AST After School Program Hosts Grand Opening (2024)

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www.astribe.com

THE ABSENTEE

SHAWNEE NEWS

April 2024

Volume 34, No. 04

AST After School Program Hosts Grand Opening

On March 1, the Absentee Shawnee Tribe held a ribbon cutting ceremony and

open house for the newly built After School Building in Shawnee. The building is

located south of Building Blocks II.

The After School Program had been operating at a temporary location at 5812

S. Hwy 177 in Shawnee. Previously they were located in modular buildings. The

After School Program Shawnee was started in 2015 due to the growth of Building

Blocks school age children. Former AST Governor Edwina Butler-Wolfe obtained

the portable army surplus buildings that were used for many years.

The new building was built using CCDF (Child Care Development Fund) and

CRRSA (Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Act Funds) grant funds.

Construction started July 2022 and was complete January 2024.

With over 11,000 square-feet, the facility contains a gym, classrooms and offices for

the After School Program. Currently 11 children attend and the goal is to grow to 50.

“Our hope is that this building becomes a beacon for all who attend; for future

generations to learn and grow.” said 477 Director Briana Ponkilla. “We hope that this

serves as a light for everybody else to use and we hope that we are able to continue to

grow tribal childcare in the future.”

The festivities featured current AST tribal leaders along with former AST Secretary

Alicia Miller; OKC Indian Princesses; native dancers and Drum Group Ottertrail.

Childers Architects designed the building and Goldsby Construction was the

contractor.

From The Election Commission

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

ABSENTEE BALLOT REQUEST

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

(Print Name)

Voter of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe on or before June 15, 2024. I cannot physically

be present to cast my vote at the June 15, 2024 Annual Election; therefore, I am requesting

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

Name (please print): ________________________________________________________

(first)

(middle)

(maiden)

(last)

Address:_________________________ City:_______________St: _______Zip:________

CDIB#:__________________________

Date of Birth: ______________________

Signature: ____________________________

Date:_____________________________

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

May 26, 2024

Mail to:

Absentee Shawnee Election Commission

P.O. Box 741

Tecumseh, OK 74873

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

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): _________________________________________________________________

Denial Letter Mailed:___________________________ Ballot Mailed:_____________________________

_______________________________________

Election Commission/Representative

92nd Semi-Annual General Council Meeting

Saturday, April 27, 2024 - 10:00 am

AST Multi-Purpose Building - Shawnee, OK

2A www.astribe.com

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

GOVERNOR’S REPORT

John Johnson, AST Governor

GOVERNOR

John Johnson

Hello Tribal Members,

April showers bring May flowers!!!

Spring has arrived, if you plan on planting

a garden now is the time to do so. Watch

for updates from the Agriculture department, they will be handing out seeds to

help jump start your own garden. The Lt.

Governor, Treasurer and I attended the

Oklahoma Legislative Summit in Oklahoma City. We met with other Tribal

Leaders, Oklahoma Leaders and Oklahoma Congressmen. During this summit

I introduced myself to Attorney General

Gentner Drummond and personally invited him to visit campus. He accepted

this invitation and stopped by for a brief

visit on March 14, 2024. It was an honor

to have him here.

On May 1, 2024 there will be an open-

LT. GOVERNOR’S REPORT

Ezra DeLodge, AST Lt. Governor

Lt. GOVERNOR

Ezra DeLodge

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.

OEH:

In total for 2024 OEH has assisted Tribal members with 18 different septic renovations and installations, water well drilling and installations, well renovations,

and community water connections.

For 2024, we have collected, processed,

and recycled 10 bales of shredded office

paper and cardboard equaling roughly

7.5 tons of recyclable waste that has been

diverted from landfills.

SECRETARY’S REPORT

Misty McGirt, AST Secretary

SECRETARY

Misty McGirt

TREASURER

Joseph Blanchard

REPRESENTATIVE

DeWayne Wilson

Hello Tribal Members,

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter

to spend time with your loved ones on a

special day. If you didn’t get to attend the

annual AST Easter egg hunt I hope you

get to attend next year. My apologies for it

being on a Sunday for our tribal members

that attend church we will make better accommodations for all next year. Also I’d

like to thank our Executive Committee

members along with all the departments

that donated eggs and prizes for our Easter event it wouldn’t have been successful without you all. I really appreciate all

you have done. It’s been a very busy past

two months for my office aside from our

regular daily duties we coordinated the

Tax preparation, Easter egg hunt, and of

course General Council coming up. I look

forward to seeing all the tribal members

that can attend. I was very thrilled to see

our AST After school building completed

and open for business. Unfortunately due

TREASURER’S REPORT

Joseph Blanchard, AST Treasurer

Hello fellow Tribal Members, Family,

and Friends:

Spring has sprung! We’ve had significant swings in weather patterns the

last however many weeks so some of

the plants and trees have already started

blooming and budding. If you’re like me,

that means taking a higher dosage of allergy pills or medication. As we are about

to enter the month of April, please keep a

lookout for information from the various

Departments and Programs as they begin

to have more events and outdoor activities.

As I write this month’s newsletter submission, the Primary Election will have

concluded and results posted. As I mentioned in March, I look forward to continuing the progress we have made in the

last 3.5 years. There has been tremendous

growth in and around the AST Complex.

As I understand, Phase III has been completed or is near completion for the Camp

Nikoti site. Like you, I am waiting for the

announcement of when this location will

be up and running. The new AST After

School Program building is done and

there was a Grand Opening in March.

Additionally, the new AST Police De-

ing ceremony for the LA Clinic expansion, you all are welcome to attend. It

will be held in Little Axe at the clinic at

1:00pm. You may start to see work begin on Tecumseh Square; well, this new

project is being funded by the 102-477

program. It is now going to be for a centralized location and more office space for

the program. Should you have any question you may contact the 477 office.

The 92nd Semi-Annual General Council meeting will be held on April 27, 2024

at 10:00am in Shawnee at the Multi-purpose Building. I hope you plan to be there.

Should you have any questions or concerns you may contact myself or my staff

at the information listed below:

governor@astribe.com 405-275-4030

ext: 3500

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

3501

Thank you

April 2024

Pictured L-R: Attorney General Gentner

Drummond, AST Governor John Johnson

and AST Lt. Governor Ezra DeLodge.

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

BIA Roads

I met with Abby Thompson, Pottawatomie County District 3 Commissioner on

Wednesday, March 6th. She is very interested in working with the tribe on future

projects. District 3 has put out bids for

Brangus Road and had bid opening on

March 12th at 9am. This project should

start in April and be completed by the end

of May depending on the weather.

Cleveland County District 2 has just

finished working on Route 9327 which

is Franklin Road 180th to Pottawatomie

County Line Road consisting of 2 miles.

Cleveland County District 3 is currently working on Route 9344 which is Banner Road 180th to Pottawatomie County

Line Road consisting of 2 miles.

Any questions or concerns please

email me at TwylaB@astribe.com or call

(405)275-4030.

Land Management

Wood deliveries have ended. We had

a total of 21 elders that requested wood

this past winter. Land Management along

with the help of Maintenance has started

clearing out the area around Tecumseh

Square. They will also continue to help

Realty with fencing when needed.

to covid I wasn’t available to attend the

ribbon cutting ceremony. I am very excited for the future of this program and our

children that attend.

Tax Preparation Services- First off I

would like to thank my group of volunteers Donna Woodfork, Gregory Reading, Jan Raft, Stacie Lewelling, Dena Baker, and Tina Ontiveros without them the

tribe would not be able to provide these

services to our community. We were able

to serve 91 clients 55 being AST tribal

members as of February 24- March 14

with the numbers rising April 13 being

our last day providing services.

Domestic Violence- I got a chance to attend the NAAV (Native Alliance Against

Violence) summit held in Tulsa Oklahoma with my staff of great women March

13-15. It was a great event to attend the

different speakers was knowledgeable and

gave me information and resources so I

can assist my department to be better for

our victims that need assistance for our

services.

ICW- We are still currently getting

them settled in the new building we hope

to be complete very soon we will keep everyone updated.

