2nd Annual Native American Student Day (2022)

www.astribe.com

THE ABSENTEE

SHAWNEE NEWS

May 2022

Volume 32, No. 05

2nd Annual Native American Student Day

Left Photo : (L-R) Lauren Adams, Brendan McIntyre, Linda Gouge, Angela Gonzalez, Blake Moore, Elizabeth Ruiz, and Crystal Springer with Ensuring Hope Project, Native Connections,

Substance Abuse & Suicide Prevention, and Tribal Opiod Response Programs. Far Right Photo: AST Treasurer Joseph Blanchard welcomes the crowd. Bottom Left Photo: AST member Zoli

Gibson, Little Miss Indian OKC greets the students.

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe

and the Oklahoma City Thunder

hosted the second annual Native

American Student Day on

April 1. The sold out event was

held at the Paycom Center in

Oklahoma City.

There were over 1,000

students and over 35 vendors

representing

tribes

across

Oklahoma including many

Native organizations. The event

kicked off at 12 pm with AST

Treasurer Joseph Blanchard

welcoming the crowd.

“For the last 30 years, I’ve

been advocating for youth,

education, student athletes,

getting our numbers up and

increasing participation. I

am very happy to see Lindy

Waters here today, as a Kiowa

and Cherokee representing our

OKC Thunder.” said Blanchard.

“You as an individual, whether

you’re just a regular student,

you’re an athlete or you’re in FFA

or you don’t participate in any

of those things - that gentleman

up there, he’s a prime example

of what can happen if you put

your mind to doing the best that

you can, overcoming whatever

issues that exist in your life.”

The event also featured

performances by Miss, Junior

Miss & Little Miss Indian

Oklahoma

City,

Thunder

Mascot Rumble the Bison and

a video tribute to Lindy Waters

III. Tribal member Zoli Gibson

serves as Little Miss Indian

OKC.

Fan favorite Lindy Waters III

scored 16 points for the Thunder

but the Detroit Pistons went on

to win 110-101.

Justice for Skye Jim - MMIW Awareness

May is MMIW Month – Awareness

for Murdered and Missing Indigenous

Women. Oklahoma is 10th in the nation

for Murdered and Missing Indigenous

Women. Tribal member Alecia Onzahwah’s daughter is part of that tragic statistic.

Sadly her daughter Skye Jim died under suspicious circumstances on January

9, 2021. She was found unresponsive prior to being ran over near Brangus road,

east of Shawnee. A driver saw her lying

in the road and tried to stop an oncoming vehicle but she was struck. The question remains as to why she was there and

why she was in an unresponsive state

prior to being hit . The mother of five

children was only 30 years old. Her case

was never solved and hardly received any

media attention.

Skye’s case is also unique in that at the

age of 15 she went missing. Fortunately at that time, she was rescued and her

family was able to bring her back home

yet 15 years later, in an entirely different

situation, she was murdered as well.

One year later, more questions than

answers remain. Was she actually walking on this road at night or did someone

put her there? Why was she lying unresponsive in the road? Was she injured?

Was she already deceased?

It should also be noted that the last

known person to see Skye alive was a

boyfriend, who the family has since discovered has a documented history of domestic violence against two other women. Skye was found approximately two

miles from his home.

“I’ve recently been told that OHP has

confirmed her case was closed. It should

have never been closed. I have had the

hardest time getting coverage for her.”

said Onzahwah.

According to a 2018 report by the Urban Indian Health Institute, the murder

rate for Indigenous Women is ten times

higher than the national average. The

murder rate for Indigenous Women is

three times higher than white women yet

the media chooses not to focus on them.

The Gabby Petito case is just one example. Petito was killed last August and

a Google search shows thousands of results for her name. The same search for

Skye Jim showed only six matches.

On September 19, 2021, Skye’s mother,

family and friends held a memorial walk

in hopes of bringing awareness to Skye’s

story. Family and friends walked the last

seven known miles that Skye walked before she left this earth. With blisters on

her feet that evening, Onzahwah watched

the national news coverage of the Petito

case. “The emotional and physical pain

that I endured that day in trying to bring

awareness to my daughter’s story is something that parents like Gabby Petito’s

don’t have to do.” Onzahwah explained.

“They don’t have to feel like they are dead

too and are now ghosts, screaming to a

nation or a world that can’t see or hear

them tell their daughter’s stories because

law enforcement and media is seemingly

at their fingertips. Their daughter’s stories are amplified by their privilege and

that privilege undeniably includes the

color of their skin.”

The number of murdered or missing

Indigenous women continues to grow

yet the coverage is still lacking. One step

for bringing these numbers to light was

in 2017 when May 5 was designated as a

National Day of Awareness for Missing

and Murdered Native Women. But for

Onzahwah, there needs to be more than

just one day of awareness. In addition

to preventing murders of Native people,

there must also be change that insures

that Native homicide victims are afforded the same rights as other homicide victims.

According to Onzahwah, she has yet

to find any legal recourse that truly prevents racial bias from affecting an investigation. “I think it’s important that

people become more aware of this issue

and the challenges we face in seeking

justice.” She said, “Most people think ‘Oh

that happened over there. It doesn’t affect

me’ and may not realize it happens right

here. It happened to my daughter.”

After one year of advocating for her

daughter’s case to be solved and due to

the lack of resources for families of Native American homicides, Onzahwah has

created

www.theskyewomanproject.

com. The site is a web based resource

tool that she hopes will help others who

are facing the same devastating journey

she was forced to take.

While Skye’s journey has ended here

on earth, Onzahwah continues on for

Skye. Now one year later, her journey

for justice remains strong despite OHP’s

refusal to thoroughly investigate Skye’s

death.

“With all the work I’ve put into seeking

answers for my daughter, it has made me

sad, angry and frustrated all at the same

time. Despite all this, love is a powerful

force that has its own refusal - the refusal

to give up.”

To learn more about Skye’s story and

how you may be able to support Skye’s

family in seeking justice please visit

www.justiceforskyejim.com.

2A www.astribe.com

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

GOVERNOR’S REPORT

John Johnson, AST Governor

Hello tribal members,

Spring is one of my favorite times of

year to work outside in the garden, play

golf and to sit on the back porch and enjoying the weather. I hope that everyone

had a wonderful Easter holiday in April

and you are making plans for Memorial

Day at the end of May. These holidays

are a great time to spend with family and

friends.

On April 9th the tribe held its semi-annual General Council Meeting. We had

91 tribal members in attendance and it

May 2022

was great to see all of you. The EC gave

their reports along with Health, Casino,

Election Commission and All Nations

Bank. The EC have discussed many of the

questions that tribal members had and we

will have updates soon. Thank you to all

that came out to our tribal meeting.

I am excited to announce that we will

have a WIA summer youth program

again this year. Applications are online

and it is first come first serve. The applicant must qualify for the program and

meet the WIOA guidelines. This eight

week on the job learning program will be

from June 6th to July 29th. Applications

are due no later than May 20th. If you

have any questions or have an application

please contact one of my assistants:

Alvina Barnes - 405-275-4030 x6307

alvinab@astribe.com

Kim Porter - 405-275-4030 x6269

kporter@astribe.com

Oklahoma Electronic Salvage will process

the electronics and deliver a certificate of

tonnage and proof of responsible processing of all recyclables.

