AST Agriculture Department Celebrates Five Years (2026)

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THE ABSENTEE

SHAWNEE NEWS

Volume 36, No. 04

April 2026

AST Agriculture Department Celebrates Five Years

The AST Agriculture Department was created in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on the lack of fresh food accessibility. The founding pillar of the program is

food sovereignty.

Food Sovereignty is the right of peoples to healthy and culturally appropriate food produced through ecologically sound and sustainable methods, and their right to define

their own food and agriculture systems.

In 2022, the Agriculture Department herd consisted of 40 cows and 21 heifers, totaling 61 head of cattle. Since that time, the herd has grown and developed significantly.

The original herd produced 98 active cattle currently on the farm, with an additional 55 animals that have left the herd through sales (22), processing (17), or natural loss over

time (16).

The department has also strengthened its genetics by adding nine registered cows to the breeding program. Currently, five active bulls service the herd, with two additional

immature bulls that will be incorporated into the breeding program once they reach maturity.

In addition to herd development, the Agriculture Department continues to support food sovereignty efforts through meat production. In 2025, the department generated

$7,889 in meat sales, and $5,266 in sales has been recorded so far in 2026.

This February the department also processed two steers for elder distribution, providing 4 pounds of beef to 202 AST elders, totaling 808 pounds of meat distributed to the

community. The first time event was well attended. Secretary Misty McGirt was in attendance and reflected on the occasion. “I am very proud of the progress our agriculture

has made these past couple years I have been oversight. The meat distribution was a great first event. We hope to have more events in the future so we can better serve our

tribal people.”

The program currently has eight steers on a feed-out regimen with a target finishing weight of approximately 1,400 pounds before processing in the coming months. Current

carcass yield averages 65%, and processing services are provided through One-Sixty Processing and Fehdans Meat Processing.

Beyond livestock production, the Agriculture Department continues to expand its community agriculture programs. Since 2023, the department has tilled more than 20

gardens each February and March and distributed over 8,000 plants each spring to support local food production.

Ag hosted a series of classes taught by OSU Extension Horticulture Educator Carla Smith in 2023. They included topics such as gardening 101, seed saving, soil fertilizer

and fruit production.

In fall 2025, the department hosted a Pumpkin Patch educational event for both Building Blocks locations and the AST after-school programs, serving over 200 children.

In addition, the farm produced more than 2,000 pumpkins that were distributed throughout the community.

These efforts reflect the department’s continued commitment to food sovereignty, community education, and agricultural sustainability for the Absentee Shawnee Tribe.

The department is under the oversight of the Lt. Governor and Secretary’s office. Lt. Governor Diane Ponkilla is pleased with Ag’s accomplishments over the last 5 years. “I

am proud of the work the Ag department has put in to help our tribal people. Often times they are short staffed, yet they continue to show up and we can all see the progress

they are making.”

96th Semi-Annual General Council Meeting - April 11, 2026 - 10:00 AM

AST Multi-Purpose Building - Shawnee, OK

2A www.astribe.com

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

GOVERNOR’S REPORT

John Johnson, AST Governor

GOVERNOR

John Johnson

Hello Everyone,

It’s that time of year; time to get your

gardens tilled and planted. I hope this

year the weather brings many crops to

all the gardens. April showers bring May

flowers.

The 96th semi-annual General Council is just around the corner. It will be

in Shawnee at the Multi-purpose building here on campus on April 11, 2026 at

10am. I hope you are able to attend in

person.

Also Easter for all tribal members of

all ages will be on April 18, 2026 from

10:00am to 12:00 pm. It will be hosted

by Secretary McGirt’s office. Hopefully

the weather cooperates and all the families can enjoy their time with one another.

LT. GOVERNOR’S REPORT

Diane Ponkilla, AST Lt. Governor

Lt. GOVERNOR

Diane Ponkilla

Hello All,

I am in office daily and I do not have

much to report, I do not know if that is

good or bad. Besides attending the regular EC meeting, Roundtable, Healthboard and Director’s meeting I attended

the 2026 OSU Tribal Partnership Summit in Stillwater on Thursday, March 04,

2026. I spent the day out on the farm at

I-40/9A with the Agriculture department

to watch their process of feeding, tagging

REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORT

Anthony Johnson, AST Representative

SECRETARY

Misty McGirt

TREASURER

Joseph Blanchard

REPRESENTATIVE

Anthony Johnson

Hello Tribal Members,

My office and departments have been

busy preparing for our 96th Semi-Annual General Council meeting. The current

departments my office has oversight of

include: Historic Preservation, Educa-

April 2026

Should you have any questions you may

reach out to the Secretary’s department,

they will be happy to help. I hope to see

you all there.

