# Among the Shawnee Podcast Coming Soon (2023)

> Briefs, arguments, decisions, and more.

URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aabsentee%3Aa78f48f5b030071e

## Record

- **Collection:** Tribal code
- **Document type:** Tribal code

## Text

www.astribe.com

THE ABSENTEE
SHAWNEE NEWS
Volume 33, No. 10

October 2023

Among the Shawnee Podcast Coming Soon

The Absentee Shawnee Media Department is launching a podcast. The broadcast called ‘Among the Shawnee’ will feature interviews with the AST Executive
Committee, department heads/employees and tribal members.
The first episode will feature AST Governor John Johnson outlining his four-year plan on his next term in office. The upcoming episodes will cover a range of
topics such as language, health, culture and interviews with the Executive Committee. Future episodes include the Executive Committee answering questions
sent in from tribal members.
The goal of the podcast is adding another avenue of information for tribal members. This is a way to go more in-depth on programs and issues. Department
heads can talk more about their programs and explain services offered to members. Tribal members will also be invited to share their stories.
Podcasts are a way to have more one on one conversation and go deeper into issues and concerns that affect tribal members. And more importantly they
preserve the stories and rich history Among the Shawnee.

Network of ancient American Indian earthworks in
Ohio named as UNESCO World Heritage sites
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — A network of ancient American Indian ceremonial and burial
mounds in Ohio described as “part cathedral, part cemetery and part astronomical observatory”
was added Tuesday to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Preservationists, led by the Ohio History Connection, and indigenous tribes, many with
ancestral ties to the state, pushed to recognize the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks for their
good condition, distinct style and cultural significance — describing them as “masterpieces of
human genius.”
UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee approved the application during a meeting in Saudi
Arabia.
The massive earthworks comprise eight ancient sites spread across 150 kilometers (90 miles) of
what is present-day southern Ohio, including one located on the grounds of a private golf course
and country club. The designation puts the spot in the same category as wonders of the world A calendar marking mound at Fort Ancient earthworks, Tuesday, Sept.
including Greece’s Acropolis, Peru’s Machu Picchu and the Great Wall of China.
19, 2023, in Oregonia, Ohio. Fort Ancient is part of a network of ancient
Constructed by American Indians between 2,000 and 1,600 years ago along central tributaries of American Indian ceremonial and burial mounds around Ohio that
the Ohio River, the earthworks were host to ceremonies that drew people from across the continent, were added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites. (AP Photo/
Joshua A. Bickel)
based on archeological discoveries of raw materials from as far west as the Rocky Mountains.
Elaborate ceremonialism linked to “the order and rhythms of the cosmos” is evident in the “beautiful ritual objects, spectacular offerings of religious icons and
regalia” found at the sites, the application said.
Interior Secretary Deb Haaland said the designation is a “tremendous” recognition of America’s Indigenous people.
“World Heritage designation is an opportunity for the United States to share the whole story of America and the remarkable diversity of our cultural heritage,
as well as the beauty of our land,” she said in a statement.
The eight Hopewell sites are noteworthy for their enormous scale, geometric precision and astronomical breadth and accuracy — such as encoding all eight
lunar standstills over an 18.6-year cycle.
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay said the earthworks’ inclusion on the heritage list “will make this important part of American history known
around the world.”
“Just three months after rejoining UNESCO, the United States has its twenty-fifth site inscribed on the World Heritage List, which illustrates the richness
and diversity of the country’s cultural and natural heritage,” she said. “This inscription on the World Heritage List highlights the important work of American
archaeologists, who discovered here remains dating back 2000 years, constituting one of the largest earthwork constructions in the world.”
The National Congress of American Indians, the Inter-Tribal Council representing tribes living in Northeast Oklahoma and the Seneca Nation of New York
State were among tribes that supported the UNESCO designation.
The application process was slowed by a protracted court battle to restore public access to one of the earthworks leased to the Moundbuilders Country Club,
whose members-only golf course sits inside it. A ruling of the Ohio Supreme Court in December allowed Ohio History Connection, the state’s historical society,
to proceed with an ongoing effort to gain control of the Octagon Earthworks in Newark, one of eight sites recognized.
History Connection CEO and Executive Director Megan Wood said that Tuesday’s inscription of the site was the culmination of more than a decade of work
by her organization and its partners, including tribes and the National Park Service.
“We are beyond excited to share these sites with more and more Ohioans, Americans and world travelers,” she said.
Other sites included under the new designation are: Fort Ancient Earthworks in Oregonia and Great Circle Earthworks in Heath; and five sites within the
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park in Chillicothe: Mound City Group, Hopewell Mound Group, Seip Earthworks, High Bank Earthworks and Hopeton
Earthworks.

91ST SEMI-ANNUAL GENERAL COUNCIL MEETING
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2023 - 10:00 AM
AST HEALTH MULTI-PURPOSE BUILDING - SHAWNEE, OK

2A www.astribe.com

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

GOVERNOR’S REPORT

John Johnson, AST Governor

Hello Tribal members,
As summer ends and the extreme heat
subsides, I am looking forward to fall
weather and Football season, I hope you
are too. I can’t believe this year is almost
over. The next couple of months are all
holiday months, first Halloween, Thanksgiving, and then Christmas and before
you know it we will be heading into 2024.

GOVERNOR
John Johnson

Lt. GOVERNOR
Ezra DeLodge

LT. GOVERNOR’S REPORT

Ezra DeLodge, AST Lt. Governor

Tribal Members,
Please see below for department updates. If you have any questions or concerns please contact me by email ezrad@
astribe.com, call my office 405-275-4030
x 6253 or cell 405-432-0733.
Maintenance:
The Absentee Shawnee Tribal Maintenance Department is currently staffed
by seven full-time employees. The Maintenance Department has been working hard to maintain all incoming work
orders which consist of minor repairs,
plumbing, electrical, welding, moving/
rearranging offices and assembling/installing new furniture, and ground maintenance such as mowing, weed eating and
edging. Housekeeping has been working
effortlessly with maintaining the upkeep
of the buildings on the complex. I would
like to thank the Maintenance staff for all
the hard work they do for the department
and Tribe.
OEH:
Our office has developed a Facebook

SECRETARY’S REPORT

Misty McGirt, AST Secretary

SECRETARY
Misty McGirt

First off I would like to thank all for
supporting me and giving me a chance
to lead our people for all our tribal members. After further investigation’s initiated
from former Secretary I was cleared August 9th.
Since being sworn in July 5th I have
been getting settled in my office and familiar with my duties, staff, and departments. Aside from conducting meetings

REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORT

DeWayne Wilson, AST Representative

TREASURER
Joseph Blanchard

REPRESENTATIVE
DeWayne Wilson

Hello Tribal Members, again I hope
everyone is healthy and continues to
look out for one another during the hot
weather. I would like to acknowledge all
the hard work and time of the Education
Dept. and 477 staff in distributing the
much needed school supplies to our Tribal community.
477 Program: I would like to acknowledge this year, 2023, this Executive Committee approved Public Law 102- 477,
which allows our Tribe to create a 477
Program, one stop shop with services.
The CCDF Department, Education Department (JOM and Job Placement and
Training (JPT), Adult Education Programs) and WIOA (Youth and Adult)
were the four programs, we chose to start
with. The 477 Program is designed to help
our Tribal members but also other tribal members from different Tribes within
our services area. The main emphasis is
training and employment. Presently, the
477 program are taking applications for
this program in the training and employment areas. We, Executive Committee,
are using some 477 construction funding
to renovate the Tecumseh Square building, to provide 477 Program offices and
career center office to help better service
the 477 participant. There is a lot of potential for our 477 Program, I just ask you
to be patient and work with us for it is a
new program and process.
Education Department: The Education staff continues awarding students
their financial aid for the Fall 2023 school
year. This financial aid is for the Graduate, Higher Ed Incentive Award, Academ-

