AST Leaders Attend Tribal Nations Summit (2024)

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THE ABSENTEE

SHAWNEE NEWS

Volume 34, No. 01

January 2024

AST Leaders Attend Tribal Nations Summit

Absentee Shawnee Governor John Johnson and Representative DeWayne Wilson attended the Tribal Nations Summit December 6 and 7. The event held in Washington DC

was hosted by President Biden’s office. Hundreds of tribal leaders from across the U.S. were in attendance and met with top administration officials.

The most noteworthy event to come from the summit was President Biden signing an executive order that makes it easier for tribes to access and invest federal funding

on their own terms. Biden’s office vows to protect and support tribal sovereignty while Oklahoma's Governor Kevin Stitt continues to attack sovereignty.

“We know that federal dollars are vital for your communities to be able to thrive,” Biden said at the Summit. “But today, there’s too many hoops to jump through, too many

strings attached, and too many inefficiencies in the process.”

AST Workforce Development Class Completes HVAC Program

The first class of AST HVAC participants recently completed the HVAC program at Moore Norman Technology Center. The students will still need to finish their training

hours to take their Journeyman exam.

“When I first came into office, the Lt. Governor and I were talking about investing in our tribal membership. That’s what this is about. This whole HVAC program - it’s the

first time for this tribe to do anything of this nature.”, said Representative DeWayne Wilson. “The plan is for them to get their Journeyman licenses to either work for the tribe

or other tribal entities including health or housing.”

The Workforce Development & Career Initiative Program (Pilot) was started with CARES/ARPA funding and is under the office of the Representative.

The participants are Christopher Blanchard, James Cody Spybuck Jr. and Bryce Williams.

2A www.astribe.com

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

GOVERNOR’S REPORT

John Johnson, AST Governor

GOVERNOR

John Johnson

Hello All,

December is always a busy month. I

hope you had a very Merry Christmas

and a Happy New Year. At the beginning

of December, the Executive Committee

and I attended a meeting with the Secretary of Interior Mr. Bryan Newland in

Washington DC. I was very pleased and

honored to be able to visit and discuss the

challenges of having our AST lands put

into trust. Also in Washington DC, the

Representative and I, attended the Tribal Nations Summit. During this summit I attended a session where President

Biden and Vice President Harris were

addressing some of the concerns from

LT. GOVERNOR’S REPORT

Ezra DeLodge, AST Lt. Governor

Lt. GOVERNOR

Ezra DeLodge

SECRETARY

Misty McGirt

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 3503 or cell 405-432-0733.

Maintenance:

The Absentee Shawnee Tribal Maintenance Department is currently staffed by

eight (8) full-time Maintenance employees: six (6) maintenance men and two (2)

housekeepers.

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. In closing I would

like to thank the maintenance staff for

all the hard work done and maintenance

strives to provide the best service to the

Absentee Shawnee Tribe and its entities.

OEH:

In total for 2023 OEH has assisted Tribal members with 70 different septic renovations and installations, water well drilling and installations, well renovations,

and community water connections. For

2023, we have collected, processed, and

recycled 38 bales of shredded office paper

and cardboard equaling roughly 28.5 tons

of recyclable waste that has been diverted from landfills. The new Police Safety

Center is on schedule to be completed

SECRETARY’S REPORT

Misty McGirt, AST Secretary

TREASURER

Joseph Blanchard

REPRESENTATIVE

DeWayne Wilson

Hello Tribal Members,

I hope that everyone has had a great

Christmas and New Year’s! I am wishing

for a prosperous year for all of us. The

last two months of 2023 were jam packed

with events and activities so here is a little

update on what I’ve been up to.

November 15th, I was invited to attend

ICW’s Thanksgiving Dinner. I want to say

great job to the ICW department and the

Elders. They did an outstanding job on

this event.

November 18th, I had the privilege of

witnessing a Tribal Baby Naming Ceremony that was held by ICW as well. I love

how my staff is bringing our culture into

their department. It is a great idea for the

children to remain connected to the Tribe

and know that they are not forgotten.

They will ALWAYS be Shawnee.

December 1st, I was in and out of the

Elder’s Bingo Fundraiser. They had a great

turn out and built morale with the attending Tribal Elders.

December 4th-5th, Governor Johnson,

Representative, and I went to Washington

to meet with the Assistant Secretary of

the Indian Affairs, Bryan Newland. That

was my first time traveling that far from

TREASURER’S REPORT

Joseph Blanchard, AST Treasurer

Hello fellow Tribal Members, Family

and Friends:

I hope everyone had a great Holiday

season and the New Year opens with great

promise for each of you. As 2024 begins,

good things lie ahead as we continue to

January 2024

tribal nations. President Biden signed

an executive order for all Tribal Nations

“Executive Order on Reforming Federal

Funding and Support for Tribal Nations

to Better Embrace our Trust Responsibilities and Promote the Next Era of Tribal Self Determination”. This order will

highlight the areas of Tribal Sovereignty,

Self-Determination and honor the trust

and treaty obligations for all tribes. (You

may find a copy of the order on the AST

webpage)

I also attended the first annual Caregiver Cultural Event with Beverly Felton

hosting. It was a great turn out and I look

forward to this event being held annually. For future events I would like to see

more young adults in attendance; your

thoughts and concerns are important as

well.

December we had a Christmas drive-thru event for all AST elders 55 and older. I

hope you got to attend and received your

holiday ham. The podcast for the Absentee Shawnee Tribe is now available. I will

do my best to keep it updated as frequently as possible. The AST Facebook page

and the AST webpage is updated daily,

this is where you will find all the latest

news and important updates.

Should you have any questions or concerns please contact my office at 405-2754030

John Johnson, Governor (ext. 3500)

governor@astribe.com

Alvina Barnes (ext. 3501) alvinab@astribe.com

by the end of 2023. The remaining work

includes installing a meter for the natural

gas and laying carpet and tile.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

A second Continuing Resolution was

signed. One group of appropriations will

expire on January 19, 2024. The other

group of appropriations will expire on

February 2, 2024.

I listened in on zoom to the DOI SGAC/

IHS TSGAC December 11-14, 2023 that

was held in Washington, D.C. At this

meeting it was discussed that no agreement had been made on majority of the

dollars. It is a high probability of us going

into a year-long Continuing Resolution.

BIA Roads Program

The campus asphalt project was completed by Connelly Paving on November

27th. I am so thankful the weather was

cooperative so it didn’t take as long as anticipated.

I attended the Intertribal Transportation Association held December 5-7,

2023. I am currently the Secretary and

have a year left in this position for this Association. We just recently voted in a new

President who is from Pawnee Nation

and a Treasurer from Colville Confederate Tribes. ITA listens and takes suggestions from all tribes across the U.S. and

then reports to NCAI who then reports

to Congress. As each year goes by we

are slowing getting more funds for tribal transportation (safety, intersections,

bridges, planning, roads, etc.).

We currently have a project with Cleveland County. They are repaving Franklin Road west of Harrah/Newalla. This

project should be completed by the end

of December 2023. We are also currently

working on getting two projects together with Pottawatomie County District 3.

They will soon be working on Hardesty

to Brangus Rd and then Brangus to Bob

Crouch. As long as weather permits, they

will begin on these two projects in the beginning of 2024.

Any questions or concerns please

email me at TwylaB@astribe.com or call

(405)275-4030.

Land Management

Land Management has assisted Realty

with fencing on some of our tribal lands.

We continue to deliver wood to the elders

that have made a request. Please keep in

mind this will probably be the last winter for this temporary program as it is

sponsored by BIA CARES. Please contact

Cynthia Carpenter at (405)275-4030 Ext.

3566 or by email: ccarpenter@astribe.

com.