The American Indian Chamber of

Commerce of Oklahoma (AICCO) held

a luncheon for all native business owners and tribal leaders. I met some very

intelligent native people that have strived

in building their own business and has

become very successful. It was very interesting to hear how their stories began.

If I am available I always like to show

my support to all our surrounding tribal

communities.

I was personally invited to attend the

first annual Seeds of Seven Generations

Gala at the FAM museum hosted by the

Cheyenne and Arapaho’s with Mr. Reggie

Wassano. I attended this event to show

support for their Education Endowment

program, providing scholarships and re-

sources that aid students in achieving

their academic goals. The Cheyenne and

Arapaho Office of Development and Advancement are actively building a philanthropic foundation to provide impactful

educational and cultural enrichment opportunities. Their primary goal is to establish sustainable endowments that will

ensure the long-term vitality of tribal programs, strengthen the community, and

empower future generations. Education

is very important to all native people

Should you have any comments or concerns you may call or email myself or my

assistant at the emails listed below.

and overall care of the cattle. Also the

agriculture department plowed gardens

for TM and have planted seeds for starter plants to be distributed in mid-April.

The Lt. Governor’s department lowered

the age limit for the storm shelters to 55

years old. Nineteen AST elders have received the 6X8 concrete above ground

safe room. You must be a homeowner to

apply and applications are on line or you

may pick up a hard copy in bldg. #2 on

the AST complex located at 2025 S. Gordon Cooper Drive in Shawnee. There was

a conversation during roundtable to set

up two 40 ft. dumpsters at three locations

LittleAxe, Tecumseh Square and Horseshoe Bend for TM who want to do some

Spring cleaning from around their household. I am waiting on Central Disposal

to return call with availability of dumpsters and list of items not allowed to be

placed in the dumpsters. Once details are

worked out I will put notice out with date

and location. If TM have any questions,

concerns or just want to stop by and visit

I am usually available you may even call

after hours (405) 432-0733.

Ne yi wa

tion, Tribal Employment Rights Office

(TERO), and the Camp. Additionally, the

departments I oversee convened together this past month to discuss their goals

for their departments and ways they can

partner for better workflow and delivery

of services. This month, our TERO Director Sarah Lawerance, helped lead the

14th Annual Day of Champions Native

American Combine and her report from

the event is included. If you have any

questions, comments, or need my assistance, please contact my office by phone:

(405) 531-3512 or by email: adjohnson@

astribe.com.

Thank You

John Johnson - 405-275-4030 ext. 3500

governor@astribe.com

Alvina Barnes - 405-275-4030 ext. 3501

alvinab@astribe.com

Sincerely,

Anthony “Tad” Johnson,

Tribal Representative

April 2026

www.astribe.com 3A

14th Annual Day of Champions Native American Combine

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe sponsored the 14th

Annual Day of Champions Native American Combine.

The event was open to male/female, athlete/nonathlete, and traditional/nontraditional participants. The

Combine had a 72% placement rate from the 2025 year

and a 69% placement rate over 13 years. In previous years

the Combine team have been able to get scholarships for

nurses, golfers, baseball, softball, basketball, marching

band, male and female wrestlers as well as welders,

electricians and so many more interest areas.

The event took place March 7 at DBAT in Oklahoma

City, OK. The facility is a full-size indoor baseball

facility with over 10 batting cages. There were 41 inperson participants. The event started with Treasurer

Blanchard speaking to the participants and parents

about communicating with recruiters and coaches not

shutting any doors. After Treasurer Blanchard was done

speaking, President and CEO of Day of Champions gave

a positive speech about never giving up and failure is a

learning tool. The event is run like the NFL Combine

with 40-yard dash, bench press, pro-agility, vertical

and standing broad jump. During the morning testing

period of the athletes, the parents and guardians were

learning about FASFA, the scholarship process and what

to expect when your athlete is being recruited. After

the athletes had a lunch break, offensive and defensive

players were paired up to compete against each other.

There were over 20 colleges, universities, and military

in attendance to see the athletes compete. At the end of

the event some athletes were offered scholarships. The

athletes combine information will be shared with other

colleges and universities that were not in attendance.

Thank you to AST Public Health, Tribal Police, AST

477, Treasurer Blanchard, and Representative Johnson.

Thank you to the Public Health Department, Beverly

Felton, Earl Lovins, and Jayden Watson for volunteering

with the event. The Combine would not have been

a successful event without the help of the Absentee

Shawnee Tribe. This event would not happen early

without the sponsorship of the Tribe. Each athlete went

home with a full pizza, fruit, and a Kona Ice sno-cone.