Before I move on I would like to take

time brag on my Domestic Violence and

ICW staff and Directors. Since I been in

office I had the privilege to attend a couple of meetings and conferences. To see

how they are respected, seeing, and hearing them getting accepted in different

groups within the community of their job

is amazing they do a wonderful job for

our tribe and are very passionate. Thanks

for a job well done keep it up.

Enrollment- As of March 19, 2024 we

have 4,658 Tribal Members.

Human Resources- As of March 19,

2024 we have 598 employees 60% are Native American. I would also like to congratulate our director Casey Adams-Beesley on passing the THRP exam.

I hope to see everyone at General

Council April 27th @ 10:00am at the

Multipurpose building in Shawnee.

partment building has been opened for

operations and I expect a Ribbon Cutting

sometime later this month.

These are all good things but I want to

share a conversation I had recently while

in DC, and then with some Tribal Members. I think it’s relevant, especially since

there has been some debate or comments

on Social Media regarding the issue; Voter Registration and Voter Apathy. Prior

and during the election cycle, there are

all kinds of comments about Candidates,

their qualifications, and who will do the

best job for the Tribe. These are great

things to discuss but it has little effect on

our system, if the other 3000+ don’t participate.

There are no limitations to cast a vote,

other than submitting an Absentee Ballot,

or show up at one of the two locations on

the 3rd Saturday of March, and again, on

the 3rd Saturday of June. You don’t have

to register or pay a fee; just show your

Tribal ID or Driver’s License. There is a

cliché I think is appropriate here: “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over

again, expecting different results.” Here

are some other comments to consider.

“I’m one person, my vote doesn’t matter.” “I don’t like the candidates so I’m not

going to vote.” “Why do I need to vote?

They won’t do anything anyway.”

One may ask, “Why bring up this issue?

Simple response…it’s our Right to be able

to vote. Yes, Native Peoples make up less

than 1% of the population but we have the

ability to intervene or create a ripple for

those who underestimate us. National,

State, and Local elections will be occurring over the next several months, plus selection of the President in November. We,

as a Tribe, need to exercise this responsibility and elect those people sensitive to

the needs of Indian Nations and who support Tribal Sovereignty. This one action

will make our job as Executives simpler

as we’ll have “Allies” in the appropriate

offices and know who we can rely on for

this type of assistance. That being said, I

encourage everyone to make themselves

eligible by registering for the upcoming

elections, especially those living within

the Pottawatomie County area. A Sac

and Fox Nation citizen, Freeland Wood,

is running for Sheriff; as well as, former

AST Governor Edwina Butler-Wolfe has

announced her candidacy for the City of

Shawnee Mayor.

Back in 2020, the reason I ran for my

position was to help create “CHANGE”;

to use my experience and skills to help

improve our system; to help the Tribe become more effective and efficient.

Respectfully,

Lt. Governor DeLodge

Ne yi wa!

Secretary McGirt

(Continued on Page 3A)

April 2024

www.astribe.com 3A

TREASURER’S REPORT

(Continued from Page 2A)

There are those that don’t agree but all

one has to do is take a look around. I appreciate the work that’s been put in but

there is still more to be accomplished.

There is one comment I think has merit

and could generate good debate. If the

People want to add criterion for future

candidates, I would be happy to have

those discussions. Other Tribal Governments have these as part of their membership requirements: Knowledge of

your Tribe and customs; participation in

your cultural traditions; must vote to be

eligible to receive benefits.

REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORT

DeWayne Wilson, AST Representative

Hello, Tribal members and I hope everyone is in good health. Spring is here. I

hope everyone got out and Voted during

our Primary Election. I hope to see everyone at General Council in April. My

door is always open and as always Take

Care of one another.

477 Program: Currently, they have 5

new adult cases for a total of 43 for the

month of March. They also had one new

youth case for a total of 5 for the 2024

year. Our total case load with 2023 and

2024 cases is 355 participants. On March

1st the 477 department assisted with the

CCDF- After School Program ribbon

cutting/open house. We are excited for

this new building that can help expand

the services for Native children. The 477

staff will continue to cross-train within

the CCDF- After School Program department. This cross-training will help

the staff be more efficient with assisting

participants. New case management system is now up and running to help with

reporting and case management.

CCDF-After School Program (ASP):

After School employees are excited that

we have moved into the new building and

the kids are enjoying it. They have 18 kids

enrolled. The ASP will be opened for the

Spring Break Week. The ASP employees

and children had a cultural day which

was presented by the Cultural Preservation Department. ASP is taking waiting

As I switch gears, I want to clarify

a comment shared with me this past

month. The Executive Committee DID

NOT pass any resolutions to INCREASE

minimum education requirements to

be considered a Candidate. The Election Commission, through their Ordinance powers, clarified the High School

Diploma or GED issue. A couple years

ago, there were individuals who wanted to run for office, but could not since

they weren’t able to present one of these

two documents since the institution they

attended was now defunct or no longer

existed. If an individual has a Higher

Education degree, such as an Associates,

Bachelors, Masters, or PHD; it stands to

reason they had to have a Diploma or

GED to be accepted to that institution

in the first place. Instead of penalizing

those people, they found a way to make

them eligible.

In other news, please take notice, a

resolution was passed last month to announce the date and time for the next

General Council meeting. It is scheduled

to be held here on the AST Complex, at

10 AM on April 27th. If you cannot attend but would like the General Council

Booklet, call the Secretary’s office to make

a request for your copy. I look forward to

seeing you there and visiting about your

concerns.

As I close this edition, I do want to say

“Neyiwa!” to our electorate. Though I

only needed one vote, I was overwhelmed

upon receiving the news of how many

voted for my re-election. I am grateful

for the support, advice, and encouragement. I look forward to the opportunity to continue serving our People, future

growth, and further improvements and

expansion over the next four years.

Do not hesitate to call my office to set

up an appointment or send me an email

with your concerns. I can be reached

at: (405) 275-4030 Ext. 3510; (405) 6951487; or jblanchard@astribe.com.

list applications for our summer program

that will start in June. The 477 Child

Care Assistance program will be hosting

training for our child care providers in

April, 2024 for Child Abuse Awareness.

They will have speakers from the ICW

and DV departments and from the 477

Director.

Education Department: For the last

few months, The Education Director

chaired the 2024 CTAS Grant Committee. The Education Director scheduled

meeting locations, calendar invitations

and created the agenda for others department involved with FY 2024 grant

application meetings. The Education

and Tribal Youth Program staff uploaded and submitted their final CTAS FY

2024 Purpose Area 9 documents to the

Grants department for submission by the

March 12th deadline. The good news is

the 2024 CTAS Grant was completed and

sent in. The Education Director attended the ESSA Tribal Consultation which

was at Deer Creek Public Schools for

the following school districts: Anadarko,

Cache, Carnegie, Chickasha, Cleveland,

Crescent, Deer Creek, and many others.

The Education department updated and

released the 2024 Graduation Stole application on the Tribe’s website. 40 stoles

have been purchased and will be disseminated on a first come, first served basis.

. Education Director attended the virtual

Office of Indian Education Project Directors meeting for the STEP Grant.

Workforce Program: Nothing new to

report, The H/VAC mechanic and the H/

VAC interns continue to be busy completing work orders on the Tribal Complex and to Tribal member homes. In the

near future, the H/VAC Department will

be transitioning from heating to air- conditioning service. Let us know if we can

be of service.

Cultural Preservation: Please help me

in welcoming Mrs. Sheila Burnside as the

new gift shop manager. Sheila comes to

us with 12 years’ experience in management between casino management and

gift shop management. In the coming

months, she will be focusing on the rebranding of the gift shop and providing

the gift shop online. The Tribal Historic

Preservation Office and Language Program continue to work with the Ohio

History Connection and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources on the

display panels for the Great Council State

Park. The Cultural Preservation and the

State of Ohio agencies staff have been going through each panel and reviewing the

words that have been written. At the writing of this article, we have gone through a

majority of the panels with a few to finish.