October 2023

I have several conferences coming up
in October, therefore I will be in and out
most of the month. I will be attending the
NOFOA conference, NCAI conference,
and the Tribal Nations Conference. These
three conferences are important to all
Tribal leaders. I look forward to getting
all the important updates for year 2024.
General Council has been set for October 14, 2023 at 10:00 in Shawnee at the
Multi-purpose building. I hope to see
everyone there. I will be giving updates
on all the projects I am working on with a

short hand out of the Police Department
progress and the new Afterschool Building progress. I’ll also share information
on the “new” Horseshoebend building,
this construction will begin very soon.
If you have any question you may call
myself of assistant at 405-275-4030 ext.
3500 or 3501.
You may also email me at governor@astribe.com or alvinab@astribe.com.
Thank you
Governor Johnson

page that will allow you to follow and
comment on our Brownfield Tribal Response Program activities. https://www.
facebook.com/pages/Absentee-Shawnee-Tribe-Brownfield-Response-Program/1439930279621958 . We also have
a link on the Tribes website that lists
the properties we currently have on our
Brownfield property inventory. If you
have land that may have had or currently
is used for petroleum production that you
have concerns about please call our office.
The new Police Safety Center is on
schedule to be completed in January of
2024. The exterior metal and brick has
been completed, as well as the interior
framing, and evidence room. The storm
shelter/EOC room will be completed in
the coming weeks with the top cap.
We would like to remind Tribal Members that if they see any activities related
to illegal dumping of trash or other discarded items on Tribal lands to please
contact OEH at the email or phone number listed below.
Jarrod Lloyd, OEH&E Director
jlloyd@astribe.com - (405) 214-4235
Self-Governance
Currently the House and the Senate

cannot come to an agreement so there is
a possibility of a government shutdown.
This will not be good for the tribes. We
need to expect at least one CR (Continuing Resolution) between October 1, 2023
and through January 1, 2024. As far as
IHS, they have Advanced Appropriations
of $4.6 billion for FY2024. Budgets continue to get cut. The biggest cut will be
in education. JOM will be cut $1 million.
We will soon find out how this will affect
our tribe.
For the first time ever the Office of
Management and Budget will have a Tribal Consultation with all tribal leaders in
regards to the FY 2025 Budget. The date
has yet to be determined.
In regards to our 2023 debt limit crisis, the debt limit of $31.4 trillion passed.
PL 118-5 Fiscal Responsibility Act and
was signed by President Biden on June
3, 2023. This suspends the debt through
January 1, 2025. On January 2, 2025 the
debt limit will be increased.
Any questions or concerns please email
at TwylaB@astribe.com or (405)2754030.

and attending meetings along with my
other secretary duties. In July with other
executive committee members we met
with members of the Ohio Department
of Natural resources they were very considerate in our input for the new museum
located in western Ohio that will open in
2024. During July I was able to tour along
with other executive members the Muskogee creek nation food bank. It was a very
nice facility and great opportunity to see
what we the executive committee can
bring to our people. In August I had the

pleasure to attend the OVW Government
to Government Tribal Consultation with
Domestic violence and Governor Johnson. Also in August I attended one day
of the 477 strategic planning. I’ve been
attending our elders meetings to support
and help them. Some information I would
like to share if you haven’t seen it is ICW
has their application online for the angel
tree our children need your support.

ic (PK- 12), Big Jim Youth Award, Zahn,
and the ARPA Education Incentive and
Support programs. The Education Dept.
presented AST education information to
the Shawnee Public Schools Indian Education staff for their staff development.
The Education Department also set up a
booth and handed out AST education information at the CPN Wzhitawen College
Fair which was held at the Firelake Event
Center.
Workforce Program: All three of the
HVAC interns started back to school
(Moore/ Norman Tech. Ctr.) on August
14, 2023 for their last semester. After
graduation, they will continue as interns
at the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma until they meet their apprentice hourly requirements. Once the apprentice requirements are obtained, the interns will
be eligible to take the HVAC Journeyman
test to become licensed HVAC technician.
Cultural Preservation: The Absentee
Shawnee Language Program submitted
all necessary documentation and applied
for the Living Language Grant which is
awarded by the BIA. This is a three year
grant that encourages the inclusion of
the community in teaching Native languages. The Absentee Shawnee Language
program has completed17 pre- recorded
lessons of the Shawnee language on our
Tribal website. In September, The Cultural Preservation Director also attended
the 2023 Annual TX./ DOT Consultation
Meeting hosted by the Texas Department
of Transportation in Austin, Texas. In
October, representatives from our Executive Committee, Cultural Preservation,
THPO, and Language departments/ programs plan on attending the 8TH Annual
Ohio Tribal Nations Conference hosted
by Ohio History Connection and Ohio

DOT/FHWA in Columbus, Ohio.
Gaming Commission: The Gaming
Commission conducted an EPHN (Environmental, Public Health and Safety)
site survey with the Thunderbird Casino
management during this last month. This
survey helps to identify the strengths and
areas we need to improve for the safety
of our guests and employees. It is also a
renewal requirement for the Casino`s
facility licensure. The Gaming Commission staff continues to work with Casino
management to look at how we need to
improve/ update the policies/ procedures.
Gaming Commission staff also keeps up
to- date with NIGC rules/ regulations.
The Gaming Commission staff plans on
attending the OTGRA Conference which
will be held at the Grand Casino in Oct.
2023.
Youth Camp: Not much to report at
the Youth Camp. Construction on the
softball field continues and the completion date for this project is by the end of
Sept. 2023. We hope to have started the
bid process for the lighting of the Youth
Camp facilities in the next 30 days. We
are having discussions about the next upgrade project. I will keep you up- dated.