Here are a few quotes from the event:

One mother said that she was so happy that her son

had a chance to meet college coaches, something that

would not have happened anywhere else and she liked

the fact that they were very open and honest with her

about her son’s abilities and that they were willing to

work with him to make him an even better player. She

said she liked that about the Combine.

Another parent said she liked the fact they had to work

with kids from other schools and her son had to get used

to going up against total strangers, but in the end, it was

good for him since she hoped he would be able to go to

college and move away from home knowing he could

make friends anywhere he goes. This helped build his

confidence.

There was a visitor who happened to see what was

happening in the building and Beverly Felton talked

to him about the Combine. He had never heard of this

before and was really interested because he coaches little

league football but would make sure that the high school

coaches know about the Combine for next year.

This event provides those kids who may never get a

chance to show their skills to a college coach, an up-close

and personal experience, something they will remember

for a long time.

NOT I CE

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SUBMIT AN ARTICLE OR STORY

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

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

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

April 2026

4A www.astribe.com

Camp Melokami - Spring Break 2026

RUNAWAY

PREVENTION

Statistics:

Warning Signs:

Communication to

Prevent Runaway:

National

Runaway

Safeline:

Contact Information:

sfixico@astribe.com

bgoodman@astribe.com

1 in 7 kids between the ages of 10-18 will runaway.

The National Runaway Safeline and Department of Justice’s

Office of Justice Programs report that between 1.6 and 2.8

million youth run away from home each year.

In 2023, of the nearly 29,000 reports of children that the

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC)

received, 93% were of children who ran away.

In 2023, 74% of endangered runaways reported to NCMEC

were between 15-17 years old; 48% were recovered within a

week of going missing.

Sudden and extreme changes in mood, or increased anger

outbursts.

Social withdrawal, isolation, and secrecy.

Extreme changes in sleep or eating habits.

Disappearance of personal items like clothes or money.

Declining grades, truancy, or behavior issues at school.

Family conflict, tension, or a feeling of lack of support.

Rule-breaking at home.

Do not interrupt when your child is explaining something,

even if you disagree, wait until they are done.

Never dare your child to runaway thinking that they may not.

Stay calm and quiet, make eye contact, and don't respond

when your child is angry, wait until they are calm.

For Youth, Teens, & Concerned Adults/Parents

(Open 24/7)

Call or Text: 1-800-786-2929

Email, Live Chat, and Forum at

www.1800runaway.org/youth-teens/get-help

AST Education Department is an Office of Juvenile Justice and

Delinquency Prevention – Tribal Youth Program Grantee. We promote

public safety and seek to prevent risk factors impacting our youth. TYP

Staff: Coordinator – Blake Goodman, Tribal Youth Resource SpecialistShayanne Fixico

April 2026

www.astribe.com

LEGAL NOTICE

April 2026

6A www.astribe.com

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma

Building Blocks C.D.C.

2025 S. Gordon Cooper Dr.

Shawnee, Ok. 74801

(405)878-0633 FAX(405)878-0156

March was busy and past by quickly. A BIG THANKS to all who came

& read Dr. Seuss’ Books during Read Across America Week.

It is officially Spring which brings warmer weather. The children love

the sunny days of Spring. They enjoy learning as they play outside on

the playgrounds. Also, Spring brings the time of year to be Weather

Aware as Storm Season arrives.

Building Blocks Easter Egg Hunts and Classroom Parties will be

Thursday, April 2nd @ 3:00p.m.

Building Blocks will be Closed Friday, April 3rd for Good Friday. Hope

everyone has an Egg-citing Easter.

April is Child Abuse Awareness Month. Building Blocks will be Closed

Friday, April 10th as our staff attends training on Child Abuse

Awareness.

We are taking waiting list applications for all of our classrooms. We

take 6 week olds through the summer after Pre-K (4 Year Olds). Please

call to inquire about our waiting list and spots for enrollment. You

may drop by for a waiting list application or we can email one to you.

Have an Awesome April.

BBIII CDC

NEWSLETTER

April 2026

IMPORTANT INFO

This month, Our infants will be learning about weather. Teachers will

introduce concepts like rain, sunshine, clouds, and wind using songs,

textures, visual aids, and simple activities.

Our toddlers, 2's, and 3 year old classes will be learning all about

insects! Children will explore different types of bugs such as

butterflies, ladybugs, and bees through themed stories, songs,

sensory bins, and art projects. These activities will help build early

vocabulary, observation skills, and curiosity as children learn about

where insects live and how they move.

Our 4 and 5 year olds will be diving into the world of gardening!

Children will learn about plants, seeds, soil, and what plants need to

grow. Through planting activities, dramatic play, art projects, and

group discussions, they will explore how gardens grow and why

plants are important.