Also, the Language Program continues to

provide translations in order to insure accuracy with our language and has insisted on the use of the Shawnee language in

the interpretive center be shown in the Pi,

Pa, Pe, Po orthography in order to make

it understandable to visitors. Further, I

am excited to share that the new park is

set to open in early June! The Language

Program continues to partner with departments and programs within the tribe

to provide Shawnee words and lessons

to participants. Currently, the language

program is working with the Education

Department to provide language translations for the Dream Navigator booklet

project.

Gaming Commission: The Gaming

Commission is currently undergoing

some modernization for the Licensing

department which will make processing

easier and faster. Along with the modernization, they are reviewing their policy and procedures to see if any changes need to be made. This April, the

Gaming Commission will be attending

the OTGRA Spring Conference at the

Downstream Casino and Resort. The

Gaming Commissioner continues to stay

busy with the approval process on casino

policies and procedures, licensing, and

projects with electronic gaming machine

updates.

Youth Camp: The construction on

the Water Harvest project has started. In

April, we hope to obtain the water tank

for this project. Also, the winning bid

for the Camp Nikoti lighting project has

been chosen and we hope that construction will begin in April.

In closing, it is my pleasure to serve our

Tribe as the Tribal Representative. If you

have any questions or concerns regarding

these programs or need my assistance,

feel free to contact me at (405) 275- 4030

at Ext. 3512.

Maintenance Report

I would like to introduce myself, my name is Lenard Mathews and I’m the new

Maintenance Director. Please feel free to stop by and say hi and let me know if there is

anything we may be able to help you with.

This past few week’s maintenance has been very busy on and off campus. Last week it

was determined the gas lines on top of building 19 were severely rusted and leaking. The

men in the HVAC department along with maintenance replaced all the lines on the roof,

leak tested and put the equipment back on line by Thursday. It was a very large job and

potentially saved the tribe in access of $5,000.00 not including the gas was being lost

through the leaks. I want to complement our team, job well done!

The department teamed up with the BIA group and started clearing all the trees and

debris from Tecumseh square. The city has issued the tribe a permit to burn the debris

in a pit on location. That will start the first clear low wind day we have and the fire

department gives us the green light. The total clearing should be completed within a

week. I want to compliment the BIA group for their hard work and working well with the

maintenance department. All of this work has saved the tribe over $20,000.00.

ICW had compiled a list of items that had to be completed in their new office space.

The first item was roof repair. Maintenance jumped on the repair saving the tribe over

$800.00 in cost.

Second item was a shed that had to be removed on the back of the property. Maintenance

very carefully tore the building down, saving the neighbor’s shed and maintaining a

positive neighbor relationship. This potentially saved the tribe $800.00 to $1,000.00.

Currently maintenance is working through other items on the list and will keep

everyone updated on the progress.

This past week maintenance teamed up with OEH to tackle the sewer problem that

had been plaguing the Brindle corner (after school program) building for a period of

time. Vets septic tank service was called out and with their help dug up the discharge line

and located break that was causing grey water to leach out on the ground. The repair was

complete and the building is back up working properly. Going forward the sewer system

will be inspected every three years to prevent any future problems. I want to compliment

OEH for their willing to work with the maintenance department. Thank you!

Starting the week of March 18 Maintenance will be working at the same building

“Brindle corner” to correct a major drainage problem that has been causing damage to

the building. The ground east of the building will be reshaped to form a contour with a

large French drain to carry the water away from the building and to the street. This will

save the tribe about “$12,000.00 to $14,000.00.

In addition to all of this we have found the time to continue with taking care of

most all work orders, clean and reorganize the maintenance building (18) and part of

maintenance building two (18B).

We have had two training sessions along with two safety meetings. These are now

being held weekly. I am very impressed with the attitudes and abilities of our people.

They are doing an amazing job.

I would like to thank everyone for helping me get on board as maintenance director.

But, I would not have been able to do the job without at least one key person helping.

That person is Sheila Orphan. I want to thank her and say you do unbelievable job with

very little recognition. Thank you for your support and dedication.

Respectfully,

Joseph H. Blanchard

Ne Yi Wa,

DeWayne Wilson

April 2024

4A www.astribe.com

Oklahoma Tribal Legislative Reception

AST Governor John Johnson, AST Lt. Governor Ezra DeLodge and AST Representative DeWayne Wilson attended the Oklahoma Tribal Legislative Reception

on February 28. The event, held at the Petroleum Club Event Center in Oklahoma City gave tribal leaders the opportunity to meet with state legislators.

WANTED

Highly Motivated 9th-12th Grade Students

BIA-BIE Youth Indian Police Academy

FACTS & TASKS

The Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Bureau of Indian

Education are partnering to host the 2nd annual Youth Indian

Police Academy for students enrolled in 9th – 12th grade. The

Academy will occur at the Riverside Indian School Campus in

Anadarko, Oklahoma, from June 16 through June 28, 2024.

June 16, 2024 – June 28, 2024

At no cost to students, participants will receive assistance

with traveling to and from the school, where they will

stay in dorm rooms and be well-fed throughout their stay.

Participants will receive uniforms and travel for field trips

will be provided. Students will come away from the program

with a meaningful life experience, new friendships, and

awareness of career opportunities available to them as

young adults.

Application Instructions:

Students wishing to attend the academy must write and

submit a five-paragraph essay explaining who they are,

their life goals, and why they wish to attend the Youth

Indian Police Academy. Final essays need to be emailed

to: Carla.Whiteman@bie.edu on or before May 17, 2024.

Each essay will be reviewed by a selection panel who will

select up to 28 students.

Guardians:

Upon student selection, guardians must complete an

admissions package. The package will be emailed after

selections are made. This includes providing student

emergency contact, out-of-state student travel information,

authorization for medical care of a minor, medical history,

residential check list, parental consent form, photograph

release form, school check out policy, student code of

conduct, student policies, acceptable use policy, BIA

consent to participate and a release from liability.

Thunderbird AST_Job Fair_2024_half page.pdf 1 3/22/2024 1:35:04 PM

CMY

WHEN:

WHERE:

Riverside Indian School

Anadarko, OK

SEND ESSAYS TO:

Carla.Whiteman@bie.edu

ESSAYS DUE:

May 17, 2024

HANDS-ON LEARNING

EXPERIENCES INCLUDE:

Help us celebrate Earth Day on April 22.

• Nightly Team Building Events

Earth Day was first created in 1970 as a way to educate the public about

environmental issues that were ongoing across our nation. The first

Earth Day led to the creation of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the passing of other environmental laws including

the Clean Water Act and Clean Air Act.

• Tactical Training Exercises

• Accident Investigation &

Crime Scene Labs

• Driving Under the Influence

Simulations

• Special Weapons & Tactics

Demonstrations

• Emergency Medical Services

Certification

• K9 Demonstrations

• Field Trips for full-immersion

Learning

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe Office of Environmental Health and Engineering receives grants from the EPA that assist in recycling efforts as

well as ongoing water sampling and monitoring to ensure our natural resources are protected for our future generations to enjoy.

Recycling containers are set up for public use at many of our facilities.

These containers are for cardboard only. Through our recycling program, AST OEH has been able to prevent hundreds of tons of paper and

cardboard from being sent to a landfill, which helps to conserve our natural resources and reduce our waste stream.

April 2024

www.astribe.com

CULTURAL PRESERVATION DEPARTMENT

The first months of the year have been full of transformations for Cultural Preservation. Following is a breakdown of each departmental program’s most recent activities.

Gift Shop

Please help me in welcoming our new gift shop manager, Mrs. Sheila Burnside! Mrs.

Burnside (hired February 2024) is an enrolled member of the Citizen Potawatomi

Nation and Muscogee (Creek) Nation and Seminole Nation descendent. Mrs. Burnside has an extensive background in management bringing with her twelve years’

experience in management from both a casino and a gift shop aspect. If you have any

questions regarding the gift shop, please call the gift shop or email her at SBurnside@

astribe.com.

The Gift Shop is currently open, and we are still having an inventory clearance sale!

