# “Among The Shawnees” (2015)

> Briefs, arguments, decisions, and more.

URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aabsentee%3Afcde384d7d0e2286

## Record

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

## Text

“Among The Shawnees”

The Absentee
Shawnee News

I nside
this

issue ...
2
G overnor ’ s R eport
3
A merican R ed C ross & AST
4
S ecretary & R epresentative ’ s R eport
5
T ax C ollections
6
S potlight E mployee
7
P ress R elease
8-9
T itle VI M enu & N ews
10
C ongratulations J essica
12-13
H ealth S ystem & J anuary A wareness
14 - 15
E lection C ommission
16
B ig J im Y outh A ward I nfo &
A pplication
18 - 19
J anuary B irthdays
20
H orse S hoe B end
26-27
F oster C are
28
OEH
29
B uilding B locks
35
M artial A rts C amp

J anuary 2015 — V olume 27 N o . 35

OPEN LETTER TO EXECUTIVE
COMMITTEE...
After attending last October’s general council meeting, and December’s
Executive meeting I am very concerned for our tribe. There is no compromise
in working together. There seems to be a lot of separate agendas. A few years
ago it was just as bad, we seemed to be making progress, now we have taken
backward steps. The pay scale tiers are not in effect yet, do we as tribal members
have to ask for a Special meeting to get it done? After all, it was, by our vote,
that this plan was developed. Budgets also were mentioned at the E.C. meeting.
Shouldn't they have been ready to submit back in October and not the last week
in December? I'm not a political person but our tribe is a business, a multi-million
dollar business, things have to get done and on time. NOT ON INDIAN TIME!
We haven't heard anything about our banking interests lately, what are we going
to do with the former shopping center in Tecumseh. Are we generating enough
3rd party money to fulfill our obligation at the Little Axe Clinic? Do we have a
5 year plan? We can't seem to operate year to year. What happened to the car
leasing business? These are things we should hear at General Council; but we
don't. After leaving the EC meeting in December, I seriously considered buying
SOME of the executive officers a copy of ROBERTS RULE OF ORDER. I know
our officers are busy and get a lot put on their plates, but they ran for office
and took an oath, so step up and do what is in the best interest of the TRIBE.
Seriously people we as a tribe need to take an interest, attend GC meetings and if
possible an EC meeting; get involved. Forget the old,"THEY DON’T LISTEN",
"THEY DON’T DO ANYTHING". If you don't speak You can't be heard. If we
don't get on the right track and conduct tribal business like a business, our next
generations will have NOTHING! Thank you for reading my little rant. I'm
climbing off my soapbox now. Who is next?
Respectfully,
Charlotte Elaine Spoon Brown
AST tribal member

AST ELDERS STEW/CHILI FUNDRAISER
January 17, 2015 at 10 AM
Title XI Building
Public Invited - $5 for Adults & $3 for Children

Executive Committee

Edwina Butler-Wolfe
Governor

Issac Gibson
Lt. Governor

Vera M. Dawsey
Secretary

Leah Bates
Treasurer

Kenneth Blanchard
Representative

Governor’s Report

Hello my Absentee Shawnee people!
On December 23rd the AST Employee Committee hosted the annual Christmas party. It was held at the Thunderbird
Casino in Little Axe and our menu was chicken fried steak, chicken fried steak, potatoes, gravy, corn, and a roll provided by the
Employee Committee. Departments were asked to bring either a dessert, tea, and/or bottled water. Employees were required to sign in for the lunch
and the Tribe then gave them the afternoon off to be with their families. The Employee Committee did a good job and even gave out door prizes. The
holiday season began for our employees after that as they were given off the afternoon of December 23rd, Christmas Eve – December 24, Christmas
Day – December 25th and off on December 26th. They were also given off January 1 and due to inclement weather employees were also given off
January 2nd. So it is my hope that all of our employees had a good vacation and are now rested up and ready to do the work of the Tribe.
Business of the Tribe
It has been brought to my awareness that for the past six months Finance has not been working with the Tax Commission to ensure that our Gaming
tax is being collected. Revenues generated from this and other tax revenue sources are primarily how our General Fund (GF) can exist. Without these
funds and the Gaming Commission Regulatory Fee reimbursements the Tribe would find it hard to operate. This appears to be the case this year. There
will be a cut on all 2015 General Fund budgets by 5% regardless of program requests or historic costs. In a budget process one should look at historic
costs (meaning how much was spent in the prior year budgets), current inflationary factors and program expressed needs. Instead the Treasurer and her
staff looked at previous budgets approved by tribal resolution. This does not take many factors into consideration and leads to budget shortfalls (over
budget). It is my hope that Treasurer and the Acting Controller, will seek training on budget formulation.
Additionally, I have noted that we do not appear to have any smoke shop revenues being generated and our restaurant in Little Axe is shut down.
The Treasurer should be reporting on these revenue generating concerns. Is there other revenue being generated by the Convenience Store in Little Axe?
And what other revenue streams other than contracts and grants can we count on for this upcoming calendar year?
Maintenance
As-to-date I have not seen any monthly project lists from the Maintenance Director on what services are being done in the Shawnee and Little Axe
areas.
Salary Ordinance
In December I and the Representative filed for a Declaratory Judgment on getting the Salary Ordinance put into place. As you may recall this was
passed by you, the voters, and then approved by the Executive Committee. The Representative asked the Attorney General for an opinion on getting
this Salary Ordinance into place and that is included in our request for a Declaratory Judgment. It is my hope that our Court System will take immediate
action on both this Judgment and the one filed by the Attorney General. The Lt. Governor, Secretary and Treasurer personally continue to benefit from
the Salary Ordinance not being in place as they were determined by the Human Resource department to be at Tier 1. It is my hope that once the court
renders a favorable decision that it corrects the Treasurer’s inaction and makes it retroactive to the date the
law was passed. This will mean elected officials will be responsible for paying the Tribe back.
Meetings Attended
The month of December was a very busy month. My schedule was full with school and program activities,
meetings and conferences. Let me share with you what I have been doing.
December 3, 2014 State Representative Justin Wood, a member of the Sac and Fox Nation of Oklahoma,
made a visit to my office to discuss a variety of issues. Some of these issues were the ongoing tax issue with
local tribes and the City of Shawnee and public schools in our community. I gave State Representative Wood
the history of our Absentee Shawnee Tribe and advised him on how our form of tribal government works.
Representative Wood is also the Director of the Big Brother and Big Sister program here in Shawnee. He
indicated that they could use some help getting volunteers from our native people who would be interested in
becoming a big brother and sister in our local community. Representative Wood would like to place Native
American volunteers with Native American children.
On December 8, 2014 I had the opportunity to attend a meeting of the Oklahoma Rural Schools Research
Alliance at the Doubletree Hotel. The meeting was geared toward the needs of what could be improved on
for our Native American students that attend public schools. We had a round table discussion and webinar. I
Governor Edwina Butler-Wolfe and offered my input based on some of the problems related to me by both parents and children that children face
State Representative Justin Wood
while attending local public schools.

2

December 9, 2014 I was a guest speaker at the 35th Annual Oklahoma Council for Indian Education held at the
Doubletree Hotel in downtown Tulsa. This year the theme was “Starting with Me: Education, Culture and Language”.
My speech touched on the highlights of my experience as an educator during my years at a public school. I also spoke
on the importance of culture and language to our Absentee Shawnee Tribe. This two day meeting allowed for me to
network with other tribal educators in the public school system.
On December 10, 2014 I attended the Veterans Christmas Dinner held in the Warrior Room at the Thunderbird
Casino, Norman. It was an honor to attend this event as I highly respect and value our Veterans of the Absentee
Shawnee Tribe. These individuals represent our Tribe very well as they are called upon throughout the State of
Oklahoma. We are very proud of our Veterans of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe and I offer my respect to all Veterans.
The third week of each month is a very busy week: we have the Directors meeting with the Executive Committee
on the third Monday, Tuesday is the Health Board Meeting held at the Little Axe Clinic, then the Executive Committee
Meeting on the third Wednesday.
Pizza was supplied to the two after school programs: Horse Shoe Bend and Resource Center located in Little
Speaker at Oklahoma
Axe. It was a very enjoyable event for me to be with some of the students in the Little Axe area. Blake and Brandan
Council for Indian
Goodman do a great job with the students at the Resource Center. And I extend my thanks to the guys that work with
Education in Tulsa
our students at both centers: Stuart Rolette, Blake Goodman and Brandan Goodman.
Conclusion
I have 5 months to go. My door is always open (unless I am in a meeting or at a meeting) and I welcome your visits. We have much to do to get our
Tribe back on track and I want to do the best I can for all of our tribal members.
Help me to make a difference – stand beside me and Let’s Build for the Future (BFF) - united and together!
Thank you for your support.

