Election Commission Swears In Newly Elected Officials (2024)

www.astribe.com

THE ABSENTEE

SHAWNEE NEWS

Volume 34, No. 08

August 2024

Election Commission Swears In Newly Elected Officials

On June 27th the Absentee Shawnee Tribe Election Commission held a Swearing-In ceremony for Lt. Governor Diane Ponkilla, Treasurer Joseph Blanchard, Representative Anthony Johnson

and Election Commission Member #1 Brandi Routledge-Hunt. The Lt. Governor, Treasurer and Representative will serve a four-year term and the Election Commission Member #1 is a three

year-term.

Rising Warrior Department Holds Elder Abuse Awareness Event

The Absentee Shawnee Rising Warrior Department held an Elder Abuse Awareness Event June 28 in the AST Multi-Purpose Building.

Elders were treated to lunch, prizes and several departments shared the services they offer to Elders. The highlight of the event was the unveiling of 2 Embark buses

promoting the Rising Warrior department and the Elder Protection Program. Two of our very own AST Elders appear on the buses.

Be on the lookout for the buses in the Norman/OKC area.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

GOVERNOR’S REPORT

John Johnson, AST Governor

GOVERNOR

John Johnson

Hello Tribal Members,

August is back to school for most of

the kiddos. I hope you are prepared and

the kids are ready to return. Have a great

school year!!!

Leadership Native Oklahoma was a

huge success. We received amazing feedback with many many compliments of our

campus and our programs. Scott Miller

with Cultural Preservation gave a very

thorough report of the tribe and the culture history of our people. Briana Ponkilla

with the 477 program also gave an amazing introduction. Chris Larkin gave his

presentation of the clinics and the future

plans for them. I was very pleased with

the presentations of these departments.

Visitors from all over Oklahoma attended

this one day event. We gave them a tour of

campus, the Tiny Home Village, the AST

Food Bank, both Thunderbird Casinos

and the Shawnee and LA Clinic. I want

to personally thank Bailey Walker, President of the American Indian Chamber of

Commerce of Oklahoma (AICCO) and

Susan Dean, REI Oklahoma, for giving

us the opportunity to host this event. It

turned out to be “the best one yet” and I

hope we get asked to host more events in

the future.

I attended the 2024 Intertribal Symposium in Tulsa on July 12, 2024. The

agenda for this conference covered many

different topics that Oklahomans face.

The one meeting I found interesting was

the Native SBA 8(a). They discussed all

LT. GOVERNOR’S REPORT

Diane Ponkilla, AST Lt. Governor

Greetings AST Members,

I would like to thank the voters and extend

my appreciation for allowing me the opportunity to serve as the Lt. Governor. I was sworn

into office on Thursday, June 27, 2024 and my

first day was Friday, June 28, 2024. The first

week was getting set up with email, phone,

internet and moving the office from the back

office of building two to one of the front offic-

Misty McGirt, AST Secretary

SECRETARY

Misty McGirt

Hello Tribal Members,

I hope all is doing well during this heat

as this summer comes to an end for the

kids. I’d like to welcome our new Executive members LT. Governor Ponkilla

and Representative Johnson. This past

month was a little slow aside from the day

to day operations of business and meet-

the benefits of 8(a) for Oklahoma tribes

and how their members benefit from it as

well. It was very interesting and informative.

Summer is half way thru I ask you to

continue checking in on your tribal elders and anyone else that may be having

a hard time with the heat. The weather

doesn’t seem to be cooling down anytime

soon, so please stay hydrated and weather

aware.

Should you have any questions you may

reach me or my staff at the numbers listed

below.

governor@astribe.com 405-275-4030

ext: 3500

alvinab@astribe.com 405-275-4030 ext:

3501

Thank you

es. I met the new staff and re-acquainted with

the present staff. I hired Deric Spoon as my

Executive Assistant I believe he will be a great

asset to the department of the Lt. Governor.

Twyla Blanchard, Self-Governance/Bia/Roads

Director, Jarrod Lloyd, OEH Director, Lenard

Mathews, Maintenance Director and 11 other employees are also within the department.

We have been playing catch up with work orders and invoices. I am in office all day and we

are ready to assist and welcome any visitors.

Diane Ponkilla

Lt. GOVERNOR

Diane Ponkilla

SECRETARY’S REPORT

August 2024

ings. The Agriculture department hosted

their first ever corn demonstration event.

At this event participants learned how

to prepare corn for cooking along with

Shawnee words. This was a last minute

event that took place if you didn’t get to

attend my apologies we look forward to

seeing you at future events and will have

the information out in a timelier manner.

I attended the 72nd annual OCA (Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association) Conven-

Absentee shAwnee tribe Office Of Lt. GOvernOr

2A www.astribe.com

Diane

Ponkilla

Lt. Governor

Phone: 405.275.4030 Ext. 3503

Cell: 405.432.0733

Email: yvonne.ponkilla@astribe.com

2025 S. Gordon Cooper Dr.

Shawnee, OK 74801

tion in Norman Oklahoma July 19-20. It

was a great experience to attend and network with others to help make our agriculture department better for our Tribe

and Members. That’s all I have to report

on at this time if you have any questions

or concerns feel free to contact my office

by email: MMcGirt@astribe.com or by

phone: 405-275-4030 Ext: 3505.

Ne yi wa!

Secretary McGirt

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe Hosted

Leadership Native Oklahoma

TREASURER

Joseph Blanchard

REPRESENTATIVE

Anthony Johnson

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe hosted Leadership Native Oklahoma on June 24. The event held at the AST Multi-Purpose Building

was attended by several surrounding tribes. Representatives from Cultural Preservation gave a presentation called “Who Are We”

and several tribal departments gave overviews on the services they provide. The attendees also toured the AST complex, AST Police

Safety Center, AST food pantry, Building Blocks II, After School Program, Little Axe Health Clinic and Thunderbird Casino in

Norman and Shawnee.