Respectfully,
Lt. Governor DeLodge

NEYIWA
Secretary Misty McGirt

Again, I would like to encourage our
Tribal membership to look on our website, our Facebook page, and/ or call our
477 department to see if that department
can assist you in your future endeavors.
Again, if you have any questions or concerns about these programs mentioned in
this news article, feel free to contact my
office at (405) 275-4030 Ext. 3512 or by
email: dewayne.wilson@astribe.com.
Respectfully,
DeWayne Wilson

October 2023

www.astribe.com 3A

102-477 (477) Programs
October 2023
On September 27, 2022, the AST Executive Committee passed a resolution authorizing and approving the submission of a 102-477 plan. On December 15, 2022, the
AST 102-477 Plan was approved by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. This plan became effective January 1, 2023.
The AST 102-477 Plan is a for three year period, January 1, 2023-December 31, 2025. The approved plan met all the requirements for the Public Law 102-477, Indian
Employment, Training and Related Services Consolidation Demonstration Act of 1992, as amended by the Omnibus Indian Advancement Act Bill of 2006, and the
Indian Employment, Training, and Related Services Consolidation Act of 2017.
Under the current 102-477 Plan, the AST 477 Programs will combine like services and activities to serve three components which are employment/training, education
and support services. By implementing this plan it is the hope of the AST Tribe to help identify and resolve barriers that participants will face in their pursuit of
employment, training and educational endeavors, to strengthen cultural and language development within all AST tribal members to encourage self-sufficiency and to
serve tribally determined goals consistent with the policy of self-determination and self-governance. These are just a few programs goals thus far. The main goal is to
provide resources and support to help individuals and families become economically self-sufficient.
The AST 477 Program has been in effect for 9 months now and has had a lot of growth within the administration and organization of the program. The 477 Program
application is available on the website and as of this newsletter will be an online application process. We currently have 3 additional staff members: Kim Porter, Case
Manager- Adults; Connor Edwards- Case Manager-Youth and Stephanie Martinez- Intake Specialist. These staff members have been involved in some capacity with
477 and bring the knowledge and experience to assist with developing this program and providing services. Please feel free to reach out to one of us for assistance and
we hope to see you all at General Council. Ni yi wa! Si wi n’wi ke Ni ti mo wi ke!
Briana Ponkilla, MJIL
477 Director

AST 477 Application can be found at www.astribe.com/477-program or by email: 477Program@astribe.com.

October 2023

4A www.astribe.com

DECEMBER 16th, 2023

CONCHO ERC, CONCHO, OK
Gourd Dance @2p Supper Break @5p Dance to Follow

HEAD STAFF
MC: Burl Buffalomeat
HS: Roger Davis
HMD: Bobby James
HLD: TheresaLynn Kiley
HBD: Kurt Blackwolf
HLG: Leona Goodblanket
Honored Elder: Merle Big Medicine Lopez
Honored Veteran: Jesse Hamilton
Co-Host: StarHawk Society and Women’s
Auxiliary
AD: Marshal Williamson
TINY TOT CONTEST (ages 0-6)
BOYS WINNER TAKE ALL
GIRLS WINNER TAKE ALL
$50+Scooter
$50+ Scooter
2 Consolations
2 Consolations
For More Information, Please Contact Shelby White Thunder via Facebook Messenger
or Sandra White Thunder 405-287-9222
Sponsors are NOT responsible for ANY thefts or accidents. DRUGS AND ALCOHOL ARE
ABSOLUTELY PROHIBITED!

NEED HELP PAYING BILLS?
AST's Homeowner Assistance Fund can help
homeowners experiencing financial hardship.

Visit astribe.com/homeowner-assistance-fund-haf

NOTICE
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

Follow us on
@absenteeshawneetribe

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.

October 2023

www.astribe.com

5A

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
Building Blocks II
We currently have open positions. If you are interested in applying visit https://www.astribe.com/employment for applications and to see what positions
we have 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.
This year is quickly passing and it is now fall. The children love the fall weather and are enjoying the outside time it has been giving us. October is a busy
month for us. We will be having parent teacher conferences, a fall festival, and Trick or Treating. We hope everyone has a safe Halloween.
Building Blocks will be closed on Friday September 29th for teacher training. We will be learning the new curriculum that is needed with our 5 Star
Licensing

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE
TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA

Sensory play :)

Building Blocks III C.D.C
Norman, Ok 73026

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

This month at
Building Blocks

Upcoming
Events
October 5- Happy Birthday, Ms. Julie
October 9- Closed for Indigenous
Peoples’ Day
October 27- Class Halloween parties!

“Look it! Its bats! I love
halloween!” Halloween is just
around the corner and we are
loving every minute of fall time. All
of the classrooms will be having a
halloween party and your
child(ren) will be allowed to wear
their costumes!
Please be sure to get with their
teacher to see what time and
what you can bring. Parents are
welcome to join their child(ren)
during the parties!

Snow cone day!!

October 31- Happy Birthday, Ms.

We are Hiring!

Sara!

Reminders

Reminder to all parents to
make sure your child(ren)
has extra clothes and all of
their daily supplies.

pting applications
We are still acce
If you are
for employment.
ng with children,
interested in worki
nter for an
please visit the ce
it
application or vis
yment.
astribe.com/emplo
reman
Director: Skye Fo
nee Richardson
Asst Director: Re

Goodies with Grands!