RED CROSS AND ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE SIGN FIRST
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING IN OKLAHOMA
Shawnee, Thursday, December 18, 2014 — The American Red Cross and the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma officially signed a Memorandum
of Understanding this week, making it the first such agreement between the organization and Tribal Nation in Oklahoma.
“This is very exciting for the Absentee Shawnee Tribe,” said Governor Edwina Butler-Wolfe, Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma. “I am excited
and I am excited for our emergency management. It’s a step forward and I’m glad we’re the first tribe in Oklahoma to do this. It brings a peace of mind
when it comes to disasters like tornadoes and house fires.”
The Red Cross and the Absentee Shawnee Tribe have worked for nearly a year on the Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs) which is an
agreement used to improve and clarify relationships between two organizations, a sort of “handshake” of understanding. Basically, the push to establish
these agreements is rooted in the desire for the Red Cross to be both an essential component in effective disaster preparation and as quick a responder
as possible to any disasters Tribal Nations might face.
“We are honored to officially solidify an already great partnership with the Absentee Shawnee Tribe,” said Red Cross Oklahoma regional CEO
Janienne Bella. “This is the first in what I hope will be other agreements with the Tribal Nations in Oklahoma.”
While MOUs are not always a necessity in a good relationship, they can potentially solve challenges in the way of effective disaster prevention and
preparation. For example, Tribal Nation Emergency Managers play a crucial role in communicating with the Red Cross for both preparation purposes
and disaster help in the case of an emergency; however, with this profession facing high turnover and shortage rates everywhere, the importance of
establishing long term managers is vital. With MOUs established with the Red Cross, tribal nations lacking more long-term solutions to disaster
prevention will have the fix they need.
This recent push to establish these memorandums is proving to be successful, and potential for future growth is very promising. To date, the Red
Cross has established three existing MOUs in the southwestern United States with the following tribes: the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe beginning on
March 28, 2013; the Washoe Tribe of California and Nevada beginning on Jan. 1, 2014; and the Pueblo of Pojoaque in New Mexico beginning on Jan.
4, 2014.

Red Cross Oklahoma regional CEO Janienne Bella (left) and Absentee
Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma Governor Edwina Butler-Wolfe (right)
officially sign the Memorandum of Understanding solidifying the
relationship between the non-profit and the tribe.

Regional CEO Janienne Bella (left) and Absentee Shawnee Tribe of
Oklahoma Governor Edwina Butler-Wolfe (right) shake hands after
signing a Memorandum of Understanding solidifying the relationship
between the non-profit and the tribe.

Back row: Chele Rider and Rene Beezely with the American Red Cross,
Absentee Shawnee Emergency Manager Linda Day and Susan Morris
and Lynn Edward with the Red Cross.
Front Row: Regional CEO Janienne Bella, American Red Cross
Oklahoma and Governor Edwina Butler-Wolfe, Absentee Shawnee Tribe
of Oklahoma.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches
skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit
organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission.
For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

3

will be attending the Quarterly NIGA Winter Legislative Summit in
Washington D.C. on January 20th thru January 23rd, 2015. When I
return I will have information on the conference if you are interested.
If you have issues you would like to discuss or you need questions
answered please come visit me, my door is always open. And if you
Hello All,
can’t make it to the office you can call my cell # 405-432-8754,
I hope everyone had a joyous holiday and may the New Year bring
office # 275-4030, ext. 154 or 186, or my home # if you would live
many blessings to you and your loved ones. First off I would like to
to speak with me in the evenings is 405-307-0954.
apologize for not having my article ran in the tribal newsletter. I was
Thank you Have a great day!!!
told my freedom of speech was no longer authorized, so therefore I
Secretary Vera Dawsey
will be nice and my report will be strictly about day to day business.
Over the past few months I have attended several meetings. One
in particular was over the Atoka Water-Line once again I am no
longer the contact person for this issue. You will need to direct all
your questions and concerns to the Tribal Representative, Kenneth
Blanchard. His office will address any issues you may have.
Greetings Tribal Members,
On October 22, 2014 I attended an “INTERNAL” court hearing.
This hearing was on a “Temporary Restraining Order” that was filed
within the Executive Committee. I have yet to hear the outcome Here’s to wishing Happy Holidays to the tribal membership.
It is the time to share fellowship with our family, friends, and relatives and
of this hearing, except to say that we are waiting on another court that’s my intent for this time of year.
date. But I will tell you the “Restraining Order” had expired as of We are making progress in small stages and look forward to a better 2015.
To contact me at the tribal complex, please write to:
10/22/2014 @ 4:00p.m.
Representative Ken Blanchard
I also attended several ASEDA Enterprise meetings throughout
2025 S. Gordon Cooper Drive
the month of November. The current board member appointed four
Shawnee, Oklahoma 74801
new members to the ASEDA board. With the new members aboard, I can be reached by phone at (405) 275-4030 Ext. 202.
we will be able to move forward within ASEDA Enterprise. My Respectfully,
goal for the upcoming months is to expand ASEDA Enterprise with Ken Blanchard
hopes of more jobs for the tribal community.
In December, I had a meeting with finance over the FEMA
Trailers. I have had several issues brought to my attention regarding
the FEMA Applicants. After going over current FEMA reports with
Finance, I will be making some major changes. All applicants will
be receiving letters regarding their FEMA Trailer account. This
letter will advise the applicant of the changes that will be made
and enforced. The FEMA Trailer payments are to be made on or
before the 5th of every month to the Finance Department. Checks,
cashier’s checks or money orders are to be made out to the Absentee
Shawnee Tribe Finance Department /FEMA Account. Beginning
February 1, 2015 if your FEMA Trailer payment is more than five
days past due you will be charged a $25.00 late fee. If you have any
questions regarding your letter, after you receive it, you are more than
welcome to discuss your issues with myself or my assistant Alvina
JUST A FRIENDLY REMINDER:
Barnes. She will be handling all necessary paperwork pertaining to
FEMA TRAILER PAYMENTS ARE
the FEMA Trailers.
I encourage all tribal members to attend the monthly Executive DUE ON THE 5TH OF EACH MONTH
Committee Meetings. I would like you to see for yourself, how day
TO THE FINANCE DEPT. CHECK,
to day business is conducted. By attending these meetings you will
get a better understanding. Our meetings are held at 10:00am on the CASHIER’S CHECK OR MONEY
3rd Wednesday of each month in the Governor’s Conference room. ORDERS ARE TO BE MADE OUT
We had our December Executive Committee Meeting on December TO ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE
17, 2014. The meeting we had was very interesting. There were a
few business items that needed to be added to the agenda, but when FINANCE DEPT./FEMA PAYMENT
the remaining E.C. members tried to amend the Governors agenda, AS OF FEBRUARY 1, 2015 IF
the Governor refused to add any additional business. This meeting PAYMENTS ARE MORE THAN 5
should be on the website, so you can see for yourself. If you need
DAYS LATE THERE WILL BE A
help getting to this, the media department can assist you.
I am currently serving on the NICWA Board, the OCAF $25.00 LATE FEE.
board, and the TPHWG. I also have an upcoming conference. I
THANK YOU.

Secretary’s
Report

Representative’s
Report

No reports submitted for
Lt. Governor and
Treasurer

Monthly Executive Committee
meetings can be watched online at
astribe.com

4

FY-2014
YTD TAX COLLECTIONS
(thru 11/30/14)

RUN
DATE: DATE:
RUN
12/23/14

FY-2014
YTD TAX COLLECTIONS
(thru 11/30/14)

TAX
CATEGORY

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

JULY

12/23/14

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

YEAR-TO-DATE
TOTAL

Sales (6%)
Gaming % of free cash
Employee (1%)
Severance (8%)
Motor Vehicle
Tobacco Refund

$5,532.03 $5,205.95
$250,000.00 $250,000.00
$10,095.26
$602.94
$8,940.31 $7,025.79
$13,670.11 $11,971.21
$9,303.52
$0.00

$6,535.34
$5,180.06
$250,000.00 $150,000.00
$22,804.85
$4,159.08
$6,689.81
$7,561.69
$14,216.75 $11,780.39
$0.00
$0.00

$6,870.96
$300,000.00
$3,805.88
$8,985.65
$9,804.65
$0.00

$4,397.76 $6,237.06
$50,000.00 $100,000.00
$24,535.57 $3,805.02
$10,246.81 $8,556.30
$15,890.15 $17,011.63
$0.00
$0.00

$9,715.49
$709.77 $4,615.96
$136.20
$250,000.00 $200,000.00 $150,000.00 $250,000.00
$13,537.64 $5,895.29 $9,597.48
$0.00
$6,767.94 $4,582.79 $8,244.28 $4,025.85
$14,773.49 $12,928.61 $18,007.43 $11,904.84
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00