“Leadership Native Oklahoma was a huge success.” Said Governor John Johnson. “We received amazing feedback with many,

many compliments of our campus and our programs. I hope we get asked to host more events in the future.”

Leadership Native Oklahoma is a statewide organization encompassing Native American Citizens from every region of the state

ensuring a diverse group of leaders. LNO is a unique opportunity to foster cohesiveness from a group of tribal leaders and future

tribal leaders from different backgrounds.

August 2024

www.astribe.com 3A

From the Election Commission

1st time

AST Voters

Where’s the Beef?

Hello Tribal Members,

Our Agriculture department has been very busy these past couple months. They

held their annual Fishing for Nutrition event. It was a great turn out thanks to

all the departments that contributed.

Cow Production- We have 147 head as of 7/15/2024. Recent vet visits we had

a C-section cow, 1 month old calf with bloat and pneumonia, and had to do a

lateral hoof amputation on one she is recovering well.

Hay Production- over 80 acres was cut and over 300 bales were made.

Crops- Corn and potatoes were harvested.

Summer Youth- Our AG department has had help from a great group of

summer youth workers. This is a very great learning experience for our youth.

So far they have had the opportunity to help building fence, harvested crops,

and learning the process of tagging and weighing new calves on the farm.

Our Agriculture department consists of two tribal employees and two ARPA

workers. We are looking forward to growing this program for our Tribe and

Tribal Members.

Maintenance Department

The Maintenance Department has swung into high gear repairing air

conditioners. Most repairs are because the systems are not being maintained

properly. I strongly recommend changing the air filter monthly keep grass and

debris off the outdoor unit. Wash the outdoor unit once in the spring and then

again midseason and try to turn the system higher during the day and lowering

the temperature in the evening. This will not only extend the life of the system

but help reduce your electric bill.

We have continued replacing the facia boards on building two. The east side

is almost complete and we are hoping to start the south side this week. The

replacement of the fascia boards and painting the trim should be completed by

fall.

We have started painting some handrails on the back of finance building.

After completing that building we will move to building two. Our goal is to

complete all the buildings this summer and fall. That will include painting and

removing rust stains.

Thank you!

NOT IC E

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SUBMIT AN ARTICLE OR STORY

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

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

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

August 2024

4A www.astribe.com

Tribal member Jimmy Squire will be featured in the upcoming book Native Links, the Surprising History of our First People in Golf by Mark Wagner. He was

also recently named the Veterans Golf Association player of the month. He also placed 3rd in state at Shangri-La state tournament in family flight C and is

currently ranked 8th in the state in the Veterans Golf Association rankings.

AST Elders Council

Hello, to fellow tribal members, Elders, Veterans and Executive Committee members and we want to thank the Travel Specialists in Procurement Braden

Queen & Elzabeth Jones for working with the Tribal Elders on making our travel arrangements to Dayton, Ohio. We all had a really great time touring the

Newarks Earthworks and the Dedication of the Great Council Museum that we attended the Grand Opening and heard the speeches of Governor Ohio, Mike

DeWine, First Lady Fran DeWine, Eastern Shawnee Governor, Glenna Wallace, Chief Shawnee Nation and Absentee Shawnee Treasurer, Joseph Blanchard. The

Tribal Elders were gratified to hear Treasurer, Joseph Blanchard put into words what we had known for years that we were the original inhabitants of Ohio and

it’s good to be back home in our country again. It was a momentous trip in my opinion as it was a chance for a reunification of the Shawnee’s historical place

in Ohio’s history. It was a very good Dedication of the new beautiful 3 story museum in the design of the Shawnee longhouse with a living stream on the first

floor along with a small theater.

The Tribal Elders would like to at this time extend a very big Thank You to Treasurer Joseph Blanchard because for the Elders to get around in Dayton, Ohio we

were able to rent a van and Joseph Blanchard graciously let me know that he offered to drive the Elders in Ohio. I have to admit this really relieved my worries as

to who is going to drive us around and I did not relish the idea of trying to drive around in Dayton, Ohio. That was really a daunting task but Joseph Blanchard

had his cell phone and ipad he hooked up front and once he pulled up

the maps and directions off we went. We all really had a good time in the van talking, joking around and laughing, some people driving that bothers them

everyone talking but not, Joseph Blanchard he joined in the talking and laughing. As a group when we went out to eat everyone got kind of quiet but after they

were fed everyone started talking and laughing the Veterans went to a couple of restaurants with the group. Also, the waitresses often joined in the joking and

laughing as well like at the Longhorn Steakhouse where we all had a very good meal. Of course after that lunch we all decided to go to the local Wal-Mart there

in Dayton and we bought a small plastic step stool so the Elders could step on getting out of the van. That evening the Eastern Shawnees invited us to a picnic at

Fort Ancient and after everyone had eaten they invited all of us to go on their big bus for a small tour to a look out spot of this huge green covered valley.

When we returned to the hotel to rest for our last day with a tour of the Newarks Earthworks in Newark and we were a a picnic out in the tree shade after we

made a tour of the circle mound and the Park and Archaeological highlights. Those highlights were explained to us was the circle and the Octagon Earthworks

are an architectural feat or astonishing precision. Newark Earthworks was named Ohio’s first UNESCO Heritage site on the list with Pyramids of Giza, the Great

Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, Stonehenge and the Great Barrier Reef. Along with all this background information that was provided to us by the people who

hosted our tour and our lunch we were informed that it was the Ancient Ones who they believe that the Shawnees are descendants of the very people who built

these mounds.