Important Info

Our Easter celebration will take place on April 1st! Children will

enjoy classroom parties, an egg hunt, and a special visit from

the Easter Bunny.

Program Info

Business Hours: 7am-6pm

Director: Renee Richardson

Asst. Director: Sara Garcia

Address: 16051 Little Axe Dr.

Norman, Ok 73026

BBIII CDC

NEWSLETTER

April 2026

ASP Shawnee April Newsletter

Objectives

Upcoming events

April 2 is our Easter party/ Egg

hunt. Parents can attend.

April 3rd & 10th we are closed for

Good Friday & AST Training.

April 17th Tecumseh has a Virtual Day.

HSB AFTER SCHOOL NEWSLETTER

April 2026

This month we will be

learning more about the

water cycle/rain and how

tornados are formed.

We will also be covering

different plants and animals,

As well as planting seeds

and watching how they

grow.

For language they will be

going over how to say and

write everything we learn in

Shawnee language.

Reminders/ Updates

Pick up time for after school hours

are by 5:30pm or you will be charged

a late fee.

April 17th virtual day hours are

7:45am-5:15pm. Cut off time for drop

off is 9am.

Please make sure your child is

wearing closed toed shoes or have

them bring a pair of closed toed

shoes with them to change into.

Contact information

Raidyn Morphis

rmorphis@astribe.com

Kellie Pierson

KRpierson@astribe.com

Skye Foreman

SForeman@astribe.com

ASTAfterSchool@astribe.com

Learning Objectives

Recognize patterns and

similarities in nature, weather,

and everyday surroundings.

Explore basic science concepts

through simple experiments and

hands-on discovery activities.

Practice leadership by taking

turns helping lead activities or

assist peers.

Learn about community helpers

and the roles people play in

supporting others.

Build adaptability by learning

how to adjust to new activities,

schedules, and environments.

Encourage curiosity by asking

questions and sharing

observations about the world

around them.

Practice gratitude and

appreciation by recognizing acts

of kindness and positive

contributions from others.

“Pa ti ke na fe”

Rabbit

Reminders

ASP HSB will be closed Friday, April

3rd, in observance of Good Friday.

ASP HSB will be closed Friday April

10th, for MANDATORY training.

Upcoming Events

EASTER EGG HUNT!! April 2nd (See

posted flyer)

Contact Information

Email: KRPierson@astribe.com

Phone: (405) 827-7308

April 2026

www.astribe.com

Jocelyn Hayes is an AST tribal member who will continue her academic and

softball career at Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas in the fall. She

plans to study Nursing. She is a senior at Shawnee High School. Her parents

are Briana Ponkilla and Charles Hayes, grandparents are Glendine Blanchard

and Boyd Ponkilla, sister to Jackson and Jaeger Hayes.

YOUR MONEY DESERVES TO GROW

As an AST member, you get exclusive access

to checking and savings accounts that earn

interest. More growth, more flexibility,

more reasons to save. Make the switch

today and watch your balance bloom!

HOW?

WWW.ALLNATIONS.BANK

SHAWNEE 405-273-0202

CALUMET 405-893-2240

Hours

new

Shawnee

We're Hiring !

OPEN POSITIONS:

Director of Finance

MONDAY

10AM - 2 AM

F&B Team Member (Both Locations)

TUESDAY

10AM - 2 AM

Compliance Manager

WEDNESDAY

10AM - 2 AM

THURSDAY

10AM - 2 AM

HR Specialist

FRIDAY

10AM - 2 AM

Compliance Manager

SATURDAY

10AM - 2 AM

SUNDAY

10AM - 2 AM

Table Games Dealer

Player’s Club Supervisor

Maintenance Team Member

Vault Teller

Pit Boss

Security Officer

EVS Supervisor

AST $500 Sign on Bonus!

(Split between 90th and 180th days)

www.playthunderbird.com

April 2026

8A www.astribe.com

15700 OK-9,

Norman, OK 73026

405-360-9270

PlayThunderbird.com

UP TO TWO CARS CAN BE REGISTERED PER PARTICIPANT FOR TWO ENTRIES.

ONLY 1 PRIZE CAN BE AWARDED PER PERSON.

CASH DRAWINGS:

$200 @ 9AM | $200 @ 10AM | $300 @ 11AM | $400 @ 12PM | $500 @ 1PM | $1000 @ 2PM

(5) $100 COMPLETED BALLOT DRAWINGS @ 2:30

CASH PRIZES:

$200 BEST OF SHOW 79’S AND OLDER

$200 BEST OF SHOW 80’S AND NEWER

$500 THUNDERBIRD CASINO FAVORITE

REGISTRANTS MAY ENTER 2 BEST OF SHOW AWARDS & A

THUNDERBIRD CASINO PICK.