Construction on the Youth Camp cabins, and bathhouse have been complete.

We are currently awaiting approval of the

loop road to complete the entry gate..

We met with Starr Design Group on

April 14th to begin finalizing plans and

to complete certified construction documents. The architects and engineers

with Starr Design Group are on schedule

for completion of all construction documents by May 11th. We plan begin the

bidding process for General Contractors

by May 25th. Construction is set to begin

around June 2022.

Jarrod Lloyd

OEH&E Director

jlloyd@astribe.com (405) 214-4235

Self-Governance Department:

BIA Roads Program

The Roads Programs is currently being assessed. At this time the Driveway

Assistance has been put on hold. Due to

the amount of funding, we will longer be

accepting applications. We are currently

reviewing applicants and interviewing for

the Roads Manager position. We continue to have an agreement with Cleveland

County and have three routes that are in

the process of being worked on.

Housing Improvement Program

Since our inception, our Department

has processed 53 THIP Applications and

conducted 49 home assessments. We have

several projects in the process of completion but continue to experience challenges with material shortages. Staffing

update: Reviewing candidates and plan

to conduct Interviews soon. We should

have a complete THIP team by May. If

you have any questions about the application please contact Donnie Marshall at

(405)827-4311.

Land Management Program

Land management has been busy this

month. We been helping Agricultural

with tilling gardens and making garden

boxes. And we have been in the process of

clearing cedar trees at the farm to improve

grazing for cattle. We will be doing some

clearing projects in the near months. You

can contract by phone (405)395-8101 or

by Email cmartinez@astribe.com

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.

tribal member winter general assistance,

workforce development, education incentive and support, and food pantry. As

I discuss with tribal folks, I do mention

in all honesty, the “tribal check book” is

getting smaller and we are trying to make

funds last so we can provide for other

winter assistance and utility assistance

programs for the next 2 years.

I just

want to communicate to you through this

article when tribes received these onetime monies, when it is spent – it is gone.

If there is one last payment, there will be

no more funds remaining to disseminate

directly or indirectly to our AST people.

The economic signs are pointing to a recession for all – citizens, businesses, tribal

governments, cities and municipalities, I

hope not, but these are things we have to

consider for the near future. Difficulties

lie ahead for all and as for me; I want to

make the best monetary decision(s) for

the benefit of the AST people.

I would like say CONGRATULATIONS

to all of our spring graduates! These past

2 COVID years have not been easy on

you (the student), your family and your

support system(s) but yet here you are

and you managed to keep going and persevere. Applause to you for achieving this

great accomplishment and I hope you and

your family enjoy your day of celebration.

der, “Native American Student’s Day” at

the Paycom Center. I won’t say a whole

lot on the topic since there is another story in this month’s newsletter to provide

details. The other was “Indigenous People’s Day” at Rogers State University in

Claremore. This was coordinated with

the Native American Student program,

the Lady Hillcats Softball team, and our

very own tribal member, Jaylan Gibson.

I want to assure our membership that

COVID-19 protocols were followed and

adhered to, contrary to public opinion.

The only time masks were removed was

during the pictures or speaking portions.

If you missed out on attending General Council, it is not too late to request a

copy of the GC Booklet. As mentioned

during the meeting, the sections related

to the Treasurer’s office and my direct

oversight are listed on pages 56-68. There

you will find information related to our

CARES and ARPA funds, how much has

been dispersed, and how much monies remain. I appreciate the folks who

stayed after the meeting to discuss their

concerns. Again, I reminded members if

they have questions, to ask myself or the

other EC, instead of following the misinformation published on Social Media.

Also, you may have missed my interpretation of the recent AST Supreme

Court decision. Opposing argument suggests that the Executive Committee took

the ability away from the People to have

an election to fulfill the remaining term

of deceased Lt. Governor Ken Blanchard.

My response was that the Court confirmed the Executive Committee is upholding the approved process as allowed

by the Constitution. Further, I pointed

out that the Temporary Restraining Order prevented the Election Commission

from publicizing, posting, or collecting

money from potential candidates, until a

decision was determined. It is my opinion; the Commission now has to hold a

filing period to determine the candidates

for the upcoming June election, as requested by General Council last year.

That is all I have for this month. As

always, I appreciate the comments and

voices of support. I will continue to do

my best in providing service and advisement to our People. Should you have any

questions, do not hesitate to call, send me

an email, or schedule an appointment.

There has been a drop in COVID

19 cases in Oklahoma, so the EC has

decided to move the campus to Phase 4 of

the reopening plan. We are here to help

and serve you in the best and safest way

possible. The CDC is reporting a new

variant that we are keeping a close eye on.

Please be patient with our staff as they are

working hard to keep us all safe.

GOVERNOR

John Johnson

LT. GOVERNOR’S REPORT

Ezra DeLodge, AST Lt. Governor

Lt. GOVERNOR

Ezra DeLodge

Tribal Members,

A few updates from departments within my oversight. These come directly from

the Directors and if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact my

office or the Directors themselves.

Maintenance:

Maintenance staff has completed 30

work orders since 3/14/22 on the complex

and also getting ready for the upcoming

mowing season.

I want to thank the Maintenance and

housekeeping crew for all their hard work.

OEH:

In total for 2022 OEH has assisted Tribal members with 27 different septic renovations and installations, water well drilling and installations, well renovations,

and community water connections.

For 2022, we have collected, processed,

and recycled 14 bales of shredded office

paper and cardboard equaling roughly 10

tons of recyclable waste that has been diverted from landfills. OEH is currently in

the process of having roughly five years of

electronic waste picked up and delivered

to be recycled by Oklahoma Electronic

Salvage. Once the process is complete,

SECRETARY’S REPORT

SECRETARY

Alicia Miller

TREASURER

Joseph Blanchard

Alicia Miller, AST Secretary

Ho wa se ke sa ke!

It was good to see folks at the 88th

Semi-Annual General Council in April.

There was active dialog and much to consider. The Executive Committee is continuing that same discussion with one

another on the ARPA spend down. Just

a gentle reminder, the general welfare

funds issued to tribal members last summer significantly reduced the amount

received. We followed with providing

funds for the tribal member vaccine incentive program, children’s clothing allowance supplement for CY2022 (and

plan to budget for CY2023, and CY 2024),

TREASURER’S REPORT

Joseph Blanchard, AST Treasurer

REPRESENTATIVE

DeWayne Wilson

Hello fellow Tribal members and friends:

I hope all is well with you and your

family. As we start the beginning of May,

let me start off by saying “Happy Mother’s Day!” to all the special ladies in our

lives. For many of us, they are the reason

we are who we are and definitely had a direct influence upon us individually. Continue to be the dedicated and supportive

people you are. Take time out to celebrate

who she is.