Then of course our time in Dayton, Ohio was drawing to an end as the Tribal Elders would have one last meal here supper and we would all get ready to fly

back to Oklahoma on June 9, 2024. We were all very tired and ready to come home. As I’m sure our families were all glad that we returned home safely.

I believe it was well worth the time spent getting ready for this trip tp Dayton, Ohio.

So the Tribal Elders are now preparing for the rest of our activities for the rest of the year.

Our list of Elders Meetings are below:

August 17, 2024 at 10:00 am at Warriors room Thunderbird Casino

September 21, 2024 at 10:00 am Multipurpose room

October 19, 2024 at 10:00 am Warriors room Thunderbird Casino

November 16, 2024 at 10:00 am Multipurpose room

December 21, 2024 a 10:00 am Warriors room Thunderbird Casino

Any questions call: Twila Parker 405-229-8052

Shirley Adkins-405-778-9353 Audrey Dodds 405-593-5987

Honor Guard

2024-2025

Calendar

Sac & Fox Nation, Absentee Shawnee Tribe,

Ioway Nation, Seminole Nation,

And Citizen Potawatomi Nation

Absentee Shawnee Veterans Association are selling them

for our Fundraiser for Honor Guard at Eastern Shawnees

in September 20, 21 & 22, 2024

SUPPORT THE ABSENTEE SHAWNEE VETERANS!!

Cost of Honor Guards of 5 nations $10.00

Contact: Jason Bender-405-441-0986

Contact: Twila Parker-405-229-8052

Contact: Sandra Abshire at LAHC

Charlotte Ellis 405-620-4091

August 2024

www.astribe.com

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma

Building Blocks C.D.C.

2025 S. Gordon Cooper Dr.

Shawnee, Ok. 74801

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

We had a busy and fun July at Building Blocks. The children loved

making 4th of July T-Shirts. They also have really enjoyed playing on

our splash pad. The classrooms have scheduled days to play on the

Splash Pad and it will continue throughout August.

We are currently hiring staff, if you are interested in applying visit

https://www.astribe.com/employment for applications and to see

what positions are available.

Building Blocks is accepting waiting list applications for all of our ages;

6 weeks through Pre-K/4 Year Olds. If you are interested in getting

your child on our waiting list please call and we can email you a

waiting list application or you may stop by to fill one out.

Summer is upon us and it is key to stay hydrated by drinking lots of

water. Our children have their own water jugs that they can freely

choose to drink throughout the day. Also, it is taken outside with the

children when they go out to play.

Building Blocks will be closed in August when the tribe is closed for

AST Day. Date to be announced.

Building Blocks will have lots of 4 and 5 year old children going to

Kindergarten and Pre-K this fall. SECC and TECC schools start back on

August 15th. We have 10 children going into Kindergarten and age out

of Building Blocks. There are 8 children going into Pre-K. We wish

them all the best of luck in their new learning adventures.

Have an Awesome August!

Ke n’we ke s’fwa

(kee n’wee kee s’thweh)

Long Month

August

M’ska qe – lake

(m’skeh qee)

Ho la l’we – swim

(hoh leh l’wee)

Fe po wa fe – river

(thee poh weh thee)

Na pe – water

(neh pee)

Hi ko fe – shade or sit in the shade Hi ko fe ki – umbrella

(hah koh thee)

(hah koh thee kah)

Hi pi li mo ta fi ke ge – It’s hot outside.

(hah pah lah moh teh thah kee chee)

Hi ko fe p’wi – You all sit in the shade.

(hah koh thee p’wah)

Ta pe m’ska ko ke ka hi pa – Let’s go to the lake.

(teh pee m’skeh koh kee keh hah peh)

Ka pi ho la l’we pa – Let’s go swimming.

(kay pah hoh leh l’wee peh)

T’ki n’we he ne na pe – The water is cold.

(t’kah n’wee hee nee neh pee)

Pi ho la l’we ke hi se ho wa se li si mo ko fe wi ge – They went swimming to feel good.

(pah hoh leh l’wee hee hah see hoh weh see lah sah moh koh thee wah chee)

Qe li he ka k’ge ta la ti pa ho ke qi ki ni he na pe ke – Watch out for stumps in the water.

(qee lah hee keh k’chee teh leh tah peh hoh kee qah kah nah ne na pee kee)

He ne ko ge! Ka we yi ki me li we pa hi se Si wi nwi to wa yi qa!

Si li no ke ka no la p’wi! Ne yi wa!

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma

Building Blocks III C.D.C

16051 Little Axe Drive, Norman, OK 73026

Phone: (405) 360-2710; Fax: (405) 360-2726

August Newsletter

In the Classroom

This month our Toddlers and

two-year-olds will be learning

about transportation and the

different ways to travel. The

students will focus on modes of

transportation, along with car

safety. Our three-year-olds will

be learning about the body

including what they look like on

the inside and out. They will

also explore the 5 senses. In the

4's & 5's classroom they will be

exercising and discussing why

being active is healthy for our

bodies. The school agers will

learn about bus safety, how to

respect our teachers and

friends, along with expectations

for the hallways and bathrooms,

to get ready for a new school

year.

In the Center

We had some amazing activities in

the center last month to

recognize our community

helpers! July 15th the Mad

Scientist came with their

presentation about dinosaurs.

July 18th the Norman Fire

Department came so the students

could learn more about fire

safety. The 24th we had a visit

from Extreme Animals where the

students were able to interact

with a variety of different

animals, and on the 31st the

Tribal Police Department came to

the center. We appreciate all of

the community helpers that help

our students learn and explore

the world around us!

You can find us on Facebook @ AST Building Blocks Child

Development Center III- Little Axe

to see all of our latest updates.