CHOOSE 1 CAR CLASS:

Car Classes

A. 1949 & OLDER CAR

B. 1950 -1959 CAR

C. 1960 - 1969 CAR

D. 1979 - 1979 CAR

E. 1986 - PRESENT CAR

F. MINI TRUCK

G. ’55 ‘56 ’57 MODIFIED

H. MUSTANG 1979 & OLDER

I. MUSTANG 1980 & NEWER

J. CORVETTE 1982 & OLDER

K. CORVETTE 1984 & NEWER

L. MUSCLE CAR

M. IMPORT

N. STREET ROD

O. T BUCKET & ROADSTER

P. SPECIAL INTEREST

Q. UNFINISHED

R. TRUCK 1959 & OLDER

S. TRUCK 1960 - 1972

T. TRUCK 1973 - 1988

U. TRUCK 1989 - PRESENT

V. CONVERTABLE

W.ORIGINAL

X. MOTORCYCLE

Y. CAMARO 1979 & OLDER

Z. CAMARO 1980 & NEWER

AA. MOPAR 1979 & OLDER

BB. MOPAR 1980 & NEWER

CC. THUNDERBIRD

DD. RAT ROD

For questions call:

Ray Langley 405-343-5934 or Mitch Phillips 405-830-0164

$2600 In Drawings | $900 In Cash Prizes

FIRST 100 REGISTERED PARTICIPANTS WILL RECEIVE A T-SHIRT & DASH PLATE.

$25 ENTRY FEE. MUST BE PAID IN CASH ON DAY OF CAR SHOW. 30 CAR CLASSES. CAR

PARTICIPANTS THAT TURN IN COMPLETED BALLOTS WILL BE ENTERED INTO (5) $100 CASH

DRAWINGS! FOR CAR SHOW PARTICIPANTS ONLY.

MUST BE PRESENT TO CLAIM PRIZE.

www.asthealth.org

April 2026

Section B

ASTHS April 2026 Monthly Update

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month in the United States, a significant time to

focus on protecting children and promoting family wellness. This annual observance

aims to raise awareness and prevent child abuse, recognizing the role of supportive

families and communities in ensuring child safety.

Throughout this month, organizations and individuals across the country emphasize

the importance of understanding and addressing the factors that contribute to the wellbeing of children and the prevention of abuse. The reasons for dedicating April to this

cause are profound. Child abuse affects millions globally, with severe repercussions

for the victims’ health, survival, and development.

In the U.S., extensive efforts are coordinated to provide prevention services, with

reports indicating that millions of children benefit from interventions aimed at

reducing abuse and supporting families. The activities of the month also serve to

reinforce the message that everyone has a role to play in protecting children and

strengthening the communities they grow up in.

Child Abuse Prevention Month serves as a reminder of the critical work done

year-round by various agencies and organizations to combat child maltreatment. The

observance involves educating the public about the signs of abuse, the importance

of early intervention, and the resources available to families in need. It’s a time to

reaffirm commitments to creating safe and nurturing environments for all children,

ensuring they have the opportunity to grow up in healthy and supportive settings.

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe has our own Indian Child Welfare Department and

their staff is very proactive with protecting our children. Their mission statement tells

us they are dedicated to protecting the best interests of our children and preserving

the cultural identity of our tribal families. They are committed to keeping families

together whenever possible and ensuring that our children remain connected to their

tribal community and cultural identity.

Services that ICW provide are:

• Child Protective Services

Our team investigates reports of child abuse and neglect involving Absentee Shawnee

tribal children, working to ensure immediate safety and develop protection plans

when necessary.

• Family Preservation

We offer support services designed to strengthen families and prevent removal of

children from their homes whenever possible. This includes counseling, parenting

classes, and Connection to community resources.

• Tribal/State Court Representation

Our team provides ongoing support, monitoring and advocacy in tribal and state

court proceedings to represent the best interests of Absentee Shawnee tribal children

and tribe in child welfare cases.

• Cultural Connections

We provide cultural education and activities to help Absentee Shawnee children

maintain strong connections to their tribal heritage, language and traditions.

• Guardianship Services

We assist with establishing legal guardianships for Absentee Shawnee children

when appropriate, helping to maintain family connections while ensuring safety

and stability.

• Foster Care/Adoption

We recruit; train and support tribal foster homes to provide culturally appropriate

temporary care for children. We also facilitate adoption placements that prioritize

maintaining cultural connections. Foster/Adoption Inquiry

• ICWA Advocacy

Our department ensures compliance with the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA)

in all state proceedings involving tribal children, providing expert testimony and

intervention when necessary.