On the other spectrum, let me express condolences to those who have lost

someone close. This past month we lost a

couple of elders, specifically Robert White

and Henry Longman. Over the years, I

have had the chance to interact with and

get to know these men through our ceremonies. This is a tremendous loss of

cultural knowledge and we will miss their

leadership out at the grounds.

Recently, I had the opportunity to

represent our Tribe and the Executive

Committee at a couple of special events.

The first was an activity co-sponsored by

the Tribe and our Health System, in conjunction with the Oklahoma City Thun-

Respectfully,

Lt. Governor DeLodge

Si li no ke ka no la. Ne yi wa.

Alicia Miller

Tribal Secretary

Neyiwa!

Joseph H. Blanchard

May 2022

www.astribe.com 3A

REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORT

DeWayne Wilson, AST Representative

Hello Tribal Members,

I just wanted to say it was good to

see family and other tribal members who

attended the 88TH General Council on

April 9t, 2022.I hope your family, is in

good health. The good news is the Executive Committee decided to move the

Tribe back to Phase 4 on May 2, 2022.due

to the decline of COVID 19 numbers. Appointments are still highly recommended. I want to welcome Ms. Monique Harris as the new Administrative Assistant to

the Office of Tribal Representative Office.

Ms. Harris is highly- motivated and has

many positive attributes.

Education Department;

We have created a Workforce Development Committee consisting of the Lt.

Gov., Education Director, Representative of Human Resource, and my office.

This committee is in the process of com-

pleting this development and hiring a

HVAC mechanic. We are also working

on and hoping to finalize application for

the Workforce Development and Career

Initiative in the near future. The Workforce Development and Career Initiative

will allow funding to tribal members to

acquire a skill set to further their careers.

It also allows the Tribe to hire a HVAC

mechanic to repair/ replace heating/ air

conditioners on the Tribal Complex and

Tribal members` homes. This will allow

the Tribe to same monies that we would

normally contract out for the repairs.

Again, the American Rescue Plan Act

(ARPA) funding has to be allocated by

the end of December, 2024.

Cultural Preservation Department;

The Cultural Preservation Department

is busy. Since the Tribe went back into

Phase 3 of our COVID 19 Phases, we have

seen an increase in activities, visitors, and

Gift Shop sales. Cultural Preservation

Dept. has also seen increases in projects

in the THPO and FCC/ TCNS programs.

Gaming Commission;

The Gaming Commission is moving

along. We are looking for training for the

Executive Director, Gaming Commissioners, and staff. The Executive Director

is networking with other tribal Gaming

Commissioners.

Youth Camp;

Due to some extenuating circumstances, there has not been much construction

going on at the Youth Camp during this

reporting period. We hope to be getting

good news from the BIA/ Albuquerque/

and Anadarko offices pertaining to the

Youth Camp road.

I would like to acknowledge that I attended the 40TH Annual NAFOA Conference in Seattle, Wash. during April 4

and 5, 2022. During this quick trip, I attended sessions that involved programs/

opportunities in the energy market, more

importantly Clean Energy. Also the barriers and benefits of converting lease land

into Trust land. I also attended a session

involving the four (4) court cases that are

to be heard in the U.S. Supreme Court

that affects Indian tribes and Alaskan

Natives. Finally, we were able to network

with other tribes and companies that are

dealing with some of the same issues we

are such as; ARPA compliance/ reporting to Treasury Office and concerns how

materials and construction has slowed

down due to materials are anywhere 3- 6

months backed –up.

In closing, I like to send out my heartfelt condolences to all the families that

have lost loved ones. Our Tribe has lost

few great men and Tribal leaders in this

reporting period. If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact my

office at (405) 275-4030, Ext.6239 or by

email: dewayne.wilson@astribe.com

Love Y'all, Respectfully,

DeWayne Wilson

Tribal Representative

Tribal Member Serves as a Page

for Representative Danny Sterling

Brody Miller with Representative Danny

Sterling

Tribal member and Tecumseh High School junior Brody Miller served as a page for Representative Danny Sterling, R-Tecumseh. Miller served at

the Oklahoma State Capitol March 21-24 during

the second session of the 58th Legislature. He is

active in Link Crew, Leadership, National Honor

Society, Beta Club, Family Career & Community

Leaders of America, and is a manager for the Tecumseh High School volleyball team. He is in the

top 10% of his class, he takes concurrent college

classes and he recently received the Super Savage

award, 2 months in a row, for demonstrating outstanding service to THS. He was also previously

named to the Oklahoma Indian Student Honor

Society. Miller plans to pursue his bachelor’s degree in nursing, with a minor in political science,

with plans to become a pediatric nurse. His proud

parents are former AST Governor Scott Miller and

Secretary Alicia (Aly) Edwards Miller.

Pictured: Local Basketball Team including AST tribal members: Coach Bart

Tahah, Isaac Gibson, Bryson Blanchard, Olkson Tahah, Gabriel Billie, Jaden

Gouge, Aiden Bruner, and Coach Everett Tahah. All are members and/or

descendants of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe.

AST High School Seniors

College Scholarship Entry Form

AllNations Bank is providing one (1) $500 scholarship to an AST high school

senior. The bank’s president, Steve Smith, is providing one (1) $500 scholarship to

an AST high school senior. These scholarships are to assist in furthering their

education after high school. The information you provide below will be used to

contact you regarding your entry. You will be notified if your name has been

selected and we will schedule a time for you to take a photo to be placed in the

AST Newsletter and on the Tribe’s media outlets. The scholarship check will be

issued directly to the school the student attends.

Name:

Address:

Phone:

Email:

Required documents:

Tribal Enrollment Card



Copy (must be the updated card)

Submit forms via fax, email, mail, or at the Education drop box on the AST Shawnee Complex.

DEADLINE: RECEIVED BY MAY 16, 2022 AT 5:00 PM CDT

Education Department

2025 S. Gordon Cooper Drive

Shawnee, OK 74801

405.275.4030 Ext. 6242

405.273.7938 (fax)

tresham@astribe.com

May 2022

4A www.astribe.com

Treasurer Attends "Indigenous People's" Event

at Rogers State University

On April 2, 2022, members of the Executive Committee were requested to attend the first ever, “Indigenous

People’s” at Rogers State University in Claremore. Previously scheduled for Spring 2020, the event had been delayed

multiple times due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Behind the scenes one of our own, AST tribal member Jaylan

Gibson, was the catalyst for the creation and recognition of tribal students and their contribution to the institution

and local community.

With the last minute request, Treasurer Blanchard was able to drive up and show support on behalf of our EC and

extend well wishes to the team and their current success. At the time of this printing, RSU was currently ranked 2nd

in the Nation amongst NCAA Division II schools. At the conclusion of the activities, the team and sponsors were

fed Indian Tacos.

Originally from Verdigris, Oklahoma, Ms. Gibson is a Junior student athlete playing fast pitch softball and majoring

in Sports Management. Her long term goals are to complete her degree and then eventually qualify to hold a position

with the Tulsa Fire Department. She is the daughter of Jeremy and Jackie Gibson.

Treasurer Blanchard again wants to express his appreciation for the invitation and hopes the softball team can

make a deep run into the playoffs towards a National Championship. Good Luck Lady Hillcats!

