of your e-mail software. • Trojan horses: A Trojan horse is simply a computer program. The program claims to do one thing (it may claim to be a game) but instead does damage when you run it (it may erase your hard disk). Trojan horses have no way to replicate automatically. • Worms: A worm is a small piece of software that uses computer networks and security holes to replicate itself. A copy of the worm scans the network for another machine that has a specific security hole. It copies itself to the new machine using the security hole, and then starts replicating from there, as well. To protect you from malicious computer viruses turn the “Reading Pane” off in your email program and never open attachments to an unexpected email even when they come from a friend or family member. Often times the virus has attached itself to your friend or relatives computer and is emailing itself to you without the sender’s knowledge. If in doubt contact the sender to see if they actually sent you the email. You’re AllNations Bank Family, Gene, Eugene, Amber, Delaina & Joy 14 Wishing a very Happy Mother’s Day to my Beautiful & Radiant Mom, Marie Gibson!! I Love You very much, Mom!! Niyawa for all that you do! To all grandmother’s, mother’s, aunts, nieces & single parent (dad’s) playing both roles . May you each be blessed everyday with Creator’s Good Graces & Love to keep being the foundation for your families! Love Always, Lourie (Gibson) Bowman Happy Mothers Day! To my Mom, Sisters, Aunts, Great Aunts & Grandma Marie! Love You Always, Trina To the most loving MOM, Velma Blanchard We love you very much! Marvin & Sherry Eat Right Food, Nutrition and Health Tips from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Color Your Plate with Salad Pack more nutrition into your day with a colorful main dish or side salad. Keep basic ingredients on hand for a quick addition to any meal. Encourage kids to eat more vegetables by setting out ingredients to make their own salad creations. Or, let them choose individual items with salad dressing as a dip. Select from Vegetables, Fruits and Beans (Chopped, diced, shredded, sliced or whole) Mix and match ingredients by choosing one or more foods from each column below. Consider flavor, texture and color. Add a light salad dressing and enjoy! Start with Leafy Greens • • • • • • • • • • Arugula Boston or Bibb lettuce Escarole Green or Red leaf lettuce Iceberg lettuce Mixed greens Napa Cabbage Radicchio Romaine Spinach Vegetables • Artichoke hearts • Bean sprouts • Beets • Bell pepper • Bok choy • Broccoli or cauliflower • Carrots • Celery • Corn • Cucumbers • Onion (red or sweet) • Peas • Radishes • Sugar Snap Peas • Tomatoes • Water chestnuts • Zucchini 15 BIRTHDAYS 2013 Spoon, Lexi Della-Ann Spriggs, Warren Paul Moore, Emily Renee Springer, Delores Ann Morgan, Polly A Littlebear Spybuck, Easton Cade Squire, Nathan Gene Hunt, Dominique Annastasia Marie Morton, Jeremiah James Munroe, Douglas Starr III, Henry James Hutchinson, Velma Rae Combs, Michelle Lynn Ahtone, Catlin Ray Neese, Lisa Marie Starr, Anthony Craig Irvin, Steven Benjamin Conover, Gloria Jean Alford, Amy Dianne Neugent, Alena Dee Stevens, Laurence Paul Jackson III, Mark Sweeney Coon, Justin Kyler Alford, Christian Shawnee Neugent, Alisa Marie Stewart, Gracie Nicole Johnson Harjo, Curtis Ray Alford, Magdelena Spaneta Coyle, Sara Michelle New Moon, Jake Lee Stone Jr., James Lee Johnson Jr., Richard Taft Creamer, Cora Mae Starr Allen, Lucinda Nicole New Moon, Jennifer Brooke Strain, Cynthia Ann Johnson, Coree Lee Cripps, Anita Louise Allen, Patricia Ann Newton, Jessica Ann Sultuska, Ella L. Johnson, Gabriella Kayann Cuellar, Orietta Faith Atchico, John Edward Sultuska, Jerry Wayne Dankenbring, Bryce Thomas Johnson, Michael Scott Isaiah Noyes, Paula Jo Atwell, David Eugene Oldham, George Lynn Sultuska, Rodney Steven Johnson, Nicholas James Davis, Dale Allen Atwood, Reagan Nicole Onzahwah, Deborah Kay Summers, Dorothy Jean Dirt Johnson, Priscilla Grace Deere, Shawneen Estelline Bailey, Brittany Ciara Ott-Proctor, Lylli Lee Ann Surface Jr., Robert Monroe Johnson, Walter Kirby Denny, Jacqueline Barton, Trae Lee Panther, Jeffery Wayne Switch -Buckner, June Johnson, Whittney Brooke Dospapas, Verna May Bateman, Alberta Denise Parker, Shawn Ian Szoke, Debra Jean Kaseca, Barry Alvin Elephant Jr., Edward Elmer Bates, Akiane Karee Pawpa, Donald Wayne Talbert, Elania Michelle Kaseca, Kantynn James Ellis, Gregory Scott Baughman, Brenda Jane Pearl, Melvin Joe Tallchief IV, Eves Kaseca, Roy James Ellis, Heather Ann Belvin, Justin Ray Pitner, Kamryn Nicole Tallchief, John G. Keith, Marshall Collins Ellis, Holly Diana Bender, Leal Desma Powell, Fawn Laverene Taylor, Darwin Jacob Kirby-Gibson, Ian Jacob Ellis, Michael Frank Bentley, Curtis Lee Powell, Kendall Lynn Tebe I, Mavrik West Kmatz, Mindy Lynnette Evans, Lisa Michelle Bettelyoun, Lula Mae Pyrch, Lauren Karly Thornhill, Noah Hunter Kobs, Jennifer Ann Factor, Jaremyah Jamez Bigpond, Roy Raisbeck, David Nathaniel Thorpe, Burke James Kowitz, Michael Raymond Feeling, Lavonna Jean Black, Cassandra Renea Ramirez Jr., Florentino Tiger, Jennifer Diane Leedom, Courtney Dawn Ferrell, Alyssa Kay Black, Timothy Wayne Ramirez, Elicia Marie-Alka Tiger, Roland Little Axe, Sabrina Ferrell, Amber Nicole Blackburn, Gayle Ann Reavis, Ricci Donnice Uchida Jr., Stephen Robert Little Charley, Cheryl Jean Ferrer, Joshua Lee Blanchard, , Joey