Weatherization

The weatherization Program is still

open for applicants. You must have proof

of ownership and be an Absentee Shawnee tribal member. The program is currently working in the Norman, Little Axe

area. The order in which the program

works is elders first then the remaining

tribal members. If you have any questions

or concerns please call me at 405-8274311 or e-mail me at dmarshall@astribe.

com. Happy New Year from the BIA Staff!

home and family, but I learned a lot and

am happy to have had the opportunity to

go.

December 12th, I attended a “lunch

and learn” event for the Pottawatomie

County Community Health Needs Assessment and the Pottawatomie County

Cattleman’s Association. I want to thank

the AG and Pottawatomie County for inviting me to join you.

December 15th, ICW held their Annual Wrapping Jamboree to wrap all of the

gifts purchased for the Angel Tree Children. I give my thanks to everyone who

showed up and helped wrap the gifts.

December 16th, ICW had their Christmas party changed to a “drive thru party”

due to the rise in numbers of Covid and

the Flu.

December 19th, I recorded my first

podcast with Mindy with our Media department. I feel like it went well and I

cannot wait to share it with you all! I had

a whirlwind of events to go through and

had a blast at each and every one of them.

Below is an update on how some of the

departments in my oversights are doing.

Human Resources

We currently have 586 employees on

staff. Our numbers continue to grow

more and more with every position that

comes available.

Enrollment

As of December 18, 2023 we have a

4,652 Tribal Members. The ladies are currently researching a project to add a Tribal Member’s Traditional Shawnee name to

their CDIB card, if they have one. We will

release more information on this once the

research is complete. Also, to clarify, the

Blood Quantum is still 1/8th. We have

not made any changes.

Domestic Violence

The ladies of the Domestic Violence

department participated in the Shawnee

Christmas Parade on December 8th. They

had an adorable float and I think this was

a great way to promote Domestic Violence Awareness within Indian Country.

ICW

During the month of December, ICW

hosted many events and activities. This

department has been very busy with each

event plus all of their day to day duties.

They go above and beyond every day and

they are very much appreciated. Keep up

the great work, Team!!

If you have any questions or concerns,

feel free to contact my office at 405-2754030 ext. 3505 or my Assistant, Tina at

ext. 3506.

advance and propel the Tribe forward.

The last few weeks, my office has been inundated with meetings for our Tribal operations and addressing concerns within

our community.

Before I begin, let me start by saying I

missed last month’s newsletter deadline

while attending the National Congress

of the American Indian Annual Confer-

ence, which is the equivalent of the National Tribal Leaders Conference. This is

the 2nd time in consecutive years I have

attended and helped represent our Tribe.

In addition, I cast our Tribe’s weighted

votes in the Election and voting process.

For those that have inquired, these are

perfect chances to interact with other

Tribes, Leadership, and staff. (Continued 3A)

Thank you and Happy Holidays,

Governor Johnson

Respectfully,

Lt. Governor DeLodge

Ne yi wa

Secretary McGirt

January 2024

www.astribe.com 3A

TREASURER’S REPORT

(Continued from Page 2A)

Throughout the event, multiple learning and teaching sessions are presented

for attendees to gather information, provide input on National Policy, participate

in Regional Tribal Caucus meetings, and

National sub-committees. As I continue to develop relationships with other Tribal Nations and their Leadership,

and because of these interactions, I was

nominated to the “Tax and Finance Task

Force”, a subdivision of the U.S. Treasury

Tribal Advisory Committee (TTAC),

which reports to the Secretary of the Department of Treasury, Chief Lynn Malerba. Why is this important? We have been

able to show folks on the National level

that we have people with the capabilities

of handling the associated tasks here at

the smaller Tribes.

Two weeks after my return, there was

a Special Executive Discussion, over tags,

held at the afternoon session of the United Indian Nations of Oklahoma (UINO)

quarterly meeting in Tulsa. Due to schedule conflict, Governor Johnson asked me

to attend since I had already been heavily

involved from the initial concern. I provided input and gave opinion of how we

should proceed against the State. At the

same time, we were finalizing the Department Budget Request meetings for our

Annual Tribal Budget, to be voted on be-

REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORT

DeWayne Wilson, AST Representative

Hello Tribal Members,

Hello Tribal Members, I hope everyone had a joyful holiday season with

your family and friends. The holiday

season has been a very busy time in the

Representative office as well as with the

Executive Committee. As the 2023 year

is ending and that winter upon us, please

take your necessary precautions to Stay

Healthy.

102-477 Program: In December, the

477 Director and case managers attended the 2023 Eastern/ Midwest 102-477

Training in Washington, DC. They attended meetings/ work sessions pertaining to P.L. 102- 477 Administration and

Compliance. They met with other 477

Programs and our 477 AOTR from the

BIA concerning the progress of the AST

477 Program. Currently, the 477 Program

has 268 participants, three of which have

transitioned to full- time employment.

The 477 staff are processing the numerous applications as well as assigning case

managers to those applications. The 477

employees are doing a coat distribution

for the youth participants.

CCDF

Program:

CCA/Building

Blocks staff handed out food baskets to

families, for children who attend our

facilities. They have also submitted the

CCDF- AFC- 700 Program reports for

old funding.

As of right now the 477-Child Care

assistance program does not have any

news updates. We are still packing and

fore the completion of the calendar year.

There was a follow-up discussion at the

Oklahoma Intertribal Tax Association

(OITA) quarterly meeting, held in Watonga. A group of legal minds were there

to present definitions and interpret issues

associated to the Tag Concern. This Lawyer group is supposed to develop an official stance and position for Tribes in anticipation of another potential legal battle

with the State. As of this writing, my

office has not received the update, which

was expected 10 days prior to Christmas.

Currently, we still have not had any of our

members ticketed for the Tax Violation.

While we’re talking about legal or court

situations, the presiding judge in Hooper v. Tulsa, a case over whether the City

of Tulsa has jurisdiction to prosecute

Native Americans within their county

or city limits was decided recently. U. S

District Judge William P. Johnson wrote

in his order, “As a matter of Tenth Circuit

law, Section 14 of the Curtis Act no longer applies to Tulsa and therefore Tulsa

no longer has jurisdiction over municipal

violations committed by its Indian inhabitants.” In the U. S. Supreme Court case

McGirt v. Oklahoma, justices noted that

ONLY Tribes and the Federal Government have jurisdiction to prosecute tribal

citizens within Indian Country reservations; which also reaffirmed the Muscogee (Creek) Nation’s “Reservation” still

exists and has never been extinguished or

disestablished by an act of Congress.

Because of schedule conflict, I was unable to attend the visit with other Executive Committee members to the Department of Interior, Assistant Secretary of

Indian Affairs, Bryan Newland in Washington, D.C. As explained at Fall General

Council, our Tribe initiated discussion

last year with our neighbors, in an attempt to solve a problem civilly, without

having to resort to litigation. Those talks

have been fruitless and never reciprocated. In my update, I was informed our

Appeal has been reviewed by IBIA and

is awaiting a date for hearing. This is

good news for our Tribe as the process is

coming along as predicted. It is our hope

we can get the proper venue to hear our

request for a moratorium or ensure applicability of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 25.

At the time of this submission, I have

just returned from the National Indian Agriculture Conference. Some may

recall I was nominated as the Southern

Plains Regional Representative Alternate,

a 4 year appointment, last year. This position allowed for me to attend the Conference at no expense to the Tribe. While

there, besides attending hourly sessions

over various Ag and USDA topics, I was

able to sit in on the Listening Session

with upper Leadership from Department

of Interior, USDA, NRCS, and the US Solicitor’s Office. As a Tribal Leader, I was

able to submit comments about issues

our program, State, and Region have ex-

perienced and to request change and/or

improvements. The deadline for Public

Comment ends on December 29th then

there will be successive meetings over the

requests and additional time allotted for

comment.