$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00

$55,136.58
$2,200,000.00
$98,839.01
$81,627.22
$151,959.26
$9,303.52

TOTAL TAXES

$297,541.23 $274,805.89

$300,246.75

$178,681.22

$329,467.14 $105,070.29 $135,610.01

$294,794.56 $224,116.46 $190,465.15 $266,066.89

$0.00

$2,596,865.59

$130.00

$65.00

$350.00

$90.00

$0.00

$2,165.00

$298,141.23 $274,935.89

$300,311.75

$179,031.22

$294,989.56 $224,366.46 $190,645.15 $266,156.89

$0.00

$2,599,030.59

Miscellaneous
TOTAL COLLECTIONS
NOTE:

$600.00

$80.00

$140.00

$85.00

$329,547.14 $105,210.29 $135,695.01

$195.00

$250.00

$180.00

% OF TAXES
COLLECTED

2.12%
84.65%
3.80%
3.14%
5.85%
0.36%
$2,596,865.59
0.08%
100% $2,599,030.59

The new Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) would like to

announce the start of a specialized financial institution that focuses on providing services to the Native American
community that will offer fair lending and financial education. Heather Napier, CDFI Executive Director has
started the initial steps in getting the office open to the public and has started the process of implementation.
Heather Napier has a Bachelors Degree in Management, Associates Degree in Business, 8 years of working in
the non-profit sector, and 12 years of grant management/compliance. The new Executive Director has served on
numerous Boards and has worked in the Tribal Government for 7 years. Heather Napier is a Seminole Nation
Tribal Member who has been privileged to work with Native communities and is looking forward to working with
the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma community.
The newly emerging Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) is a non-profit entity. The CDFI is
sponsored by the Absentee Shawnee of Oklahoma. Currently the Community Development Financial Institution
is working towards providing small consumer loans initially to Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma employees
that will offer much lower interest rates and allow for Absentee Shawnee employees to have access to affordable
financial lending. The goal of the small loan lending is to alleviate the burden of being in debt to predatory lenders.
The term predatory lending is any unfair credit practice that harms the borrower and eventually will affect the
credit or ownership interest of the borrower. Unfortunately many communities rely on the image of convenience
of payday loans and other loan companies that impose an average interest rate of 200% to the borrower. According
to the 2007 Survey of Consumer Finance the Center for American Progress reported that “a number of 38% of
families who had borrowed a payday loan in the last year were non-white while only 22% percent of families
that did not take out such loans were non-white.” This is why the first initial step to the Community Development
Financial Institute is to provide small consumer loans. Loans will be paid back in installments that are affordable
and that do not have predatory interest rates. Offering borrowers better financial options along with financial
education. The anticipated start up for providing the small loan product will be late February of 2015.
The CDFI will be working towards future goals of the organization providing more access to credit, capital,
and financial services. Please contact the CDFI Office for any questions or information. We welcome all ideas/
suggestions so that the CDIF can take those to the Board of Directors and come up with market needs that will
help our Native American community reach their own personal or business goals. The CDIF Office can be reached
at (405) 275-4030- ext. 158. The Community Development Financial Institution works under the direction of the
CDFI Board of Directors. Twila Parker serves as the Chairperson and can be reached at (405) 229-8052. At the
present time the CDFI office is located on the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma Complex in Shawnee, OK.
in building #1 room 114. Office hours are Monday thru Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
The Executive Director can be reached at (405) 275-4030 ext. 158.
5

GOVERNOR’S SPOTLIGHT EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

Diane Ponkilla
Diane, an enrolled Absentee Shawnee Tribal member,
works in the Police Department as the Dispatcher and
is a Police Specialist. She has been with the Absentee
Shawnee Tribe for many years. In her early work effort
for the Tribe she worked in the Administration Office
of the Tribe as a Security Officer for various locations.
Ms. Ponkilla is CLEET Certified and presently serves
as the President of the Absentee Shawnee Employee
Committee.
We are very fortunate to have Diane as a tribal employee
who brings both her knowledge and experience to the
Police department.
Congratulations and thank you, Diane!!!!

Let’s Build For the Future (BFF)!
GOVERNORS SPOTLIGHT EMPLOYEE
Governor Edwina Butler-Wolfe will be working with the six program department that she has oversight over and will monthly select an employee that
is deemed to have contributed to their program and to the Absentee Shawnee tribe. The attributes to be considered are: Contributions to the community
and the Tribe; leadership; performance and work ethic; teamwork. It is the intent of the Governor to recognize tribal employees who do a remarkable
job and might not otherwise get recognized for their contributions. This special employee recognition program will be highlighted under my Office as
the SPOTLIGHT EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH program.

Governor’s Christmas Party Pics

6

Press Release
Media Advisory
The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services
The Tulsa Police Department The Moore Police Department
Absentee Shawnee Tribe Police Department Absentee Shawnee Tribe Behavioral Health
Department-SPF-TIG The University of Oklahoma Southwest Prevention Center-SPF-SIG
Monday, December 22, 2014
The Absentee Shawnee Police Department
and the Moore Police Department Received
Training in Naloxone Administration to
Reverse Opioid and Heroin Overdose
Today, the Absentee Shawnee Police
Department and the Moore Police
Department sent their training officers to the
Absentee Shawnee Tribe Little Axe Health
Center to receive training on Naloxone
Administration to Cleveland county and
Pottawatomie county citizens who overdose
on opioids or heroin. The initiative began with
the Tulsa Police Department being trained to
administer Naloxone through a pilot project
with the Oklahoma Department of Mental
Health and Substance Abuse Services. So far,
11 lives have been saved since the Tulsa Police
Department started the project in late April
2014. Naloxone, in its spray application form,
acts as an opioid antagonist that reverses
an opioid overdose. Those critical moments
during an overdose are important when it comes to saving the life of an individual. These departments will
roll out services for citizens who overdose in 2015 as a way of reducing fatal opiate overdoses in Cleveland
and Pottawatomie counties.
The police departments have partnered with The University of Oklahoma Southwest Prevention Center’s
SPF-SIG and the Absentee Shawnee Tribe SPF-TIG to begin providing training and information to policemen
and the general public that will allow them to be fully prepared in the event of an opioid overdose.
Join us in saying thank you to Moore PD and ASTPD for their dedication, initiative and compassion to
Cleveland and Pottawatomie county citizens.
7

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

6

4

5

11

12

13

18

19
AST Complex Closed
Dr. Martin Luther
King Jr. Day

20

25

26

27

Ham Wrap
Lett, Tom, Onions
Chips
Mixed Fruit

Grilled Cheese
Sandwich
Chicken Noodle Soup
Apricots

Hamburgers
Lett, Tom, Onions
Pork-­‐n-­‐Beans
Mandarin Oranges

Wednesday

Stew
Cornbread
Cake

Pork Chop
Stuffing
Green Beans
Pears
BBQ Chicken
Veggies
Tossed Salad*
Peaches
Tamales
Spanish Rice
Refried Beans
Pineapples

NOT GOING TO BE HOME???
CALL AND LET US KNOW AT 405-­‐275-­‐4030, EXT. 169
OR NOTIFY YOUR DRIVER

7

Baked Pot.
Ham, Cheese, Onions
Sour cream
Veggies/Fruit

14

21

28

Taco Casserole
Chips/Salsa
Crisp

Manwich
Tater Tots
Pickles
Cookie
Beans
Steak fries
Spinach
Cake

Thursday

Friday

1
AST Complex Closed

New Year’s Day

2

8

9

Oven Fried Chicken
Mashed Pot/Gravy
Veggies
Pineapples

15

22

29

Chili Dogs
Fritos
Onions, Cheese
Applesauce
Beef Tips
Noodles
Veggies
Fruit
Fish
Hushpuppies
Coleslaw
Pudding

Title VI Closed
Homebound will get a
meal on 12-­‐31-­‐14

16

23

30

Biscuit
Sausage Gravy
Scrambled Eggs

Oatmeal
Bacon
Toast

French Toast
Sausage Patty

Boiled Egg
Sausage Patty
Cereal

Saturday
3

10

17

24

31

LUNCH SERVED MONDAY-­‐THURSDAY 11AM TO 1PM
BREAKFAST SERVED FRIDAY’S 9AM TO 11AM

We hope you had a wonderful Christmas!!!
Our Title VI staff is very blessed to have been able to serve many Elders this past year and we are sad that many
have passed away and/or moved away.
Another BIG thank you to the Executive Committee. They provided the Title VI members, who have been active
during the year, with a Christmas ham. Love to see their eyes shine and have a big smile and get a hug when you
give them a nice ham. This warms our hearts.
January 2, Title VI will not be serving or delivering on this day. We need one more day of cleaning!!!!
The Homebound will get a meal on the 31st of December.
Have a wonderful New Year and let’s be careful of the words we say, be smart in all your doings, buckle up, and
most of all lets be thankful for who we have in our lives, what we got, and for having another day!!!!
Any questions or concerns, please call us at 405-275-4030, Ext. 149 or 169.
8

Christmas Hams Given to
Title VI members...