October 2023

6A www.astribe.com

Cultural Preservation Department
For the month of August and September, activities and workflow have been steady. Following is a breakdown of each departmental program’s most recent activities.
Cultural Preservation
Cultural Preservation and the Language Program will be partnering with Sac and Fox Nation and a few other Algonquian Language Groups in the capacity of co-hosts for the
2nd Annual Algonquian Language and Cultural Convention. This year’s convention will be held at the First American Museum in Oklahoma City on Saturday, September
30th. We are very excited about this event! At the time of writing this article, the details and agenda are still being discussed.
Gift Shop
The Gift Shop is open! No appointments necessary. We have two locations for your shopping convenience. Our Shawnee Gift Shop is located at the complex in the Cultural
Preservation building (2025 S. Gordon Cooper Drive, Shawnee, OK 74801; building 6), and our Little Axe Gift Shop is located in the lobby of the Little Axe Health Center
(15951 Little Axe Drive, Norman, OK 73026). We are open in Shawnee Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and every other Thursday in Little Axe from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
On August 4th, Gift Shop Manager, Mrs. Merry Rodriguez, and Administrative Assistant/Gift Shop Clerk, Ms. Maureen Bemo, attended the Central Oklahoma Native
American Art Sale at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds in Norman, OK. A good selection of sterling silver and turquoise jewelry was acquired that day and is now available
for purchase in the gift shop. These unique pieces are a must see!
Also, recently, a loyal New Mexico vendor came through Oklahoma and stopped by the gift shop. A large selection of necklaces and earrings were obtained. They’re all so
beautiful! Come check them all out for yourself.
Other new items in the gift shop are AST Men’s Hats, AST Visors, AST Logo Color Changing Mood Cups, AST Logo Youth T-Shirts, AST Lightweight Packable Jackets,
49dzine Men’s Pocket Shorts, 49dzine Chest Bags, 49dzine Women’s dresses, 49dzine Men’s ties, and much more.
We are currently running a special on our AST Logo Throw Blankets: BUY 1, GET 1 75% OFF, and we still have a small collection of sale items (t-shirts (small and medium),
polos, hats, cardigans, and shoes).
Please note, if you live out of state, we can ship items to you. Please contact the Gift Shop Manager, Mrs. Merry Rodriguez, at (405) 275-4030 ext. 3526 or at mrodriguez@
astribe.com for more details.
Library
The Library is open! Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Last month, activity in the library included 2 library visitors with a total of 6 books
checked out. Also, 8 virtual books were checked out. Ms. Paula Jackson, Librarian, added 3 new patrons to the system. Please note the library application has recently been
converted to a digital format that can be emailed. If you would like the application please contact Ms. Jackson.
If you would like to view what books we have in the library currently, please visit https://www.librarycat.org/lib/ASTribe to view the catalog. Also, recently she added some
new Native American titles available in either eBook or audio format to the virtual library (https://okvirtuallibrary.overdrive.com/). If you would like to fill out an application
for a library card, you may contact Ms. Paula Jackson at (405) 275-4030 ext. 3530 or at PJackson@astribe.com.
Please come in and visit! We have a wide variety of resources available for checkout, and many magazines, newspapers and journals for your reading leisure. We are open to
your suggestions for the library and look forward to serving your informational needs!
THPO (Tribal Historic Preservation Office)
The THPO Program continues to make great strides and advancements. The THPO staff has steadily been receiving Section 106 projects from various Federal Agencies.
Over the past month, the THPO Officer, Mrs. Devon Frazier-Smith, has received 650 new Section 106 projects for review. In conjunction with receiving projects, the program
has consulted on 429 projects. These projects were completed in 16 of our 25 areas of interest/states. The THPO and Cultural Preservation Director has also taken part in 13
teleconference calls as it concerns Section 106 projects as well as NAGPRA cases.
NAGPRA
The NAGPRA program has been very busy the last couple of months. More and more agencies/museums/colleges both in the states and overseas have been reaching out.
Currently, we are in consultation with 20 different facilities concerning the ancestors and funerary objects they have in their possession.
On August 13th – August 17th, Ms. Carol Butler, Interim NAGPRA Coordinator and Director of Cultural Preservation, attended a NAGPRA consultation with Ohio History Connection in Columbus, OH. At this consultation, 8 counties were discussed amongst the five tribal representatives that were present. We were able to review the site
information for all the ancestors and objects that are housed at the Ohio History Connection. More discussion will occur at the 8th Annual Ohio Tribal Nations Conference
set for October (more information about this conference will be in next month’s newsletter).
Further, we are still looking for individuals interested in our Oral History project. If you would like to volunteer for this project or have any other questions, please contact
the Cultural Preservation Department.
Language
Most of the month of August was dedicated to writing for the Living Language Grant. This grant is awarded by the BIA and is a three year grant which encourages the inclusion of the community in teaching Native languages. Expected date of award is not known at this time.
We are awaiting official notice that our ANA no-cost extension has been approved. Once we have official notice, work will resume on the objectives of the ANA grant. We
will be seeking additional staff to assist in other projects and two language teachers, who will teach class while going through a certification process. Both will be vital to completing the ANA grant objectives.
Pre-recorded language lessons have resumed since submitting the LLG application. Writing for the LLG took some time away from recording lessons; however it provided
opportunity to think of new subject matter. To date, the program has provided 17 pre-recorded lessons, with additional lessons in the process. Topics that have been covered
include: Shawnee Alphabet, Greetings and Farewells, Learning to Count, Basic colors, Celestial Bodies and Directions, Weather and Seasons, One Word Phrases, Fruits and
Vegetables, Farm Animals, Months and Days of the Week, Relations, Personal Pronouns, Bugs, Kitchen Items, Clothing, Expressions, and Shawnee Don’ts.
Shawnee words have also been provided in the newsletter and on social media over the past several months. The most recent newsletter featured things Shawnees don’t do.
Many of our people don’t know these or forgot about them. We will continue to provide words and tidbits about our culture through the tribe’s media outlets. So, be on the
lookout for them.
For general language questions and information, please contact the department by phone or email at ASTLanguage@astribe.com.
Your concerns are important to us. Ne yi wa for the continued support of our department as we continue to make changes to our programs to better serve the Tribal community. Please feel free to contact me, Carol Butler, at 405-275-4030 ext. 3525 or cbutler@astribe.com if you have any questions or concerns.
Si ta pi ki no fe ke s’fwa
(sah teh pah kah noh thee kee s’thweh)
Wilted Month (October)
Our apologies for the absence in the August newsletter. August was a busy month with a grant
deadline and our main ceremony. We will get back on track with this month’s newsletter. We begin
the names for the months August and September.
Ke n’we ke s’fwa – Long Month (August)
(kee n’wee kee s’thweh)
Ho wa se wi pi ne – Good morning
(hoh weh see wah pah nee)
------Te ka ki k’yi wa – Don’t be jealous
(tee keh kah k’yah weh)

Hi si me ni ke s’fwa – Paw paw Month (September)
(hah sah mee nah kee s’thweh)

Ti qi ke ke – Fall
(tah qah kee kee)

Ya pa po n’ka ke – North
(yeh peh poh n’keh kee)

Shawnees, and other Indians in general, do our best to lead a good life. This means being supportive
and respectful of others without being envious how others live and what they have or don’t have.
Jealousy is a creation of the evil spirit or, mi ge mi ne to, which can lead people to do bad things.
Our elders didn’t want us to live this way.
------Te ka pi hi li we m’se ni ko fe ge ke we wi le – Don’t hunt if wife is pregnant.
(tee keh pah hah lah wee m’see nah koh thee chee kee wee wah lee)
This is practiced today by those who participate at Bread Dance and once was a general practice.
The old timers said this so nothing bad would happen to the expecting mother and baby. The
“Creator” has game “volunteer” for us to keep us fed, but to do that we are taking another being’s
life. Since the “Creator” controls all things and life is fragile, it is best to be safe lives are involved.
------Te ke mol’s’pe ka gi ge ke ni mi ge lo fe ti hi pe lo fi – Don’t hold a baby over your head.
(tee kee mo l’s’pee keh chah chee kee nah mah chee loh thee tah hah pee loh thah)
The old folks would tell new parents different things to do or not to do in order to keep their new
baby safe and healthy. One of the don’ts is not to hold a baby over your head or up in the air. Since
babies are a gift from the “Creator”, holding a baby up in the air might indicate to the “Creator” you
are trying to give the baby back.
------Te ka ya pi k’se mo ke ka l’qa se na – Don’t lay you head to the west.
(tee keh yeh pah k’see moh kee keh l’qeh see neh)
Growing up, we were told different things not to do out of concern or superstition. One of those
don’ts was not sleep with your head to the west, i.e. the way the dead lay. It is believed this could
cause a person to get sick or have bad luck.
------Ka we yi ki me li we pa hi se si wi nwi to wa yi qa! – Let’s get serious to speak Shawnee!
(keh wee yah keh mee lah wee peh hah see sah wah nwah toh weh yah qeh)
Si li no ke ka no la! Ne yi wa!

October 2023

NEWSLETTER
BOOK OF THE MONTH
The Song That Called Them Home by the
award-winning author David A. Robertson
and illustrator Maya McKibbin comes a
cinematic fantasy-adventure story inspired
by Indigenous legends.
One summer day, Lauren and her little
brother, James, go on a trip to the land with
their Moshom (grandfather). After they've
arrived, the children decide to fish for dinner
while Moshom naps. They are in their canoe
in the middle of the lake when the water
around them begins to swirl and crash. They
are thrown overboard and when Lauren
surfaces she sees her brother being pulled
away by the Memekwesewak — creatures
who live in and around water and like to
interfere with humans. Lauren must follow
the Memekwesewak through a portal and
along a watery path to find and bring back
James. But when she finally comes upon her
brother, she too feels the lure of the
Memekwesewak’s song. Something even
stronger must pull them back home.

LIBRARY NEWS
October means gorgeous falling leaves, cooler
temperatures, and of course, Halloween!
We have added 5 Native American titles to the
Oklahoma Virtual Library,
Calico (Children of the Shawnee: Book 1) by
Allison Bruning.
Mary and the Trail of Tears: A by Andrea L.
Rogers and Matt Forsyth. Cherokee Removal
Survival Story.
Notable Native People: 50 by Adrienne Keene and
Ciara Sana. Indigenous Leaders, Dreamers and
Changemakers from Past and Present
We Still Belong by Christine Day.
ho are the Shawnee by Allison Bruning.