However, please be aware, we are nearing the time we will be closing our doors for a

period of time to prepare for a transformation. When you enter the gift shop, we want

you to see items you wouldn’t see anywhere else. We want our shoppers to be able to

purchase items that are Shawnee and Shawnee made. Some of the items we as a department have already discussed to carry are books about Shawnees, more supplies,

tribal member’s handmade items, and of course more emblem barring items. Also,

we will be distributing a survey so that we can hear your opinions of what you would

like to see us carry. Please look for that soon.

The gift shop is located in building 6 just east of the new police station. Our current

hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to

us.

Library

The Library is open! Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.

to 5 p.m. Last month, activity in the library included 2 library visitors with a total of

4 books checked out. Also, 10 virtual books were checked out. Ms. Paula Jackson,

Librarian, added 2 new patrons to the system. Please note the library application has

been converted to a digital format that can be emailed. If you would like the application please contact Ms. Jackson at (405) 275-4030 ext. 3530 or at PJackson@astribe.

com.

If you would like to view what books we have in the library currently, please visit

https://www.librarycat.org/lib/ASTribe to view the catalog. Also, if you have a library

card, please check out the virtual library (https://okvirtuallibrary.overdrive.com/)

which currently has approximately 74,600 books available.

Like with the Gift Shop, we will be rebranding the library. We want to carry more

Native American and more specifically Shawnee books and resources. Please let us

know your opinions of what you would like to see in the library.

K’te ki we ke s’fwa

Planting Month (April)

Ho ta he k’te ki we ke s’fwa pe yi ta ge na ka hi ge ka pa ti mi

We will plant corn in April.

Ti ne wa ti se ke si ma ke n’ge ka?

Where are you going to make a garden?

Ka f’we ho li s’fa ke ke si hi ge ka pa?

How many rows are we planting?

Ne he wa we si hi ge ka?

What is he planting?

Ta pe ka we p’ka pa

We can burn the grass.

Na yo la ka ho wa se ne pa ni me pa

The garden might grow better.

Ka ge k’ka pe la k’te ki

Plow the garden

Qe li he ti me me n’ki ni ka ni to na hi pa

We need to find some seed corn.

Ne po ni ni wi pe ko me n’ki ni

I have pumpkin seed.

Pi p’ya ge m’sko ge fi ke ka hi ge ka

You must plant beans.

Ni ma ta la me wa ti wa ho wa se la p'wi wa ke ta mi ni qa la ma ko ni

The Creator will be happy and will take pity on us.

THPO (Tribal Historic Preservation Office)

Our Tribal Historic Preservation Office (THPO) Program continues to make great strides and advancements. The THPO staff has steadily been receiving Section 106 projects from various Federal and State Agencies. Over the past month; the THPO Officer, Mrs. Devon Frazier-Smith, and TCNS Coordinator/THPO Specialist, Mr. Clayton

Martinez, have together received 680 new Section 106 projects for review and consultation. The program staff has successfully consulted on 520 of these received projects, of

which occur in 12 of our 25 areas of interest/states. The THPO Staff, including myself as Director, have also taken part in 15 teleconference calls regarding Section 106 projects

or NAGPRA cases.

NAGPRA

In addition to Cultural Preservation Director, I currently hold the position of interim NAGPRA Coordinator. The last few months have been very busy for me. More and

more agencies/museums/colleges both in the states and overseas have been reaching out. Currently, we are in consultation with 9 different facilities concerning the ancestors

and funerary objects they have in their possession.

Great Council State Park

We continue to collaborate with the Ohio History Connection and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources on content for the Great Council State Park Interpretive

Center located in Ohio. As mentioned in the past months, the language program has been providing words and phrases that will be used on displays and panels throughout

the Center. Mr. Miller has expressed to the Ohio agencies that the Shawnee language in the interpretive center should be shown in the Pi, Pa, Pe, Po orthography in order to

make it understandable to visitors. Also, the THPO staff and Representative Wilson have been going through each panel and reviewing the words that have been written. At

the writing of this article, we have gone through a majority of the panels with a few to finish. We are excited to announce that the opening of the park will be in early June!

Language

We are currently holding beta language classes to gather input about the content and structure of classes. We plan to hold these test classes over the next few weeks. So far,

we have received valuable feedback about the lessons that we will adjust once we offer the classes to the public.

Further, besides collaborating with the Afterschool Program, we are also working with the Education Department to provide language translations for the Dream Navigator

booklet project. Through this collaboration we will reach more tribal children to provide them with the opportunity to learn Shawnee and teach them about the Shawnee culture. Although it has taken time to put together material to provide to departments and programs, we are starting to move forward with making material available.

For general language questions and information, please contact the department by phone or email at ASTLanguage@astribe.com.

Your concerns are important to us. Ne yi wa for the continued support of our department as we continue to make changes to our programs to better serve the Tribal community. Please feel free to contact me, Carol Butler, at 405-275-4030 ext. 3525 or cbutler@astribe.com if you have any questions or concerns.

LEGAL NOTICE

IN THE TRIAL COURT OF

THE ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA

SHAWNEE, OKLAHOMA 74801

Sidna Logan

John Logan

)

Case No. JFD-2020-25

AFFIDAVIT TO OBTAIN SERVICE BY PUBLICATION

THE ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE OF INDIANS

SHAWNEE, OKLAHOMA

Sidna Logan

)

§.

being duly sworn upon oath states:

That she/he is the Plaintiff Sidna Logan

above-named, and that on the

2 day of

March ,2020

, said Plaintiff filed in this Court a Petition against Defendant, John Logan:and this is

one of the class of cases prescribed by the Statutes of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Indians of

Oklahoma, and is absent therefrom, and that with and after the exercise of due diligence, said Plaintiff is

unable to make personal service upon said Defendant, John Logan

, within the jurisdiction of the

Absentee Shawnee Tribe, and that Plaintiff wishes to obtain service upon the said Defendant by

publication as provided by law. (AST CODE OF LAWS, Section 205, Section 206 and Section 209)

s/e Sidna Logan

PLAINTIFF

NOTICE

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO

SUBMIT AN ARTICLE OR STORY

Please give us a call at (405) 598-1279 or

send an email to media@astribe.com

All articles for the next month’s issue are

DUE by the 15th of the current month.

Unfortunately we can only accept ONE PICTURE PER

BIRTHDAY PERSON, not per birthday wish.

April 2024

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

Building Blocks III CDC

Celebrating National Reading Across America Week

with some Dr. Seuss fun!

Building Blocks had an extra busy March! We celebrated Dr. Seuss

and Read Across America week. Also, Easter was a blast with Egg

Dying, Egg Hunts and Easter Parties. Thanks to everyone who

participated in our reading adventures and Easter Celebrations.

It is officially Spring now. Be weather

aware as storm season approaches.

Building Blocks children are enjoying the

sunny days and warmer weather. They

enjoy getting to learn as they play outside.

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 an Awesome April.

2024 AST Annual Easter Egg Hunt

April 2024

www.astribe.com

Adison Johnson Happy Birthday!

We Love you from Auntie Fallon

and Angel and all your cousins!!

Happy Birthday Fallon

Tribal Member Earns Medals at State Swim Meet

Tribal member, Harper Brown, is a freshman at Bethany Public Schools. She and her relay teammates earned their way to the state 5A swim meet in February.

Their team earned a medal with a 8th place win in the 400m freestyle relay. The Bethany female swimmers had the highest GPA of all schools, earning the title

of 2024 Class 5A Girls State Academic Champions!

Harper is the daughter of Tara and Adam Brown, granddaughter of Phyllis Harp and great-niece of Kenneth and Serena Daugherty.

April 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

Tribal Member Corner:

April Article:

EARN 5.11%

APY INTEREST

ON YOUR AST

PREFERRED

CHECKING

ACCOUNT!!

Tribal member corner:

A big shout out, for new voters from Texas. I hope more out of state tribal

members, participate in the June election.

Members need email addresses of office personnel. Maybe this is something,

can be posted on access tribal member website. I know there is a security risk

with IT.