Edward Roach, Dakota Eugene Valdivia, Jenika Nicole Little Charley, Terry Lee Fife, Gabriel Douglas Blanchard, Caelynn Blu Robertson, Rita Jean York Wakolee, Carmen Jean Little Creek, Vernon Dale Fife, Teresa Laura Irene Blanchard, Dakota Joshua Robison, Morgan Tell Walker, Jo Ann Louise Little, Jadyn Alise Blanchard, Glendine Footracer, Lee Anna Gail Stubb Robison, Thomas Aaron Wallace, Brenda Gayle Blanchard, Joseph Henry Foreman Jr., Leonard Dewayne Little, Madison Diane Warrior, Johnnie Andrew Littlecreek, Anderson Doreece Rochon, Gerald Wayne Bradley, Jerry Dean Foreman, Jacob Collin Rock, Micheal Eugene Warrior, Kenneth James Littlecreek, Dakota Dwight Bradley, Terry Don Foreman, Jalen Hawke Rolette, Domini Antoinette Watkins, Jamie Lynn Littlecreek, Tiffany Nicole Brady, Lynn Marie Fritsch, Joley Marie Rolette, Gilbert Earl Watson, Brittany L. P. D. Littlecreek, Tristyn Denae Breeding, Sean K. C. Galloway, Zachary Adam Rolette, Joshua David Michael Watson, Janelle Ilise Longhorn, Sean Ray Brinson, Ariana Isabel Gaut, Crystal Lynne Rudloff, Lacey Rei Longhorn, Weda Louise Watson, Thomas Aaron Brister, April Angela Gibson Sr., Roy Gene Ryan, Royce Liam Lopez Jr, Rolando Wesley, Ula Mae Welch Brocksmith, Chole Elizabeth Gibson, David Michael Salazar, Terry Lee Lovins, Audrey Ann White IV, Charles Daniel Brown, Chelsea Nicole Gibson, Jeffrey Wayne Salisbury, Lucas Holden Lovins, Earl Dean White, Brooklyn Dee Bryant III, Chester A. Godwin, Lucy G. Salisbury, Mara Ann MacGill, Georgia Sue White, Caitlyn Rose Buckley, Gerald Wayne Gouge, Kara Joe Sanders, Patty Ruth MacK, Rylan Emory White, Clayton Randall Bullard, Adam Drew Granstrom, Cody James Schulenberg, Donald Derek Mann, Sally Arlene Wilkerson, Katie Evalyn Bump, Haley Kalyn Graves Pyrch, Karen Sue Sevier, Elliott Rose Masquat Jr., George Williams, Colton Alexander Bump, Karli Jessica Graves, Sharol Annette Shawnee, Jarrett Lloyd Masquat, Chelcy Nicole Williams, David Christopher Bustamante, Andrea Nadine Gray, Branden Tyler Shular, Monte Lee Mathany, Susanne Christine Williams, Ruth Helen Byers, Christian Daniel Gray, Dakota Christian Smith, Jeremiah Robert Matthews, Mary Caroline Wilson, Carla Marie Byers, Eric Nelson Greeley, Carsyn Ryan Smith, Richard Alexander McGowan, Patricia Lynn Wilson, Cecil Alan Byers, Melissa Sue Griffin, Diane Sue Berry Smith, Teresa Renee` McMillan, Shelly Kristin Wilson, Christopher Blaine Cagle, Alicia Nicole Hale, Kathy Sue Smith, Valerie Ann Medina, Alyssa Pamela Lee Wilson, Diana Lynn Campbell, Charles Elbert Hall, Emily Katherine Smith, Vanessa Rae Wilson, Francis Lynn Charley, Arron Michael Harris, Konner Lee Little Charley Megehee, Douglas Dewayne Snake, Norma Louise Megehee, Tonia Lynn Wilson, Helen June Charley, Melloney Ann Haumpy, Taj-ah Billy Soap Jr, John Lee Mendoza, Amanda Ranee` Wilson, Lana Louise Citty, Kathon Clay Heath, Spencer Blake Soap, Roger Eugene Meyer, Doreen Witt, Ambra Denise Citty, Lindsey Nicole Hendrick, Luke Michael Spicer, Amber Jo Miller, Casey Ryan Wolfe Sr., Houston Hugh Clinesmith, Blake Weston Henry, Eddie Allen Spoon Jr., Robert Ray Miner, Heather Rochelle Wood, Lillian Kay Coddington Jr., Kevin Dwayne Hernandez, Jennifer Lois Spoon, Joplin Dupre Minesinger, Scott Brooker Wucinski, Gary Ray Hill, Yvette Carmel Collett, Bonnie Sue Spoon, Landon Joe Mitchell, Desiree Rose Young, Lynda Renee Hood Jr., Warren Weslyon Colungo, Steven Lee Hood, Elena Ann Hood, Lisa Hood, Thomas Edgar Humphrey, Carol Lee 16 Montgomery, Matthew Schyler Daugherty KANTYNN KASECA HAPPY YOU ARE THE BEST SON, BROTHER, NEPHEW, AND MOST OF ALL, GRANDSON WE LOVE YOU BUNCHES! FROM ALL YOUR FAMILY Brittany LaDawn Paige Danielle Watson (May 24th) May God Bless you with many birthdays. Love You Always, Mom, Kevin and Jay To my niece ed Belat Baley Bierd May G man od ble y m ss yo ore u w birt ith hda ys CHRISTIAN DANIEL BYERS We love you very much! Auntie Sherry & Uncle Marvin, and your cousins Jordan, Ryder, & Baby Landyn Love, Phyllis (April 24) Jayden Tyler Scott Watson s, way it l a you , Br oL ve Kevin , Mom Happy Birthday Jules ! PY P A H BE LATED BIR I hope you have many more! Love, PaPa T H D A Y To my two OLDER sisters ROSADA & MARTHA I love you both very much! Joplin GRANDPA ROY KASECA! THANK YOU FOR ALWAYS SUPPORTING US AT OUR BALLGAMES. WE LOVE YOU, KANTYNN & KANYNN To my son To my sister Mary Ann TO MY SON BRYCE RUNSABOVE & SISTER SHARON SHAWNEE Mike Bowman BOTH APRIL 1ST! Or as Phil would say Luv ya, Marvin & Sherry I wish you a wonderful day! I love you bunches! From Aunt Rhonda & family Happy Birthday CHUBS FOREMAN!! From Sherry & Marvin Thomas Watson To my brother ROY GENE GIBSON!!! April 24 Happy Birthday John! From Sherry Happy Birthday April 30th!! April 18th! Hey Birthday Boy!! Joplin, You’re the best little brother we have and we’re wishing you a very happy birthday! You’re one in a million! Love Jiliyan & Justin I’m wishing you a very happy 5th birthday to the most wonderful, energetic little boy!! Mommy loves you so much little man! Love, Mom Grandson, Happy 5th birthday!! Granny loves you so much! You’re my little man! I love you- Granny Low Have a Very Happy 5th Birthday May 17th!! I love you so very much!! Love Auntie BJ 17 Richard Birdtail - Walter Larney - David Little The Absentee Shawnee Tribe Veterans Association On Thursday, April 18th, 2013, the Veterans Association had the honor of posting the