Our department ensures compliance with the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA)

in all state proceedings involving tribal children, providing expert testimony and

intervention when necessary.

If you need assistance from our ICW department, please reach out to either the

director of one of the other staff. Our team is led by Shawnee Martinez, ICW Director.

As the director, Shawnee oversees all departmental operations but does keep a “handson” approach on some of the most critical cases involving foster care, adoption, and

court proceedings.

Paige Little Charley is the case manager and her role is to ensure that all services

and placements respect and incorporate tribal traditions and values. Paige is a huge

asset to the program and brings many years of experience both with ICW and cultural

knowledge.

Kerri Stringer in the family preservation coordinator. Her focus is on providing

preventative services and support to families at risk. She also helps to address the

challenges families are facing before they escalate to the point of removing the child

from the situation.

The ICW team can be reached at 405-395-4490 or by email at icw@astribe.com. Do

not hesitate to contact their office if you have concerns about a child or family. They

want to work to ensure the safety and well-being of our Absentee Shawnee children.

Doing Things Differently: Moving from the Challenge to the Change

National Child Abuse Prevention Month recognizes the importance of families and

communities working together to prevent child abuse and neglect. Prevention services

and supports developed by this collaboration can help parents, other caregivers, and

communities protect children and strengthen families.

Cultural Connection is Key to Prevention!

Uplifting youth through hoop dancing, attending traditional ceremonies, hunting

and gathering, creating arts and crafts projects through woodworking, beading

or crocheting, playing sports and exercising, and establishing healthy family and

friend relationships are all protective factors that positively impact a child’s lifestyle.

Practicing and nurturing parental skills, ensuring nutritional food and shelter is

available, being role models or champions, ensuring access to quality medical care and

mental health services, stable housing, and afterschool programs are other examples

that can be categorized into individual, familial, and community protective factors

against child maltreatment.

American Indian and Alaska Native children have some of the highest rates of

child maltreatment. Indian Health Service has first-hand knowledge of this because it

provides health care to children that are victims of abuse. We also see child abuse on

news channels, read about it in the local newspapers, experience it with our relatives,

or even attend vigils for innocent children who have been lost far too soon. Child

maltreatment includes physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological abuse and

neglect of a child under the age of 18 that results in harm, the potential for harm,

or threat of harm to a child. Being exposed to drugs, alcohol, mental health issues,

food insecurity, and high rates of violence are all potential risk factors for child

maltreatment and for potential perpetration.

As recognized by Congress through the Indian Health Care Improvement Act (25

U.S.C. 1601-1685), an ongoing message from the forensic healthcare team is that

individuals and communities who teach Indigenous core values, cultural strengths,

Native languages, and traditional beliefs positively impact a child’s health and wellbeing, which ultimately decreases any potential negative health outcomes and risks for

maltreatment. Lastly, we encourage collaboration with local tribal governments and

coalitions to help provide support and prevention efforts against child maltreatment.

We ask everyone to show support and encourage positive and healthy discussions

with family and friends to help end child abuse and maltreatment. Our children are

our future! There are 574 Federally recognized Tribes in the United States. As sovereign

nations, Tribes manage their own child welfare systems to support American Indian/

Alaska Native (AI/AN) families and honor Tribal values and priorities. The Indian

Child Welfare Act of 1978 (ICWA) is a major piece of Federal legislation that protects

the rights of Native communities and governs child welfare practice involving Native

families.

Child welfare and social services agencies must work in collaboration with juvenile

and family courts. Both are responsible for protecting children and ensuring their

safety, health, and well-being. Tribal courts may take their roles farther when working

with their Tribe’s child welfare and social services departments by ensuring culturally

competent services are provided to strengthen families and support reunification.

The relationship between Tribal courts and Tribal social services can be difficult

to navigate, especially when Tribal courts begin hearing family cases. Tribal social

services may be used to operating independently or have existing relationships with

State or county courts that previously decided child welfare or family cases involving

Tribal members.

Prevention In Tribal Child Welfare

Prevention in Tribal child welfare means strengthening families and communities

before a crisis occurs—creating the conditions that support safety, connection, and

cultural continuity. For American Indian Tribes and Alaska Native Villages, prevention

often includes honoring and revitalizing cultural practices, strengthening community

connections, and addressing root causes such as poverty and trauma. Each Tribe and

Village is unique in how it defines, leads, and implements prevention work, grounded

in sovereignty, self-determination, and community wisdom.