When we have the wills' clinic. Could we have someone assist with revocable

trust, financial power of attorney and durable power of attorney for healthcare,

documents?

Attend a worship service.

Congratulations to all runoff candidates!

Eileen Pearce

Contact: lapearce@att.net

Tribal member

Our new and improved AST Preferred Account gives tribal

members benefits such as:

No minimum balance to open, No monthly service fee, .25% rate reduction with

auto debit on consumer loans, and EARN INTEREST ON YOUR MONEY AT A RATE

OF 5.00% (ANNUAL PERCENTAGE YIELD OF 5.11%) WITH NO MINIMUM

BALANCE REQUIRED!! CALL OR COME IN FOR MORE INFORMATION. Interest

rate subject to change at any time.

Locations in Calumet and Shawnee Oklahoma

www.anbok.com | (405) 893-2240

www.asthealth.org

April 2024

Section B

ASTHS April 2024 Monthly Update

National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Parenting a teen is not always easy. Youth need adults who are there for them – especially parents who will connect with them, communicate with them,

spend time with them, and show a genuine interest in them. Talking with teens about sex-related topics, including healthy relationships and the prevention of

HIV, other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and pregnancy, is a positive parenting practice that has been widely researched. A number of programs in a

variety of settings (e.g., schools, parents’ worksites) have been shown to increase the amount and quality of communication between parents and their teens.

Does Talking With Teens About Sex Make A Difference?

Ø According to teens, the answer is “Yes”. In national surveys conducted by The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy, teens report that their parents have

the greatest influence over their decisions about sex – more than friends, siblings, or the media. Most teens also say they share their parents’ values about sex, and making decisions

about delaying sex would be easier if they could talk openly and honestly with their parents.

Ø According to many researchers, the answer is “Yes”. Studies have shown that teens who report talking with their parents about sex are more likely to delay having sex and to use

condoms when they do have sex. Parents should be aware that the following important aspects of communication can have an impact on teen sexual behavior:

• What is said

• How it is said

• How often it is said

• How much teens feel cared for, and understood by, their parents

What Can Parents Do?

When parents communicate honestly and openly with their teenage son or daughter about sex, relationships, and the prevention of HIV, STDs, and pregnancy, they can help promote

their teen’s health and reduce the chances that their teen will engage in behaviors that place them at risk. Following are some actions and approaches parents might take to improve communication with their teen about these challenging, hard-to discuss health concerns.

Stay Informed About:

• Where your teen is getting information

• What health messages your teen is learning

• What health messages are factual and medically accurate

Your teen may be getting messages about sex, relationships, and the prevention of HIV, STDs, and pregnancy from a variety of sources, including teachers, friends, health care providers,

television, and social media. Some of these messages may be more accurate than others. Don’t assume that your teen’s health education class includes the information you want your child

to know – school-based curricula vary from state to state.

Identify Unique Opportunities To Have Conversations With Your Teen, Such As:

• In the car. The car is a private space where your teen doesn’t have to look at you but can hear what you have to say.

• Immediately following a relevant TV show/movie. Characters on TV shows and movies model many behaviors, and certain storylines may provide the opportunity to reinforce

positive behavior or discuss the consequences of risky behavior.

• Through text messaging, which may provide an easy and acceptable way to reinforce messages discussed in-person.

Have Frequent Conversations

Although you may know that having “The Talk” with your teen about sex and HIV, STD, and pregnancy prevention is important, having a series of discussions that begin early, happen

often, and continue over time can make more of a difference than a single conversation.

Be Relaxed and Open

Talking about sex, relationships, and the prevention of HIV, STDs, and pregnancy may not always be comfortable or easy, but you can encourage your teen to ask you questions and

be prepared to give fair and honest answers. This will keep the door open for both of you to bring up the topic. It’s OK to say you’re feeling uncomfortable or that you don’t have all the

answers.

Avoid Overreacting

When your teen shares personal information with you, keep in mind that he or she may be asking for your input or wants to know how you feel. Let your teen know that you value his

or her opinion, even if it is different from yours.

Provide Opportunities for Conversations Between Your Teen and Health Care Professionals

By taking your teen to regular preventive care appointments and allowing time alone with the provider, you create opportunities for your teen to talk confidentially with doctors

or nurses about health issues that may be of concern, including HIV, STDs, and pregnancy. Be prepared to suggest that you step out of the room for a moment to allow for this

private time, as not all health care providers will feel comfortable asking you to leave the room.

What Topics Should Parents Discuss With Their Teens?

It’s important that your conversations with your teen not focus just on the consequences of risky sexual behaviors. Many teens receive these messages in health education class

or elsewhere. As a parent, you have the opportunity to have discussions with your teen about other related topics. You can:

•

Talk about healthy, respectful relationships.

Communicate your own expectations for your teen about relationships and sex.

Provide factual information about ways to prevent HIV, STDs, and pregnancy (e.g., abstinence, condoms and contraception, and HIV/STD testing).

Focus on the benefits of protecting oneself from HIV, STDs, and pregnancy.

Provide information about where your teen can speak with a provider and receive sexual health services, such as HIV/STD testing.

How Can Parents Improve Their Communication Skills?

Various organizations have developed programs to help build parents’ skills and improve parent-adolescent communication. These skill-building programs may be implemented

in schools, health clinics, community-based settings, and even places where parents work. Parents, educators, health care providers, community-based staff, and employers can

work together to promote positive communication between parents and adolescents about sex.

Where Can Parents Get More Information?

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Positive Parenting Practices: www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/protective/positiveparenting/index.htm

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Teen Pregnancy: Parent and Guardian Resources: www.cdc.gov/teenpregnancy/parents.htm

Office of Adolescent Health. Talking with Teens. Teens and Parents Talking: www.hhs.gov/ash/oah/resources-and-publications/info/parents/get-started/quiz.html

Advocates for Youth. Parent-child communication: Promoting sexually healthy youth: www.advocatesforyouth.org/the-facts-parent-child-communication

The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy. Parent-adolescent communication about sex in Latino families: a guide for practitioners: https://thenationalcampaign.org/resource/parent-adolescent-communication-about sex-latino-families

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Healthfinder.gov. Talk to Your Kids about Sex: www.healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Category/parenting/healthy-communication-and

relationships/talk-to-your-kids-about-sex

As always, if you as a parent, feel uncomfortable still talking to your teen about sex or any of the topics related to sex, HIV, AIDS, or any of the things mentioned in this article,

please make an appointment with your child’s healthcare provider. They are here for you and for them. We never want you to feel uncomfortable and we never want your child

to get the wrong answers from the wrong people. We can help you talk to your teen and we can make them feel safe about talking to you about these subjects. Call either the

Shawnee Clinic or the Little Axe Health Center to make an appointment with your healthcare provider. We are here for you.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

Little Axe Health Clinic

• Primary Care – The front entrance is now open.

• Pharmacy Expansion – The Pharmacy has been relocated to its permanent location at the front of the clinic, however, the pneumatic tubes are still inoperable at this time.

• Remodel of current Primary Care for new PlusCare and Specialty Clinics – Specialty and PlusCare have both relocated to their new locations.

• Substantial completion/occupancy of the Little Axe Expansion is expected for April 2024! Grand opening of the renovated Health Center is scheduled for May 1st!

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 has begun.

Planning for Groundbreaking Ceremony is ongoing.

March 2024 Health Employee Awards of the Month

Employee of the Month: Kara Gouge, Medical Material Handler

Team of the Month: Medical Materials

Special Leadership Award: Tammy McElfresh, Lab Assistant II

Chris A. Larkin, MBA, FACHE, CHC

Executive Director

April 2024

2B www.astribe.com

Tune In to Our New Video!

Alzheimer’s Disease Program Ini�a�ve

(ADPI) Program is proud to share our

new Music & Memory Tes�monial

video with you!

Scan the QR Code below to check it out!