colors at the conference of “6th Annual Preparing for the 7th Generation” at Tulsa Marriott Southern Hills, Tulsa, OK (l-r): Clarence Yarholar, Patricia Yarholar, David Little, Richard Birdtail, Mary Birdtail, and Walter Larney 18 19 28 Chicken Strips Mashed Pot/Gravy Greenbeans Bread Peaches 20 Cold Cut Sandwich Lett, Tom Mac. Salad Mandarin Oranges 27 Memorial Day 26 21 Chef Salad w/ Chicken Crackers Pears Hamburger Lett, Tom, Pickle Pork n Beans Cookie 14 19 Turkey Veggies Bread Apricots Chicken Pot Pie w/ veggies Biscuit Peaches 13 7 12 Smoke Sausage Mac n Chez Tossed Salad* Bread TUESDAY 6 MONDAY 5 SUNDAY BREAKFAST SERVED ON FRIDAYS 29 22 15 8 1 Pork Chop Stuffing Green Beans Pudding Enchilada Casserole Spanish Rice Cookie Tamales Mexi-corn Tossed Salad* Pineapples Spaghetti w/ meat sauce Broccoli Garlic Bread Applesauce BBQ Chicken Baked Beans Spinach Bread Cake Burrito Spanish Rice Chips N Salsa Fruit Pinto Beans w/ ham Steak Fries Onion Crisp Egg Roll Stir Fry Veggies Rice Banana w/Glaze 30 23 Chicken Patty Sandwich Chips Lett, Tom, Pickles Mixed Fruit 16 9 Beef Fingers Mashed Pot/Gravy Brussels Sprouts Bread Plums 2 Pancakes Sausage Links Fruit Cereal Sausage Patty Toast Oatmeal Bacon Toast Fruit 31 Scrambled Eggs Sausage Gravy Biscuit 24 17 10 Scrambled Eggs Sausage Gravy Biscuit 3 FRIDAY 25 18 11 4 SATURDAY May 2013 THURSDAY 9 AM TO 11 AM 11AM TO 1PM WEDNESDAY LUNCH SERVED MONDAY – THURSDAY NOT GOING TO BE HOME CALL & LET US KNOW 405-275-4030 EXT 169 OR NOTIFY YOUR DRIVER ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE Randy Edge tero director 2025 S. Gordon Cooper Drive Shawnee, OK 74801 redge@astribe.com Phone 405.275.4030 ext. 135 Fax 405.395.9888 Cell 405.432.9859 NATIVE YOUTH PREVENTING DIABETES NYPD 2013 June 10 – 14, 2013 2013 5 days and 4 nights of outdoor activities, Native American cultural activities, and healthy FUN! REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS MAY 10, 2013!!! Please contact Diabetes and Wellness Dept. at (405)701-7979 or (405)701-7978 for more information 20 T.E.R.O. Department May Newsletter The Tribal Employment Rights Office also known as TERO is a department that protects tribal employees’ rights and supports tribal career development. Within this past month, the TERO department has been very busy. We have added 7 new applicants to our database which now brings our total number of applicants to 560. Of those 7 new applicants, 6 are Absentee Shawnee Tribal members. We have also helped 56 applicants/guests who have walked in, called/received 303 phone calls, and referred 17 applicants to various departments within the tribe, 8 applicants to outside sources, and 4 applicants to Thunderbird Entertainment Center. In addition to the activity above, TERO has also attended numerous meetings since the last newsletter. On March 27, TERO met with Jonathan from Oasis Temp Employment concerning applicants clearing with their services. Then, on March 28 and later on April 10, TERO attended meetings on campus concerning the Absentee Shawnee Youth Award. On March 29, TERO attended the AGC Education Foundation Scholarship Readings at the University of Oklahoma. In April, on the 1st, TERO attended the AICCOK-Oklahoma City Chapter meeting. At the meeting, bylaw revisions were discussed. Then on April 3, TERO attended a meeting between Jonathan from Oasis and five TERO applicants. At this meeting, the applicants filled out applications with Oasis. On April 10th, TERO attended the AICCOK-Oklahoma City Chapter Women in Leadership Luncheon at Twin Hills Golf and Country Club in Oklahoma City. Treasurer Kathy Deere was one of the guest speakers as was Lisa Billy, a member of the Oklahoma House of Representatives. Then on the morning of April 12, TERO met with Bob Shepard of the Absentee Shawnee Housing Authority in effort of working together for future projects. During this meeting, discussions took place about putting TERO applicants to work at the housing authority. Later that morning (April 12), TERO had a meeting with the Absentee Shawnee Human Resource Department in effort of discussing a better process to get more of our Indian people to work. Then in the afternoon of April 12, TERO met with Brad Jackson of the Absentee Shawnee Police and AST grant writer Glenna Jones. Then on April 16, TERO met with Anita Whiteshirt and Pawnee TERO Director Arthur Fields about the National Indian Council of Aging, Inc. grant that puts individuals 55 years of age and older to work. Then in the evening of April 17, TERO attended the reading session for the Absentee Shawnee Youth Award. Finally, on April 18, TERO attended the Council Tribal Employment Rights (C.T.E.R.) Convention/Planning Meeting at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tulsa, Oklahoma. At this meeting, discussions took place about the future CTER National Conference in June. At the current time, TERO has confirmed the use of the Absentee Shawnee tribe color guard’s services, Governor George Blanchard’s service as one of the spiritual leaders to give an invocation, and Isaac Gibson and band to provide evening entertainment. In the final weeks of April, TERO will be attending several more meetings/scholarships interviews. On April 24, TERO will be in attendance to the 1st Annual Indian Education Summit Planning Session. Then, on April 25, TERO will be meeting again with the Absentee Shawnee Tribe Human Resource Department to