9

Congratulations
Jessica!!
Congratulations to Jessica New Moon,
enrolled Absentee Shawnee, Ponca,
Chickasaw and Eastern Shawnee, on
winning the first ever University of
Central Oklahoma Miss Native American
Pageant on November 7, 2014. Jessica
competed against 3 other girls to win
the pageant. Jessica’s platform/speech
was “The Growing Obesity Epidemic
of Native Americans” and her talent
was Jingle Dancing. Also Jessica’s
introduction included using Absentee
& Eastern Shawnee language. Jessica is
currently a sophomore at the University
of Central Oklahoma and is studying
Nutrition/Dietetics. Jessica was formally
Western Heights High School Indian Club
Princess 2012-2013.
Jessica is the daughter of Glenn R. &
Melissa E. New Moon. She is the grand
daughter of the late Kenneth W. Little
Axe and Estelline Washington Little Axe
Littlecreek. Her great-great grandparents
were the late John & Lillian Sloan Little
Axe. Jessica would like to thank all her
family, relatives and friends in assisting
her in getting to this exciting point in her
life. UCO is planning to have their spring
Pow Wow Saturday, April 11, 2015.
Everyone is invited.

10

Tecumseh Middle School Students Unveil Memorial Plan

Gloria Trotter • Thu, Dec 11, 2014

A permanent memorial to the April 19, 1995, Murrah Building bombing in Oklahoma City will be constructed on the Tecumseh
Middle School campus with plans to dedicate it on the 20th anniversary of the event, school board members were told Monday
night.
The TMS Student Council was challenged to come up with plans for a memorial after trees planted on the campus in the week
after the bombing were cut down earlier this fall. Superintendent Tom Wilsie, responding to outraged former students, that no one
was aware of the significance of the trees and plans would be made to “turn a negative into a positive.”
Five TMS students — Josh Trice, Gabby Street, Hunter Baldridge, Damon Stagner and Makayla Conley — were at the Board of
Education’s monthly meeting to present their plans. Trice explained that the memorial will be built near the northwest corner of
the main building, just outside the main office and library.
“The open-air memorial will be full of symbolism so that those of us who were not alive when that event occurred will be able to
learn and those of us who were alive will remember the details of that day,” Trice said.
A three- to four-foot wall will be built in the shape of the Murrah building after the bombing. An opening in the wall will represent
where the bomb went off and serve as the entrance. Inside, two American Elm trees from the original Survivor Tree will be
planted, one representing the past and the other the future. A bench will be placed near each tree.
Also within the wall will be 168 markers consisting of bricks or stones, said Street, and those will represent those who died.
A plaque near the entrance will describe the purpose of the memorial, when it was dedicated, and contain a quote from Chief
Tecumseh: “A single twig breaks, but the bundle of twigs is strong.”

11

Health System ~ January 2015
Your AST Tribal Health System continues to provide improvements in access and quality of care in all of our
service areas. We are operating a new “walk-in”, same day acute care clinic within the public health department at the
current Little Axe Clinic. If you meet the eligibility criteria as an American Indian or Alaskan Native (AI/AN) you will be able to
be seen. Appointments are scheduled in 15-minute intervals and are available for either walk-in or same day appointment services
outside of the Primary Care Clinics, who also continue to see patients same day as patient scheduling and appointments allow.
The health system is participating on the Oklahoma Health Care Improvement Workgroup for the strategic plan for healthcare by
the State of Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Health Care Authority has reached out to all of Oklahoma’s Native American communities
to help prepare this comprehensive strategic plan to improve access to services by the state. Please see the OSDH website for more
information on this effort.
We continue to see a huge influx of patients with Influenza “A” or those seeking care for flu related symptoms at our clinics.
The CDC and AST Health urge you to take the necessary steps to protect yourself and others by taking the time to get a flu vaccine
and to use preventative actions to stop the spread of germs such as washing your hands with soap and water and covering your
nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.
We are excited to be opening soon an after-hours clinic in early 2015, which will be established at the former Little Axe Clinic
adjacent to Thunderbird Casino, Norman. Tentative hours will be from Monday through Friday 5 P.M.-9 P.M., and Saturday and
Sunday from 10 A.M.-4 P.M.
One another note, the Health System is proud to announce the November employee of the month, Ms. Sharon Ponkilla,
Case Management; the November Team of the Month was the Human Resources Team; and our November Special Leadership
Recognition Award went to Ms. Kristie McGuire, Public Health. We are very proud of our outstanding star performers and for
their contributions to our patients, their fellow employees, and the Tribe!
A few other key bits of information for this month:
Ebola Public Health Messages and Updates: You can access this up to date information today on the AST Health System
webpage: http://www.asthealth.org. Breaking news and information from the CDC and OSDH are located on our webpage along
with other pertinent information for you to protect yourself and your loved ones.
AST/Serviced Health System Native American Veterans: If you are currently receiving services with the area VA Medical
Center, please contact us today to set up an appointment for getting your services here with the AST Health System. We are
beginning to stand-up our program within the system to bill the VA now for services you previously received, or currently receive,
with the VA. Please contact a Patient Benefit Advisor (PBA) today to discuss at (405) 447-0300.
If you need CPR training, please contact the AST Health System’s Public Health Office at (405) 447-0300 for scheduling and
training opportunities.
The interactive phone menu for the Contract Health Services (CHS) helps patients access the most appropriate service provider
by calling (405) 701-7951. This feature will speed up access to the patients seeking services and follow-up to their care.
The AST Health System Customer Service. The Customer Service Line is (405) 701- 7623. Please direct all complaints or
compliments to this line for appropriate attention and/or response. Please be assured that this is the best way to have each situation
addressed, with consistent updates from our Health Staff. After the investigations of all issues are complete, our Health Director
or a Clinic Administrator will personally contact you with updates, decisions, or question pertaining to your case.
The AST Anti-Bullying Prevention “HOTLINE” is (405) 701-7987 during work hours 8-5, M-F, and for added confidentiality
or after hours you may contact Mrs. Dara Thorpe at either (405) 701-7992 or via cell (405) 481-0815 to start intervention assistance
for tribal youth. If it is an emergency or someone is at risk of harming themselves or others-contact 911.
The Affordable Care Act Decision Tool continues to be a valuable tool with helping you decide what you need to do for
compliance with the act. Please see the ACA tab at the ASTHA Health Program’s Website: http://www.asthealth.org/aca (Please
visit our site today to find out what you need to do to protect yourself and your family)!
Pharmacy After Hours Process: After hours and weekends/holidays, did you know you can go to Walgreens in either Shawnee
or Norman, and have a five-day limited fill on prescriptions? All you have to do is submit your prescription, identify yourself with
your AST CDIB Card and other appropriate ID, and then they will fill your prescription! Upon the first workday, you can have
the remaining balance of your prescriptions transferred to your pharmacy in either Shawnee or LittleAxe, and they will fill your
remaining balance. This is an emergency convenience for your benefit and to save the contract health dollars as well, so please be
aware of this and other benefits your tribe provides you.

12

January is National Birth Defects Prevention Month
&
January 4-10 is Folic Acid Awareness Week
The Absentee Shawnee Tribe Public Health Nursing
is joining the National Birth Defects Prevention Network
(NBDPN) to raise awareness of the prevalence of birth defects
and strategies that reduce the risk of birth defects and their
complications. This year’s theme is “Making Healthy Choices
to Prevent Birth Defects: Make a PACT for Prevention.”
Although not all birth defects can be prevented, the healthcare
community can help all women (including teens) who could
become pregnant or are pregnant to lower their risk of having
a baby with a birth defect by encouraging them to follow some
basic health guidelines throughout their reproductive years,
including:

CDC recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone 6
months and older. There are documented benefits from receiving
the flu vaccine, including reductions in illnesses, related doctors’
visits, and missed work or school. Vaccination also prevents flurelated hospitalizations and deaths. While some of the viruses
spreading this season are different from what is in the vaccine,
vaccination can still provide protection and might reduce
severe outcomes such as hospitalization and death. If you
have not been vaccinated yet this season, get your flu vaccine
now. You can schedule nurse appointments at both clinic sites to
get your flu vaccine. Flu season peaks in January and February,
so you still have time to get your vaccine.