While I was out on business travel, our

Tribe and Agriculture Department hosted the December Pott. County Cattleman’s Association meeting, on December

12th. Our staff, along with a few of our

Executive Committee attended and participated in that night’s activities. Since I

wasn’t in town, I will let one of the others

present the information or update of the

event.

As I come to the end of my submission,

as always, I want to say “Thank you!” to

the folks who continue to support, provide advice and encouragement, to all

our programs and departments. Though

it doesn’t always seem like it with the negativity of Social Media, the staff and employees work hard to provide assistance

to our membership. This time of year,

the Election Cycle will begin shortly and

we’ll see all the campaign rhetoric, promises, and other propaganda. Take time to

research the candidates and align with

one that thinks or views things as you do.

Good luck to all Candidates! See ya

next month.

preparing to move both the Child Care

assistance and After School program to

the new location at the beginning of next

year.

Education Department: In November, Education Dept. employees set up an

information table at the OKC Thunder

Native American Student Day. Education

Director attended the First Annual Veterans Education and Resource Fair for anyone with a military connection (Veterans,

Active Duty, National Guard/Reserves,

Spouses and Dependents) at the Oklahoma City Community College. Education Director also set up an information

table at the same event. In December,

Education staff attended the Native Club

meeting at Tecumseh High School. They

met with the students and provided them

with Christmas candy bags. One Education staff and two THPO staff attended

a listening session with individuals from

the State of Kansas at the First Americans

Museum. The State of Kansas is attempting to create “Indian Education for All”

to help support Indian Education like in

the State of Montana, who wanted input

from tribes who had been in Kansas at

some point in the past and wanted to visit

with us too. Education Director attended

a webinar on the new FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) updates. The new FAFSA will be available

by the end of December 2023. Webinar

was hosted by TEDNA ACE project and

presented by OCAP (Oklahoma College

Access Program).

Workforce Program: Busy as usual.

In mid- December, the HVAC interns

will complete their training. The HVAC

Program continues to advertise Heater/

Furnace systems check for this coming

winter. If you want/ need your Heater/

Furnace system check, please contact

Cindy at ext. 3566. Elders will be given

preference.

Cultural Preservation: In November,

the Language Program has just received

their first lesson booklets. The booklets

were created by the program and produced by the Media Department. This

booklet will be the first of many that will

be used in the classes that will begin next

year. The booklets contain fourteen sections on such topics as numbers, animals,

colors, and phrases. In December, Ms.

Carol Butler, Director of Cultural Preservation and Interim NAGPRA Coordinator, had a meeting with Mrs. Sheila

Bird, former Tribal Historic Preservation

Officer (THPO) of the United Keetoowah

Band of Cherokee Indians and is currently a private historic preservation consultant and producer of the podcast THPO

Talk, and Ms. Stephanie Rainwater, Project Manager/Biologist for LJA Engineering. They discussed the tribe being a cohost of a THPO School. The idea behind

this school is to teach all the components,

such as Archaeological Phase I and Phase

II studies, map reading and making, biological factors, non-invasive ways to investigate historic sites such as GPR and

Cadaver Dogs. The school will be opened

to other THPOs and students, who want

to learn or need a refresher. Also, Mr.

Scott Miller assisted Mr. Andrew Warrior

in building a small arbor at Epic Schools

in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This arbor will be

used to demonstrate to the children the

different types of Native American dwellings.

Gaming Commission: This time of

season is easy going as the major holiday

approaches and the year closes. Gaming

Commission is getting ready for the start

of the New Year. During this downtime,

we are focusing on what new approaches

to take and develop new process to help

better the work environment and make

our jobs easier or make processing better. The Gaming Commission is currently getting ready for the renewal of the

Thunderbird Casino Facility license for

the Norman location. We still continue

to stay busy with reviewing of licensing

requirements, Policy and procedures and

attending upcoming online NIGC training.

Youth Camp: No real news to report,

we are still accepting and receiving bids

for lighting for the softball field, basketball and tennis courts and for the dining

hall parking lot and playground area. The

other construction we will be starting

will be a Water Harvest project. This project will allow us to collect rain water in a

tank to be utilized to irrigate the softball

field and surrounding area if need be.

If you have any questions or concerns

about the 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. Again, it is

my pleasure to be your Tribal Representative.

Respectfully,

Joseph H. Blanchard

Ne yi wa!

DeWayne Wilson

Tribal Representative

Hi qe ke s’fwa – (Severe Month)

January 2024

Agriculture Department

Si wi nwi to wa

Speak Shawnee

Hi la me wa pe – It’s very cold.

Hi la me – it’s very

Wa pe – cold

-----

Qe li he ka ke so we pe ta ne ka pa – We need our warm coats.

Qe li he – need

-----

Ka ke so we – warm

Pe ta ne ka pa – our coat or shirt

Ka ho wa li s’to ne ti we ta ti – Get the fireplace ready.

Ka ho wa li s’to – get ready

Ne ti we ta ti – fireplace

-----

Ne ke we s’ke lo fi ke si ke ke we fa ne ke – These birds are eating off the ground.

Ne ke – these We s’ke lo fi ke – birds

-----

Si ke ke – on the ground

We fa ne ke – eating

We si ko ne – It’s going to snow.

We si – it’s going to

-----

Ko ne - snow

Ka ko lo fi m’sa s’ke wi po – Make some hot tea.

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe hosted the Pottawatomie County

Cattlemen's Association Christmas banquet on December 12. The

event was held at the Multi-Purpose Building in Shawnee.

Ka ko lo fi – go boil it

-----

M’sa s’ke wi po – tea (leaf juice)

Ka pe mo pa he wi ke ma so m’fa ni – Grandpa said it’s time to hibernate.

Pe mo pa – quit moving or hibernate

He wi – he said

Ke ma so m’fa ni - Grandpa

January 2024

4A www.astribe.com

FROM THE

ELECTION

COMMISSION

FROM

THE

ELECTION

COMMISSION:

The Filing Period for Elective Office in 2024.

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

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

holidays). Hours to file are 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

ABSENTEE BALLOT REQUEST

Potential candidates please consult the Election Ordinance for the procedures and qualifications

when running for elective office.

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

(Print Name)

Voter of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe on or before March 16, 2024. I cannot physically

be present to cast my Vote at the March 16, 2024 Primary Election, therefore, I am

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

The following positions will be open for the Elections to be held in 2024:

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Name (please print): ________________________________________________________

(first)

Position

Lt. Governor

Tribal Treasurer

Tribal Representative

Filing Fees

$800.00

(middle)

(maiden)

(last)

Address:_________________________ City:_______________St: _______Zip:________

Term

4 Year Term

CDIB#:__________________________

Date of Birth: ______________________

Signature: ____________________________ Date:_____________________________

ELECTION COMMISSION

Position

Deputy Commissioner

Commission Member #1

Filing Fees

$300.00

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

Term

3 Year Term

February 25, 2024

Mail to:

Absentee Shawnee Election Commission

P.O. Box 741

Tecumseh, OK 74873

Fee Amount includes: Alcohol test, drug test, MVR, OSBI, FBI fee plus certified postage fee,

ballot printing (twice), Absentee Ballot/correspondence postage.

Fax to:

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

Phone: (405) 275-4030 ext. 6271

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

QUALIFICATIONS:

A) An enrolled member of the tribe.

B) An eligible voter for purposes of voting in tribal elections.

C) Must be twenty-one (21) years of age on the date of the election for which he/she desires to

be a candidate.

D) Physically reside within the following Counties: Cleveland, Pottawatomie, Oklahoma,

McClain, Garvin, Pontotoc, Seminole, Lincoln, or Okfuskee.