Treasurer Blanchard & AST tribal member

Jaylan Gibson.

Tax Preparation Service Ends

Obituary

Robert White, Sr.

December 16, 1930 - April 13, 2022

Robert White, Sr., age 91, was a lifelong

resident of Little Axe, Oklahoma. He passed

away Wednesday, April 13, 2022 at his home

surrounded by family and friends. He was

born on December 16, 1930 in Little Axe,

Oklahoma to Willie White and Tennie Little

Jim. Robert was raised in Little Axe and

attended High School and Post Graduate at

Haskell Institute in Lawrence, Kansas. He

married Dorothy Jean (Marshall) White.

Robert proudly served his country for 4 years

in the U.S. Air Force as Staff Sergeant and was

honorably discharged. He worked most of his life in the Construction field. Robert

was a proud member of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe, Cornerstone Indian Baptist

Church, Little Axe Alumni, Metal Lathers Local 26 and Carpenters Union Local 329.

He loved being with church members, family, and friends and playing his harmonica.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie White and Tennie Little Jim; his wife,

Dorothy Jean White; and step-son, Allen George Bowman. Survivors include his

son, Robert White, Jr.; sister, Barbara and Jerry Little Axe; granddaughters, Kim and

Erica; and numerous nieces and nephews and other extended family and friends.

Pallbearers were Jimmy Little Jim, Jason Little Jim, Clint Little Jim, Chuck Little Jim,

CJ Ciulla, and David Johnson, Jr. Honorary Pallbearers were Jerry Little Axe, Webb

Little Jim, Beau Pederson, and Calvin White. Services were held at 10:00am, Saturday,

April 16, 2022 at Cornerstone Baptist Church in Little Axe with Pastor Bryce Scott

officiating and George Blanchard conducted the Tribal Rights at the burial which

followed at the Little Jim Family Cemetery under the direction of Cooper Funeral

Home of Tecumseh. There was a family meal provided by The Seeker Church of

Norman with some family and friends contributing. The family would like to thank

everyone who came and paid their condolences as well as everyone who contributed

to the food for the luncheon. A special thanks goes to Pastor Bryce Scott and his

church as well as George Blanchard for conducting the funeral. Robert loved his

tribal people and would do anything for anyone who needed help.

Back row L-R – Gregory Reading, Jan Ranft. Front row L-R – Stella Little, Tina Ontiveros. Not pictured – Donna Woodfork & Bobby Stone.

Volunteer tax season at the Tribe has ended as of Thursday, April 14, 2022. We

served 133 taxpayers, consisting of tribal members and the community. We saved the

taxpayers a total of $25,712 dollars to file their taxes for free.

Career Opportunity Notice

Tribal members that are interested in an HVAC career or change of career,

the Workforce Development & Career Initiative will be conducting vocational

assessment for tribal members to see if they meet the qualifications. This

assessment will be provided at Moore Norman Technology Center.

Open to youth ages 11-14 years old

Opening Date: May 1st 2022

Closing Date: May 25th 2022

Contact the Representatives Office

Sign-Ups:

DeWayne Wilson

th

Youth must be signed up by Friday, May 27 , at 5:00 p.m.

Email: dewayne.wilson@astribe.com

(Call or email to sign your child up. Signups are limited)

Phone: 405-275-4030 ext. 6239

Where: Brendle Corner Little Axe, OK

Monique Harris

When: June 14th – July 15th

Email: mharris@astribe.com

Camp Days: Tues – Thurs & Friday

Evenings

Phone 405-275-4030 ext. 6240

Times: Tues – Thurs 9:00am – 4:00pm

&

Friday Evenings (Optional) 6:30pm – 10:30pm

Transportation: Tecumseh/Shawnee area youth will be picked

up at the AST Complex (Parking Lot south of the Police Station) @

8:30 am SHARP Tues – Thurs and 6:00 pm on Fridays. We will

return to the Complex at 4:30 pm Tues – Thurs and 11:00 pm on

Fridays.

Contact Information:

WIA

Youth

Applications are available online. This program is first come first serve and

applicant must qualify and meet the WIOA guidelines.

Program begins on June 6th and ends July 29th

Deadline for applications is May 20, 2022

Email: Blake Goodman at bgoodman@astribe.com

Shay Fixico at sfixico@astribe.com

Phone: 405-617-6231 or 405-275-4030 ext.6432

For more information contact:

Alvina Barnes at 405-275-4030 x 6307 alvinab@astribe.com

Kim Porter at 405-275-4030 x 6269 kporter@astribe.com

May 2022

www.astribe.com

5A

Cultural Preservation Department

Spring is in full bloom and the land is busy awakening around us! The Cultural Preservation

Department too has been very busy this past month. Day to day operations have continued to be

carried out by each program coordinator to ensure the department as a whole continues to function

properly. Following is a breakdown of each departmental program’s most recent activities.

For Immediate Release

April 4, 2022

Press Contact: media@shawnee-tribe.com

Shawnee Youth Place in 2022 Virtual Oklahoma

Native American Youth Language Fair

MIAMI, OK – The Sam Noble Museum announced the Shawnee youth winners of the 2022 Virtual

Oklahoma Native American Youth Language Fair (ONAYLF). The Shawnee Tribe’s Language

Immersion Program had three winning entries to the ONAYLF this spring, including two taking first

place in the Spoken Language category and a third-place winner in the Film and Video category.

“We cannot express how proud we are of our students who participated in the Sam Noble Language

Fair,” said Joel Barnes, Director of the Shawnee Tribe Language Immersion Program. “Their success only

encourages us to do more and continue to build on the success of our participants.”

The ONAYLF videos were published on the group’s Youtube page.

Pre-K-2nd Grade Division –

First Place, Cecily Blanchard (Absentee Shawnee Tribe) & Kaya Stand (Shawnee Tribe)

“Far Away Friends”

Cecily is in kindergarten, and she is the daughter of Eric and Jessica Blanchard of Norman, OK and

great-niece of George Blanchard. Kaya is a first grader and the daughter of Trenton and Kaci Stand of

Quapaw, OK.

6th-8th Grade Division –

First Place, Mya Blanchard (Absentee Shawnee Tribe) & Gage Stand (Shawnee Tribe)

“Two Shawnee Kids”

Although only in fourth grade, Mya competed alongside Gage Stand (sixth grade) in the 6th – 8th Grade

Division. Mya is also the daughter of Eric and Jessica Blanchard and the great-niece of George

Blanchard. Gage is son to Trenton and Kaci Stand and Jacque Cabrera of Quapaw, OK

9th-12th Grade Division –

Third Place, Eloisa Roach (Shawnee Tribe)

“The Turkey and the Fox Tale”

Eloisa is a 10th grader from Iowa City, IA and the daughter of Steve and Silvia Roach. Steve Roach is a

Community Language Program instructor with the Shawnee Tribe Language Immersion Program.

“The team at the Shawnee Language Immersion Department in piloting this brand-new program has

been doing amazing work,” said Chief Ben Barnes. “Work that has been reflected within these children.”