Plan ahead
• Get as healthy as you can before you get pregnant.
• Get 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid every day.
Avoid harmful substances
• Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking.
• Be careful with harmful exposures at work and home.
Choose a healthy lifestyle
• Eat a healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole
grains, low fat dairy, lean proteins, and healthy fats and
oils.
• Be physically active.
• Work to get medical conditions like diabetes under
control.
Talk to your doctor
• Get a medical checkup.
• Discuss all medications, both prescription and over-thecounter.
• Talk about your family history.
Folic Acid Awareness Week, January 4-10, is a perfect time
to call additional attention to the importance of folic acid in
preventing certain birth defects. The United States Public
Health Service recommends that all women of childbearing
age consume 400 micrograms (400mcg or .4mg) of folic acid
daily to prevent up to 50 - 70% of neural tube defects, such as
spina bifida and anencephaly. If you have questions, you can
talk with your healthcare provider or visit www.nbdpn.org for
more information.

Women’s

Health

Little Axe Health Center
Women’s Health Services

Located in the Primary Health Care

Providing & Promoting Preventative Health
for All Women
Services include:

h Adult immunizations
h Breast & Pelvic Exams
h Mammogram Referral
h Bone Density Studies

Information about:

• Health Promotion
• Quitting Smoking
• Misuse of Alcohol and Drugs
• Nutrition
• Physical Fitness and Exercise
• Controlling Stress and Violence
• Prevention of Pregnancy
• AIDS and other Sexually Transmitted Diseases

IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO PROTECT YOURSELF
AGAINST THE INFLUENZA VIRUS
Flu season is upon us and there are already national reports
of flu illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths, and activity is
expected to increase in the coming weeks. Oklahoma has seen
flu activity already as well.

13

Serv
i
at Sh ces prov
ide
aw
405.8 nee Clin d
i
7
Sche 8.4702 c
appo dule an
intm
ent

Women’s Health Services
Little Axe Health Center
15951 Little Axe Drive . Norman, OK 73026
405.447.0300 . Fax 405.701.7605
www.asthealth.org

FROM THE ELECTION COMMISSION:

The filing period for Elective Offices in 2015.
A tribal member may file for office, January 1 to January 10 (excluding
weekends and holidays.) Hours to file are 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (noon)
and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Potential candidates please consult the Election
Ordinance for the procedures and qualifications when running for elective
office.

The following positions will be open for the Elections to be held in 2015.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Position

Filing Fees Term
Governor

$500.00
Two (2) Years
Tribal Secretary

$500.00

Two (2) Years

ELECTION COMMISSION
Position

Filing Fees
Term
Deputy Commissioner $125.00 Three (3) Years
Commission Member #1 $125.00

Three (3) Years

YOU’D LIKE TO SUBMIT AN AD OR ARTICLE:
IF

Give us a call at (405) 598-1279 or (405) 481-0558
or send us an e-mail to
stiger@astribe.com

ALL ARTICLES FOR THE NEXT MONTH’S ISSUE ARE
th
DUE BY THE
OF THE CURRENT MONTH

15

Unfortunately, we can only accept one picture per birthday person,
not per birthday wish.
14

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 March 21, 2015. I cannot physically
be present to cast my Vote at the March 21, 2015 Primary Election, therefore, I am requesting an Absentee Ballot be mailed to me at the following address.
Name (please print): ____________________________________________________________
(ﬁrst)

(middle)

Address:____________________________ City: _______________St: _______Zip:_________
CDIB#:______________________

(maiden) (last)

Date of Birth:________________________

Signature:________________________________ Date:_______________________________
All REQUESTS must be returned to the Election Commission by the deadline of

March 1, 2015

P.O. Box 741
Tecumseh, OK 74873

Absentee Shawnee Election Commission

Mail to:

Fax to:

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

Phone: (405) 275-4030 ext. 150
Toll free number 1-800-256-3341 ext.150

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:_____________________________
_______________________________________

15

Election Commission/Representative

AST Education Department: Big Jim Youth Awards
We will begin taking application for 2014-15 Big Jim Youth Awards on January 1, 2015. High school seniors of both
genders within the 50 United States are eligible to apply for these awards for the 2014-2015 school year. Applications
will be accepted from January 1 to March 31, 2015 by US mail or email, official transcripts must be mailed. The official
application form will be available in January 2015 at www.astribe.com under the Education Department. The $1,000.00
award is in the form of a scholarship to the college or university where the award recipient will attend for the fall 2015
semester. The scholarship must be used for the fall 2015 semester.
We will begin accepting applications for the following awards:
•
•

Big Jim Academic Achievement Award (Male and Female)
Big Jim Athlete of the Year (Male and Female)

Individuals are encouraged
to nominate deserving high
school seniors. You may
nominate yourself.
Please
refer to the application for
required documents. Eligible
nominations will be judged by
a panel of (non-AST) experts
assembled specifically for this
purpose. The intent is to bring
together an unbiased group
of experts to evaluate the
applicants in an impartial and
unbiased environment. Their
decisions are final with respect
to all matters concerning
these awards. Awards will be
announced in May 2015.
We encourage ALL Absentee
Shawnee High School Seniors
to apply.
Award recipients will be
recognized as the 2014-2015
Big Jim Academic Achievement
Award winner or the Big
Jim Athlete of the Year. In
addition to this recognition the
award recipients will receive
a $1,000.00 scholarship to be
used towards their education
and the advancement of their
career.
Questions on these awards
program should be addressed
to:
Absentee Shawnee Tribe
Education Department
c/o Tresha Spoon
2025 S. Gordon Cooper Drive
Shawnee, OK 74801
405.275.4030 Ext 121
youthaward@astribe.com

STUDENT INFORMATION
Name: _______________________________________________________________________

(LAST)
(FIRST)
(MI)
Enrollment #: ___________________________________________________
Address: ________________________________________________________________________________

(STREET)
(CITY)
(STATE)
(ZIP)
Home Phone: (

)

Cell Phone: (

)

Email: ___________________________________________________
HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION
High School Name:

City: State:

Guidance Counselor: Phone #:
Sport: Position:
Coach: Phone #:
(FIRST) (LAST)

All Absentee Shawnee High School Seniors are eligible and encouraged to apply.
Documents to be included with application:
 Official High School Transcript
 Letter of Recommendation (Educator/Coach)
 Tribal Enrollment Card (copy)
 Resume of Accomplishments and Activities
 500-word Essay: How do you feel your accomplishments (knowledge/training) will influence your future?
 Video (optional): no more than 10 minutes in length

16

Little Axe

Come join us at the AST Resource
Center!!!
Free Tutoring in all subjects!
Games and activities!
Delinquency Prevention!
Healthy Lifestyles!
And Much More!

Open to all Middle School and High School Students
Open to Absentee Shawnee Tribal Students K-5 with a
C.D.I.B.
Everything is offered with no charge….Little Axe bus will transport
students to the AST Resource Center on Peebly Road and parents
are responsible for picking students up by 6:00 pm.
Dur ation: Starts Septemb er 2nd and will run through the school year.
Monday-Thursday, 2:4 5pm-6: 00pm

For more information and sign up please contact
Blake Goodman at (405) 364-­‐7569

17

2015

Aguirre Perez, Mabel Beatrice
Alford Jr., Paul Leon
Alford, David Wesley
Alford, Robert Bruce
Alford, Sandra Kaye
Altman, Garrett Michael
Anderson, William Chase
Armstrong, Billy Joe
Armstrong, Frank Lee
Barber, Joseph Leeroy
Barfield, Amandia Quaymmie
Barton, Brittany Lynn
Bates, Terri Elaine
Bayliss, Jeffery Channing
Beach, Cary Sue
Bettelyoun, Kelan Chase
Bittle, Boston Warrior
Blalock, William Charles
Blanchard II, Aaron Gabriel
Blanchard III, Larry Dean
Blanchard, Bernice Starr
Blanchard, Chelsey Kolesha
Blanchard, Chester Vernon
Blanchard, Cory Eugene
Blanchard, Terance Blaine
Blanchard, Twyla Gayle
Boston, Nathan Daniel
Boyd, Ladarius Eugene
Bragg, Ronald Lee
Brannon, Tyneeka Alexandria
Bread, Christina L.m.
Brinson Jr, F E
Britt, Kelly Lee
Brokeshoulder, Sherri Dawn
Brown, Harper Janiece
Brown, Jennifer Renee
Burkhard, Valarie Mae
Casteel, Annabella Rai
Chisholm, Mark Wayne
Citty, Rebecca
Clark, Emiley Ann
Coleman, Justin Ray
Colungo, Damien Micheal
Condra, Karri Marie
Coon, Wynona Sloat
Cope, Michell Eldon
Coriz, Matoka Marie
Cox, Micheal Sage
Creamer, Maureen Jessica
Creek, Bessie Lee
Cripps, Jimmy Mark
Crossley, Orin Lee
Crossley, Rachel Ann
Cruz, Reyna Jalyssa
Cutler, Breanna Kailee
Dankenbring, Melody Renee
Darnell, Carol Jane
Davis, Rhonda Jean
Day, Vivian Denise
Day, Zander Nicholas
Deer, Braelyn Ariyahna
Deere, Christopher Lee
Deere, Clinton Jess
Delodge, Raymond Louis
Dibler Jr, Daymon Daniel
Eckles, Ethan Andrew
Ellis, Brandi Nicole
Ellis, Jackson Matthew