Director: Skye Foreman

Assistant Director: Renee Richardson

LEGAL NOTICE

5A

6A www.astribe.com

August 2024

Thunderbird Casino Anniversary Celebration Powwow

August 2024

www.astribe.com

7A

Slayer Dane Little Axe

Grade: 8th

Age: 13

Height: 5’ 10” Weight: 233 lbs

I’d like to wish my

youngest son a Happy

Birthday!

Absentee Shawnee Tribal Member Slayer Little

Axe is progressing towards his goal to play for the

Oklahoma Sooners through hard work and dedication, his goals are to play football for the Sooners possibly as Tight End or Defensive End. Slayer

has MCAD a genetic disorder that doesn’t allow

him to utilize fat stores as energy, he has to eat carbohydrates every few hours to keep him healthy.

Slayer has wrestled in Little League qualifying for

the State Tournament, and also has played in two

league championship football games for two different schools earning two silver rings. Here he is

pictured with Head Coach Brent Venables at his

second year at the Venables summer football camp.

Absentee Shawnee Tribal member Isaac Wilson is a graduate of Pendleton Heights High School, Pendleton, IN. He received a scholarship

to play football from Colorado Mesa University, Grand Junction, CO.

He is the son of Adam Wilson, grandson of Terry Wilson, and great

grandson of the late Francis Wilson.

Camp Nikoti Summer Camp 2024

Camp Nikoti’s 23rd Summer Camp started on June 10th and ended with the Final Reward Day Trip on July 9th. Camp Nikoti is open to all youth

ages 10-14 years old. We had camp for four weeks and four days out of the week. We had 40 youth that signed up for camp this year and 32

that attended and completed camp. Out of the 32 youth that completed camp, 17 were tribal youth. Our youth participated in all kinds of activities

such as playing games, team building, arts and crafts, singing, gardening, cooking, prevention activities, cultural activities and more. We did two

evening events where the kids got to hangout, watch a movie, and enjoy some down time with each other. During one of the evening events

we had a water inflatable out for the kids to play on, and we provided Pizza for dinner. We had several guest speakers come out to contribute,

present, and do activities with our kids such as: The AST Police Department, Emergency Management, Native Connections, TOR, SAMHSA

grants, OEH, Domestic Violence, Education, Cedric Sunray and Tdoha Sunray, Jayden Watson with Eagle Adventure, Diabetes and Wellness,

Cultural Preservation and the AST Housing Authority. We would like to thank all of them for taking the time to come out and be a part of camp,

and for their help and contributions. We also went on several field trips throughout the summer. We went to the University of Oklahoma’s College

of Education for the day, Lake Wewoka twice, the OKC Zoo, Ron’s Hamburger and Chili, and Shawnee Bowl. The end of Camp Reward Day that

the youth had to work toward earning, we went to Cracker Barrel in Norman, the Water-Zoo Indoor Water Park in Clinton, Celebration Station in

OKC, Toby Keith’s Restaurant in Moore, and to watch Despicable Me 4 at the Moore Warren Movie Theater. The kids had a lot of fun and Camp

was a great success.

August 2024

8A www.astribe.com

Ki ke fi pa Ti me (kah kee thah peh dah mee) - Let’s dry corn!

On July 18 The AST Agriculture Department hosted a class on how to prepare corn for cooking and learn Shawnee words for different parts of corn.

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe will be closed

Friday, August 30 - AST Day & Monday, Sepember 2 - Labor Day

Tribal Member Corner:

August Article:

Submitted the draft resolution, for 2-year Executive Committee term in January. Asked to be

placed on the EC agenda, to send to a referendum for vote by members. It has not been done to

date?

Back 2 School

Thanks to Cody and Bryce from the HVAC department, for their services. I am thankful, that the

tribe has this service for the members.

I hope that many of us, can visit the Great Council State Park in Xenia, OH.

Also, if you have never attended the Tecumseh play in Chillicothe, OH, it is something to view.

Get ready Mom and Dad, it’s that time again! Shopping for clothes,

supplies, lunches and all the things your child will need to get off to a good

start for the year. You can do this!

I hope that you can attend, a Native American Comedy night, at the Bricktown Comedy Club in

Oklahoma City, some day. By the time this publishes, they had one July 21 st. I attended one,

couple of years ago.

It might also be a good time to mention that we can help with a savings

account to help save for all the things you need rather than using a credit

card and paying high interest.

A book to read, 100 things to do in Oklahoma City before you die, by Jeff Provine and Dennis

Spielman. It provides restaurants, museums, places to see.

Come in and let us show you the options for saving for the future!

Recently, I was in Osage country, where they filmed Killers of the Flower Moon. I did forget to

stop by their meat market. I did purchase some rare, white buffalo turquoise jewelry. I never

heard of white buffalo. It is a white and black stone, from one mine in Nevada.

Great to see, many young Shawnees participating at the South dance ground.

Thanks to the tribe for providing services, that you currently do.

Eileen Pearce, Tribal Member

Questions, comments: Lapearce@att.net

4052272036

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

www.anbok.com

www.asthealth.org

August 2024

Section B

ASTHS August 2024 Monthly Update

National Immunization Awareness Month

National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) is an annual observance

held in August to highlight the importance of vaccination for people of all ages.

Together, we can help raise awareness about the importance of vaccination and

encourage people to talk to a healthcare provider they trust about staying up to

date on their vaccinations.

On-time vaccination throughout childhood is essential because it helps provide

immunity before children are exposed to potentially life-threatening diseases. Vaccines are tested to ensure that they are safe and effective for children to receive at

the recommended ages.

Vaccines Protect Against Diseases

Different vaccines work in different ways, but every vaccine helps the body’s immune system learn how to fight germs. It typically takes a few weeks for protection

to develop after vaccination, but that protection can last a lifetime. A few vaccines,

such as those for tetanus or seasonal flu, require occasional booster doses to maintain the body’s defenses.