E) In cases where a prospective candidate has been convicted of a felony, such person shall not

be eligible for consideration as a candidate until at least five (5) years have passed following

completion of the penalty for such conviction(s).

F) Not more than one (1) member of an immediate family shall be elected to the same tribal

elective body except when running as a candidate for the same elective position.

Email to:

election.commission@astribe.com

Deliver in Person to:

Election Commission Office

located in the Tribal Court Building

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

This form may be duplicated for your convenience.

______________________________________________________________________________

ELECTION COMMISSION USE ONLY

Received: _____________________ Approved:____________________ Disapproved: _______________

If Disapproved (reason): _________________________________________________________________

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS (approved by Referendum June 20, 2015)

Denial Letter Mailed:___________________________ Ballot Mailed:_____________________________

_______________________________________

Election Commission/Representative

A) Must have a valid Oklahoma State Driver’s License

B) Must have a negative result on a drug and alcohol test

C) Must have a high school diploma or GED

Applications accepted:

Jan. 1st –Feb. 28th

Big Jim Youth Award

AST Education Department:

Big Jim Youth Awards

We will begin taking applications for the 2023-24 Big Jim Youth Awards on January 1, 2024.

Absentee Shawnee High school seniors of both genders within the 50 United States are eligible

to apply for these awards for the 2023-24 academic year.



Applications will be accepted from January 1 to February 28, 2024.

o All applications and supporting documents must be postmarked (mail) or

received (in person or email) by February 28th at 11:59 pm CST.

o Documents received after the deadline will not be reviewed by judges.

o Official transcripts will be accepted via email, from school personnel, or as a

hard copy. Faxed copies will not be accepted.

The official application form is available at www.astribe.com on the Education page under the

Services tab. The $1,000.00 award is in the form of a scholarship to the

college/university/vocational institution where the award recipient will attend for the fall 2024

semester. The scholarship must be used for the fall 2024 semester.

Applications are for the following awards:

 Big Jim Academic Achievement Award (Male and Female)

 Big Jim Athlete of the Year (Male and Female)

Please refer to the application for required documents. Eligible applications will be judged by a

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

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

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

Awards will be announced at a date to be determined after April/May 2024.

Award recipients will be recognized as the 2023-24 Big Jim Academic Achievement Award

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

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

their career.

Questions on these awards program should be addressed to:

Absentee Shawnee Tribe

Education Department

c/o Tresha Spoon

2025 S. Gordon Cooper Drive

Shawnee, OK 74801

405.275.4030 Ext 3533

youthaward@astribe.com

EASIER WAY TO RECYCLE

This is for people who are on a city resident recycling program:

When you recycle: plastics, cardboard, newspapers, cans, bottles, milk

jugs, paper, junk mail, magazines, glass jars, foil, you will find less trash

remaining.

Have a separate medium trash can hidden in lower kitchen cabinet. Rinse

out the recyclables that are needed. Then all items are placed in this trash

can. When filled, take to garage, where you have another 32-gallon trash

can to dispose.

Then empty in the green recyclable cart provided by the city. They pick

up every two weeks. Check your recycle weeks.

If you are new to this, I would call the city to advise you will have a recycle

cart and will start placing It out every two weeks.

No one wants to take each item to recycle cart each time. The is one way

to recycle.

Save the environment, start recycling.

Notice: Can the adult children of Herman Littlecreek to contact me,

regarding some military pictures and documents I possess. I would like to

give back. Eileen Pearce 405 227 2036.

Eileen Pearce

Tribal Member

Finalists announced:

2025 S. Gordon Cooper Drive

Shawnee, OK 74801

April/May 2024

(405) 275-4030 Ext. 3533

youthaward@astribe.com

Check one:

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

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

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

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

STUDENT INFORMATION

Name: ___________________________________________________

(LAST)

(FIRST)

(MI)

Tribal Enrollment #:

Address: _________________________________________________________________________________

(STREET)

Home Phone: (

)

(CITY)

(STATE)

Cell Phone: (

(ZIP)

)

Email:

College/university/vocational institution you plan to attend and course of study/major?

HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION

High School Name:

City:

State:

Advisor/Counselor:

Phone #:

Sport, if applicable:

Position:

Coach:

Phone #:

Indian Education Director:

Phone #:

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

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

applications and sets of supporting documents.

Documents to be included with application:

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

□ Tribal Enrollment Card (copy)

□ Résumé of all relevant Academic or Athletic accomplishments, activities, work experience, etc. (if applying

for both Academic Achievement and Athlete of the Year, you will need two distinctly different résumés)

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

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

an Absentee Shawnee Tribal member will influence your future plans?

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

January 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

November and December were busy months for Building Blocks. We

celebrated Native American Heritage Month on November 29th with

an AST Family Exhibition Dance! We had several guests that showed

us their heritage through attire and dance. The children had a blast

watching the Exhibition! Thank You to those who participated!!

ABSENTEE

Building Blocks III C.D.C

16051 Little Axe Dr

SHAWNEE TRIBE OF

Norman, OK 73026

OKLAHOMA

Phone: (405) 360.2710 Fax- (405)360.2726

In the Classroom

This month, Ms. Shelly is teaching

the infants about the works of Jan

Brett, dinosaurs, In the Artic, and

Construction. The toddlers and 2's

are learning “All About Me!”. The

three’s are learning about “New

Beginnings, and the 4’s and 5's

class is learning about the winter

season

In the Center

3...2...1... HAPPY NEW YEAR! We hope

you enjoyed the holidays and are

ready to kick off the new year! We

had so much decorating and

celebrating Christmas! The kids

decorated Christmas trees, made

mistleTOES, decked out in their best

Christmas outfits, made candy canes,

and sent letters to Santa!

We welcomed our new housekeeper,

Ms. Chanelle, and new teacher, Ms.

Lyndsie :)

We are ready for the New Year and

what it may bring. Please be weather

aware and prepared. Be on the

lookout for any inclement weather

closures and holiday closures!

Director: Skye Foreman

Assistant Director: Renee Richardson

rsars Day na!

em ; Ne y, Ms. S

lose Birthd

Day

1.- C

Jan - Happ d; MLK ay, Ms.

la!

15.- appy

Jay

Ms.

Jan

irth

Jan

, Ms

py B

day

ee!

Hap y Birth

Ren

Jan 7.- Ha

, Ms

day

irth

Jan e!

Lua 1.- Hap

Jan

Dyo

Now the New Year has arrived and we will be getting into full swing

with learning curriculums and learning as the children play.

Building Blocks will be closed Monday, January 1st for New Year’s Day.

We hope everyone has a safe new year!

Building Blocks will also be closed on Monday, January 15th in

observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day!

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.

Have a Wonderful January!

Oklahoma Missing Persons Day 2024

WHEN: Saturday, April 27nd, 2024 10:00am – 3:00pm

WHERE: University of Central Oklahoma Forensic Science

Institute, 801 East 2nd Street, Edmond, Oklahoma

All families and friends of Missing Persons are encouraged to

attend anytime between 10am-3pm to initiate missing person

reports, provide additional investigative leads, enter or review

the missing person information in NamUs, and submit family

reference DNA. All resources are available at NO COST to

families.

Families may bring photographs, dental and medical records,

and any other pertinent information about the missing person.