Indigenous Peoples Day is celebrated annually on the
second Monday in October.10-09-20223)I This Day
honors the histories, cultures, and perspectives of
Indigenous peoples and their ancestors who lived on
the land now known as North America. They existed
in these areas for thousands of years before the first
European explorers arrived.
Oklahoma has 39 federally recognized tribes across
the state. These are e celebrations and public
events happening across the state.
Oklahoma City’s annual Indigenous Peoples Day
celebration returns to First Americans Museum for a
third year.

YOU CAN NOW APPLY FOR A AST LIBRARY CARD ONLINE!
HTTPS://FORM.JOTFORM.COM/230804193039150
HTTPS://LIBBYAPP.COM/LIBRARY/OKVIRTUALLIBRARY
HTTPS://WWW.LIBRARYCAT.ORG/LIB/ASTRIBE

October 2023

www.astribe.com

Happy Birthday
Carsyn and Jaden

from Mom, Clay and Shylah

Ronnie Thorpe Sr. October 2nd,
We Love & Miss You Brother
Patricia Thorpe Brown, October 18th
George Thorpe III, October 30th
God bless you always, with love,
Mama and the entire family!

D

EP

R

W I T H O S U E X T E N S I O N H O R T I C U L T U R I S T
C A R L A S M I T H A R E N O W O N L I N E
J A N 1 3 , 2 0 2 3 - G A R D E N I N G 1 0 1
F E B 1 0 , 2 0 2 3 – S O I L F E R T I L I Z E R 1 0 1
M A R C H – N O C L A S S
A P R I L 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 – G A R D E N B O X E S
M A Y 1 2 , 2 0 2 3 – F R U I T P R O D U C T I O N
J U N E 9 , 2 0 2 3 – S E E D S A V I N G

T

G

C U LT U
RI

E

A

C L A S S E S

A RT M EN

T O W A T C H O N L I N E ,
W W W . A S T R I B E . C O M / A G R I C U L T U R E

7A

October 2023

8A www.astribe.com

P H O N E D I R E C T O RY - D I R E C T N U M B E R S
O F F I C E O F T H E T R I B A L S EC R E TA RY

2025 S. GORDON COOPER DRIVE, SHAWNEE, OK 74801 • PHONE: 405.275.4030 • EMAIL: SECRETARY@ASTRIBE.COM • WEB: WWW.ASTRIBE.COM

AST Complex – (405) 275-4030

Toll Free - 800-256-3341

All Nations Bank…………………………………………(405) 273-0202
Brendle Corner…......……………………………………(405) 447-3372
Building Blocks….........…………………………………(405) 878-0633
Building Blocks III LA….....……………………………(405) 360-2710
Court………………………......…………………………(405) 481-8575
Domestic Violence…………….....………………………(405) 273-2888
Enrollment……………………….....……………………(405) 481-8650
Food Pantry………………………...……………………(405) 481-8640
Gaming Commission………………....…………(405) 360-9270 x1110
Housing Authority………………………………………(405) 275-1050
Human Resources……………………….....……………(405) 275-1468
ICW………………………………………………………(405) 395-4490
Media………………………….…………………………(405) 598-1279
OEH/OEP…………………….…………….…….………(405) 214-4235
Police…………………………………………(405) 275-3200/275-3432
Social Services…………….…………………….…….…(405) 878-4723
Tax Commission…….……………….……………….…(405) 481-8600
Thunderbird Casino Norman…….……….……………(405) 360-9270
Thunderbird Casino Shawnee…………….….…………(405) 273-2679
Tribal Store Little Axe……………………………………(405) 364-0668

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe will be closed
Monday, October 9, 2023 - Indigenous Peoples' Day
Absentee Shawnee Tribe's Domestic Violence Department

Ask about “AST Preferred Checking” and our debit
card that honors the Absentee Shawnee Tribe!
We help with:
Our mission is to:
Domestic Violence
Eliminate violence in
Sexual Assault
Native Country and to
Dating Violence
strengthen
Stalking
Native families to end the
Sex Trafficking
cycle of violence.
Our services are confidential and include:

You can be an Absentee Shawnee Tribe Member or an Employee of the Tribe
or one of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe’s businesses. Account features include:
 Free Value Checks
 .25% rate reduction with auto debit on consumer loan rates
 Interest bearing account
 $25.00 minimum to open the account
 No minimum to earn interest
 No monthly maintenance fee
 Free direct deposit option
 Free ATM/Debit Card
 Free Online Banking & Bill Pay
 Free Online Electronic Banking Statement
 Free check images with statement
 Free 1 year rental of a 3x5 safe deposit box or 6 months free rental of a 5x10 safe
deposit box (based on availability)
 Free Notary Service
 FDIC Insured
Contact bank staff for more information
2023 Gordon Cooper Dr., Shawnee, OK 74801, PH (405) 273-0202
114 E. Main St., Calumet, OK 73014, PH (405) 893-2240
Member
FDIC

Safety Planning
Emergency Assistance
Court Advocacy
Shelter Placement Assistance
Referrals

Must be intimate partner
related violence and the
victim must be fleeing the
home/situation

Who we serve:

Where we serve:

Natives and non-Natives
LGBTQ2S+
Any Religion
Any income level
EVERYONE

Because we are federally funded
we get to serve all populations
within our *service area, which
includes Cleveland, Oklahoma and
Pottawatomie counties.

*If you are AST and outside the service area, please call our office and we will see what we can do to help
you.

Contact Us:

Office Line 405.273.2888
Fax 405.273.1192
Webpage https://www.astribe.com/domestic-violence
Link to intake https://www.astribe.com/forms/victim-intake
@ASTRisingWarrior
For emergencies call 911 or AST PD @ 405.275.3200
This project was supported byGrant No. 2015-TW-AX-0016 awarded by the Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations
expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women.