Strengthening Your Baby’s Immune System

Immunity is the body’s way of preventing disease. Because a baby’s immune system is not fully developed at birth, babies face a greater risk of becoming infected

and getting seriously ill. Vaccines help teach the immune system how to defend

against germs. Vaccination protects your baby by helping build up their natural

defenses.

•

•

•

Children are exposed to thousands of germs every day. This happens

through the food they eat, the air they breathe, and the things they put in

their mouth.

Babies are born with immune systems that can fight most germs, but

some germs cause serious or even deadly diseases a baby can’t handle. For

those, babies need the help of vaccines.

Vaccines use very small amounts of antigens to help your child’s immune

system recognize and learn to fight serious diseases. Antigens are the parts

of a germ that cause the body’s immune system to go to work.

Vaccine Ingredients

Today’s vaccines use only the ingredients they need to be as safe and effective as

possible. A vaccine could include any of these kinds of ingredients:

•

•

•

•

Adjuvants such as aluminum salts help boost the body’s response to a vaccination. (Also found in antacids, antiperspirants, etc.)

Stabilizers such as sugars or gelatin help keep a vaccine effective after it is

manufactured. (Naturally present in the body and found in foods such as

Jell-O®.)

Formaldehyde helps prevent bacterial contamination during manufacturing. Formaldehyde is naturally present in the body at levels higher than vaccines. (Also found in the environment, preservatives, and household products.)

Thimerosal is a preservative used in the vaccine manufacturing process. It

is no longer used to make any vaccine except multi-dose vials of the flu vaccine. Single dose vials of the flu vaccine are available as an alternative.

Some websites may claim that ingredients are harmful; make sure you seek information from credible sources.

Vaccines Are Safe

Before a new vaccine is ever given to people, extensive lab testing is done. Once

testing in people begins, it can still take years before clinical studies are complete

and the vaccine is licensed.

After a vaccine is licensed, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), CDC,

National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other federal agencies continue routine

monitoring and investigate any potential safety concerns.

Why Your Child Should Get Vaccinated

Vaccines can prevent common diseases that used to seriously harm or even kill

infants, children, and adults. Without vaccines, your child is at risk of becoming

seriously ill or even dying from childhood diseases such as measles and whooping

cough.

How Vaccines Strengthen Your Baby’s Immune System

Your child is exposed to thousands of germs every day in his environment. This

happens through the food he eats, air he breathes and things he puts in his mouth.

Babies are born with immune systems that can fight most germs, but there are

some deadly diseases they can’t handle. That’s why they need vaccines to strengthen their immune system. Vaccines use very small amounts of antigens to help your

child’s immune system recognize and learn to fight serious diseases. Antigens are

parts of germs that cause the body’s immune system to go to work. Thirty years ago,

vaccines used 3,000 antigens to protect against 8 diseases by age two. Today, vaccines use 305 antigens to protect against 14 diseases by age two. Thanks to scientific

advances, today’s vaccines can protect children from more diseases using fewer

antigens. Vaccines contain only a tiny fraction of the antigens that babies encounter in their environment every day. Vaccines help strengthen your baby’s immune

system and keep him safe from vaccine-preventable diseases.

Keeping Track of Records

It’s important for you to keep track of your child’s vaccination records. CDC

does not keep vaccination records. The following resources can help you find and

update your vaccine records. Keep your child’s vaccination records in a safe place

beginning with their first vaccine. Your child’s doctor will keep a record of vaccines

given in their clinic. Ask your child’s doctor or nurse how they keep vaccination

records and how you can get an official copy. You can also ask your child’s doctor

to enter vaccination information in your state’s immunization information system

(IIS), a statewide registry for records.

Why You Need Your Child’s Vaccine Records

It is important to keep your child’s vaccination records (the history of which vaccines they received) up to date and in a safe place. Without documentation, your

child might not be allowed to attend school, play sports, or travel abroad. Your

child may need their vaccination records later as adults for certain occupations.

Ø School and Childcare: Vaccine requirements for schools or childcare facilities are different in each state. Talk to your school system or childcare facility

to learn about the requirements where you live.

Ø Extracurricular Activities and Teams: Some athletic programs, sports

teams, summer camps or other activities require physical examinations and

vaccinations. Talk to your child’s athletic department or program to learn the

requirements.

Ø Adoption and Fostering: When adopting or fostering a child, it is important

to know their vaccination history. You or your children might need additional shots.

Schedule Your Child’s Visit Now

School will be starting soon so now is the time so schedule your child’s doctor

visit and check to see if they are due any vaccinations. Don’t forget to bring in

their vaccination card so the nurse can update it. Make your child’s appointment

by calling the Little Axe Health Center at (405) 447-0300 or the Shawnee Clinic at

(405) 878-5850.

References:

CDC (2024). How Vaccines Strengthen Your Baby’s Immune System. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/

parents/infographics/strengthen-baby-immune-system.html#text

CDC (2024). Making the Vaccine Decision: Addressing Common Concerns. https://www.cdc.gov/

vaccines/parents/why-vaccinate/vaccine-decision.html

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

Shawnee Health Center

NEW SHAWNEE HEALTH CLINIC! (Coming Soon)

39665 Benson Park Road, Shawnee, OK 74801 (adjacent to Tecumseh Lake)

Architect and Construction Manager have been selected. Design Phase has begun

with schematic workshops (Department Heads) ongoing. Planning for Groundbreaking Ceremony is ongoing.