WATCH the 2022 Oklahoma Native American Youth Language Fair.

EXPLORE the ONAYLF Information & results.

About the Shawnee Tribe

The Shawnee Tribe is a sovereign nation of more than 3,700 citizens living across North America and

abroad. Tribal headquarters are located in Miami, Oklahoma, and Shawnee Chief Benjamin J. Barnes

was elected in 2019. In January 2020, Chief Barnes issued an executive order declaring a state of

Gift Shop

We are happy to announce the gift shop is open to all customers for in-store shopping! However,

individuals wanting to shop need to make an appointment with the Gift Shop Manager, Mrs. Merry

Rodriguez, 24 hours in advance. Also, upon arrival please check in at the checkpoint. Mrs. Rodriguez can be reached at (405) 275-4030 ext. 6310.

We have two locations for your shopping convenience. Our Shawnee Gift Shop is located at the

complex in the Cultural Preservation building, and our Little Axe Gift Shop is located in the lobby

of the Little Axe Health Center. We are open in Shawnee Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and once

a month, usually at the end of the month, in Little Axe from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

As many of you may know, the supply chain for many products has

been greatly affected by the COVID pandemic. Many businesses are

experiencing delays and shortages which are leaving shelves empty

in many stores. The gift shop has not been immune to this disruption. Many products that we normally carry, we have seen in recent

weeks, have been sold out with no date of restock. However, the gift

shop manager is working hard on making sure that the shelves stay

full.

We continue to look and reach out to new businesses especially

Native American owned businesses in hopes of bringing in new inventory. Some inventory that the gift shop recently received can be

seen in the picture to the left.

If you haven’t been in the store lately, please make an appointment

and stop by to shop.

Library

We are happy to announce that we have opened the library to the public! However, like the Gift

Shop, we ask that you call the Library to make an appointment 24 hours in advance. The Library can

be reached at (405) 275-4030 ext. 6416.

March was a very busy month for the Library. The library took part in several outreach events

including reading to Shawnee preschools for Dr. Seuss week, reading to Shawnee public schools and

building blocks for National Fry bread month, and accompanying building blocks on their spring

break activities.

Besides these outreach events, four new people signed up for library cards, 12 books were checked

out, and 22 hours were logged as patron usage of the online library.

THPO

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 273 new Section 106 projects for review.

In conjunction with receiving projects, the program has consulted on 239 projects. These projects

were completed in 18 of our 25 areas of interest/states. The THPO has also taken part in 16 teleconference calls as it concerns Section 106 projects as well as NAGPRA cases. These calls were with such

Federal Agencies as Tennessee Valley Authority, the National Park Service, and the Department of

Transportation for Oklahoma, Texas, Tennessee, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.

From March 7th through the 10th, Mrs. Frazier-Smith took part in the 2022 Bridge the Gap Conference. This year the conference was held virtually and was co-hosted by the USDA Forest Service

and the Choctaw Nation. The purpose of the conference is to open the government to government

dialogue between tribes and federal agencies as it concerns topics that are important to Indian

Country.

FCC/TCNS

The incoming workflow of new and modified telecommunications projects has been steady for

the TCNS program. The THPO Specialist, Ms. Ashley Brokeshoulder, has been busy reviewing, researching and given recommendations to the telecommunications industry. Over the past month,

she has received 79 new telecommunications facility projects for review. These 79 individual projects

will be completed in conjunction with 11 consulting firms in 9 of our 25 areas of interest/states.

In conjunction with receiving projects, she has reviewed, researched and gave recommendation

for the clearance of 75 telecommunications projects and 1 emergency tower project. These 75 individual projects were completed in conjunction with 11 consulting firms in 9 of our 25 areas of

interest/states. Also, 4 projects are awaiting clearance because their packages are lacking some information such as full archaeological reports, SHPO responses, or clear pictures.

EVENTS

On March 23rd and 28th, the Library hosted a traditional pucker-toe moccasins workshop. These

workshops were make-up workshops since we had to cancel the event last November. Everyone

finished their moccasins, and the results were great!

We are planning to have follow-up workshops for the ribbon skirt and yarn belt sometime in May.

This will ensure everyone who wanted to take the workshop has the opportunity, and participants

that still need help or have questions have the opportunity to ask the instructors.

Your concerns are important to us. We thank you 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. 6245 or cbutler@astribe.com if you have any

questions or concerns.

Book Of The Month

emergency for the Shawnee language. The Shawnee Tribe Business Council adopted resolution R-01-0620-K, which officially declared the years 2021-2030 as the Decade of the Shawnee Language and pledged

tribal resources flow toward a comprehensive plan to create fluent speakers from the youngest Shawnees

The Library still has Free Tickets

for the Zoo available, these

tickets expire June 300, 2022.

Just check out this book and

read it with your family to

receive zoo passes for 4 guests!

Stop by the library today to

catch this butterfly of a deal!

and deploy language curriculum to all Shawnee people. For more information, visit shawnee-nsn.gov.

BOOK OF THE MONTH

The Library still has Free Tickets for the Zoo available,

these tickets expire June 30, 2022. Just check out this

book and read it with your family to receive zoo

passes for 4 guests! Stop by the library today to catch

this butterfly of a deal!

Answers on Page 6A

May 2022

6A www.astribe.com

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma

Building Blocks C.D.C.

2025 S. Gordon Cooper Dr.

Shawnee, OK 74801

(405) 878-0633

Fax: (405) 878-0156

LIHEAP CARES ASSISTANCE

Building Blocks II

Building Blocks is at 47 children enrolled in our center at this time. We

are accepting waiting list applications for all of our classrooms. If you are

interested in putting your child on our waiting list please call and we can

email you a waiting list application.

Building Blocks is accepting employee applications. Please visit https://

www.astribe.com/employment for available job positions and to fill out an

employment application.

The children are excited that we are having nice weather most of the time.

They love to play outside on the playgrounds. All of our classrooms hunted

Easter eggs on Thursday, April 14th. They enjoyed hunting the eggs. Also,

Thank You to all the parents who came to watch their children hunt the

eggs.

Building Blocks will be closed Monday,

May 30th for Memorial Day.

Have a wonderful May!

Answer Key to Page 5A

Southwest Throw, Heater, Box Fan or Air

Purifier

The following items are eligible for LIHEAP participants

that are enrolled with a federally recognized tribe and

live in Cleveland & Pottawatomie counties. For more

questions or application, please call Social Service at

(405) 878-4723.

May 2022

www.astribe.com

Joplin

Happy 14th Birthday!

You’ve made me so

proud to be your

mama. Hope your day is

crazy wonderful! Mama

loves you!

Happy Sweet 15 Honeybun!

We love you and may God bless you

with many more with us.

Happy Heavenly

Mother's Day to our

Granny!! We miss you so

very much.

Love - Joplin, Jiliyan

and Justin

Joplin

Happy Birthday to our little brother.

Although you’re not so little anymore!

Wishing you all happiness today!

Love, Jils & Justin’s

Joplin

Happy 14th to my sweet nephew. Hope you

have a great day! Auntie loves you so much!