www.asthealth.org

October 2023

Section B

ASTHS October 2023 Monthly Update
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
There are things you should know to understand what breast cancer is, know your chances for getting it, and how to find it early.
Finding breast cancer early is critical because when it is found early, it is easier to treat. Read to learn more about the common
symptoms of breast cancer and the best way many women find breast cancer early.
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women, after skin cancer. It is a disease in which cells in the breast grow out of control. Cancer
cells can also spread, or metastasize, to other parts of the body.
What Symptoms Should I Look For?
Some warning signs of breast cancer are:
• New lump in the breast or underarm (armpit)
• Thickening or swelling of part of the breast
• Irritation or dimpling of breast skin
• Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast
• Pulling in of the nipple
• Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood
• Any change in the size or shape of the breast
• Pain in the breast
These symptoms can happen with other conditions that are not cancer. If you notice any of these symptoms, talk to your health care provider right
away.
What Can I Do To Find Breast Cancer Early?
Breast cancer screening involves checking a woman’s breasts for cancer before there are signs or symptoms of the disease. A mammogram is an X-ray
picture of the breast. Doctors use a mammogram to look for early signs of breast cancer. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that most women who are at average risk and are 50 to 74 years old get one every 2 years. USPSTF recommendations state that women with
a parent, sibling, or child with breast cancer are at a higher risk for breast cancer and may benefit from beginning screening in their 40s. Weighing the
benefits and risks of screening is important when considering your screening options. If you’re 40 to 49 years old, talk to your health care provider about
when to start screening.
Are You Concerned That You Cannot Afford To Have A Mammogram?
Most health insurance plans cover the cost of screening mammograms. If you have a low income or do not have insurance, you may qualify for a free or
low-cost mammogram through CDC’s National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program.
What Can I Do To Lower My Chance of Getting Breast Cancer?
One of the most important things you can do to lower your risk of breast cancer is to know your risk of breast cancer. Talk to your doctor about what that
means for you.
Your doctor will consider factors that cannot be changed, like:
• Your personal history of breast problems
• Your family’s history of breast cancer
• Your breast density (the amount of connective and fatty tissue in your breasts)
• Your age. Most breast cancers are found after age 50
• Your menstrual and childbirth history
• Your history of radiation treatment therapy to the chest or breasts
• If you took the drug diethylstilbestrol (DES), which was given to some pregnant women in the United States between 1940 and 1971 to prevent miscarriage, you have a higher risk. Women whose mothers took DES while pregnant with them are also at higher risk.
• If you or close family members have known mutations (changes) in your breast cancer genes (BRCA1 or BRCA2). Women who have inherited these
genetic changes are at higher risk of breast and ovarian cancer. You will only know if you have a mutation if you have had genetic testing. Even in
the absence of having abnormal genes when tested, it is important to know your family history; we don’t know all the genes that cause breast cancer.
Your doctor will also consider factors that can be changed, like any hormone replacement use.
Here are some things you can do to reduce your chance of getting breast cancer:
• Keep a healthy weight
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Don’t drink alcohol, or limit alcoholic drinks to no more than one per day
To learn more about breast cancer, visit www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/. Reference: https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/pdf/breast-cancer-fact-sheet-508.pdf

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
Little Axe Health Clinic
•
•
•

Construction has begun on the Pharmacy expansion. The steel has been erected and the framing is being completed. There has been a delay in the
canopy construction that will likely set back full completion. The expected completion date (ECD) is now January.
Construction of new Primary Care, Dental, and Behavioral Health continues. The cabinetry and equipment are currently being installed. ECD:
October
Remodel of the current Primary Care will begin in October. This will be the new location of the Specialty Clinic and PlusCare and the final phase
of the expansion project! ECD: April 2024

Shawnee Health Clinic
COMING SOON! — NEW SHAWNEE HEALTH CLINIC!
39665 Benson Park Road, Shawnee, OK 74801 (adjacent to Tecumseh Lake)
The feasibility study has been completed. The team continues to work through the design and scoping phase with the architect (anticipate 73K-80K sq. ft.)!
September 2023 Health Employee Awards of the Month
Employee of the Month: Candace Evans, LPN
Team of the Month: Pharmacy – Little Axe
Special Leadership Award: Chris Turpin, Pharmacy Director

Chris A. Larkin, MBA, FACHE, CHC
Executive Director

October 2023

2B www.astribe.com

PACT ACT & VIETNAM, COLD WAR ERA VETERANS

The PACT Act, signed into law August 10, 2022, expands
health care and benefits for Vietnam era Veterans.

PACT Act Health Care Eligibility

Veterans who served in these countries during specific
time periods are eligible to enroll in VA health care
effective August 10, 2022.

Republic of Vietnam
January 9, 1962 - May 7, 1975

Thailand
Any U.S. or Royal Thai base
January 9, 1962 - June 30, 1976

Guam or American Samoa
(or in their territorial waters)
January 9, 1962 - July 31, 1980

Laos
December 1, 1965 September 30, 1969

Cambodia
at Mimot or Krek,
Kampong Cham Province
April 16, 1969 - April 30, 1969

Johnston Atoll
(or on a ship that called there)
January 1, 1972 - September 30, 1977

The law expands health care and benefits for
Veterans who participated in certain nuclear
response or cleanup activities:
Enewetak Atoll

January 1, 1977 December 31, 1980

Palomares, Spain

January 17, 1966 March 31, 1967

Thule, Greenland

January 21, 1968 September 25, 1968

Toxic Exposure Screenings

As a general matter, there are several types of
possible exposures or hazards Veterans may
have experienced during their military
service, including:
Air Pollutants
Chemicals

Radiation
Warfare Agents

VIETNAM

GULF WAR

POST - 9/11

WERE YOU EXPOSED TO
BURN PITS, HERBICIDES,
OR OTHER TOXINS
WHILE IN THE
MILITARY?

Occupational
Hazards

ON NOVEMBER 8, 2022: VA will begin incorporating toxic
exposure screenings. Every Veteran enrolled for VA health care will
receive an initial toxic exposure screening and a follow-up screening
at least every five years. Eligible Veterans who have not enrolled will
have an opportunity to enroll and receive the screening.
PACT Act Benefits
The PACT Acts adds two new
Agent Orange presumptive conditions:
Monoclonal gammopathy of
undetermined significance (MGUS)
High blood pressure (hypertension)

You may be eligible
for VA health care
and compensation.
Learn more at VA.gov/PACT

Family members or dependents of a deceased Veteran may qualify for various VA benefits due to the additional disabilities defined in the
PACT Act if they meet eligibility requirements. More information for survivors is available online at VA.gov/PACT.

4 EASY WAYS TO APPLY FOR VA HEALTH CARE

4 EASY WAYS TO GET STARTED WITH CLAIMS

Apply online at
VA.gov/health-care/apply/
application/introduction

Call the toll-free hotline
877-222-8387 Mon – Fri,
8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. ET

Learn more at
VA.gov/disability/
how-to-file-claim/

Visit a VBA Regional Office
VA.gov/benefits/
offices.asp

Mail a completed, signed
Application for Health Benefits
VA Form 10-10EZ

Bring a completed, signed VA
Form 10-10EZ to the nearest VA
Medical Center or clinic.

Call the Benefits hotline
(for specific questions)
at 1-800-827-1000

Work with an accredited VSO
VA.gov/ogc/apps/
accreditation/index.asp

U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs

Learn more and sign up at VA.gov/PACT
Download the VA Health and Benefits App
Call us at 1-800-MyVA411 (1-800-698-2411)
Find a VA at VA.gov/find-locations/

Have questions?
Call 1-800-MyVA411
(1-800-698-2411)