July 2024 Health Employee Awards of the Month

Employee of the Month: Kara Douthit, LPN – Specialty Clinic

Team of the Month: Alzheimer’s Program

Special Leadership Award: Darlene Perryman, HIM Director/ Privacy Officer

Chris A. Larkin, MBA, FACHE, CHC

Executive Director

Happy Health Fair, Everyone!

We are so blessed to have been able to host our annual health fair on Friday, July 12th, 2024 after five long years. The pandemic knocked us down, but

we’re happy to be back!

We had around 150 people visit us at our fair and we received a lot of positive feedback both about the decorations and the information we provided

about our well-trained departments and programs. Our staff worked tirelessly to ensure we gave you a wild time and we couldn’t have navigated this

jungle of an event with them!

We are grateful to help you all understand the services we offer here at Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System. We thank you for visiting us during

this year’s health fair and we can’t wait to see you again!

If you didn’t have a chance to visit us, please enjoy these pictures from the event and check out our website for our next upcoming events—and

remember, Don’t Monkey Around With Your Health!

August 2024

2B www.astribe.com

Purchase Referred Care (PRC)

Policy Reminder

Purchased Referred Care (formally referred to as Contract Health)

would like to remind all tribal members to report all outside

office visits to the PRC department at least 48 hours prior to your

appointment so that we can process a Coordina�on of Benefits

(COB) to cover your visit.

ER visits must be reported to PRC within 72 hours of the visit to

be considered for payment.

To be eligible for payment of outside services, tribal members

must be in compliance with PRC guidelines, which include

providing the following to the PRC department:

• An Up-To-Date CDIB card,

• Proof of Residence within the AST Catchment Area,

• Copies of All Commercial Insurance Cards, and

• A SoonerCare Applica�on.

Thank you for allowing us to serve you in your healthcare needs!

Phone: (405) 701-7951

Email: PRC@astribe.com

August 2024

www.astribe.com

3B

AST DAY 8/30

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

1

5

SALISBURY STEAK

MASHED POT/GRAVY

BRUSSEL SPROUTS

PEARS

12

SLICED HAM

YAM PATTY

PEAS & CARROTS

BREAD/FRUIT

19

SMOKED SAUSAGE

MAC & CHEZ

VEGGIES

TROPICAL FRUIT

26

SLICED HAM

SCALLOPED POT

BLACK EYED PEAS

PUDDING

6

13

BURRITO

CHIPS/SALSA

SPAINSH RICE

COOKIE

SLOPPY JOE

SANDWICH

ONION RINGS

PICKLES

20

CHICKEN ALFREDO

BROCCOLI

GARLIC TOAST

27

CHICKEN STRIPS

MASHED POT/GRAVY

BEETS

ROLL/FRUIT

BAKED CHICKEN

WILD RICE

BROCCOLI

PUDDING

7

BEEF TIPS & NOODLES

VEGGIES

SALAD BAR*

BREAD

14

CHEF SALAD

W/CHICKEN

EGGS,CHEZ

COTTAGE

CHEZ/PEACHES

21

SHEPHERD’S PIE

PEARS

8

28

29

TUNA SALAD

SANDWICH

LETT & TOM

CHIPS

FLUFF

WEINERS & KRAUT

GREENBEANS

BREAD

MIXED FRUIT

15

HAM WRAP

LTOP

CHIPS

ICE CREAM

22

ROAST

CARROTS

RED POT

CAKE

MIPPA EVENT

LARC

DETAILS COMING

SOON

FRIDAY

2

CEREAL

SAUSAGE PATTIES

FRUIT

9*

SCRAMBLED EGGS

BACON

TOAST/FRUIT

16

SCRAMBLED EGGS

SAUSAGE GRAVY

BISCUIT

23*

OATMEAL

SAUSAGE PATTIES

TOAST/FRUIT

30

AST DAY

NO MEALS WILL BE

DELIVERED OR

SERVED

*MENU SUBJECT TO CHANGE*

LUNCH SERVED MONDAY – THURSDAY 11 AM TO 1 PM

BREAKFAST SERVED FRIDAYS 9 AM TO 11 AM

SHAWNEE SITE AND LITTLE AXE RESOURCE CENTER

Educating the Young and Old

On Friday, June 28, 2024, our Alzheimer’s Disease Program Initiative (ADPI) program and Public Health department visited the 477 Youth program at the AST After School

Program Building.

Atheda Fletcher, Grant Project Principle Investigator for ADPI, presented her grant program services and encouraged the youth group to practice healthy habits—such as

eating healthy foods, exercising, and avoiding harmful substances—to help prevent the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s later in their lives.

The Public Health department also gave a brief presentation about their community-centered services to the 477 Youth program and encouraged them to continue to pursue

their career goals regardless of how old they are when they start. Beverly Felton, the ASTHS Public Health Director, described her path toward achieving a higher education

in health care while growing her family.

“Don’t let anyone tell you what you can’t do,” Felton said.

The youth also took an opportunity to explore the two mobile units provided by the Public Health department. The units act as mobile health care rooms with vaccines and

first aid materials onboard.

After their presentation, both programs set up at the AST Multi-Purpose Building for the Elders Abuse Awareness Event, hosted by the Tribe’s Domestic Violence program.

The ADPI program educated the attending elders on their services and ways to prevent or slow the progression of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, while the Public Health

department displayed their mobile units to help showcase what they do for both the Tribal community and more.

August 2024

4B www.astribe.com

WE ARE

HIRING

Apply at www.astribe.com/employment

August 2024

www.astribe.com

5B

ADDICTION AND THE BRAIN

Keep in mind nobody strives to be addicted to drugs. Yet you may have heard stories of or witnessed a person misuse drugs and lose everything - their children, family,

friends, job, housing, self-respect, dignity and freedom - and still keep misusing drugs. And question why won’t they just stop? Another question to consider is why can’t they

stop?