Happy Mother's Day to our Mom,

Shergrindle…LOL. So glad to call you ours.

Love - Joplin, Jiliyan & Justin

Happy Heavenly Mother's Day to our Mom. Miss

you like crazy, but you already know that.

Love Always, BJ & Sherrie

Congrats to Hunter Nice graduating as

Salutatorian from the 8th Grade. We are

very proud of your accomplishment.

Agriculture Department Plant Distribution Event

Gardening in Shawnee

Yellow corn

Sprouting

Tomato

Soil

Teko’siyawitami

faki

m‘skwatewalwi

A’ki

Weeding

Watermelon

Strawberry

potato

Pi’tawe

skitameki

hotehimi

Miyasi’fa

Rain

Bean

Dig up by hand

Garden

kekimowaki

M’skoci’fa

Wal’kena

Mekin’sika

*Shawnee words as translated by the Shawnee Dictionary

Brought to you by the Absentee Shawnee Tribal Library

April 2022

7A

May 2022

8A www.astribe.com

Tribal Health System Honors Employees

The Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System honored several recently retired employees. They were recognized for their dedicated years of service to the health

system and Tribal community.

Jennifer Sloan, Behavioral Health, 13 years

Johnnie Mae Bettelyoun , Title VI, 15 years

Nelda Jayne Werst, Purchased Referred Care, 14 3/4 years

Debi Sloat, Purchased Referred Care, 25 years

AST Veterans Association

L-R - AST Veterans Commander Jason Bender; former AST Veterans Commander Frank Tiger; Vice Commander Walter Larney.

The AST Veterans Association presented Frank Tiger with a jacket at the 88th

Semi-Annual General Council.

Elders Council

The Elders Council held a raffle at General Council. Esteline

Schulenberg (far left) won the 50/50 pot and Betty Watson (far

right) won the $139 Omaha Steak gift card. Also pictured are

AST Elders Council President Twila Parker & Treasurer Rita

Robertson.

May 2022

www.astribe.com

Natalie Cadence Barbosa

Savanna Collett

Karsyn Bradshaw

Stillwater High School

Shawnee High School

Stillwater High School

Kale Donovan Miller

Jayden Thomas McMahan

Jack Bellin

Blanchard High School

Alena Rose Deer

Sequoyah High School

Norman High School

Madison Little

Edmond Santa Fe High School

Chickasha High School

Maecie R. Bender

Westmoore High School

9A

May 2022

10A www.astribe.com

Dakota M. Little Charley

Jackson Elias Hayes

Little Axe High School

Haley Ann Marie Carnes

Crescent High School

Dylan Cole Molenhour

Little Axe High School

Little Axe High School

Trinity Lynn Tiger Medina

John Duane Goombi II

Baryn Wallis

Cheyanne Panther

Norman High School

Cache High School

Cyril High School

Shawnee High School

May 2022

www.astribe.com 11A

Michaela Switch

Capella University

Masters Healthcare Administration

Sadie Rachelle Littlecreek

University of Oklahoma - Price Business School

Bachelor in Global Management

& Minor in Non-profit

Jarett Paul Geissler

Oklahoma State University

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration & Double

Minor in Sports Management and Nonprofit Management

Andee Ellis

Bacone College

Bachelor of Science-Business Administration

Owen Cruz

University of Missouri - Columbia

Bachelor in Romance Languages & Minor in

Native American and Indigenous Studies

Jordan Moore

University of Oklahoma

Bachelor in Elementary Education

Graduated with Special Distinction

Chelsea Wade

Northcentral Technical College

Technical Diploma for Medical Coding Specialist &

Associate in Healthcare Business Administration

Mitchell Bradshaw

Oklahoma State University

Bachelor in Communication Sciences

and Disorders

Ashley Sevener

Waukesha County Technical College

Associate of Applied Science in

Human Resources Management

May 2022

12A 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 Complex will be Closed

Memorial Day

Monday, May 30, 2022

Ask about “AST Preferred Checking” and our debit

card that honors the Absentee Shawnee Tribe!

You can either 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 S. Gordon Cooper Dr., Shawnee, OK 74801, PH (405) 273-0202

114 E. Main St., Calumet, OK 73014, PH (405) 893-2240

Member

FDIC

www.asthealth.org

May 2022

Section B

ASTHS May 2022 Monthly Update

Understanding the Pharmacy Program: Whether you are a patient at an I.H.S. Facility (direct services) or with a Tribal Health

Facility (compacted services), such as the AST Tribal Health System, or an Urban Indian Clinic, Pharmacy price calculations are a complicated

subject with many factors to be considered. However, some basics are consistent with the majority of businesses. Inventory cost + direct cost +

indirect cost + profit margin = retail price with Pharmacies in general. Pharmacies purchase medications from wholesalers and receive volume

discounts. The IHS pharmacies, who are on a group purchase agreement (GPA), regardless of what type of health entity as an ITU, receive

additional discounts. Wholesale cost is substantially lower than the retail price displayed.

Pharmacies have direct and indirect costs like all businesses, and these must be accounted for in order to succeed long term as an organization. A profit margin is

factored in as well, something the vast majority of businesses do. This benefits the owners of the business, in this case, the Absentee Shawnee Tribe. Pharmacies use

software that will take all of these variables into consideration, and calculate a retail price for display on the receipt ticket.

IHS (or ITU) pharmacies, however, are unique in a few key ways.

Items Provided:

•

•

•

•

Non-IHS pharmacies do not process over the counter (OTC) medications and vitamins as prescriptions (RX).

The Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System provides these items as an additional benefit to its members, and their families we serve. Additionally, it does so

to a larger degree than the vast majority of other Tribes in Oklahoma or elsewhere.

These items are processed as prescriptions in our software programs. This is largely for inventory tracking purposes as well as patient medication profiles and

pharmacy software loads these retail prices in for each medication.

This can result in retail prices substantially higher than what one could purchase these items for in the non-IHS world (i.e., the private sector for non-Natives

and non-Veterans). However, this is largely pointless due to how I.H.S. pharmacies are paid.

Payments Received and How I.H.S. Pharmacies are paid:

•

•

•

Commercial Pharmacies (or Non-I.H.S. Pharmacies) collect payment for service in 3 ways. Insurance reimbursement, patient copays (at time of service), and

cash paying patients (non-insured).

I.H.S. pharmacies do not collect direct payment from any Native patient. So no Native patient pays the retail price displayed on the receipt tag. Additionally,

the retail price shown is not the price the pharmacy pays for the medications.

I.H.S. pharmacies only receive compensation from insurance companies. This compensation varies between insurance companies, but is always determined

contractually. This means the calculated retail price plays no role whatsoever in what an insurance company pays; they have a volume discount at the negotiated

price for their beneficiaries for each insurer via their contracts with the facility – and any other facility they do business with, Native or otherwise).

With the exception of OTC and vitamin items, the price you see calculated is an accurate representation of the value the Tribe is providing to the community. However, no one is actually paying this price in an I.H.S. setting. Recent reprogramming of software should remove this concern for the visual pricing displayed upon the

pharmacy paperwork receipt that is stapled to your medication bag.