OU AMERICAN INDIAN ALUMNI SOCIETY

Benefit Powwow

JANUARY 27, 2024

THUNDERBIRD CASINO NORMAN, OK

GOURD DANCE: 2PM SUPPER: 5:30PM GRAND ENTRY: 7PM

HEAD STAFF

MC: Marshall Williamson

Head Singer: Rowe Kishketon

Head Man: Cortney Yarholar

Head Lady: Dr. Star Yellowfish

Head Gourd: Michael Griffin

AD: Dr. Corey Still

Nation

Color Guard: Seminole

Honor Guard

CONTESTS

Men’s Fancy

Women’s Cloth

Tiny Tots

50/50

Raffles

Cake Walk

Special invitation to: OU Alumni, Current OU Students,

OU Staff, Changing Winds Cultural Society, Miss and Jr Miss

Indian Oklahoma City and Tribal/Organizational Princesses

Vendor Contact: Leslie Tanyan (405) 245-9953

Please RSVP to okmissingpersons@gmail.com

For information or questions - okmissingpersons@gmail.com Missing In Oklahoma 2024 | Facebook

AIAS is not responsible for accidents, injuries, or theft

Proceeds benefit AIAS activities including the F. Browning Pipestem Scholarship fund

January 2024

6A www.astribe.com

News Release

To:

From:

Date:

Subject:

The Absentee Shawnee News

AllNations Bank

12-15-2023

Jill Maple Named Community President-Calumet for AllNations Bank

Jill Maple was recently promoted to Community Bank President-Calumet by AllNations Bank. She will continue

to serve as the bank’s Chief Financial Officer responsible for finance and investments, deposit operations, and

technology. Jill has been with the bank since joining as Chief Financial Officer in 2019. She also serves on the bank’s

board of directors.

Ms. Maple is originally from Hanibal, Missouri where she grew up. Jill and her husband now reside in Yukon. She

has a B.S. in Accounting from Liberty University and recently graduated from the Graduate School of Banking at

Colorado, one of the premier programs in the country for educating bank leaders.

Jill joined AllNations from a mid-sized community bank where she served in multiple positions during her tenure

including all the responsibilities she now has with AllNations. She has nearly 30 years of experience working with

community banks. She has steadily progressed in her career working up from an entry level banker to bank executive

positions. Jill joined AllNations Bank when the bank was under a regulatory order and was instrumental in turning

around the bank’s performance.

Steve Smith, CEO of AllNations Bank, commented, “The board and I are very pleased to announce Jill’s promotion.

She is the best hire I’ve made in my career and was the key to getting the bank turned around. Jill also led the bank’s

recent transition to a new and improved data processing system. Her work as the bank’s CFO has enabled the bank

to achieve better earnings and growth than at any time in the last 20 years plus. Her character and competence make

her the perfect person to lead AllNations in the Calumet market and continue the progress we’ve made in making

AllNations a great community bank.”

Jill Maple, AllNations Bank

Community President-Calumet and

Chief Financial Officer.

News Release

To:

From:

Date:

Subject:

The Absentee Shawnee News

AllNations Bank

12-15-2023

Promotions at AllNations Bank

Steve Smith, AllNations Bank CEO recently announced the promotion of three AllNations Bank officers. All of the promotions were effective at the

beginning of 2024.

Debra Coym has been promoted to Assistant Vice President. She is the new branch manager of the Shawnee Branch located on the Absentee Shawnee

campus. In her new role, she will oversee all operations of the branch in addition to her continuing customer service and lending responsibilities. Debra has

nearly 40 years of banking experience and was a branch manager and consumer loan officer for her previous bank. She joined AllNations Bank in 2021 as a

customer service and loan officer. CEO Smith commented, “Debbie has been a great addition to the bank’s team. She was instrumental in building our home

loan program and oversees all our home loan compliance activities. She will do a great job as our new Shawnee branch manager.”

Christy Moberly works in the bank’s operations area in the Calumet office. She was promoted to Vice President – Operations. She performs many of the

operational, accounting and administrative functions for the bank working directly with the CFO. Christy will be taking on new finance and accounting

responsibilities in her new role. She has 30 years of banking experience and has worked for AllNations for a total of 5 years including from 2013-2016. She

rejoined the bank in 2021. “Since her return to the bank in 2021, our back office has improved dramatically. When we installed a new software system earlier

this year, she was a big reason for the transition being a smooth and successful one.” stated Smith.

Deanna Troglin is the bank’s Agriculture Lender. She has been promoted to Senior Vice President. In addition to the bank’s ag and FSA guaranteed loans,

Deanna does small business and consumer loans out of the bank’s Calumet office. Deanna has worked in the banking industry since 1983 in a variety of roles

including trust, branch manager, auditor and lending. She joined AllNations Bank in 2020 as loan administration manager and was subsequently promoted to

Vice President and Loan Officer. CEO Steve Smith stated, “Deanna has done a terrific job as our FSA lender and managing the loan administration function of

the bank. She has overseen the bank’s transition from completely paper loan files to electronic document image files. She has also implemented the automation

of several loan documentation and accounting processes in the past couple of years. As a bank focused on agricultural and FSA guaranteed loans, Deanna is

responsible for the management of a big portion of the bank’s assets.”

AST Elders Bingo Fundraiser

January 2024

www.astribe.com

Happy 3rd Birthday Livvy,

Mama and Daddy love you

so much

Happy 7th Birthday

Autumn Michelle!

We love you very much keep

on following your dreams!

Love Mom, Dad,

Mae Mae, and Colson

Happy Birthday Alivia

Jordan, Love always, MiMi

and Uncle Phat Phat

Happy Birthday Clay

from Pink and the kids!

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma

2025 South Gordon Cooper Drive

Shawnee, Oklahoma 74801-0381

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma

Title VI

Elderly Nutrition Program

2025 South Gordon Cooper Drive

Shawnee, Oklahoma 74801-0381

Title VI

Elderly Nutrition Program

Dear Absentee Shawnee Tribal Members,

For many years, the Title VI department has provided gas to mow your lawns. We are updating the

guidelines. The Title VI Grant provides gas as supportive services and for us to provide supportive

service you must be a participant in the Title VI Program.

For many years, the Title VI department has provided gas to mow your lawns. We are updating the

guidelines. The Title VI Grant provides gas as supportive services and for us to provide supportive

Guidelines:

service you must be a participant in the Title VI Program.

1. Absentee Shawnee Member

Guidelines:

2. Must be 55 years and older

3. Must be an Title VI Member, have a current intake form on file (FY-2024)

1. Absentee Shawnee Member

4. Must provide Proof of Residency (utility bill – in the applicants name)

2. Must be 55 years and older

5. Handicap/Disabled

3. Must be an Title VI Member, have a current intake form on file (FY-2024)

6. NO RENTAL PROPERTY WILL BE MOWED

4. Must provide Proof of Residency (utility bill – in the applicants name)

As a5.Title

VI member, as long as you are within the guidelines you can put in your application and

Handicap/Disabled

turn6.in your

applications

to theWILL

Title BE

VI department.

As stated on the application: Maintenance will

NO RENTAL

PROPERTY

MOWED

only mow and weed eat applicants lawn. Maintenance will mow every two (2) weeks, weather

As a Title VI member, as long as you are within the guidelines you can put in your application and

permitting. Also, the maintenance workers will not trim trees, shrubs, and will NOT move any items

turn in your applications to the Title VI department. As stated on the application: Maintenance will

that are in the way of cutting your lawn.

only mow and weed eat applicants lawn. Maintenance will mow every two (2) weeks, weather

permitting.

the maintenance

workers

will

not

trimmowing

trees, shrubs,

This year weAlso,

are trying

to get an early

start on

our

grass

list. and will NOT move any items

that are in the way of cutting your lawn.

Any questions you can reach me at 405-275-4030 ext. 3614 or call 405-716-4941 or email me at

dowings@astribe.com

This

year we are trying to get an early start on our grass mowing list.