405.827.8216

adpi@astribe.com

asthealth.org/seeking-hope

Funded by @ACLgov

U.S. Department of

Veterans Affairs

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE AND THE U.S. DEPARTMENT

OF VETERANS AFFAIRS WILL BE HOSTING A:

During the event,

Speak with representatives

Get answers to VA Benefits and Claims questions

File your claim

Get same day decisions when you share complete information

Receive VHA Toxic Health Screens

Widows unsure if you qualify for benefits,

please come in and let us research it for you

For more information contact:

Were you exposed to burn pits, herbicides,

or other toxins while in the military?

Mary Culley, 405-626-3426

If you have ever served in the military and

have questions because you are not sure if

you qualify, please come in and ask

Connie Bottaro, 405-701-7629

mary.culley@va.gov

cbottaro@astribe.com

April 2024

www.astribe.com

2024

MONDAY

TUESDAY

GRILLED CHEZ

SANDWICH

CHICKEN NOODLE

SOUP/PEACHES

CHICKEN POT PIE

BISCUIT

MANDARIN ORANGES

HOT HAM & CHEZ

SANDWICH

BEETS

CHIPS

EGG ROLL

FRIED RICE

FORTUNE COOKIE

WEDNESDAY

SPAGHETTI

MEATSAUCE

SALAD BAR*

GARLIC TOAST

PORK LOIN

ROASTED BROCCOLI

ROLL

CRISP

PORK CHOP

MAC & TOM

BREAD

ICE CREAM

TURKEY ROAST

CARROTS

POT,ONIONS

ROLL/FRUIT

CHICKEN PATTY

SANDWICH

MAC SALAD

CHIPS

TUNA SALAD

SANDWICH

CHIPS

MANDARIN ORANGES

FRIDAY

BAKED POTATO

CHEZ,HAM,ONIONS

BROC N CHEZ

PUDDING

TACO SALAD

LETT/TOM

ONIONS/CHEZ

SALSA/PEARS

ENCHILADA

CASSEROLE

MEXI-CORN

TOSSED SALAD*

CHICKEN FRIED STEAK

MASHED POT/GRAVY

PEAS

BREAD

MIXED FRUIT

CHEF SALAD

W/CHICKEN

EGGS,CHEZ,ONION

COTTAGE CHEZ

PINEAPPLES

THURSDAY

HOT DOG

PORK N BEANS

CHIPS

FLUFF

GOULASH

SQUASH

BREAD

CAKE

BBQ CHICKEN

BAKED BEANS

BREAD

JELL-O

PANCAKES

BACON

FRUIT

SCRAMBLED EGGS

SAUSAGE GRAVY

BISCUIT

CEREAL

BOILED EGG

MUFFIN

OATMEAL

SAUSAGE PATTIES

TOAST

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

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma

2025 South Gordon Cooper Drive

Shawnee, Oklahoma 74801-0381

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TITLE VI ELDER INTAKE FORM

TODAY’S DATE______________________________ REFERRAL SOURCE_____________________

Title VI

Elderly Nutrition Program

LAST NAME___________________________ FIRST NAME____________________________ MI_____

DATE OF BIRTH______________________ MALE ____ FEMALE____ VETERAN____YES____NO

Dear Absentee Shawnee Tribal Members,

STREET ADDRESS__________________________________________________________________

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:

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. 3614 or call 405-716-4941 or email me at

dowings@astribe.com

SPOUSE’S NAME______________________________ SPOUSE’S DATE OF BIRTH _______________

CDIB # __________

Grass Mowing Application

D.O.B.___________

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 ___________________________________________

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 Trans. _____Family

IF YES, NAME OF PROGRAM & WHERE LOCATED:________________________________________

HEALTH CONCERNS ___________________________________________________________________

SERVICES CURRENTLY BEING RECEIVED_________________________________________________

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: __________________________________________________

ADDRESS: ________________________________________________

STATE:___________

NAME OF EMERGENCY CONTACT (2) ________________________________ PHONE _______________

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

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 2024)

Handicap/Disabled

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

NO RENTAL PROPERTY will be mowed

CITY: _______________________

NAME OF EMERGENCY CONTACT (1)_________________________________ PHONE_______________

PROSTHETIC DEVICES ____Walker/Cane ____Wheelchair _____Hearing Aid _____Glasses ____Dentures ____None

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma

Title VI Department

2025 S Gordon Cooper Dr

Shawnee OK 74801

405-275-4030

The following are the requirements for this program:

SINGLE ____ MARRIED _____ DIVORCED/SEPARATED ____ WIDOWED_____ WIDOWER______

EMAIL ADDRESS____________________________________________________________________

Absentee Shawnee Member

Must be 55 years and older

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

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

Handicap/Disabled

NO RENTAL PROPERTY WILL BE MOWED

Thomasine Owings

Title VI Director

CITY___________________ STATE_____ ZIP CODE________ PHONE NUMBER _______________

ZIP: _______

PROVIDE THE DATE OF YOUR VACCINATION COVID 19

1st__________ 2nd_________ BOOSTER__________

Johnson & Johnson __________ FLU__________

NAME OF YOUR TRIBE:

_____________________________________

We Are Hiring

HOME PHONE: ____________________ MESSAGE PHONE: ________________

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.

Apply at www.astribe.com/employment

April 2024

4B www.astribe.com

Employee Attends Practice and

SPTA Leadership Conference

THE LEGEND HAS RETIRED

Purchased Referred Care (PRC) would like to express a bittersweet

CONGRATULATIONS to Glendine Blanchard on her retirement on March

1, 2024. Glendine had worked for the tribe in various departments before

joining PRC where she served as the Director of the department for over 18

years. We wish her all the best in her next adventures but will miss her humor

and leadership in our department. CONGRATULATIONS GLENDINE,

YOU’VE EARNED IT!!

Our new PRC Director Lawana Martin,BA,LPN and the rest of the PRC

staff is available to assist with your healthcare needs and can be reached by

phone at: 405-701-7951 or by email at: PRC@astribe.com.

Dr. Sarah Rhoades-Kerswill (Kiowa, pictured on right) and Dr. StumblingbearRiddle (OPA president-elect) attended the Practice and SPTA (State, Provincial

and Territorial Psychological Associations) Leadership Conference in Washington

D.C. as Oklahoma Psychological Association’s Diversity Division chair. The

Practice and SPTA Leadership Conference is the premier event for the American

Psychological Association (APA) and SPTA leaders to co-create transformational

impact for the psychology profession and critical societal issues. The conference

brings together psychologists from the United States, territories, and Canada, along

with APA governance, to strategize on issues important to practicing psychologists.

The conference also fosters leadership and effective governance strategies for

participating associations.

APRIL NEWSLETTER- TOR NEWS

Tribal Opioid Response Grant/Karen Kaniatobe, TOR Grant Project Coordinator

In February, TOR held a ribbon skirt class with Jennifer Onzahwah as the instructor. Each person got to choose their fabric and ribbon colors with the end result being a

beautiful and uniquely made ribbon skirt to wear. While a ribbon skirt is traditionally a form of ceremonial dress for the Absentee Shawnees as well as that of some other tribes,

it’s been adopted by tribes nationwide as a way to show pride and honor in your cultural heritage in formal and everyday dress.

The goals of TOR’s outreach classes are to share information about TOR services and to maintain a connection to cultural heritage and values as a prevention tool.

As we move into April (and May) the Tribal Opioid Response Grant project will be offering basket weaving classes in three locations: Shawnee, Little Axe, and Horseshoe

Bend. If you’re thinking of ideas for Mother’s Day, then take this opportunity to show your mom (Ke k’yi) your appreciation by making her a basket. Even better, sons and

daughters can take a class with mom for some quality time together. See our accompanying flyer for dates and other information.

Historically, Absentee Shawnees and other Tribes/Nations made baskets: for storage, to sift through grains or corn, to carry babies and for other purposes. In fact, check out

Earnest Spybuck’s painting,

“Shawnee Home Life About 1890.” If you look closely, you can see several baskets on the ground next to the two women preparing a meal.