Help us in congratulating our May Monthly Employee Award Winners this month! We are proud of all of our professionals and team players, for all they do daily to

make our programs succeed and take care of our patients! This month Purchase Referred Care (PRC) are being recognized for providing sustained services for our AST

Tribal members as well as their “all hands on deck” huge donation drive in support of the Indian Child Welfare (ICW) Office. Thank you again for all you do!

May 2022 Health Employee Awards of the Month

Employee of the Month: Glendine Blanchard, PRC Director

Team of the Month: AST Health System’s PRC Team

Special Leadership Award: Melinda Ferrell, PRC Patient Resource Specialist

Mark E. Rogers, MAL, FACHE, CMPE, CHC

Executive Director

World Hypertension Day

By Emily Earnest

Every year, on May 17, World Hypertension Day is observed.

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, affects more than 30%

of the adult population worldwide. This percent accounts for more than

one billion people around the world. It is a major cause of premature

death worldwide.

Hypertension is defined as blood pressure above 140/90. It is considered

severed if the pressure is above 180/120. Normal blood pressure is

considered to be less than 120/80. High blood pressure often has no

symptoms, making people unaware that there is something wrong. If

symptoms are present they can present in the form of severe headaches,

vision problems, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. If high blood

pressure is untreated, it can lead to other health conditions like heart

disease and stroke. It is also a risk factor for chronic kidney disease, heart

failure, irregular heartbeat, and dementia.

There are many ways to control high blood pressure. Many medications

exist to help combat hypertension. Some people do not like the side

effects of medication and choose to try to manage their high blood

pressure by changing their lifestyle. Examples of these lifestyle changes

include: weight loss, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy diet of

fresh foods, especially fruits and vegetables, reducing sodium in your

diet, limiting the amount of alcohol consumed, quitting smoking, cutting

back on caffeine, reducing your stress, monitoring your blood pressure at

home and following up with your doctor regularly, and getting support

from family and friends.

High blood pressure is easy to diagnose and painless using a monitor.

It is a condition that needs to be managed for the rest of your life. It

is important to follow-up regularly with a healthcare professional, take

medication as prescribed, manage stress, and adopt healthy eating

habits to help keep blood pressure to a safe level. These changes can help

protect you against complications from high blood pressure and live the

healthiest life possible.

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE ENSURING HOPE PROJECT

MEDICINE WHEEL & 12 STEP

PROGRAM FOR WOMEN

OUTCOMES

Individuals return to natural order

Help rebuild families and assume roles as warriors

Achieve sobriety and grow

Bring a person's life from despair to happiness &

service

Making the Medicine Wheel & 12 steps a part of

everyday life is a warrior's journey

To register for this class use QR code or follow link:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScmE9e6X9eatJ2SnzsUPI5LKWZjNY4il3yX_B0RnAtc6kETA/viewform?usp=pp_url

For more information email

Crystal Springer

cspringer@astribe.com

405-878-4716

Every Wednesday

April 27, 2022

6:00pm-8:00pm CST

Virtual classes

May 2022

2B www.astribe.com

UPDATED PHARMACY MAIL POLICIES

Please be advised:

It is solely the responsibility of the patient to

confirm the desired shipping address for

mailing of any medication from our Health

System Pharmacies. Failure to do so may

result in shipping delays.

Please ensure all address changes are made

directly with the pharmacy staff regardless of

any changes made elsewhere in the health

system. Not all systems communicate with

each other if changes are made.

As our clinics continue to grow and mail

volume increases, the above policies will help

ensure you continue to receive prompt and

accurate mail delivery of your prescription

medications. We appreciate your

anticipated assistance in this matter.

Thank you!

REFILLQUICK APP STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Diabetes and Wellness Center 15951 Little Axe Drive Norman, OK 73026

May 2022

www.astribe.com

MAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

2

BEEF FINGERS

MASHED POT/GRAVY

BEETS

PEARS

9

EGG ROLL

STIR FRY VEGGIES

RICE

FORTUNE COOKIE

16

HOT DOG

PORK N BEANS

CHIPS

GRAPES

23

30

HAMBURGER

LTOP

WAFFLE FRIES

ICE CREAM

AST COMPLEX

CLOSED

MEMORIAL DAY

THURSDAY

5

CHICKEN STIR FRY

BELL PEPPER &

ONIONS

FLUFF

11

SMOKED SAUAGE

CABBAGE

BREAD

JELL-O

18

BAKED CHICKEN

VEGGIES

ROLL

PEAR

Oven Fried Chicken

WILD RICE

GREEN BEANS

PINEAPPLES

12

COLD CUT SANDWICH

LTOP

PASTA SALAD

COOKIE

19

Tamale

Refried Beans

*Tossed Salad

Peaches

NORTHEN BEANS

W/HAM

ZUCCHINNI & TOM

CORNBREAD

24

CHEF SALAD

ONION CHEZ HAM

COTTAGE CHEZ

PEACHES

31

PORK CUTLET

VEGGIES

ROLL

FRUIT

2025 South Gordon Cooper Drive

Shawnee, Oklahoma 74801-0381

4

HOT HAM & CHEZ

BAKED CHIPS

PICKLES-ONIONS

MIXED FRUIT

10

GOULASH

ROLL

TOSSED SALAD*

17

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma

WEDNESDAY

3

25

26

BEEF TIP & NOODLES

CARROTS

MIXED FRUIT

FISH

COLESLAW

PEAS n CARROTS

CRISP

FRIDAY

6

Title VI

Elderly Nutrition Program

GRITS

BOILED EGG

MUFFIN

13

SCRAMBLED EGGS

BACON

TOAST

20

WAFFLES

SAUSAGE PATTIES

FRUIT

27

SCRAMBLED EGGS

SAUSAGE GRAVY

BISCUIT

MENU SUBJECT TO CHANGE

MAY 8, MOTHER’S DAY

"If I had a flower for every time I thought of you... I could walk in my own garden forever." — Alfred, Lord Tennyson

MAY 21,

3B

MAY 30

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.

Guidelines:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Absentee Shawnee Member

Must be 55 years and older

Must be an Title VI Member, have a current intake form on file (FY-2022)

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

Handicap/Disabled

NO RENTAL PROPERTY WILL BE MOWED

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

in your applications to the Title VI Department. As stated on the application: Maintenance will only

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

Also, the maintenance workers will not trim trees, shrubs, and will NOT move any items that are in

the way of cutting your lawn.

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. 6227 or email me at dowings@astribe.com

Our winners for March Madness, Robert Burns and Mary Birdtail!! Not perfect brackets but they pick

Kansas to win!!!