go over questions and suggestions of bettering our Indian people for employment opportunities. Within the next month of April, TERO will also be continuing to take applications for the construction project of the new Building Blocks Daycare that will be located in Little Axe. Please contact our TERO offices to update your application or to put in an application if you are interested. Also, there will be an opportunity to fill out an application for the National Indian Council on Aging. To fill out an application, you have to be 55 years of age or older. The TERO department helps NAtive Americans with job placement and employment referrals, and we strongly encourage any tribal member of Native American who may need employment to come to the Absentee Shawnee TERO department and apply. To become an applicant, the process is simple. First, you will need to come to the department to pick up and fill out an application. We are located in building #1 on the second floor. Second, you will need to provide the TERO department your CDIB or a document to prove your tribal affiliation (YOU MUST BE A MEMBER OF A FEDERALLY RECOGNIZED TRIBE TO BECOME AN APPLICANT), your social security card, and your Driver’s License or state ID. Third, you will need to provide the department with any licenses, credentials, or any other certifications/degrees you have acquired. In addition to keeping your application on file, we also provide some other services. TERO holds the responsibility of insuring our applicants have equal opportunity for employment and receive call backs or letters on all positions that are applied for. The TERO department also provides/helps our applicants with job search, referrals, resume assistance, interview tips, and application status. Further, for your convenience, the TERO department also posts all tribal positions, some local positions, and some positions for the Oklahoma City, Norman, and Moore areas outside of our offices on bulletin boards and in binders. Currently, we have close to 100 job openings posted outside of our offices. However, keep in mind, these job postings are constantly changing and being updated weekly as positions are filled. So, a job that may be listed below may already have been filled. However, still stop by and fill out an application, if you haven’t already done so, and look at the current job openings. If you have any further questions about the TERO program or just have a request, you can contact our office anytime Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm (closed 12 pm to 1 pm for lunch), and we will be happy to assist you. Randy Edge (Director) 405-275-4030 ext. 135 Carol Butler (Office Assistant) 405-275-4030 ext. 163 The following is a list of job openings for some off campus positions posted at the TERO department: Office Clerks Cashiers Executive Assistant Assistant Managers Accounting Clerk Bus Drivers Delivery Drivers Mechanic Helpers Laborer Maintenance Worker Mixer Driver Water Well Driller IT Assistant Resident Advisor Security Officer Customer Service Host/Hostess Assistant Teacher Warehouse Associate Security Officer Foster & Adoptive Parents Needed!!! Can you open your home and heart for a foster child? Foster parents provide a temporary, safe home for children in crisis. Foster parents are partners with child welfare workers, lawyers and judges. It is not for everyone but if you have it in your heart - we need you. • Can you love and care for a child who comes from a difficult background? • Can you help a child develop a sense of belonging? • Are you secure in yourself & your parenting Skills? • Can you maintain a positive attitude toward a child’s parents? • Can you love with all your heart & then let go? FOSTER PARENTS PROVIDE A TEMPORARY, SAFE HOME FOR CHILDREN IN CRISIS. THEYARE PARTNERS WITH WORKERS, LAWYERS, AND JUDGES. IT IS NOT FOR EVERYONE! CAN YOU OPEN YOUR HOME AND HEART FOR A FOSTER CHILD? Many children need a loving home and a family to help them through a very tough time. Please think about it and talk with your family before you become a foster home. They all need safe, supportive environments! If you find yourself and your family interested in Foster Care, please contact Amanda Lenora, CPS/Foster Care Worker - 405-878-4702 ASTribe Indian Child Welfare Department FOSTER CARE This article appears in the Daily Times in Farmington, New Mexico. And even though this talks about the foster care program and tribal children in foster care, this article can speak on behalf of what the Absentee Shawnee Tribe Foster Care and other tribes are going thru. Finding foster homes is a necessary to not only protect AST children but to also maintain their cultural identity, heritage and traditions. The Absentee is a small tribe and we should be able to work as ONE TRIBE to care for the AST children. If you have any questions, contact the ICW department at (405)275-4030. “Only two foster homes in San Juan County belong to American Indian families, but more than half of the 85 children in foster care now are American Indian. That means about 40 American Indian youths in the local foster system are living with non-native families. The Children, Youth and Families Department, charged with placing children in alternate homes if their own families are deemed unsafe for reasons of abuse or neglect, is having a hard time finding enough native families for the number of native children in