Ellis, Lisa Marie
Ellis, Ryan Mark
Felton, Kandice Nicole Grace
Fire, Orphie Jane
Flowers, Jasmine Lynne
Foreman Jr., James Louis
Foreman, Anthony Clayton
Foreman, Elijah Bryce
Foreman, Hunter Lynn
Freeman, Jerilyn Kay Barnett
Fritsch, Jaxon James
Fruit, Andrea Dee
Geissler, Jarett Paul
Gibson, Braxton Reid Caddo
Gibson, Clarence
Gibson, Gloria Lynne
Gibson, Jeremy Lee
Gibson, Jimmy Ray
Gibson, Martha Lynette
Gibson, Ronnie Caleb
Gibson, Walter Ray
Gilman, Howard Floyd
Gonzalez, Xochitl Olivia
Goodman, Thomas Donald
Granstrom, Tyler Michael
Hall, Bonnee RaeLynn
Hamman, Stacie Berlyn
Hanson, Bentley Robert Jin
Harjo, Nicholas Gerald
Harrington, Carolyn Jean
Harris, Samuel Lee Allen Sabre
Haumpy, Tacie A’lize
Hawk, Quincy Ryan
Heatley, Cashis King
Heatley, Prada DeeAnn
Herrera, Angel Juventino
Hilderbrand, Cameron James
Hill, Keiton James
Hill, Stephen Lee
Hood, Dantel Ruya
Hough, Alyssa Blake
Howe, Angelina Marie
Humphrey, Lou Ann
Innis, Nicholas Alexander
Irvin, Michael Reed
Isaacs, Betty B
James, Diane Rene
Januszewski, Connie Bradley
Jimboy, Kaden Allen
Jiron, Mary Elizabeth
Johnson Jr., Henry Caddo
Johnson Jr., Josie Ed
Johnson, Bradley Nathaniel
Preston Scott
Johnson, Bruce Dale
Johnson, David Lee
Johnson, Janessa Leann
Johnson, Patrick Wayne
Johnson, Pauletta Elephant
Johnson, Tanessa Anah Marie
Kaseca, Thomas James
Keith, Shelli Leann
Kelly, Addison Marie
Kelough, Manuel LeeWayne
Kelsey, Kyler Seann
Komahcheet, Nolan Frank
Larson, Brooke Nichole
Leath Jr., William Jake

Lester, Bradley Shane
Lester, Brandy Nicole
Lewelling, Amber Dawn
Little Axe Jr., Ricky Lee
Little Axe, Courtney Nicole
Little Axe, Darrell James
Little Axe, Daveny Amour
Little Axe, John Al
Little Charley, Keith Eldon
Little, Mia Rachelle
Little, Shea Alexis
Little, Sutton Keith
Little, Troy Don
Littlebear Jr., Michael
Littlecreek, Catherine
Littlecreek, Kami Dawn
Livsey, Shannon Marie
Longacre, Nancy L. Warrior
Longhorn II, Leonard Wayne
Longhorn Moore, Tylee Raquel
Longhorn, Bruce Jerome Allen
Longhorn, Crystal Alaina
Longhorn, Ladonna Gail
Longhorn, Shawna Michele
Longman, Caitlin Oteaka
Lovins, Marilyn Sue
Lowe, Charles Jake Kilraine
Lowry, Linda Diane
Mann Jr., Glenn Dale
Mann Sr., Glenn Dale
Mann, Marc Andrew
Marquez II, Quentin Miles
Marriott, Cadence Sunay
Martin, Jared Webster
Martinez, Laronda Ann
Martinez, Sam Littlecreek
Martinez, Winter Dawn
Masquat, Kinsley Rae
Mathany, Connie Ruth
Maxwell, Diondre DaShawn
Maxwell, Jimmy Ray
Maxwell, Nellie Tiger
McBroom, Tallon Cole
McCreary, Gabriel David
McCreary, Lisa Jane
McGirt, Travis Wade
McPherson - Khalil, Jessica Lynn
McPherson, Alan Lynn
McPherson, Mason Thomas
McPherson-Brittain, Jason Tyler
Meek Jr, Jimmy David
Melton, Serena Jo
Melzer, Logan Michael Boyer
Mendoza, Samuel Lee
Merrell, Maddox Andre
Milburn, Michelle Sahara
Miller, Laney Lee
Miller, Tre Dean
Mitchell, Gage Jaydn
Mitchell, Nycole Morningstar
Montgomery, Nathan Andre Patrick
Morgan, Autumn Dawn
Morris Jr., John Gilbert
Morris, Betty Sue Williams
Morris, David Leon
Morris, Jordan Marie
Morris, Lucas Hayden
Mull, Neela Mahadevi

18

Squire, Jimmy Dowell
Starr, Adrien Miguel
Starr, Martin
Starr, Rance George
Steinruck, Eugene Donnell
Stewart, Glenn Alan
Stewart, James Clyde
Stone, Brian David
Munroe, Ellen Marie
Stricklin, Victor Medrano
Nail, Brandy Diane
Stryker, Rodney Shane
Nance, Desmond Ravon
Sullivan, Glenda Ann Little Axe
Nance, Eva Renae
Surface, Ashley Katherine
Neash, Lonnie Allen
Sutton, Santos Daniel
Ned, Tina Renee
Switch, Casey Camden
Nelson, Payton Ashlee
Switch, Hannah Nichelle
Nicholson Jr., Larry Zenith
Switch, Tiana Bright Path
Nicholson, Victoria Rose
Tarbox, Christy Lee
Norton, Jai’Nasha Camille
Taylor, Nathan Wayne
O’Brian, Connie Frances
Thomas, Joel Elijah
Odell, April Babette
Thorpe II, Ronnie Allen
Panther Jr., William
Thorpe Jr., James Francis
Panther, Cheyanne
Thorpe, Shylah Jean
Parker, Muriel Gene Tyner
Tiger, Christoper Blaine
Parsons-Squire, Autumn Lynn
Tiger, Wanda Little Axe
Patty, Elsie Wynona
Tilley, Makiah Lynn
Pearce, Kelle Dawn
Tolbert, Ashlyn Reilly
Pearl Atwood, Donna Sue
Tonyan, Teagan Gwen
Pease, Taylor Renee
Torres, Fernando Jose
Perryman, Mary Ella
Torres, Rosa Marie
Pewenofkit, Alta Rochelle
Treat, Joshua Steven
Poncho, Octavia Marie
Turner, Timothy Jake
Queen, Marlene Lucille
Tyner, Tonia Melanie
Rakestraw, Mariah Diane
Uchida, Nolan Garrett
Ramirez II, Antonio
Valdivia, Thomas Lesley
Ramirez, Joe Anthony
Vanliew, Kesa La`nae
Ramos, Georgina Lynn
Villalobos, Valentina Noel
Reed, Teresa June
Wahpekeche, Eric Lynd
Reeves, Sharon Annette
Wahpepah, Hazel Paige
Riden, C`anne Danielle
Walker, Roger Steven
Ridenour, Logan Taylor
Warrior, Tobin Shane
Riedel, Brian Alan
Washington, Rebecca Marie
Roach, Dawson Wayne
Watson, Daniel Owen
Roberts, Ramona Lee
Watson, Julie Marie
Robertson, Wanda Lejean
Watson, Matthew Payden
Robinson, Shawnee Sharisse
Watson, Patrick Scott
Robison, Tyrel Lane
White Thunder, Sheldon Thomas
Rochon, Stephen Arthur
White, Jesse Lee
Rogers, Tammy Sue
White, Seth Wesley
Rolette, Ty Clay
Whited, Angela Kay
Ruimveld, Chad Christopher
Williams, Joseph Billy
Rye, Gail Marie Alford
Williams, Joseph Bryan
Sam-Ruimveld, Bailey Shae Issi Balalli Williams, Joshua David
Sanders, Dylan Wayne
Willoughby, Marcie Deann
Seber, Jamie Nicole
Wilson, Aarion James Deer
Seber, Lauren Elizabeth
Wilson, Alix Re`Ann
Serena, Anthony George
Wilson, Alta Louise
Shaffer, Christie Elaine
Wilson, Calvin Lee
Shawnee, Keaten Wayne
Wilson, Christopher Dale
Sherrill, Quentin Patrick
Wilson, Dean Owen
Shields, Aaliyah Brooke
Wilson, Edward Wayne
Shields, Laila Annaliese
Wilson, Faith Anne Marie
Shular, Sandra Jeanne Hood
Wilson, James Francis
Sloat, Cilicia Ann
Wilson, Michael Eugene
Sloat, Warren Howard
Wilson, Stephen Edward
Smith, Al Murray
Wilson, Wesley Dean
Smith, Mariah Love
Wise, Landon Kyle
Smith, Ryan James
Wolf Sr., Aaron Paul
Snake, Anita Mae Burton
Wolf, Angel Erica
Snake, Barry Gabriel
Wolfe Jr., Houston Hugh
Sorrells, Sandra Lee
Womack, Kaleigh Patricia
Spoon, Barbara Jo
Woods, Jiya Marie
Spoon, Carl David
Wright, Phillip Lawrence
Spoon, Christopher Jaye
Wunderlin, Donna Jo
Spoon, Deric Brandon
Wyatt, James Allen
Spoon, Tina Louise
Yandell, Leon Allen
Spybuck, Winter Dawn
Yeahpau, Michael Tyrus

Clay, Mary, Elijah, Pat,
Patrick
We wish you all a happy
new year and a happy
birthday!