“NIH-funded scientists are working to learn more about the biology of addiction. They’ve shown that addiction is a long-lasting and complex brain disease, and that current

treatments can help people control their addictions. But even for those who’ve successfully quit, there’s always a risk of the addiction returning, which is called relapse.

Researchers have found that much of addiction’s power lies in its ability to hijack and even destroy key brain regions that are meant to help us survive.

A healthy brain rewards healthy behaviors—like exercising, eating, or bonding with loved ones. It does this by switching on brain circuits that make you feel wonderful,

which then motivates you to repeat those behaviors. In contrast, when you’re in danger, a healthy brain pushes your body to react quickly with fear or alarm, so you’ll get out

of harm’s way. If you’re tempted by something questionable—like eating ice cream before dinner or buying things you can’t afford—the front regions of your brain can help you

decide if the consequences are worth the actions.

But when you’re becoming addicted to a substance, that normal hardwiring of helpful brain processes can begin to work against you. Drugs or alcohol can hijack the

pleasure/reward circuits in your brain and hook you into wanting more and more. Addiction can also send your emotional danger-sensing circuits into overdrive, making you

feel anxious and stressed when you’re not using the drugs or alcohol. At this stage, people often use drugs or alcohol to keep from feeling bad rather than for their pleasurable

effects.” (BIOLOGY OF ADDICTION. NIH NEWS IN HEALTH, OCTOBER 2015.)

A common belief is that a person stays addicted because they choose not to stop using, because an addict should be able to stop anytime, right? However, as a person becomes

addicted, the reward pathways of their brain also change. It can make a person crave the very substance they are trying to avoid. Side by side on the pathway to addiction is

also the addicted person’s pathway to brain disease.

For each native person we lose to brain disease, the Native community becomes even smaller. In rebuilding and strengthening Native communities, it’s important we find

ways to support persons in active addiction or in recovery from addiction who are trying to embrace a safer, healthier lifestyle. One way we can support persons in active

addiction or recovery is to understand the nature of addiction.

Keep an eye out through the AST/ASTHS newsletter and social media for information relating to the National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day, August 21st,

International Overdose Awareness Day, August 31st, and National Recovery Month, the month of September.

with communication disabilities may use assistive technologies, which can be misunderstood,

considered weird, or even desired by peers. These additional factors can lead to verbal bullying,

such as using the hurtful and stereotyped word “retard” and even physical bullying. 9

Bullying: What American Indian and Alaska Native

Parents Need to Know

Bullying continues to be a significant problem for youth, parents, school counselors, and many

others. This paper provides general information about bullying, and specific information about

bullying of Native youth and those with disabilities. It also offers action steps for parents to

take. We hope Parent Centers will share this resource in trainings with Native parents and in

information booths at Native community events.

What is Bullying?

The U. S. Department of Education defines bullying as “unwanted, aggressive behavior among

school-aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is

repeated, or has the potential to be repeated, over time.”1 The term power imbalance means

that one young person has or seems to have more physical strength, popularity, or access to

embarrassing information than the person being bullied.

Examples of bullying behaviors include intentionally making threats, teasing, name-calling,

pushing, kicking, biting, hitting, stealing or damaging another’s property, spreading rumors or

others’ secrets, and excluding someone from a group. Nationally, between 25-33% of students

report being bullied in one or more of these ways at school.2

Bullying is different from normal childhood conflict or everyday rough-housing. It’s about

control. We cannot shrug it off as “kids will be kids.” Those who bully:

• select a target who is smaller, younger, or less able to cope socially (power imbalance);

• pick on the target day after day (repetition); and

• enjoy seeing their target afraid and upset (intention).

Who are Common Bullying Targets?

In general, youth who are targeted and bullied are seen as being different from their peers in

some way. They may be bullied based on their weight, gender, sexual orientation, religious

beliefs, race, and/or disability. Targets may be loners, new students, or new immigrants.3

What are the Impacts of Bullying?

Children who are bullied can become increasingly withdrawn, sad, frustrated, and aggressive.

Most begin to avoid peers, social events, and school. Truancy and poor school performance can

result. They may show signs of stress, complain of headaches or stomachaches, and have

trouble sleeping. Depression and feelings of hopelessness are serious warning signs for

parents.4

Why are Native Youth Bullied?

American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) children are

often targeted because of their race. Nationally, at least

1 in 5 minority students report being bullied specifically

for their race.5 If you are a parent or relative of an AI/AN

child, you may have experienced how common it is for

Native young people to be bullied.

Those who bully

seek out targets who

have less power, whether it

is a physical weakness

or less social status.

Native youths are likely targeted because negative stereotypes and misconceptions about

American Indians and Alaska Natives still exist. Such stereotypes encourage racist beliefs and

behaviors. These stereotypes are difficult to eliminate, because they have become part of the

accepted history of this country. After the taking of Indian lands and subsequent wars, the new

United States government depicted the original Native inhabitants as inferior.6 Federal policies

further marginalized Native peoples.

Currently, Native communities and organizations continue to struggle against the use of Indians

as sports team mascots and negative commercial logos. Turning Natives into caricatures

belittles American Indians/Alaska Natives as a people and reinforces stereotypes. As one Navajo

blogged: “These degrading images and (our) outright erasure slowly accumulated in the minds

of Native youth to the point of believing we are less than.” 7

Stereotypes can also play a role in the bullying of Native youth when they excel in school. They

may experience verbal harassment and social isolation when they don’t conform to the

stereotype that AI/AN youth will perform poorly in school.

In some homes, young Native people grow up witnessing the isolating effects of poverty,

substance abuse, domestic violence, and feeling “less than.” Without social supports, they may

want to make themselves feel better and release their anger and frustration, so may resort to

bullying others, including other AI/AN youth.