the system. The department does everything it can to match a child with a family of a similar background. That doesn’t work when fewer homes than children are in the system, which means native children more often than not end up in non-native families. This is contrary to federal policy, which directs the department to make every effort to place children of American Indian descent in homes that nourish their cultural identity. But without more native families stepping up to offer a home for children, there is little the department can do to remedy this situation. The Indian Child Welfare Act provides four placement options, which the department must pursue in descending order every time it places a native child. The first option is to place American Indian children with a relative who can provide a safe environment and who eventually attains a foster care license. The second option is for a child to be placed in a family from the same American Indian tribe. The third is for the child to be placed with a American Indian family not of the same tribe. The final option, and the one the CYFD most often uses, is matching native children with non-native families that simply have a foster care license. This is a loss for children and for potential foster families. It’s also a loss when it comes to efforts to revitalize native traditions and teach them to the children. We encourage all native families with the resources that can allow children a home to contact the Children, Youth and Families Department. Fostering a child is one of the most rewarding things a family can do.” In the state of Oklahoma alone, there are almost 3000 Native American children in the foster care program with a majority of these children placed in non-native placements. Now imagine if your son, daughter, grand children were placed in another home that didn’t teach or understand the Absentee Shawnee traditions. What would happen to their identity, their sense of being a AST, their sense of belonging and being proud of being a Absentee Shawnee? The AST ICW dept are in need to foster homes. Emergency homes, temporary homes, it doesn’t matter. We have made it a goal to get certify at least 5 homes to be foster homes for the AST. With obtaining more every year from this point on. It takes ONE TRIBE to care for ONE CHILD. As the great Tecumseh said, “A SINGLE TWIG BREAKS BUT A BUNDLE OF TWIGS IS STRONG.” For more information about being a foster home, please contact: Indian Child Welfare Department (405)878-4702 AST MAINTENANCE DEPT. NOW TAKING GRASS MOWING APPLICATIONS Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma Maintenance Department 2025 S. Gordon Cooper Drive Shawnee, Oklahoma 74801 (405) 275-4030 Grass Mowing Application The following are the requirements for this program: 1. Must be an Absentee Shawnee Tribal Member 2. Must be 65 years or older 3. Handicap/Disabled (Please have letter from doctor if under age 65) 4. Must provide proof of residency 5. All trash, branches, debris must be cleaned out of yard The Absentee Shawnee Tribe Maintenance Department will ONLY mow and weedeat applicants’ lawn. Maintenance will mow every two (2) weeks. Also, the maintenance workers will not trim trees, shrubs, etc. NO RENTAL PROPERTY will be mowed. If you have any questions, please contact Rita Harjo at (405) 275-4030 ext. 128. NAME:_____________________________________ ADDRESS___________________________________ CITY:________________________STATE:________ ZIP:___________ CDIB#:_________________DOB:________________ HOME PHONE:_________________________ MESS PHONE:__________________________ Finding directions to home: ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ 21 Office of Environmental Health & Engineering • Tribal Housing Improvements Application The Tribal Housing Improvement Program’s goal is providing sanitary, safe, and decent housing for its members by utilizing the following criteria to select the most “in need” tribal members with homes that are in disrepair but are still suitable for rehabilitation. All applicants must meet the eligibility requirements and criteria which is approved by the Absentee Shawnee Tribe. Recipe Chicken Salad Ingredients: 5 oz can chicken in water 1 large stalk celery – cut into small pieces 8 Grapes – quartered ½ gala apple – cut into small pieces 1/4 cup walnuts -chopped ½ cup light miracle whip Mark Your Calendar Upcoming Events... Education Opportunities  Learning to Control your Diabetes Join us for a 6 week program that teaches you the basics of Diabetes, giving you the tools you need to help manage this disease. Locations: THIP list all applicants by a priority list: a. Handicapped/Disabled and Elderly b. Income c. Family Size/Overcrowded Living Conditions d. Condition of Home Little Axe Health Center Directions: Shawnee Health Clinic Space is limited ….call now and enroll!! NEW—Fitness Dance Classes 1. Drain chicken. 2. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Enjoy! Shawnee Health Clinic – Monday and Wednesday at 12:00 Little Axe Health Center— Tuesday and Friday at 12:00 Please call to sign up OIDC Golf Tournament Nutritional Information: -about 5 servings For each serving: Calories 120 Fat 7.8g Carbohydrates 6.6g Fiber 1.2g Sodium 287.5 mg Protein 7.3g April 19, 2013 Deadline to register is April 15, 2013 Please call for details and registration form Other Programs available: • Sanitation Facilities Assistance Program Applications need to be completed and all necessary documents attached before the application will be processed. Applications are available online on the website: www.astribe.com. Submit completed application to: NYPD Camp for Kids Office of Environmental Health & Engineering Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma 2025 S. Gordon Cooper Dr. Shawnee, OK 74801 June 10-14, 2013 DEADLINE to register is May 10, 2013 Spots limited..contact now Diabetes and Wellness Program Absentee Shawnee Tribe Health Clinic Phone: (405)701-7977 (405)447-0300 Fax: (405)701-7984 15951 Little Axe Drive Norman, OK 73026 Absentee Shawnee Tribe Complex Office of Environmental Health & Engineering, Building 13 If you have any questions, you can reach us by phone at (405) 214-4235 ABSENTEE SHAWNEE Eat Right Food, Nutrition and Health Tips from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Power Up with Breakfast Breakfast gives you energy to start the day. A healthy breakfast is important for everyone. Get the morning nutrition you need with these quick breakfast ideas. • Make instant oatmeal with low-fat milk instead of water. Toss in raisins or dried cranberries and chopped walnuts. • Layer low-fat plain yogurt with your favorite crunchy cereal and blueberries. • Blend a breakfast smoothie with low-fat milk, frozen strawberries and a banana. • Make one packet of microwave oatmeal with low-fat milk. Mix in 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce. Sprinkle with apple pie spice or cinnamon. ALL WHITE PAPER, ENVELOPES, COLORED PAPER, JUNK MAIL, FAX PAPER, MAGAZINES, NEWSPAPER, CARDBOARD, AND ALUMINUM CANS. MATERIAL WE DO NOT ACCEPT. TONER, CARBON PAPER, FOOD WASTE, AND PLASTIC. REMEMBER, WHEN IN DOUBT THROW IT OUT. CONTACT INFORMATION ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH & ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMS. 2025 S. GORDON COOPER DR. SHAWNEE, OK 74801 PHONE: (405) 2144235 • Stuff a whole-wheat pita with a sliced, hard-cooked egg and low-fat shredded cheese. FAX: (405) 8784701 • Spread low-fat cream cheese on a whole-grain toasted bagel. Top with sliced strawberries. • Add lean ham and low-fat Swiss cheese to a toasted whole-grain English muffin. Absentee Shawnee Tribe Recycling Program RECYCLING MATERIAL THAT WE ACCEPT. • Top a toaster waffle with low-fat yogurt and peach slices. • Spread a flour tortilla with peanut butter. Add a whole banana and roll it up. 22 TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA “To Establish a recycling program for municipal waste planning, reduction, and Recycling” The Office of Environmental Health and Environmental Program is proud to announce the start of a new recycling program for the Absentee Shawnee Tribe. The recycling center is located in the yellow metal building adjacent to the OEH Department. The Absentee Shawnee Tribe (AST) Recycling Program Program declares that waste reduction and recycling are the preferable to the or processing of municipal waste, and that removing certain materials from the municipal waste stream will decrease the flow of solid waste to municipal landfills. AST Recycling Program used the knowl- edge and information about recycling markets and market demand as well as information obtained from various publications and the internet to comprise an analysis of material the recycling program will address at the start of the program. AST Recycling Program Plan establishes a goal that, by year’s end 2013, at least 25 % of the recyclable material produced by the Tribe will be recycled. Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle The AST recycling Program will initially focus on the following waste stream material; HighGrade shredded paper, Assorted office paper, Phone books, Magazines, Cardboard, Newspaper, and Aluminum cans. As the program and market develops, other recyclables will be sought. There is a cost associated with recycling, However, economic, social, and environmental benefits exceed these cost. AST Indian Child Welfare Greetings AST Tribal Members! We are revamping the Indian Child Welfare Page finally with some new information to present about exactly what our Department does on a daily basis. Amanda Lenora is our Child Protective Services (CPS)/ Foster Care worker. Ms. Lenora responds jointly with law enforcement when one of our tribal children are alleged to be abused or neglected, and completes an investigation of the situation then staffs with the Attorney General’s office her findings. Ms. Lenora is also the tribe’s Foster Care worker. Ms. Lenora is on a major recruiting campaign to find Absentee Shawnee Tribal Members who would like to become a tribal foster parent for our tribal children. At this time, AST ICW has nine foster homes; the most the tribe has ever had. These past four months, Ms. Lenora has worked tirelessly to ensure that home studies, fingerprints, CANIS results, and personal reference letters have been turned in to DHS State office to get the homes fully approved as paid homes. The hard work Ms. Lenora has put in over these last few months is to be commended. Sena Yesslith is our Promoting Safe and STable Families (PSSF) Coordinator and Parenting Educator. Ms. Yesslith also helps with cases where sibling visitation is facilitated, and goes out of her way to do anything that is asked of her. She did a fantastic job pulling out all the stops for child Abuse