Any questions you can reach me at 405-275-4030 ext. 3614 or call 405-716-4941 or email me at

dowings@astribe.com

Thomasine Owings

Title VI Director

Thomasine Owings

Title VI Director

TODAY’S DATE______________________________ REFERRAL SOURCE_____________________

LAST NAME___________________________ FIRST NAME____________________________ MI_____

DATE OF BIRTH______________________ MALE ____ FEMALE____ VETERAN____YES____NO

STREET ADDRESS__________________________________________________________________

CITY___________________ STATE_____ ZIP CODE________ PHONE NUMBER _______________

SINGLE ____ MARRIED _____ DIVORCED/SEPARATED ____ WIDOWED_____ WIDOWER______

SPOUSE’S NAME______________________________ SPOUSE’S DATE OF BIRTH _______________

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma

Title VI Department

2025 S Gordon Cooper Dr

Shawnee OK 74801

405-275-4030

CDIB # __________

Grass Mowing Application

D.O.B.___________

EMAIL ADDRESS____________________________________________________________________

The following are the requirements for this program:

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TITLE VI ELDER INTAKE FORM

NAME OF EMERGENCY CONTACT (1)_________________________________ PHONE_______________

NAME OF EMERGENCY CONTACT (2) ________________________________ PHONE _______________

PRIMARY LANGUAGE

Must be an Absentee Shawnee Member

Must be 55 years and older

Must be a Title VI Member (have an current intake form for the current year 2024)

Handicap/Disabled

Must provide Proof of Residency (utility bill must be in applicant’s name)

NO RENTAL PROPERTY will be mowed

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe Maintenance Department will ONLY mow and weed eat applicant’s lawn.

Maintenance will mow every two (2) weeks, weather permitting. Also, the maintenance workers will not trim

trees or shrubs.

If you have any questions, please contact Dos Owings at (405) 275-4030 ext. 3614 or 405-716-4941.

NAME: __________________________________________________

ENGLISH___ TRIBAL___

OTHER______________________

HOUSING ___ HOUSE ___ APARTMENT ____COMMUNITY HOUSING ___ OTHER EXPLAIN____________

COMPOSITION ____ LIVES ALONE ____ LIVES WITH SPOUSE ____LIVES WITH FAMILY/FRIENDS

NUMBER IN HOUSEHOLD _______ WHO HELPS ___________________________________________

GRANDCHILDREN IN THE HOUSEHOLD?_________________ IF YES, HOW MANY_____________

HEALTH HISTORY ____ ASTHMA ____ALZHEIMER’S

____ARTHRITIS ____CANCER ____DEMENTIA

____DIABETES ____CHRONIC PAIN ____HEARING AID ____CHOLESTEROL ____BLOOD PRESSURE

PRIMARY TRANSPORTATION _____Own Car _____Friend _____Public Trans. _____Senior Tran’s _____Family

PROSTHETIC DEVICES ____Walker/Cane ____Wheelchair _____Hearing Aid _____Glasses ____Dentures ____None

ADDRESS: ________________________________________________

ARE YOU ENROLLED WITH A DIFFERENT TITLE VI PROGRAM? ____ YES ____ NO

CITY: _______________________

IF YES, NAME OF PROGRAM & WHERE LOCATED:________________________________________

STATE:___________

ZIP: _______

HOME PHONE: ____________________ MESSAGE PHONE: ________________

HEALTH CONCERNS ___________________________________________________________________

EMAIL: ______________________________________________________

SERVICES CURRENTLY BEING RECEIVED_________________________________________________

FINDING DIRECTIONS TO HOME:

___________________________________________________________________

*DISCLAIMER

Maintenance will not move any items that are in the way of them mowing your yard so if you are able

or can get some help in getting your yard cleaned, it will be very helpful in maintaining your yard.

PROVIDE THE DATE OF YOUR VACCINATION COVID 19

1st__________ 2nd_________ BOOSTER__________

Johnson & Johnson __________ FLU__________

NAME OF YOUR TRIBE:

_____________________________________

January 2024

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, January 1 - New Years

Monday, January 15 - Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Cut Your Risk In Half

FREE!

Do you have Pre-Diabetes?

Are you At Risk For Pre-Diabetes?

WELLNESS WARRIORS

STARTING JANUARY 2024

Pre-diabetes means your blood glucose (sugar) is higher

than normal, but not yet diabetes. Diabetes is a serious

disease which can cause heart attack, stroke, blindness, kidney failure, or loss of toes, feet or legs.

The good new is… Type 2 diabetes can be delayed or

prevented in people with pre-diabetes through lifestyle programs. Come be a part of this awesome program that has been

proven to prevent diabetes!

This program gives you:

 Free weight loss coaching from certified Lifestyle

Coaches to guide and support you

 Help with being more physically active and

managing stress

 Tools for healthy eating, free cooking demos

 Free Fit-Bits for participation and attendance

 A chance to be the best version of yourself for

2024 and beyond!!

Do you qualify for this program?



18 years of age or older

BMI of 25 or greater

A1C range: 5.7%-6.4%



Previous diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes

Fasting labs greater than 100 mg/dl

Random lab greater than 130 mg/dl

For more information or to put your name on the list contact:

Absentee Shawnee Tribe Diabetes and Wellness Program

2029 S. Gordon Cooper Dr., Shawnee, OK 74801

Iris Jaquez, RD/LD

Certified DPP Lifestyle Coach

405-878-2112

E-mail: ijaquez@astribe.com

LEGAL NOTICE

www.asthealth.org

January 2024

Section B

ASTHS January 2024 Monthly Update

National Birth Defects Prevention Month

January is Birth Defects Prevention Month. We know that not all birth defects can be prevented; but, you can increase your chances of having

a healthy baby by doing what you can to be your healthiest self, both before and during pregnancy. What is best for you is also best for your baby.

This year's theme is: EVERY JOURNEY MATTERS!

Birth defects are structural changes that can affect almost any part of the body, such as the heart, brain, or foot, and can cause lifelong health challenges. Birth defects are

common, affecting 1 in every 33 babies born in the United States each year. Not all birth defects can be prevented, and they can occur in any family, regardless of race,

ethnicity, health history, or economic status.

The National Birth Defects Prevention Network (NBDPN) raises awareness of birth defects and promotes strategies that reduce the risk of birth defects and their complications. National Birth Defects Awareness Month is a time to raise awareness about birth defects and highlight efforts to improve the health of people living with these

conditions across their lifespan. As early identification, medical care and treatment have improved, babies and children with birth defects are living longer and healthier

lives. That is why NBDPN’s 2024 theme is “Every Journey Matters”, highlighting that from prior to diagnosis, throughout childhood and adulthood, every individual

impacted by birth defects matters.

NBDPN encourages all pregnant people and prospective parents to make healthy choices and adopt healthier habits to help lower their risk of having a baby born with

a birth defect.

This January, take time to learn about:

•

Birth defect prevention before and during pregnancy

Survival and health of infants with birth defects

Educational needs and special healthcare needs for children with birth defects

Transition from pediatric to adult medical care for adolescents

Planning for pregnancy, recurrence prevention, and genetics and family history for adults with birth defects

5 Healthy Pregnancy Tips:

Be sure to take 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid every day at least one month prior to conception.

Plan a visit with your health care provider to support a healthy pregnancy.

Reduce your risk of infections.

Care for your body and mind before and during pregnancy to set you and your baby up for success.

Avoid harmful substance during pregnancy, such as alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.

Planning for Pregnancy

If you are trying to have a baby or are just thinking about it, it is not too early to start getting ready for pregnancy. Preconception health and health care focus on things

you can do before and between pregnancies to increase the chances of having a healthy baby. For some people, getting their bodies ready for pregnancy takes a few

months. For other people, it might take longer. Whether this is your first, second, or sixth baby, the following are important steps to help you get ready for the healthiest

pregnancy possible.

1. Make a Plan and Take Action: Whether or not you’ve written them down, you’ve probably thought about your goals for having or not having children, and how to

achieve those goals.