In Tribal child welfare, culture is prevention. Cultural identity, language, ceremonies,

and relational worldviews are protective factors that support family preservation and

reduce the likelihood of future system involvement. Prevention strategies may include

building kinship networks; engaging fathers, grandparents, and extended family

members; establishing family resource centers; and embracing traditional ways of

resolving conflict and restoring harmony. These efforts center Indigenous values and

proactively address risk by building on community strengths.

Prevention in Tribal child welfare is proactive, strength-based, and communitydriven. It includes programs that reduce the need for child removals due to poverty,

support family wellness before crisis occurs, and foster healing in culturally

meaningful ways. Tribal programs often design prevention strategies that align

with their values while also navigating federal requirements such as those under the

Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA), which provides opportunities to fund

evidence-based supports like mental health services, parenting programs, and kinship

navigation.

If you suspect a child or children are being abused, please contact your local law

enforcement by dialing 911, especially if they are in a dangerous situation. Do not wait,

the child’s health and safety is very important. Within our tribal health system, every

licensed medical professional is responsible for reporting suspected child abuse. They

will contact the local law enforcement office and our ICW staff. We are responsible for

the health and well-being of our children.

To call our tribal police to make a report, you can call 405-275-3200 or the tip line at

405-273-1249. The Indian Health Service also has a hotline for reporting child abuse

and sexual abuse. The report can be made by calling the IHS Hotline at 1-855-SAFEIHS (1-855-723-3447).

Beverly Felton, MSN, RN

Public Health Director

April 2026

2B www.astribe.com

A S T

D I A B E T E S

W E L L N E S S

APRIL

KI-KE-KI-KA-MI-GE

“KEEP MOVING”

MONTHLY CHALLENGE

April - Active Living

“Awaken the Spirit-Step Toward Wellness”

Encourages active lifestyles and honoring

traditional practices.

Challenge: Strengthen the heart, build muscle,

and prevent diabetes.

Goal: Move your body 30 minutes a day - you

choose how you move. Walking, bike riding,

dancing, the options are endless.

Scan to

IF YOU REGISTERED IN FEBRUARY THERE IS NO

NEED TO REGISTER AGAIN. YOU WILL

AUTOMATICALLY RECEIVE THE

MARCH CHALLENGE INVITE VIA THE WELLBEING+ APP.

Questions? We’re here to help

you achieve a healthier YOU!

April 2026

www.astribe.com

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

TURKEY SANDWICH

LTOC

BAKED CHIPS

MIXED FRUIT

CHICKEN FAJITAS

BELL PEPPERS &

ONIONS

SPANISH RICE

MANDRAIN ORANGES

GRILLED CHEZ

SANDWICH

CHICKEN NOODLE

SOUP

27 GUY’S BIRTHDAY

BBQ LEG QUARTERS

MASHED POT

BROWN GRAVY

BEETS/APRICOTS

STEW

CORNBREAD

PEARS

WEINERS & KRAUT

GREEN BEANS

BREAD

MIXED FRUIT

BEEF PEPPERED

STEAK

COLESLAW

BREAD

PEAR

BAKED POT

HAM,CHEZ,ONIONS

FRUIT

SALAD BAR*

CLOSED FOR

TOWN HALL

BAKED CHICKEN

STRIPS

BOILED POT

SLICED ORANGES

BEANS W HAM

ZUCC & TOM

ONIONS

CORNBREAD

SALMON PATTY

THREE SISTER SALAD

JELLO W FRUIT

MEATLOAF

MASHED POT/GRAVY

GREEN BEANS

ROLL/SALAD*

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

9 ELDER DAY -LA

HOT HAM & CHEZ

SANDWICH

BAKED CHIPS

FLUFF

BEEF FINGERS

VEGGIES

ROLL

23 ELDER DAY -SHAWNEE

GOULASH

GARLIC TOAST

WINTER BLEND

PUDDING

HOAGIE SANDWICH

SUMMER CUCUMBER

SALAD

CHEF SALAD

CHICKEN,CHEZ,EGGS

COTTAGE CHEZ

PINEAPPLES

GOOD FRIDAY

TITLE VI CLOSED

ROAST

MASHED POT/GRAVY

ROASTED CARROTS

APPLESAUCE

CHICKEN

QUESADILIAS

LTO/ SALSA

FRUIT

PORK & HOMINY

CUTIE

MENU SUBJECT TO CHANGE*

LUNCH IS SERVED FROM 11 AM TO 1PM

BREAKFAST IS SERVED FROM 9AM TO 11AM

APRIL!!!!

SERVING AT THE SHAWNEE SITE AND LITTLE AXE RESOURCE CENTER

APRIL 1, WE WILL BE CLOSED TO ATTEND TOWN HALL DAY

NO FOOD WILL BE SERVED OR DELIVERED

GOOD FRIDAY APRIL 3- TITLE VI WILL BE CLOSED –

NO FOOD WILL BE SERVED OR DELIVERED

APRIL 5

AST ELDER DAYS

APRIL 16- AT LITTLE AXE RESOURCE CENTER

APRIL 23- AT SHAWNEE SITE

HEALTH BUZZZ!!