October 2023

www.astribe.com

3B

TITLE VI
NEWS

-

MONDAY
2

SALISBURY STEAK
MASHED POT/GRAVY
BEETS
FRUIT

9

TITLE VI CLOSED
INDIGENOUS DAY

16

23

BBQ CHICKEN
BROCCOLI
ROLL/PEAR

BEEF FINGERS
MASHED POT/GRAVY
BRUSSEL SPROUTS
PEACHES
30
CHICKEN PATTY
SANDWICH
COLESLAW
GRAPES

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

3

CHICKEN SALAD
SANDWICH
LTOP
BAKED CHIPS
MANDARIN ORANGES
10
KRAUT & WEINERS
GREEN BEANS
MIXED FRUIT

4

TITLE VI STAFF
ATTENDING
FOOD SHOW

11

PORK LOIN
VEGGIES
ROLL/CRISP

17
BEEF TIP & NOODLES
TOSSED SALAD*
PEAS & CARROTS

18

24

25
COLD CUT SANDWICH
LTOP
CHIPS
YOGURT

CHILI W BEANS
FRITOS
ONIONS/CHEZ

31

MIPPA EVENT
DETAILS COMING
SOON

MANWICH
TATOR TOTS
COOKIE
ORANGE

THURSDAY
5

HOT HAM & CHEZ
PORK & BEANS
CHIPS/JELL-O

12

19

26

BURRTIO
REFRIED BEANS
SPANISH RICE
COOKIE
PORK & HOMINY
GREEN BEANS
PUDDING
GOULASH
OKRA
BREAD
PEAR

FRIDAY
6

PANCAKES
SAUSAGE PATTIES
BLUEBERRIES

13
SCRAMBLED EGGS
SAUSAGE GRAVY
BISCUIT

OCTOBER 4
TITLE VI STAFF
WILL BE
ATTENDING A
FOOD SHOW
NO MEALS WILL
BE SERVED –
HOMEBOUND
WILL RECEIVE A
SACK LUNCH ON
OCTOBER 3RD

20

OCTOBER 9
INDIGENOUS
DAY
NO MEALS WILL
BE SERVED OR
DELIVERED

27

OCTOBER 14

BOILED EGG
TOAST
SMOKED SAUSAGE
OATMEAL
SAUSAGE PATTIES
APPLE SLICES

AST GENERAL
COUNCIL 10 AM
MULTI-PURPOSE
BUILDING

*MENU SUBJECT TO CHANGE*
LUNCH SERVED MONDAY – THURSDAY 11 AM TO 1 PM SHAWNEE SITE
2023
LUNCH SERVED MONDAY – THURSDAY 12 PM TO 12:30 PM AT BRENDLE CORNER
BREAKFAST SERVED FRIDAYS 9 AM TO 11 AM SHAWNEE SITE
BREAKFAST SERVED FRIDAYS 10 AM TO 10:30 AM AT BRENDLE CORNER

Genius™ 3D Mammography™ Exams Arrive in Little Axe
Little Axe Health Center is excited to offer Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exams, developed by Hologic, Inc., a worldwide leader in Women’s
Health. Utilizing advanced breast tomosynthesis technology, Genius exams are clinically proven to significantly increase the detection of breast
cancers, and also decreasing the number of women asked to return for additional testing.
In conventional 2D Mammography, overlapping tissue is a leading reason why small breast cancers may be missed and normal tissue may
appear abnormal, leading to unnecessary callbacks. A Genius exam includes a three-dimensional method of imaging that can greatly reduce the
tissue overlap effect.
A Genius exam includes both 2D images and tomosynthesis scans. During the tomosynthesis-DIMENSIONAL portion of the exam, an X-ray
arm sweeps in a slight arc over the breast, taking multiple images. A computer then converts the images into a stack of thin layers, allowing the
radiologist to review the breast tissue one layer at a time. A Genius exam requires no additional compression and takes just a few seconds longer
than a conventional 2D breast cancer screening exam.
Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exam, available on the 3Dimensions™ and Selenia® Dimensions® systems from Hologic, are revolutionizing how
breast cancer is detected by providing a better option for women of all breast densities compared to 2D alone.1-2 Researchers have found that:
• The Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exam finds 20-65% more invasive breast cancers compared to 2D alone, an average increase of 41%.
• Only the Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exam is FDA approved as superior for women with dense breasts compared to 2D alone.
• The Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exam reduces callbacks by up to 40% compared to 2D alone.
Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health is committed to the fight against breast cancer. In offering the Genius exam, Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health provides a more accurate
tool for breast cancer screening.1-7
If you would like to schedule a Genius 3D Mammography™ exam, or have questions about this important breast health procedure, please contact AST Radiology Registration
at (405) 701-7610.
About Genius™ 3D Mammography™ Exams
The breast is a three-dimensional object composed of different structures located at different heights within the breast. These structures can overlap and cause confusion
when viewed as a flat two-dimensional image. This confusion of overlapping of tissue is a leading reason why small breast cancers may be missed and normal tissue may
appear abnormal, leading to unnecessary callbacks. Using breast tomosynthesis technology, the Hologic system creates a 3-dimensional image of the breast structure,
which enables radiologists to more clearly see through overlapping tissue to detect cancers, often at an earlier stage.
The Hologic system is the first FDA-approved breast tomosynthesis system in the U.S. Hologic Genius 3D Mammography™ exams are now available in all 50 states and over
50 countries. To date, more than 8 million women have been screened with this advanced screening system.

Worried about losing your SoonerCare Coverage?

Two ways to renew
UPDATE YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION

CHECK YOUR MAIL

Update your contact information
ie: mailing address, email and
phone number.

Take action quickly to avoid any
disruption in your coverage.

Online at
mysoonercare.org

Respond to the
request for
information

Contact a Patient
Benefit Advocate

Bring the letter to
a Patient Benefit
Advocate

FOR THOSE WHO NO LONGER QUALIFY FOR
SOONERCARE COVERAGE
If you no longer qualify for SoonerCare you could receive health insurance
coverage through the Marketplace at NO COST TO YOU or the tribe.

Our contracted benefits advisor
with Legacy Tribal Services is
available to assist in the
enrollment process.
Just give us a call!

Little Axe Health Center: 405-447-0300
Shawnee Clinic: 405-878-5850
www.asthealth.org

LITTLE AXE HEALTH CENTER ..................................................... 405-447-0300
4B www.astribe.com

Administration
Business Office
AST
HEALTH
SYSTEM DIRECTORY
Little Axe
Dental
Health Information Management
Lab/X.Ray
LITTLE AXE HEALTH CENTER ..................................................... 405-447-0300
Optometry
Administration
Patient Benefit Advocates
Business Office
Primary Care
Little Axe Dental
Public Health
Health Information Management
Security
Lab/X.Ray
Electronic Health Record
Optometry
Physical Therapy
Patient Benefit Advocates
Behavioral Health .................................................................................. 405-701-7987
Primary Care
Little Axe Purchased Referred Care ........................................................ 405-701-7951
Public Health
Diabetes & Wellness ...............................................................................405-701-7977
Security
Pharmacy ...............................................................................................405-292-9530
Electronic Health Record
CompleteCare
Home Health................................................................... 405-701-7085
Physical
Therapy
Transportation
........................................................................................405-701-7603
Behavioral Health .................................................................................. 405-701-7987