Photo: Courtesy of the National Museum of the American Indian

One of the greatest myths about Substance Use Disorder (SUD) or an addiction is that a person can stop

One of the greatest myths about Substance Usemisusing

Disorder

(SUD)

or an

is that

a person

can

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misusing

substances anytime they want to by using their own

substances

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theyaddiction

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willpower. However substance misuse alters the natural pathways of your brain. It can only take one time or several times of opioid

(prescriptionuse

or non-prescription)

or methamphetamine

use to changebiological

those pathways.

Everyone’s

(prescription or non-prescription) or methamphetamine

to change those

pathways. Everyone’s

makeup

is different and each person is affected differently. Your

biological makeup is different and each person is affected differently. Your brain then signals you to

brain then signals you to crave and misuse the substance you may be trying to avoid. When addiction takes hold it takes away your self-control and your ability to make good

crave and misuse the substance you may be trying to avoid. When addiction takes hold it takes away

decisions. Even when the consequences are terrible

– self-control

job loss, and

children

taken

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relationships

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homelessness can occur, etc. - people with a

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–

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job loss, children taken away, personal and family relationships are ruined, homelessness can occur, etc.

- people

a Substance

Use Disorderyou

(SUD)need

will continue

to misuse.

The good news is that a SUD is a condition that can

be with

treated.

To recognize

treatment

is the first step to recovery. When you’re in the grasp of addiction, this takes

an enormous amount of strength and bravery. When

ready,

Absentee

Shawnee

Response

(TOR) Grant

The you’re

good news

is that the

a SUD

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that can beTribal

treated.Opioid

To recognize

you need treatment

is the Project can assist you in accessing services. The

TOR staff is here to help you navigate through thefirst

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secure

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you’re in the

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strength

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ready,

the Absentee

Shawnee Tribal Opioid Response (TOR) Grant

For questions and information, please contact our

office

405.561.7836

tor@astribe.com.

Project can assist you in accessing services. The TOR staff is here to help you navigate through the

system of available services to secure the best treatment and recovery options for you.

For questions and information, please contact our office at 405.561.7836 or email tor@astribe.com.

April 2024

HEALTH BUZZ!!

APRIL is National Stress Awareness Month, Minority Health Month, and Move More

Month. Not to mention – April Fool’s Day and Arbor Day! For us, the Alzheimer

Disease Program Initiative staff, we immediately think of the stress that our dementia

caregivers experience. Dementia caregivers report higher levels of stress, more

depression and anxiety symptoms, and lower levels of subjective well-being than noncaregivers according to research studies.

Supporting a person with dementia requires time and energy. While it can be

a rewarding experience, it can also be demanding and stressful. Knowing and

recognizing signs of stress in yourself and someone you care about are the first steps

toward taking action.

If you are a Caregiver for someone living with dementia, we offer the following

valuable information that we learned from the Alzheimer Society of Canada:

SYMPTOMS OF STRESS

1. Denial… about dementia and its effect on the person with dementia.

“Everyone is overreacting; I know Mom will get better.”

2. Anger… at the person with dementia, yourself, and others.

“If they ask me that question once more, I will scream!”

3. Withdrawing socially… you no longer want to stay in touch with friends or

participate in activities you once enjoyed.

“I don’t care about getting together with friends anymore.”

4. Anxiety… about facing another day and what the future holds.

“I’m worried about what will happen when I can no longer provide care.”

5. Depression… you feel sad and hopeless a lot of the time.

“I don’t care anymore. What is wrong with me?”

6. Exhaustion… you barely have the energy to complete your daily tasks.

“I don’t have the energy to do anything anymore.”

7. Sleeplessness… you wake up in the middle of the night or have nightmares and

stressful dreams.

“I rarely sleep through the night, and don’t feel refreshed in the morning.”

8. Emotional reactions… you cry at minor upsets; you are often irritable.

“I cried when there was no milk for my coffee this morning. Then I yelled at my child.”

9. Lack of concentration… you have trouble focusing and you find it difficult

completing complex tasks.

“I used to do the daily crossword. Now I am lucky if I can solve half of it.”

10. Health problems… you may lose or gain weight, get sick more often (colds or flu),

or develop chronic health problems (backaches, headaches, high blood pressure).

“Since the spring, I have had either a cold or the flu. I just can’t seem to shake them.”

10 WAYS TO REDUCE CAREGIVER STRESS

1. Learn About Dementia

Knowing as much as you can about dementia and care strategies will prepare you for

the dementia journey. Understanding how dementia affects the person will also help

you comprehend and adapt to the changes. (SEEKING HOPE CAN HELP)

2. Be Realistic About Dementia

It is important, though difficult, to be realistic about dementia and how it will affect

the person over time. Once you are realistic, it will be easier for you to adjust your

expectations.

www.astribe.com

3. Be Realistic About Yourself

You need to be realistic about how much you can do. What do you value most? A

walk with the person you are caring for, time by yourself, or a tidy house? There is no

“right” answer; only you know what matters most to you and how much you can do.

4. Accept Your Feelings

When caring for a person with dementia, you will have many mixed feelings. In a

single day, you may feel content, angry, guilty, happy, sad, embarrassed, afraid, and

helpless. These feelings may be confusing, but they are normal. Recognize that you are

doing the best you can.

5. Share Information and Feelings With Others

Sharing information about dementia with family and friends will help them

understand what is happening and prepare them to provide the help and support you

need. It is also important to share your feelings. This may be a close friend or family

member, someone you met at a support group, a member of your faith community, or

a healthcare professional.

6. Be Positive

Your attitude can make a difference to the way you feel. Try to look at the positive

side of things. Focusing on what the person can do, as opposed to the abilities lost,

can make things easier. Try to make every day count. There can still be times that are

special and rewarding.

7. Look for Humor

While dementia is serious, you may find certain situations have a bright side.

Maintaining a sense of humor can be a good coping strategy.

8. Take Care of Yourself

Your health is important. Do not ignore it. Eat proper meals and exercise regularly.

Find ways to relax and try to get the rest you need. Make regular appointments with

your doctor for check-ups. You also need to take regular breaks from caregiving. Do

not wait until you are too exhausted to plan this. Take time to maintain interests and

hobbies. Keep in touch with friends and family so you will not feel lonely and isolated.

These things will give you strength to continue providing care.

9. Get Help

Support: You will need support that comes from sharing thoughts and feelings with

others. This could be individually, with a professional, or as part of a dementia support

group. Ask family and friends for help.

10. Plan for the Future

Planning for the future can help relieve stress. If possible, review finances with the

person with dementia and plan accordingly. Choices for future health and personal

care decisions should be considered and recorded. Legal and estate planning should

also be discussed. Also, think about an alternate caregiving plan in the event that you

are unable to provide care in the future.

Remember, the Alzheimer Disease Program Initiative team is here for you!

We can help! Please contact us for more information about our two dementia caregiver

support programs:

Savvy Caregiver in Indian Country and Music & Memory

Check out our webpage on the Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System’s website,

asthealth.org, click on “Programs and Preventions” and then “Seeking Hope”.

You can also contact me directly at (405) 561-7893.

HEALTH BUZZ!!

Hello Again!

In addition to our health article addressing Caregiver Stress, I thought it would be

interesting to share a bit of news about what our dementia grants have been doing for

awareness and sustainability of our programs, Seeking Hope.

We were fortunate to be awarded a second grant to help ensure that we continue to

develop and grow our dementia services for our tribal members and communities. Our

first grant is funded by the Administration for Community Living and our second grant

is funded through the Indian Health Service. I am glad to report that we are making both

entities proud of Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System!

Dementia of all types is under-recognized, underdiagnosed, and undertreated in all

populations and evidence suggests that this is very much true for our Native Americans.

AST Health System is striving to build and grow our dementia services to better serve our

people.

Due to our active work on dementia and caregiver services, we were fortunate to receive

requests from two different groups to visit our health system during the month of March.

These individuals will be working on the CDC’s Healthy Brain Initiative, Road Map for

Indian Country. Dementia is a top priority as well with both of these groups, and they were

very keen on visiting our health system to talk about our dementia work.