2. See Your Doctor: Before getting pregnant, talk to your healthcare provider about preconception health care. Your provider will want to discuss your health history

and any medical conditions you currently have that could affect a pregnancy.

3. Get 400 Micrograms of Folic Acid Every Day: Folic acid is a B vitamin. Having enough folic acid in your body at least 1 month before and during pregnancy can

help prevent major birth defects of the developing baby’s brain and spine (anencephaly and spina bifida). CDC urges all people who can become pregnant to get 400

micrograms (mcg) of folic acid each day, from fortified foods or supplements, or a combination of the two, in addition to a varied diet rich in folate.

4. Stop Drinking Alcohol, Smoking, and Using Certain Drugs: Smoking, drinking alcohol, and using certain drugs can cause many problems during pregnancy, such

as premature birth, birth defects, and infant death.

5. Avoid Toxic Substances and Environmental Contaminants: Avoid harmful chemicals, environmental contaminants, and other toxic substances such as synthetic

chemicals, some metals, fertilizer, bug spray, and cat or rodent feces around the home and in the workplace. These substances can hurt the reproductive systems of men

and women. They can make it more difficult to get pregnant. Exposure to even small amounts during pregnancy, infancy, childhood, or puberty can lead to diseases.

6. Reach and Maintain a Healthy Weight: People who are overweight or obese have a higher risk for many serious conditions, including complications during pregnancy, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers (endometrial, breast, and colon). People who are underweight are also at risk for serious health problems.

7. Learn Your Family History: Collecting your family’s health history can help you identify factors that might affect your baby during infancy or childhood or your

ability to become pregnant. You might not realize that your sister’s heart defect or your cousin’s sickle cell disease could affect your baby, but sharing this family history

information with your doctor can be important.

8. Get Mentally Healthy: Mental health is how we think, feel, and act as we cope with life. To be at your best, you need to feel good about your life and value yourself.

As always, make sure to see your primary care provider whenever you have any questions about your healthcare.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

Little Axe Health Clinic

•

Pharmacy Expansion- Concrete is complete in New Pharmacy drive thru and parking area. Waiting on the pneumatic tube system to be installed. Framing and

drywall are mostly complete. Equipment began arriving at the end of December for new Pharmacy area. Pharmacy Expansion is on target for end of January

2024. North Lot asphalt layer has been completed.

Remodel of current Primary Care for new PlusCare and Specialty Clinic – demo is underway. They have begun installing overhead and plumbing as needed.

PlusCare and Specialty will relocate to what was formerly Primary Care in Feb/Mar ’24.

Substantial completion/occupancy of the Little Axe Expansion is expected for April 2024!

Shawnee Health Clinic

NEW SHAWNEE HEALTH CLINIC! (Coming Soon!)

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

The feasibility study has been completed and an architect has been selected. Design phase has been initiated and a Request for Proposal (RFP) for Construction Manager

will begin shortly.

December 2023 Health Employee Awards of the Month

Employee of the Month: Kathy Heldenbrand, RN – Employee Health

Team of the Month: Primary Care Nursing – Little Axe

Special Leadership Award: Dasha Johnson, MSN, RN – Director of Nursing/ Quality Director

Chris A. Larkin, MBA, FACHE, CHC

Executive Director

January 2024

2B www.astribe.com

MK COLORING CONTEST WINNER

With cool weather around the corner,

soups are a fun way of warming your

family up. This chicken noodle soup

can be made at home and your family

will love all it’s rich flavors!

Let’s make some

soup!!

Nutrition Corner

A S T

D I A B E T E S

A N D

W E L L N E S S

LET’S MAKE...

Ingredients:

2 teaspoons olive oil

3 medium carrots

-thinly sliced

 2 medium ribs of

celery

-thinly sliced

 1 small onion

-diced

 4 cups fat-free,

low-sodium chicken

broth

 1.5 pounds boneless,

skinless chicken

breast

-visible fat removed

-cut into bite-size

pieces

 3 cups water

 3 tablespoons fresh

parsley

-minced

 1/2 teaspoon dried

thyme

-crumbled

 1/4 teaspoon salt

 1/4 teaspoon black

pepper

 6 ounces dried

no-yolk noodles



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

medium heat. Cook the carrots, celery, and

onion for 3 minutes, or until the carrots and

celery are tender and the onion is soft, stirring

frequently. Stir in the broth, chicken, water,

parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.

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

minutes.

THANK YOU FOR

YOUR SERVICE.

WE’RE HERE FOR

YOU IF YOU NEED US.

PACT ACT ELIGIBILITY

Were you exposed to

burn pits, herbicides,

or other toxins while

in the military?

VA PHONE SUPPORT

411

800 -M yVA

-2411

(800) 698

1-800-MyVA411

(800-698-2411)

You may be eligible for

VA health care and

compensation. Learn

more at VA.gov/PACT.

The one number all Veterans, their

families, caregivers, and survivors

can use to access VA resources 24

hours-a-day, 365 days-a-year.

VA’S OFFICIAL MOBILE APP

VA WELCOME KIT

Download the

VA Health and

Benefits App!

Download VA’s

Welcome Kit!

• View and cancel appointments

• Check claims and

appeal status

• View payment

information

• Download Veteran

Service Letters

Download the VA Welcome Kit and

explore VA benefits and services,

including:

VA.gov/welcome-kit

Disability Ratings

Education Benefits

VA Health Care

Veteran-Owned

Small Business Support

January 2024

www.astribe.com

JANUARY 2024

MONDAY

TUESDAY

CLOSED FOR

NEW YEAR’S DAY

WEDNESDAY

CHICKEN STRIPS

MASHED POT/GRAVY

VEGGIES

MANDRIAN ORANGES

BEEF STROGANOFF

GREEN BEANS

GRILLED CHICKEN

SANDWICH

LTOP

PORK N BEANS

APPLE SLICES

CLOSED FOR

DR MARTIN LUTHER

KING JR DAY

CHICKEN SALAD

SANDWICH

LTOP

COTTAGE CHEZ/PEACHES

HAM & CHEZ SANDWICH

LTOP

CHIPS/GRAPES

HOT DOG

KRAUT

CHIPS

ORANGE

BURRITO

SPAINSH RICE

REFRIED BEANS

PINEAPPLES

BAKED ZITA

GREEN BEANS

TOSSED SALAD*

HAM

BLACKEYED PEAS

CORNBREAD

BAKED POTATO

CHEZ,ONIONS,HAM

BROC & CHEZ

PUDDING

GOULASH

OKRA

BREAD

FRUIT

COOK’S

CHOICE

THURSDAY

TATER TOT

CASSEROLE

BEETS

PEACHES

TURKEY

STUFFING/GRAVY

VEGGIES

CRANBERRY SAUCE

BAKED FRIED CHICKEN

VEGGIES

ROLL

CRISP

PORK AND HOMINY

GREEN BEANS

CAKE

FRIDAY

PANCAKES

BACON

FRUIT

CEREAL

SAUSAGE PATTIES

TOAST

SCRAMBLED EGGS

SAUSAGE GRAVY

BISCUIT

BOILED EGG

SAUSAGE PATTIES

TOAST

SALMON PATTY

MAC & CHEZ

COLESLAW

JELL-O W FRUIT

*MENU SUBJECT TO CHANGE*

LUNCH SERVED MONDAY – THURSDAY 11 AM TO 1 PM SHAWNEE SITE

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 AT BRENDLE CORNER

HEALTH BUZZ!!

As the new year dawns, I hope it is filled with the promises of good health, wealth, and blessings!

We have had the pleasure over the past year of meeting and speaking with many of you and many others about our

Alzheimer’s Disease Program Initiative Programs– Savvy Caregiver in Indian Country and Music & Memory.