October 2023

AST HEALTH SYSTEM DIRECTORY

Little Axe Purchased Referred Care ........................................................ 405-701-7951
Diabetes & Wellness ...............................................................................405-701-7977
Administration
Pharmacy ...............................................................................................405-292-9530
Business Office
CompleteCare Home Health................................................................... 405-701-7085
Health Information Management
Transportation........................................................................................405-701-7603
Lab/X-Ray
Patient Benefit Advocates
SHAWNEE CLINIC ............................405-878-5850 OR 877-878-4702 TOLL FREE
Contract Health
Administration
Physical Therapy
Business Office
Primary Care
Health Information Management
Public Health
Lab/X-Ray
Behavioral Health ................................................................................... 405-878-4716
Patient Benefit Advocates
Diabetes & Wellness ...............................................................................405-701-7977
Contract Health
Pharmacy ........................................................ 405-878-5859 OR 866-742-4977TOLL FREE
Physical Therapy
Transportation........................................................................................405-701-7603
Primary Care
Public Health
PLUSCARE ............................................................................................... 405-447-0477
Behavioral Health ................................................................................... 405-878-4716
Diabetes & Wellness ...............................................................................405-701-7977
GENERAL
Pharmacy ........................................................ 405-878-5859 OR 866-742-4977TOLL FREE
AST Resource Center..............................................................................405-364-7298
Transportation........................................................................................405-701-7603
Corporate Compliance Hotline............................................................... 405-701-7135
Patient Advocate .................................................................................... 405-701-7623
PLUSCARE ............................................................................................... 405-447-0477
AST Tribal Complex ...............................................................................405-275-4030
AST Tribal Police .................................................................................... 405-275-3200
GENERAL
AST Housing ..........................................................................................405-273-1050
AST Resource Center..............................................................................405-364-7298
It looks like fall mayCOVID
have paid
us an........................................................................................405-695-1787
early visit. I don’t know about you, but I welcome the cooler weather. Cooler weather
Hotline
Corporate
Compliance
Hotline............................................................... 405-701-7135
SHAWNEE CLINIC ............................405-878-5850 OR 877-878-4702 TOLL FREE

HEALTH BUZZ!!

brings so many things we love: football, pumpkin spice, fuzzy slippers, and cozy blankets. Were you aware that it boosts
Patient Advocate .................................................................................... 405-701-7623
brain activity, improves focus, and helps us think more clearly, too? Numerous studies show that our cognitive functions
AST Tribal Complex ...............................................................................405-275-4030
improve in colder weather: we’re prone to quicker decision-making and staying calm when our body needs more energy
AST Tribal Police .................................................................................... 405-275-3200
to keep us warm. When would be a better time to take advantage of a training program the AST Health System provides
Housing
for those caring forAST
someone
with..........................................................................................405-273-1050
Alzheimer’s or dementia?

HEALTH BUZZ!!

COVID Hotline ........................................................................................405-695-1787

It looks like fall may
paid us
ancaregivers
early visit.who
I don’t
know about
you, but I training
welcome
the cooler
weather.in
Cooler
brings
many things we love:
Didhave
you know
that
participated
in caregiver
reported
an increase
senseweather
of wellbeing
byso
41.5%?
football, pumpkin spice, fuzzy slippers, and cozy blankets. Were you aware that it boosts brain activity, improves focus, and helps us think more clearly,
While it can be very rewarding to care for a loved one with memory loss in the home, some caregivers expressed the
too? Numerous studies show that our cognitive functions improve in colder weather: we’re prone to quicker decision-making and staying calm when our
following:
body needs more energy to keep us warm. When would be a better time to take advantage of a training program the AST Health System provides for those
caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia?

26% felt they lost their identity
47%who
felt they
had to juggle
caring duties
working
Did you know that caregivers
participated
in caregiver
trainingwith
reported
an fulltime
increase in sense of wellbeing by 41.5%? While it can be very rewarding to
care for a loved one with memory
loss
in
the
home,
some
caregivers
expressed
the following:
43% said their caring duties put a strain on their relationship
27%identity
said they lacked frequent social contact with others (it is reported that loneliness increases the risk of
• 26% felt they lost their
disease
• 47% felt they had toAlzheimer’s
juggle caring
dutiestwo-fold)
with working fulltime
• 43% said their caring
duties
put
a
strain
on
theiranyone
relationship
29% noted they didn’t have
they felt they could go to for help

r Tribe
•
•

27% said they lacked frequent social contact with others (it is reported that loneliness increases the risk of Alzheimer’s disease two-fold)
29% noted Savvy
they didn’t
have anyone
felt they
go to for helptraining program that provides support for Native Americans
Caregiver
in Indianthey
Country
is acould
person-centered

caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia that provides:

Savvy Caregiver in Indian Country is a person-centered training program that provides support for Native Americans caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s
disease or dementia that provides:

 Effective ways to respond to
Knowledge of how dementia TRIBE
U OR YOUR
changes in behavior
affects thinking skills

 Skills to choose appropriate
activities and minimize confusion

 Skills to
reduce stress
& take care
 Strategies to manage activities of
y signing up for a zero
cost
plan,
of yourself
daily living
ou allow the tribe to bill for
services
nd to
byweekly
insurance
Therebe
are sixreimbursed
sessions that can be scheduled
or biweekly at the caregiver’s convenience. We know your time is precious and we want to help!
ompanies. This
frees
up
more
dollars
There are six sessions that can be scheduled
weekly or biweekly at the caregiver’s convenience. We know your
help
who
are
not
eligible
forCountry, please email me, Gayla Temple, at gtemple@astribe.com or adpi@
If you those
or someonetime
you
know
would
benefit
from
Savvy
Caregiver
in Indian
is precious and we want to help!
astribe.com,
or
call
405.827.8216
or
405.561.7870.
You
can
also
visit
the
Seeking Hope webpage. Go to the AST Health System’s website, asthealth.org,
zero cost plan helping Purchase &
click
on
“Programs
and
Prevention”,
and
click
on
“Seeking
Hope”.
eferred Care
further.
If youdollars
or someone yougo
know would
benefit from Savvy Caregiver in Indian Country, please email me, Gayla
Warmest regards,Temple, at gtemple@astribe.com or adpi@astribe.com, or call 405.827.8216 or 405.561.7870. You can also visit
Gayla Temple
the Seeking Hope webpage. Go to the AST Health System’s website, asthealth.org, click on “Programs and
Dementia Care Specialist
Prevention”, and click on “Seeking Hope”.
Alzheimer’s Disease Program Initiative

Warmest regards,
Gayla Temple
www.asthealth.org
Dementia Care Specialist
Alzheimer’s Disease Program Initiative

Help Yourself

Help Your Tribe

SEE IF YOU QUALIFY FOR A PLAN AT NO COST TO YOU OR THE TRIBE

Help Yourself

Help Yourself

Help Your Tribe

Help Your Tribe

SEE IF YOU QUALIFY FOR A PLAN AT NO COST TO YOU OR THE TRIBE

You
Know?
2
02IF
4 YOU
OpeQUALIFY
n EnroFOR
llmeAnPLAN
t
SEE
AT NODid
COST
TO YOU
OR THE TRIBE

Open
Enrollment
Medicare2023
: Oct 1
5 - Dec
7, 2023
Medicare:
Oct
15
- Dec
Marketplace: Nov 1 - Jan
157,, 2022
2024

• When you participate in enrolling
Did You Know?
in insurance plans, it provides

• 60% of the cost to render care
to tribal members comes from
other payment sources outside
of tribal funding?

you with immediate access to
specialized health care services?

Nov 1 - Jan 15, 2023
Did You Know?
2023Marketplace:
Open Enrollment
• If you qualify for and enroll in a

Medicare: Oct 15 - Dec 7, 2022
Marketplace: Nov 1 - Jan 15, 2023

zero-cost plan, it helps
PRC apply funding and deliver
care to more people?

www.asthealth.org

www.asthealth.org

www.asthealth.org

---

Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aabsentee%3Aa78f48f5b030071e. Public record. Not legal advice.