Carl V. Hill, PhD, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer and Edie Yau, Director for

the National Alzheimer’s Association (Chicago, Illinois), who are working in conjunction

with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevent (CDC) visited our health system on March

8. Accompanying them were Neil Henderson, PhD, Emeritus, University of Minnesota

Medical School, and Tom Teasdale, Presidential Professor Emeritus, Hudson College of

Public Health.

Our second group was from the International Association for Indigenous Aging (IA2),

Mr. Bill Benson is the Co-founder and President for IA2 and focuses on American Indian

Elders and has worked in the aging field for more than 40 years at the local, state and

national levels. He was accompanied by Jamie Ishcomer-Aazami, Chief Operating Officer,

and Kelsey Donnellan, Director of Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease Projects.

Both groups were extremely impressed with our health facility and the quality services

that our health system provides. The tours of our health system are priceless opportunities in

fostering relationships with outside entities. Because of our dementia work, we are bringing

the spotlight on our quality facilities and services which in-turn brings more interest to our

health system and more desire of others to support our efforts.

All of this interest is due to our dementia work, and we are so proud of our participants

in our programs and we wish to thank each and every one for taking part in our programs;

and a special thank you to the two families who took the time to provide a testimonial in

their own words about their experience with our programs! If you have not had the time

to view our Seeking Hope Testimonial video on our ASTHS website, Facebook, YouTube

Channel, or AST website, please take the time to do so. Also, please look out for our second

testimonial that will be releasing soon!

Going forward into 2024, the Alzheimer’s Disease Program Initiative staff is planning

more fun events to be held throughout the year; so stay alert and healthy, and watch for our

announcements! We love providing these opportunities to socialize, gain knowledge about

dementia, provide information about our programs, and just have some fun (with great

prizes!). I hope to see everyone at our events in the coming months! Stay tuned!!

We encourage you to take advantage of our Seeking Hope programs and reach out to us

for any assistance or information needed. Your wellbeing is our utmost priority and we are

here to support you every step of the way!

Best regards,

Atheda Fletcher

Alzheimer’s Disease Program Initiative (ADPI)

(405) 447-0300 or (405) 561-7893 • www.asthealth.org • www.adpi.com

Left to Right: Dr. Francisco, Lisa Harrington, Chris Larkin, Dr. Henderson, Edie Yau,

Dr. Carl Hill, Dr. Teasdale, Atheda Fletcher, Dr. Marty Lofgren.

Left to Right: Jamie Ishcomer-Aazami, Atheda Fletcher, Bill Benson, Kelsey

Donnellan.

April 2024

6B www.astribe.com

Stress Less

for a Healthier Heart

2024 SUMMER INTERNSHIP

ARE YOU A NATIVE AMERICAN STUDENT WHO IS

SEEKING A FUTURE IN A HEALTHCARE RELATED FIELD?

AVAILABLE INTERSHIPS:

8 INTERNSHIP POSITIONS

DATE RANGE:

June 3rd – July 26th (8 week program)

HOURS:

An average of 20 hours a week

PAY:

$13.00 per hour

#OurHearts

Stress happens. You can’t always prevent or avoid it. But you can change how you

respond to it. Try these tips. You may feel better—and have a healthier heart, too!

Know How Stress Affects Your Body

Whether it’s from everyday deadlines, the work-life balancing act, or financial struggles, stress shows up often. Your body

reacts to it. Your heart rate increases, your blood vessels narrow—and especially over the long term that’s not healthy!

Research shows that stress can make us more likely to get heart disease and have a heart attack.

The origins of heart disease begin at a young age, so the earlier in life you learn how to de-stress, the happier you and

your heart will be.

Ongoing stress acts on more than just your heart. It affects everything from your nervous system and hormones to your

lungs and gut. You may not see the connection, and healthcare providers may not ask about your stress. So try to listen to

your body while thinking about what’s going on in your life.

I. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Must be Native American (AST Preferred) with a valid CDIB card

Current GPA of 3.0 or above preferred

Must be a High School Senior (Class of 2024) or current College/Vo-Tech student

Must be between the age of 18-24 years old

Must be available Monday - Friday 8a-5p, there may be some evenings and weekends

Must be available the first two weeks of the internship

Turn On Your Relaxation Response

Did you know your body also has a relaxation response?

Your breathing slows and blood pressure and heart rate

decrease. The good news is you can trigger that response.

Ways to do so often combine breathing deeply and

focusing your attention on pleasing thoughts and images.

Here are a few relaxation response techniques to try. You

can do these on your own or find a teacher or class to

start. They may take some practice!

Meditation

This is one of the most-studied approaches for

handling stress. There are a variety of ways to do

it, including through mindfulness meditation.

Most meditation styles involve:

●

II. HOW TO APPLY

Applications can be found on the AST Tribal Website at ASTRIBE.COM or ASTHEALTH.ORG

under “Employment” or “Careers”.

Please submit a Cover Letter and Resume along with the employment application found on

the website.

III. QUESTIONS

Progressive muscle relaxation

This approach calls for

tightening individual muscles

in your body and then releasing

the tension. Start by tensing

and relaxing your toes, then your

calves, and on up to your face.

Do one muscle group at a time.

●

Being in a quiet location with as few distractions

as possible

Being physically comfortable either sitting,

lying, or walking

Focusing your attention on a specific

word or set of words, an object,

or your breathing

Having an open attitude and

letting distractions, including

thoughts, come and go

without judgment

If you have any questions about the application or need assistance please

contact AST Health Human Resources at 405.701.7638

A P P L I C A T I O N D E AD LI N E AP R IL 3 0 T H 2 0 2 4

P: 405.447.0300

F: 405.701.7631

ASTHEALTH.ORG

www.hearttruth.gov

Guided imagery

Deep breathing

This involves a series of steps that

include relaxing and visualizing the

Guided

details of aimagery

calm, peaceful setting, such

This

involvesLearn

a series

of steps

a garden.

aboutthat

stress

include

visualizing

the

and

try arelaxing

guidedand

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details of a calm, peaceful setting, such

as a garden. Learn more about stress

and try a guided imagery session.

This is something you can do

anytime, anywhere. Take in a slow,

Deep

breathing

deep breath,

let your stomach or

This

something

can slowly.

chestisexpand,

thenyou

exhale

anytime,

anywhere.

Repeat a few times. Take in a slow,

deep breath, let your stomach or

chest expand, then exhale slowly.

Repeat a few times.

Find Your Way to Healthy Relaxing

There’s no one way to control stress. You may want to try a stress management program, do yoga, talk to a professional

counselor, take an art class, or join friends for a brisk walk. Being in nature is very soothing for some people.

Find Your Way to Healthy Relaxing

There’s no one way to control stress. You may want to try a stress management program, do yoga, talk to a professional

counselor, take an art class, or join friends for a brisk walk. Being in nature is very soothing for some people.

If you’re short on time, make a list of three-minute activities you love.

Add one to each day of your calendar. Consider:

● Stretching after

● Catching a few minutes

Listening to a favorite

If you’re short on time, make a list of three-minute activities you love.

tune during lunch

a warm shower

of the sunrise or sunset

Add one to each day of your calendar. Consider:

●

● Stretching after

● Catching a few minutes

Listening to a favorite

tune during lunch

a warm shower

of the sunrise or sunset

Finding healthy relaxation exercises is just one way to protect your heart. Combine de-stressing with other

heart-healthy habits: eat nutritious foods, move your body more and exercise, get enough sleep, and develop

a strong social support system.

Finding healthy relaxation exercises is just one way to protect your heart. Combine de-stressing with other

heart-healthy habits: eat nutritious foods, move your body more and exercise, get enough sleep, and develop

a strong social support system.

●

Know When It’s More Than Just Stress

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope, are using drugs or alcohol more frequently, or are having suicidal

thoughts, seek professional help right away. Resources are available from the National Institute of Mental Health.

Know When It’s More Than Just Stress

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope, are using drugs or alcohol more frequently, or are having suicidal

thoughts, seek professional help right away. Resources are available from the National Institute of Mental Health.

www.hearttruth.gov

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

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.