Throughout the coming year, we will continually work to provide education and spread awareness about dementia

and how we can help. For all of you who have joined us at our events and those that have helped us with our

events, we THANK YOU!

We take it to heart when individuals contact us or are referred to us for our caregiver services. We know time is a precious commodity for all

caregivers, but especially for those providing care for a person living with dementia. We are truly honored when families invite us into their home

and make time for Savvy Caregiver in Indian Country, Music & Memory, or sometimes both, which especially pleases us! We recognize and value

our caregivers and are sharing this important information.

“A recent report by the AARP estimates that family caregivers provided 36 billion hours of unpaid care worth $600 billion in 2021.

In addition, the average caregiver pays more than $7,200 annually in out-of-pocket costs for transportation and other needs. This

demonstrates the value of family caregivers which is only going to increase. By 2034, adults 65 and older will outnumber children

under 18. Family caregivers will continue to face the dual demands of employment and caring for an older adult. This doesn’t just

affect families. It also has an impact on communities, employers and long-term care systems.” Let us help!

As we close out 2023, we are providing a glimpse into what the past year has held for our programs:

•

We have participated in a total of 21 events and shared dementia information and education to over 3,000 individuals. These events were

Native American health fairs, national and local speaking events, conferences, and special events that we hosted.

•

More than 500 surveys were taken. This process provides insight into understanding a community’s attitudes, opinions, experiences and

needs regarding dementia. This knowledge helps guide us in growing and developing our services.

•

Through referrals and inquiries, we have met or delivered our services to 22 (x2) caregivers. Counting their loved one experiencing

dementia, brings the count to 44 and in many cases, several family members have joined in the trainings and discussions. Although not all

contacts have resulted in participation, we remain positive in the hopes that we can help in some way in the future. We remain in contact

with those individuals. All-in-all, we have met around 100 individuals to share information about our dementia services.

Our expectation is that 2024 will bring more opportunities for us to deliver our services

to those most important and valued “caregivers”.

On another good note, the Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System was awarded a new

grant, “Addressing Dementia in Indian Country: Models of Care” on September 1, 2023.

This new grant will aid in developing and providing more dementia care services for our

tribal members and the Native American population.

The new grant was kicked off with a site-visit on November 15, 2023 from the Indian

Health Service Headquarters, Rockville, Maryland staff. The IHS staff was very impressed

with our facility and is excited that they will be working with the ASTHS in the development

and growth of our dementia services (Site-visit photo to the right).

Look for big things from us in the year to come! As always, if you or someone you know

would benefit from the Savvy Caregiver in Indian Country or Music & Memory, please email

me, Gayla Temple, at gtemple@astribe.com or adpi@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, click on “Programs and Prevention”, and click on

“Seeking Hope”.

Warmest regards,

Gayla Temple

Dementia Care Specialist

Alzheimer’s Disease Program Initiative

Back-left to right: Dr. Marty Lofgren, Chris Larkin, Jamie

Olsen (IHS), Grace Medlock (IHS), Dr. Johnny Johnson.

Front-left to right: Dr. Raphael Francisco, Valerie Jones (IHS),

Atheda Fletcher, Gayla Temple, Lisa Harrington.

January 2024

4B www.astribe.com

AST HEALTH SYSTEM DIRECTORY

LITTLE AXE HEALTH CENTER ..................................................... 405-447-0300

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

BusinessBenefit

OfficeAdvocates

Primary

Little AxeCare

Dental

Public

Health

Health Information Management

Security

Lab/X.Ray

Optometry

Electronic Health Record

Patient

Advocates

PhysicalBenefit

Therapy

Primary

Care

Behavioral

Health .................................................................................. 405-701-7987

Public Health

Little Axe Purchased Referred Care ........................................................ 405-701-7951

Security

Diabetes

Wellness

...............................................................................405-701-7977

Electronic&Health

Record

Pharmacy

...............................................................................................405-292-9530

Physical Therapy

..................................................................................

Behavioral

Health

CompleteCare

Home

Health...................................................................405-701-7987

405-701-7085

Little

Axe

Purchased

Referred

Care

........................................................

405-701-7951

Transportation........................................................................................405-701-7603

Diabetes & Wellness ...............................................................................405-701-7977

Pharmacy ...............................................................................................405-292-9530

SHAWNEE

CLINIC ............................405-878-5850 OR 877-878-4702 TOLL FREE

CompleteCare

Administration Home Health................................................................... 405-701-7085

Transportation........................................................................................405-701-7603

Business Office

Health Information Management

SHAWNEE CLINIC ............................405-878-5850 OR 877-878-4702 TOLL FREE

Lab/X-Ray

Administration

Patient

BusinessBenefit

OfficeAdvocates

Contract

Health Management

Health

Information

Lab/X-Ray

Physical Therapy

Patient

PrimaryBenefit

Care Advocates

Contract

Health

Public Health

Physical Therapy

Behavioral Health ...................................................................................405-878-4716

Primary Care

Diabetes

& Wellness ...............................................................................405-701-7977

Public Health

OR 866-742-4977TOLL FREE

Pharmacy ........................................................405-878-5859

405-878-4716

Behavioral

Health ...................................................................................

Transportation

........................................................................................405-701-7603

Diabetes & Wellness ...............................................................................405-701-7977

Pharmacy ........................................................ 405-878-5859 OR 866-742-4977TOLL FREE

Transportation

........................................................................................405-701-7603

PLUSCARE

...............................................................................................

405-447-0477

PLUSCARE

GENERAL ............................................................................................... 405-447-0477

AST Resource Center..............................................................................405-364-7298

Corporate

Compliance Hotline............................................................... 405-701-7135

AST Resource Center..............................................................................405-364-7298

Patient

Advocate

....................................................................................

405-701-7623

Corporate

Compliance

Hotline............................................................... 405-701-7135

AST Tribal

Complex

...............................................................................405-275-4030

Patient

Advocate

....................................................................................

405-701-7623

AST Tribal

Tribal Complex

Police ....................................................................................

405-275-3200

AST

...............................................................................405-275-4030

Tribal Police

.................................................................................... 405-275-3200

AST Housing

..........................................................................................405-273-1050

AST

Housing

COVID

Hotline..........................................................................................405-273-1050

........................................................................................405-695-1787

GENERAL

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

Know Your Native Options

Oklahoma’s State SoonerCare Medicaid program is moving to a new health plan program with

managed care network plans called SoonerSelect starting February 2024. Know your options.

h Opt Out: Native Americans will automatically be opted out and remain in the traditional

SoonerCare medical and dental programs. Native American SoonerCare members have

the choice to opt in to a SoonerSelect network plan, however it would then be necessary to

verify the new medical and dental plans work for you and your tribal health program. If you

stay opted out, your SoonerCare benefits will remain unchanged and no action is required.

h Opt In: SoonerSelect network plans may offer some extra benefits not offered with traditional

SoonerCare to help improve your health, however Native Americans will need to opt in, shop

the medical and dental plans, and enroll.

Note: Non-Native SoonerCare family members must select a medical and dental plan before open

enrollment closes or the member will be auto-enrolled.

Dental Plan Open Enrollment: December 1, 2023 - January 10, 2024

Medical Plan Open Enrollment: February 1, 2024 - March 10, 2024

Two Ways to Enroll:

$18,768

1) Contact an OHCA Choice Counselor via the SoonerCare Helpline At 1.800.987.7767

2) Visit mysoonercare.org to view, compare, and pick a plan that’s right for you.

Please be advised, Patient Benefit Advocates cannnot enroll members in SoonerSelect

Plans but can help navigate the process.

$38,304

Contact a Patient Benefit Advocate

Little Axe Health Center 405.447.0300

Shawnee Clinic

405.878.5850

www.asthealth.org

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