Why are Native Youths with Disabilities Bullied?

Recent studies indicate that students with disabilities are one of the groups most targeted for

bullying. They are 2-3 times more likely to be bullied than their nondisabled peers.8 Consider

the vulnerability of young people who are Native and have a disability.

Remember that those who bully seek out targets who have less power, whether it’s a physical

weakness or less social status. We know that children with disabilities often start out with a

lower social standing among their peers, and they struggle with school work and self-esteem

issues. These factors alone can make them frequent targets of bullying.

What Can a Parent Do about Bullying?

Listen to your child/teenager. If they tell you they’ve been bullied, listen and remain as calm as

you can. Let them know you are there for them.

Be careful not to shame or blame. Most youth will be embarrassed and ashamed already and

feel the bullying incident was their own fault. They will also worry that they’ve disappointed

you or will make you angry. Instead, honor them for the courage it took to come forward.

Raise the issue of bullying. If you notice warning signs, such as avoiding school or increased

sadness, but your child hasn’t mentioned bullying, bring it up in a caring conversation. Let

children know they are not alone.

Be a role model. Bullying among family members, especially brothers and sisters, called sibling

bullying, is also common. Prevent all bullying in your own home.

Address school-level bullying. If the bullying is taking place at school or on the school bus,

notify your child’s teacher(s) and the school administrator. Ask for a copy of the school’s

Student Code of Conduct and the bullying prevention plan. Use those documents to pressure

the school for better enforcement.

Write anti-bullying strategies into your child’s IEP. Students with disabilities who receive

services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) will have an Individualized

Education Program (IEP). The IDEA requires that a free appropriate public education be made

available to every student receiving special education services. Bullying at school can prevent

students with disabilities from receiving that education. Parents can call an IEP meeting at any

time. Write into the IEP new strategies to prevent bullying of your child, such as allowing your

child to leave classes early to avoid hallway bullying.

Become aware of your state’s anti-bullying legislation. All 50 states now have laws against

bullying of young people, especially in or near schools. State laws will apply on state-recognized

reservations.

Learn about tribal anti-bullying legislation and resources. If you live on a federal reservation,

the state legislation won’t apply. Instead, check with your Tribal Council about local tribal laws

that may apply to bullying. If none exists, urge the Council to pass such laws for the protection

of the tribe’s youth. Even without a tribal law, some reservation communities have initiated

anti-bullying programs. Learn about them and other local, bullying-related resources, and begin

a local campaign.

Know your federal rights. If a Native American youth is bullied because of his or her race, or if a

youth with disabilities is bullied because of his or her disability, those behaviors may be

considered discrimination and harassment, which are against federal civil rights laws. You can

seek federal assistance from the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) within the U. S. Department of

Education at ocr@ed.gov. Visit OCR online for information about how and where you can file a

complaint: http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/complaintintro.html

Form a coalition of other concerned parents. Work with other parents, your extended family,

elders, school staff, mental health workers, and other allies to prevent bullying in your urban,

rural, or reservation community. A community-wide effort shows that local adults care.

References

1

stopbullying.gov. (n.d.). What is bullying? Retrieved March 17, 2020 from:

https://www.stopbullying.gov/bullying/what-is-bullying

2

stopbullying.gov. (n.d.) Frequency of bullying. Retrieved March 17, 2020 from from:

https://www.stopbullying.gov/bullying/what-is-bullying#frequency

3

National Education Association. (2014). Bully free: It starts with me. Washington, DC: Author. Available online at:

http://www.nea.org/home/neabullyfree.html

4

National Education Association. (2014). Identify bullying. Washington, DC: Author. Available online at:

http://www.nea.org/home/53359.htm

5

Campbell, E.M., & Smalling, S.E. (2013, September). American Indians and bullying in schools. Journal of

Indigenous Social Development, 2(1), 1-2.

6

Butterfield, R. (2016). What parent centers need to know: Historical perspectives for working with Native

American parents. Albuquerque, NM: Native American Parent Technical Assistance Center (NAPTAC). Online at:

https://www.parentcenterhub.org/naptac-tier1-culture/

7

Slater, S., & Wright, J. (2016, October 25). Stopbullying blog: The impact of community in Navajo life. Available

online at: https://www.stopbullying.gov/blog/2016/10/25/impact-community-navajo-life

8

AbilityPath.org. (2015). Walk a mile in their shoes: Bullying and the child with special needs. Available online at:

http://abilitypath.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/walk-a-mile-in-their-shoes.pdf

9

Ibid.

This brief has been written by Joann Sebastian Morris for the Native American Parent Technical

Assistance Center (NAPTAC).

The brief was produced under U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs No.

H328R130012-14. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent the positions or policies of the

Department of Education. This product is in the public domain. Authorization to reproduce it in whole or in part is

granted. While permission to reprint this publication is not necessary, the citation should be:

Morris, J.S. (2016). Bullying: What Native American parents need to know. Albuquerque, NM: Native

American Parent Technical Assistance Center (NAPTAC). Available online at:

https://www.parentcenterhub.org/naptac-tier3-education-youth/

In addition, youth with developmental disabilities may have limited social skills. Those with

motor difficulties have issues with reading, writing, and participating in physical activities.

Children with visible, physical disabilities may move slower and with an impaired gait. Those

AUGUST IS CHILDREN’S EYE HEALTH AND SAFETY MONTH

BE SURE AND MAKE AN EYE EXAM PART

OF YOUR BACK TO SCHOOL PREPARATION!

ASTHS VISION CLINIC

15702 E. HIGHWAY 9

NORMAN, OK 73026

405.701.7606

August 2024

6B www.astribe.com

2024 ASTHS Health Fair

Run/Walk for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) Awareness