Strengthing Bonds Through Meaningful Songs

closing, if you

know a comforts,

caregiver, and

seekconnects

out thoughtful

waysanother.

to showItthem

are not alone

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also that

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Music

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caring for loved ones housekeeping

with dementiaor

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the

stage

for

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and

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environment

easing

give them time to run a few errands weekly. Caregivers deserve and need our help and support. Small

aggitation, boosting mood, and mental clarity. In some studies, it shows this helps people with dementia remember the past and feel

gestures as mentioned could make a significant difference to their well-being and resilience.

like themselves again for a short time. In addition, it also helps promote better sleep in those that struggle with heightened restlessness

during the late afternoon andWe

evening

whenascalmer

musicfrom

is played

before

bedtime.

offer hours

this quote

a reminder

the wise

leader

and fierce warrior, Sitting Bull, that the quiet and

My favorite thing about using music as a tool is the connection that it brings. As the disease progresses, communication with our

selfless act of caring for others is the highest form of bravery. "The warrior, for us, is one who sacrifices himself for

elders and loved ones become increasingly more challenging. Listening to music together that is enjoyable and familiar can be a

Georgia Little Axe

the good

of others.”

-Sitting

(Tatanka

meaningful way to enhance

quality

of life and

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family

bonds Iyotake)

strong for longer.

Music & Memory Participant

Five Theraputic Advantages Of Music In Dementia Care

Ø Improving Sleep –-calming night time restlessness

Ø Enhancing Mealtime --increased appetite and pleasant routine before meals

Ø Boosting Mood –-enhanced connection and bond through familiar music

Ø Minimizing Environmental Anxiety--smooth transitions and guided mobility within the community

Ø Providing Caregiver Respite--allowing micro-restorative moments

If you or someone you know would benefit from the Savvy Caregiver in Indian Country or

Music & Memory programs, or contact adpi@astribe.com, or call 405-701-7906.

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

405-701-7906.

Check out our web-page on the Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System’s website:

Check out our web-page on the Absentee Shawnee

Tribal Health System’s website: https://www.asthealth.org

https://www.asthealth.org

Click on: “Programs and Preventions” and then click on “Seeking Hope”. You can sign up on line also!

Best regards,

Lacy Gillean, Dementia

Care Specialist

Lacy Gillean

Enhancing Sustainable

Models of Care

DementiaDementia

Care Specialist

April 2026

4B www.astribe.com

Ensuring Hope Grant

On March 4, the Ensuring Hope grant hosted a Native American Beading Class at the multipurpose building on the Shawnee Clinic campus. Community

members gathered to learn beadwork techniques and create unique beaded necklaces that can be worn for dances or everyday use. The class provided a space

for participants to connect, be creative, and engage with a meaningful cultural activity.

During the event, Ensuring Hope staff also collected Protective Factors Surveys from participants. The information gathered will help the program better

understand strengths within the community and guide future prevention, education, and support efforts.

Pictured above is the Ensuring Hope director, Jack Hartgrave, explaining

the purpose of the class and introducing the instructor, Angie Goodfox.

Examples of necklaces the participants could make. These necklaces were

made by Angie Goodfox.

Medication Flavoring Now Available at AST Pharmacies:

Both the Shawnee and Little Axe AST Pharmacy locations are now offering medication flavoring to help make taking liquid medicine easier for your child. Using the FLAVORx

system, patients can choose a taste that helps improve the flavor of certain liquid medications.

All available flavors are sugar-free, allergen-free, gluten-free, dye-free, and casein-free, making them a safe option for many patients.

This service is provided at no cost to patients at both AST Pharmacy locations. If you or your child have a liquid prescription, ask a pharmacist if it is eligible for flavoring and

they can help you choose a flavor that may work best.

National

April 2026

Sun

Mon

Tue

Public Health

Week

April 6-12

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

10.

16.

17.

18.

23.

24.

25.

Townhall Day.

Closed at noon.

12.

13.

14.

15.

19.

20.

21.

22.

26.

27.

28.

29.

World Health

Day

Elder Fun Day

LA Resource

Center 11am1pm

Elder Fun Day

Shawnee Title VI

11am-1pm

30.

Closed in

observance of

Good Friday.

11.

General Council

- 10am

Multipurpose

Building

This is a copy of a public record, reproduced as it was published. It is not legal advice, and it may not be the version a court would rely on. Check the official source before you cite it.