Awareness Month. Ms. Yesslith goes above and beyond in her job. I am so proud of her diligent efforts to help our tribal children stay connected to their kin, culture, and community. I am the ICW Director, but that does not mean that I get to sit behind a desk every day. I am also the Permanency Planning worker; also known as the “treatment” worker for families. I attend state court hearings all across the state of Oklahoma on our tribal children who are in DHS custody; I do Family Functional Assessments with parents whose children have recently been removed from their custody to personalize a treatment plan that fits the client that is then approved in AST Tribal Court. I write progress reports with recommendations regarding positive (or negative) behavior changes which led to the removal of the child from his or her parents. I also conduct monthly worker visits with each foster family and the parents. Sometimes, the foster care worker will do worker visits to assess the home environment on her end of her job description. My first goal as the permanency worker is Reunification with a parent or parents. The AST ICW Department follows the laws of the AST Juvenile Code, and will continue to follow the law as long as I am the director. I am very glad I still get to work with our tribal members and not just sit behind a desk. I love the field work aspect of the job and have met a lot of wonderful, caring people who have told our staff, “Thank you for the job you are doing for our children.” Most of all, I would like to thank Representative Jeff Gibson for his unwavering support of the job that we do in ICW. Representative Gibson is very approachable and cares what goes on in the oversight of his department. I would also like to thank the Executive committee and Governor Blanchard for being so welcoming. The staff in ICW always has a target on their back for the work we do to keep our tribal children safe. We’re not exactly popular but we run every decision we make through the Attorney General’s office and the Court. Ultimately, we are not trying to win a popularity contest. We are part of the most important job in the world, ensuring that our children are safe, and to work with the parents to correct the conditions which led to the removal of their children from their care to get them back home as soon as it is safe to do so. The ones who need to be personally thanked are our tribal foster parents. They are the ones who step in a child’s life in a time of need. I thank each and every foster parent from the bottom of my heart. They don’t do fostering for the money; they do it to make a positive difference in a child’s life until that child can be returned home to his or her family. And the foster parents’ that work with the biological parents is amazing! Reunification happens quite a bit faster when you have the biological parents and the foster parents working together. Speaking of working together, when I came onboard as the ICW Director, my main motto was “Teamwork”. We cannot do this job and be successful if we do it as individuals. Even though we all have our own job descriptions, teamwork has proven to be the most effective way to ensure our tribal children are safe, and our clients are satisfied with the work we are doing. In closing, I will leave you with this. The following is a parable about how essential helping each other is to being successful: “Geese instinctively know they go farther and faster by flying in a V formation. Each bird’s flapping wings create an updraft to ease the way for the birds behind them. And, as the lead bird tires, another takes its place. Cooperation helps them cover 70% more miles in the same time as one bird alone; their journey together is a triumph of teamwork.” It’s always nice to work with people who can feel comfortable relying on each other for help. Thank you, Summer Ackerman Director of Indian Child Welfare Absentee Shawnee Tribe (405) 878-4702 ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE Promoting Safe and Stable FamiliesTRIBE Parenting Classes ABSENTEE SHAWNEE Promoting Safe and Stable Families Parenting Classes PSSF Program provides parenting classes to promote positive parenting, help with the understanding of child development and communication skills to strengthen the entire family. The classes will meet every Wednesday evening for ten weeks at 6 pm starting May 15th and ending July 17, 2013 in Building #16. New participants will be accepted until May 22nd, after this date they will have to wait until the next session to enroll. Any cancellations of classes will push the ending date back a week; participants have the option of attending a day session to end at the set date. Every class must be attended by the participant to receive a Certificate of Completion. Program provides classesontosite promote positive A dinner willPSSF be provided at every class as parenting well as a babysitter if needed. Classes are also available for non-tribal members at a small fee. For more information or tothe signunderstanding up, call 405-878-4702. parenting, help with of child development and Sena Yesslith, PSSF Worker communication skills to strengthen the entire family. 