AST TITLE VI

ELDER INTAKE FORM

Thomasine Owings____

Thomasine Owings

Title VI Director

TODAY’S DATE______________________________ REFERRAL SOURCE_____________________

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma

Title VI Department

2025 S Gordon Cooper Dr

Shawnee OK 74801

405-275-4030

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

SPOUSE’S NAME______________________________ SPOUSE’S DATE OF BIRTH _______________

NAME OF EMERGENCY CONTACT (1)______________________________PHONE______________

NAME OF EMERGENCY CONTACT (2) ______________________________PHONE _____________

PRIMARY LANGUAGE

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 ___________________________________________

HEALTH HISTORY ___ ASTHMA

___DIABETES

___ALZHEIMER’S

Grass Mowing Application

___WIDOWED ___ WIDOWER____

___ARTHRITIS

___CANCER ___DEMINTIA

___CHRONIC PAIN ___HEARING AID ___CHOLESTEROL ___BLOOD PRESSURE

CDIB # _______

D.O.B.________

The Following are the requirements for this program:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Must be an Absentee Shawnee Member

Must be 55 years and older

Must be an Title VI Member (have an current intake form for the current year 2022

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. 6227

NAME: __________________________________________________

PRIMARY TRANSPORTATION ___Own Car ___Friend ____Public Trans. ___Senior Tran’s __Family

ADDRESS: ________________________________________________

PROSTHETIC DEVIECS ___ Walker/Cane __Wheelchair ___Hearing Aid ___Glasses __Dentures ___None

CITY: _______________________

STATE:___________

ZIP: _______

HOME PHONE: ____________________ MESSAGE PHONE: ________________

ARE YOU ENROLLED WITH A DIFFERENT TITLE VI PROGRAM?

____ YES ____ NO

IF YES, NAME OF PROGRAM & WHERE LOCATED:________________________________________

HEALTH CONCERNS ___________________________________________________________________

SERVICES CURRENTLY BEING RECEIVED_________________________________________

EMAIL ADDRESS______________________________________________________

PROVIDE THE DATE OF YOUR VACCINATION COVID

19 1st__________ 2nd_________

BOOSTER__________

Johnson & Johnson __________ FLU__________

HOSTED BY NATIVE CONNECTIONS, ENSURING HOPE, & FINDING HOPE GRANTS

FATHERHOOD IS SACRED;

MOTHERHOOD IS SACRED

EMAIL: ______________________________________________________

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, will be very much helpful in

maintaining your yard.

HOSTED BY NATIVE CONNECTIONS, ENSURING HOPE, & FINDING HOPE GRANTS

FATHERHOOD IS SACRED;

MOTHERHOOD IS SACRED

VIRTUAL PARENTING CLASS

PURPOSE

The fatherhood is Sacred & Motherhood is Sacred Parenting Enrichment Program

was created by the Native American Fatherhood & Families Association (NAFFA)

for fathers and mothers using a Native American approach. The purpose is to

create positive change & to build a safe & happy family.

OUTCOMES

Increase families and individuals ability to face life's challenges

Build Person character & Integrity

Become a more confident individual/parent

Understand the importance of vision and how powerful it is

Use critical thinking skills to explore ideas and solve problems within the

family and communities.

COURSE CONTENT

SESSION ONE: INTRODUCTION TO THE PROGRAM

SESSION TWO: LAYING THE FOUNDATION

SESSIONT THREE: THE CREATOR

SESSION FOUR: CHOICE

SESSION FIVE: ESSENTIAL PART OF CHOICE

SESSION SIX: TEACHABLE

SESSION SEVEN: BARRIERS TO BEING TEACHABLE

SESSION EIGHT: WISDOM

SESSION NINE: SERVICE

SESSION TEN: SELF-IDENTITY

SESSION ELEVEN: RELATIONSHIPS

SESSION TWELVE: NURTURING

VIRTUAL PARENTING CLASS

Classes begin May 17, 2022

Ends August 2, 2022

Held virtually via GoToMeeting

every Tuesday from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

You must pre-enroll,

You must have access to camera and mic

This is a participation and discussion class

Must complete all 12 sessions to graduate/ receive certification

Facilitators:

Angela Gonzalez, Native Connections Coordinator

Brendan McIntyre, Finding Hope Coordinator

Crystal Springer, Ensuring Hope Director

For more information, please contact:

Angela Gonzalez

agonzalez@astribe.com

405-561-7811

Crystal Springer

cspringer@astribe.com

405-878-4716

To pre-enroll scan the

QR Code or visit:

https://rb.gy/r6lckt

4B www.astribe.com

AST HEALTH SYSTEM DIRECTORY

May 2022

AST HEALTH SYSTEM DIRECTORY

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

Administration

Business Office

Little Axe Dental

Health Information Management

Lab/X.Ray

Optometry

Patient Benefit Advocates

Primary Care

Public Health

Security

Electronic Health Record

Physical Therapy

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

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

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

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

CompleteCare Home Health................................................................... 405-701-7085

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

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

Administration

Business Office

Health Information Management

Lab/X-Ray

Patient Benefit Advocates

Contract Health

Physical Therapy

Primary Care

Public Health

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

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

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

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

PLUSCARE ............................................................................................... 405-447-0477

GENERAL

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

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

Patient Advocate .................................................................................... 405-701-7623

AST Tribal Complex ...............................................................................405-275-4030

AST Tribal Police .................................................................................... 405-275-3200

AST Housing ..........................................................................................405-273-1050

How to Get Help from Social Security

Social Security is here to help. We want you to know how to get the service you

need and to be prepared so we can help you as quickly and safely as possible.

Go online to

SSA.gov. Our website

is the best way for most

people to get help.

If you cannot use

our website call our

National 800 Number

(1-800-772-1213) or your

local Social Security

office for help.

We will schedule an

appointment for you,

if necessary, to serve

you by phone or in person.

What to Know if You Must Visit an Office:

• You must have an appointment to visit an office.

• Masks are required for all office visitors and employees, regardless of vaccination status.

• Visitor capacity is limited to follow physical distancing requirements. This means you may need

to wait outside, so plan for cold or bad weather.

• We ask that you come alone unless you require help with your visit. If you require help, we can

only permit one person to accompany you.

Under 65? Apply for SoonerCare Medicaid Expansion

We appreciate your patience and understanding.

You could be eligible for SoonerCare Medicaid Expansion benefits, which

includes full-scope medical and limited comprehensive dental coverage, for

adults ages 19-64 if your income falls at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty

Level (FPL)- under $17,796 per year for an individual; under $36,588 per year

for a household of 4 (Children eligible at a higher income threshold under 210%

FPL). Per Purchased Referred Care guidelines, all patients under 65 years

old, whether insured or uninsured, must apply for SoonerCare to help

augment the cost of tribal healthcare services. Help yourself, help your tribe

and see if you and your family will qualify for state health insurance benefits at

no cost to you or your tribe.

SSA.gov

Social Security Administration

Publication No. 05-10558

December 2021 (First edition)

How to Get Help from Social Security

Produced and published at U.S. taxpayer expense

Program rules and continuity of care necessitates completion of an annual application for benefits

to assure services are covered, even if ASTHS patient is already insured.

TO APPLY:

www.mysoonercare.org

WE CAN HELP

Contact a Patient Benefit Advocate

Little Axe

Shawnee

Health Center

Clinic

405.447.0300

405.878.5850

www.asthealth.org