Pauletta

January
Birthdays

Devin Leitka “Big D”
24th
November 12th
We love you and we’re VERY proud of the
accomplishments that you have made and
continue to make. Remember SKY IS THE
LIMIT, so keep striving for what you want
and deserve in life.

Love- Sis, Tom, Sheldon, Shelby, Shelsie,
DaeDae, and Bryson

RODNEY!

From Brother & Sister & Ben

Love the Kasecas

R o d ne y
th

10

RODNE Y

e
W

da
y!

WE LOVE YOU VERY
MUCH
LOVE YOU LOTS &
FOREVER
MOM & DAD

w
ish
th
r
i
y
B l
W
e l ou a b
ig 10th Laure
ov
e yo

u! L o ve, D o yle &

I love you ver y
much!
❤ Grann y

RODNEY, YOU’RE SUCH A BIG BOY, HAPPY 10TH BIRTHDAY!

Cody Lee Womack

I LOVE YOU! -AUNT TAMMY

19

I love you bunches!
Aunt Rhonda

Horse Shoe Bend After School Program
The after school program will start again on January 6, 2015 from the holiday break. The month of December was a very active
month due to semester test and activities planned at the school. It seems there is not too much time between the Thanksgiving
and Christmas breaks. Students have been busy with their homework and the tutors have been diligent in preparing for their
semester tests and preparing to go home for the fall semester break. As the spring semester approaches there may be some tutors
not returning due to their school schedule but it is my hope that most will return.
On December 11, 2014 the students were provided with a Christmas party which was pizza, sodas, cupcakes and a bag of
goodies. I would like to thank the volunteers for coming out to help with the Christmas treats for the students.
On December 16, 2014 Tresha Spoon, Director of Education, and I were contacted by ‘Feed the Children’ to inform us that
they had 200 turkeys available for our programs. Tresha and I utilized the ‘Feed the Children’ Program this past summer. We
were fortunate to have this state funded service organization that came out daily and provided nutritious lunches to our summer
programs. We distributed 100 frozen turkeys from two program sites to students and volunteers of these programs. Then if there
were any turkeys left over then those frozen turkeys were distributed in the community. I tried to personally deliver these turkeys
to tribal members that do not participate in and/or are may not be qualified for assistance through the tribe. The turkeys were
not bought by the Tribe but were given to the Tribe by the ‘Feed the Children’ program. I hoped that everyone that received
these TURKEYS enjoyed them!!
If you have any questions about the After School program please call 405-481-0397.
Thank you,
Governor Edwina Butler-Wolfe

20

Office of Environmental
Health & Engineering
• Tribal Housing Improvements Application
The Tribal Housing Improvement Program’s goal is providing sanitary,
safe, and decent housing for its members by utilizing the following
criteria to select the most “in need” tribal members with homes that are in
disrepair but are still suitable for rehabilitation. All applicants must meet
the eligibility requirements and criteria which is approved by the Absentee
Shawnee Tribe.
THIP list all applicants by a priority list:
a.
Handicapped/Disabled and Elderly
b.
Income
c.
Family Size/Overcrowded Living Conditions
d.
Condition of Home
Other Programs available:
• Sanitation Facilities Assistance Program
Applications need to be completed and all necessary documents attached before the application will be processed.
Applications are available online on the website: www.astribe.com.
Submit completed application to:
Office of Environmental Health & Engineering
Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma
2025 S. Gordon Cooper Dr.
Shawnee, OK 74801
Absentee Shawnee Tribe Complex
Office of Environmental Health & Engineering, Building 13
If you have any questions, you can reach us by phone at (405) 214-4235

FITNESS CENTER HOURS
Monday—Thursday
6:00 a.m.—7:00 p.m.
Friday
6:00 a.m. — 5:00 p.m.
Saturday/Sunday
CLOSED
The AST Diabetes and Wellness
Fitness Center provides state of the
art fitness equipment, including:
treadmills, elliptical cross-trainers,
recumbent bikes, free-weights,
kettlebells, and isolation strength
machines. The AST Fitness Center
is available to all Native Americans
and their household family members.
AST employees are also eligible for membership. The AST Diabetes and Wellness Fitness Center strives to
deliver a well-trained staff that seeks to help clients reach their personal fitness and health goals. Our staff takes pride in
providing appropriate and educational fitness training to all clients, providing guidance in developing a successful plan to
help prevent or manage diabetes and/or other health conditions, and providing clients with a fun and positive experience
working with our staff. Please take some time to come by and visit the AST Diabetes and Wellness Fitness Center today!

21

Recycling Containers Now Available
OEH now has recycling containers set up for public use. These recycle
containers, which are cardboard only containers,
are located on the south side of the Title VI
building at the main complex and the other
container is located at the northeast corner of the
Little Axe Clinic.
We also have our mobile recycle container
available behind the clinic here at the main complex. We are currently
only accepting cardboard in this container as well.

A B S E N T E E

S H A W N E E

T R I B E

O K L A H O M A

O F

Absentee Shawnee Tribe
Recycling Program

R E C Y C L I N G M A T E R I A L T H AT
W E AC C E P T .
A L L W H I TE P A P E R,
E N VE LO P E S, C O L O RE D P A P E R, J U NK
M A I L, F A X P A P E R,
M A G A Z I NE S,
N E W S P A P E R, C A R D B O A R D ,
A ND A L U M I NU M C A N S.
M AT E R I A L W E
D O N O T AC C E P T .
T O NE R, C A RB O N
P A P E R, F O O D
W A S TE , A ND P L A S T I C .
R E M E M B E R ,
W H E N I N D O U B T
T H R O W I T O U T .

C O N T A C T
I N F O R M A T I O N
A B S E N T E E
T R I B E
O F

S H A W N E E

O K L A H O M A
O F F I C E
O F
E N V I R O N M E N T A L
H E A L T H
&
E N V I R O N M E N T A L
P R O G R A M S .
2 0 2 5
S .
G O R D O N
C O O P E R
D R .
S H A W N E E ,
O K
7 4 8 0 1
P H O N E :
4 2 3 5
F A X :
4 7 0 1

( 4 0 5 )

( 4 0 5 )

2 1 4 -

8 7 8 -

“To Establish a recycling program for municipal waste planning, reduction,
and Recycling”
The Office of Environmental Health and Environmental Program is
proud to announce the
start of a new recycling
program for the Absentee Shawnee Tribe. The
recycling center is located in the yellow
metal building adjacent
to the OEH Department. The Absentee
Shawnee Tribe (AST)
Recycling Program Program declares that waste
reduction and recycling
are the preferable to the

or processing of municipal waste, and that removing certain materials

from the municipal
waste stream will decrease the flow of solid
waste to municipal landfills. AST Recycling Program used the knowl-

edge and information
about recycling markets
and market demand as
well as information obtained from various publications and the internet
to comprise an analysis
of material the recycling
program will address at
the start of the program.
AST Recycling Program
Plan establishes a goal
that, by year’s end 2013,
at least 25 % of the recyclable material produced
by the Tribe will be recycled.

Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
The AST recycling Program will initially focus
on the following waste
stream material; HighGrade shredded paper,
Assorted office paper,

Phone books, Magazines,
Cardboard, Newspaper,
and Aluminum cans. As
the program and market
develops, other recyclables will be sought.

22

There is a cost associated with recycling,
However, economic,
social, and environmental benefits exceed
these cost.