23 SENIOR GAMES The Absentee Shawnee Tribe was represented in the Yukon Senior Games on April 12, 2013. Retha Wilson and Edwina Butler-Wolfe, tribal members, participated in the basketball events 50 – 54 age group: Free Throws, Dribbling, 3 Pointers, Hot Shot. Retha received Gold Medal in the Dribbling event and Silver in the Free Throws, Silver in Hot Shot, and Silver in 3 Point Shot. Edwina earned Silver in the Dribbling Event, Gold in Free Throws, Gold in Hot Shot, and Gold in 3 Point Shot. We were scheduled to play in the 3 on 3 games but found out no other women teams entered beside us. Doris Harris from Oklahoma Cit y was scheduled to play on our team. Looking for women basketball players 50 – 54 years of age to play 3 on 3 in the 2015 Senior Game Nationals. You will have to qualif y next year to be in the 2015 National Events. Nationals are played every other year, this year events will be held in July in Cleveland, Ohio. CONTACT: EDWINA BUTLER-WOLFE 405 488-4569 RETHA WILSON 1-(605) 821-9337 Absentee Shawnee Housing Authority 107 N. Kimberly, Shawnee, Oklahoma 74804 Phone: (405) 273-1050 Come in and visit with us about: v Lease with Option to Purchase v Rental v Rental for Over Income v Budget Counseling 2013 AGC of Oklahoma Education Foundation Scholarships University of Oklahoma Construction Science Scholarship Interviews 03/29/2013 Andy Rine IFlintco NTERVIEWS Randy Edge A.S.T. TERO Ken Robson OU Construction Science Division, Director Doug Tapp AGC Executive Director of Oklahoma Building Chapter 24 The Music Within You Each and every one of us has some kind of music within us, some of find it and some don’t but it’s there! I’ve had the privilege of being a part of many children, adults, and elders that have found that precious gift and are now enjoying their blessings and many are passing their gift on to a brother or sister or an elder in their family, I have three six year old girls in one of the piano classes each week and in a very short time have become just awesome as beginners of their age, I’ve played music from the age of 8 my dad was a master guitar and fiddle player and I thank GOD that I received the same give of music and I want to share that talent with all that want to learn music. Like a lot of us we’ve all had problems in our love’s and for me music has always been there to be a help in hard times for me, I hope all that read this article give me a call and let me help you all find that musical gift within you and you each one can learn to enjoy the winds beneath your wings, because music can make you sore and excel in every aspect of life, When I see the amazing smile on the face of a six year old learning to play a simple song that makes my day and I can live on a smile for weeks, You all are invited to our FREE music lessons at the Shawnee music house or if you live in Little Axe you can have a class at the Little Axe health Center, I hold classes there every Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until close at 5:00 p.m. all you to bring is yourself and a want to play music, We offer piano bass guitar acoustic guitar at the LAHC and at the Shawnee Music house you can learn to play the drums or any of the other instruments, the lessons are Free and I’ll always be there for each student to be alongside of you every step of the way of you becoming a musician, there is no time limited on you learning to play, so please come join all that love and want to play music, I’m looking forward to meeting everyone that calls or you can email me direct if you’d like at pbradley@astribe.com. Or call my cell 405-370-5576 I’m up until 10:00 every night so give me a call and let’s get playing music. Phil Bradley: Music 405-275-4030 Ext: 117 Shawnee office DISABILITY BENEFITS FOR WOUNDED WARRIORS Military service members can get their disability claims processed quickly by Social Security. Benefits available through Social Security are different than those from the Department of Veterans Affairs and require a separate application. The expedited process is used for military service members who become disabled while on active military service on or after October 1, 2001, regardless of where the disability occurs. www.socialsecurity.gov or call toll-free, 1-800-772-1213 (for the deaf or hard of hearing, call our TTY number, 1-800-325-0778) 25 AST Youth Fitness AST Youth Fitness AST Youth Fitness The Absentee Shawnee Fitness Program has been working with the AST Tribal Youth Program in promoting physical activity to help prevent diabetes among tribal youth. AST Program has been working with the AST Tribal Youth Program in AST really The Absentee Shawnee Fitness Program has been working with the Tribal Youth Program in the Tribal Youth Program participants have enjoyed Chair Exercise are exercises or workouts done while seated in a Tai chi is a self-healing system of slow, graceful exercises that promoting physical activity to help prevent diabetes among Program tribal youth. AST Tribal Youth Program elp prevent diabetes among tribal youth. AST Tribal Youth games that the Fitness program has provided. The goal of chair, or sometimes standing next to the chair for stability. Chair combine movement, meditation and rhythmic breathing to participants have really enjoyed thehas games that theThe Fitness program has provided. The goal of the exercises are suitable for older adults due to the solid base of d the games that the Fit [Text truncated at 120,000 characters. The full text is on the page linked above.] --- Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aabsentee%3A95df4286938af332. Public record. Not legal advice.