Register Now!!!

www.asthealth.org/patient-portal

New Patient Portal
Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System

Little Axe Health Center
Shawnee Clinic
Visit your app store and install
the Follow My Health app
- Improved access to your health information
- Communicate directly with your clinic
- Request an appointment
...and more!

for real-time access to your
health information

For more information on how you can register for the new AST “Follow My Health” Patient Portal,
contact Patient Registration at Little Axe Health Center - 405.447.0300 or Shawnee Clinic - 405.878.4702

AST COUNTRY

D
E
S
O
LC

MEDICARE
OUTREACH
MEDICARE
OUTREACH& &EDUCATION
EDUCATION
2015 OPEN ENROLLMENT EVENT

KITCHEN

2015 OPEN ENROLLMENT EVENT
Sponsored By
Sponsored By
Richardson Insurance

Richardson
Insurance
Serving the Native
American Community
for 24 years

Serving the Native American Community for 24 years

Are You Turning 65?
Are You
or Turning 65?
or
Do You Want to Explore Your Current
Medicare Options?

Sunday - 7am to 7pm
Monday - 7am to 3pm
Tuesday - 7am to 3pm
Wednesday - 7am to 8pm
Thursday - 7am to 8pm
Friday - 7am to 9pm
Saturday - 7am to 9pm

Do You Want to Explore Your Current Medicare Options?
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October 7 – December 15, 2014

courtesy of Richardson

Explore Your
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courtesy
of Richardson

● Medicare
Basics
● Personal Medicare Plan Comparison
Insurance
● Annual Open Enrollment Info
● Part D Drug Plan Comparisons
● Medicare
Enrollment
Assistance
● Medicare
Savings
& Extra
Help Info
● Medicare
Basics
● Personal
Medicare
Plan Comparison
● Explore
Medigap
Part C&DInfo
Plans
● Understanding
Tribal Benefits
● Annual
OpenorEnrollment
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● Explore Medigap or Part C&D Plans

Open 7 Days A Week!

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Richardson Insurance is an Indian-owned and family-operated Oklahoma state licensed
Coordination
insurance agency specializing in assisting Native Americans find the best medical plan
for their specific needs. Tanya and Tommie Ann Richardson have been in the insurance

Richardson Insurance is an Indian-owned and family-operated Oklahoma state licensed
insurance agency specializing in assisting Native Americans find the best medical plan
for their specific needs. Tanya and Tommie Ann Richardson have been in the insurance

23

Check out our
daily homemade
lunch specials!
Something
different
every day!

366-7220

(In Front of Thunderbird Entertainment Center Next
to AST Smoke Shop)

FYI: Contract Health Service News
Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health

The AST Contract Health Services Team are here to assist you
... follow the CHS Guidelines!
Get a copy of the CHS Guidelines and update your information
Contract Health Services
for AST members
with Insurance

Contract Health Services
for AST members
without Insurance

Emergency
and
Urgent Care Services

CHS for a currently enrolled AST
member who resides in the defined
catchment area who has insurance such
as Medicare or Private Insurance:

CHS for a currently enrolled AST member
who resides in the defined catchment area
who does not have insurance:

CHS for a currently enrolled AST member
who resides in the defined catchment area
who needs emergent or urgent care:

1.

Complete CHS Patient Update form
and update all information every 6
months.

1.

1.

Call the On-Call nurse at
(405) 447-0300 option 9 for “triage”.

2.

2.

Notify CHS at least 48 hours
prior to appointment date for a (COB)
Coordination of Benefits to be sent to
provider

Notify CHS on the next businesss day
or within 72 hours after the ER visit.
Notification does not assure
authorization of payment. However
if you do not notify CHS within 72
hours, your bills will not be paid.

3.

For AST members with no insurance
evidence must exist that the visit was
medically necessary. Medical priorities
have been established for determining
which referrals can be authorized for
payment.

4.

For AST members with insurance,
evidence must exist that a third party
resource has made determination such
services were “emergency care” or
“urgent care” (such evidence may
include payment from private insurance).
In the event that you receive a bill
from a provider, please provide a
copy to CHS. You may leave bills with
Rhonda Kaseca at the Shawnee Clinic
and Glendine Blanchard at the Little
Axe Health Center.

3.

4.

You must apply for any alternate
resources for which you may be
eligible - Medicare,Medicaid,
SoonerCare, insurance, etc.

2.

Complete CHS Patient Update
form and update all information
every 6 months

Inform Provider/HealthFacility that
AST CHS is secondary payer/payer of
last resort.

3.

You must utilize the services provided
within the AST health clinics prior to
being referred out.

In the event that you receive a bill
from a provider, please provide a
copy to CHS. You may leave bills with
Rhonda Kaseca at the Shawnee Clinic
and Glendine Blanchard at the Little
Axe Health Center.

4.

Referrals for outside services must
be sent to CHS. Services must be
medically approved by an AST Health
provider.

5.

An appointment will be scheduled
and a COB will be sent to the outside
provider.

6.

In the event that you receive a bill
from a provider, please provide a
copy to CHS. You may leave bills with
Rhonda Kaseca at the Shawnee Clinic
and Glendine Blanchard at the Little
Axe Health Center.

5.

Flo Mann

Darla Gatzman

Contract Health
Direct Phone Line
405.701.7951

Debi Sloat

Glendine Blanchard

Sharon Ponkilla

24

Jayne Werst

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma
AST PHARMACY NEWS

Injury Prevention Program

Ø Upcoming Pharmacy Department closures are as follows:
ü October 1, 2013 for inventory
ü November 11, 2013 to observe Veteran’s Day
Ø Deliveries of controlled medications are not allowed.
Ø Both Shawnee and Little Axe pharmacy locations fill prescriptions for members
of all tribes, but outside prescription orders are restricted to Absentee Shawnee
Tribal citizens with established charts.
Ø If you would like to receive a text message to your cell phone when your
medications are ready for pick-­‐up, please alert the pharmacy staff and provide
us with a current cell phone number.
Ø When requesting refills, please provide 24 hours’ notice until pick-­‐up. We will
need your refill number, located above your name on the prescription label, or
the names of your medication in order to fill.
Ø Present insurance cards each time you pick up or drop off a prescription.
Ø Keep us informed of changes in address, phone number, and other contact
information (changes at registration do not flow to pharmacy).

If you have any questions at any time, feel free to call either Pharmacy or stop by
and speak with one of our Pharmacy staff. We are happy to assist you with your
pharmaceutical needs!

Hours of Operation:
Little Axe: 8am-­‐5pm (& 7:30a-­‐5:30p Drive-­‐Thru) Monday -­‐ Friday
• Phone -­‐ (405) 292-­‐9530
Shawnee: 7am-­‐5pm Monday-­‐Friday
• Phone – (405) 878-­‐5859

The Mayo Clinic and the Center for Disease Control & Prevention
say that if you’re physically active it may help prevent you from
falling. The following activities: Walking, chair exercises and Tai
Chi, can improve your leg strength, balance, coordination and
flexibility. Remember to check with your doctor before starting any
of these activities!
Here are some tips on how to stay safe
while getting back into the
Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma
spring of things.
warm-up and
cool down when appropriate.
• Be
sure
Itonjury
Prevention
Program
• Wear protective gear - i.e. bike helmets, wrist & elbow
The Mayoguards,
Clinic and
the etc.
Center for Disease Control & Prevention say that if
pads,
you’re physically active it may help prevent you from falling. The following
• Rest,
especially
when your
muscles
areimprove
tired your leg strength,
activities:
Walking,
chair exercises
and Tai
Chi, can
balance, coordination and flexibility. Remember to check with your doctor before
• any
Prevent
“overuse”
starting
of these
activities! injuries (i.e. stress fractures, tendonitis,
or inflamed
joints)
by safe
not overdoing
exercise.
Here are some
tips on how
to stay
while getting
back into the spring of things.
•
sure to warm-up
cool
down jumping
when appropriate
•Be Condition
yourand
body
before
into new activities at
•
Wear protective gear – i.e. bike helmets, wrist & elbow guards, pads etc.
full force.

We are open through the lunch hour!!

**BOTH PHARMACY DEPARTMENTS ARE CLOSED WITH
THE CLINICS THE FIRST WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON OF
EVERY MONTH TO COMPLETE ADMINISTRATIVE DUTIES**

Rest, especially when your muscles are tired

•
•

•

Prevent
injuries
(i.e. stress
fractures,
tendonitis,
or inflamed
For
more“overuse”
information
contact:
Rosie
Tall Bear
at 405-701-7601
joints) by not overdoing exercise.
Little Axe Health Center
Condition your body before jumping into new activities at full force.

For more information contact: Rosie Tall Bear at 405-­‐701-­‐7601 Little Axe Health Center

-­‐Thank you,
Pharmacy Staff

Personal Banking:
Personal Banking:

AllNations Bank offers a wide range of products and services to meet today’s consumer demand including our

AllNations Bank Free Checking Account; Savings Account; offers
Certificate
of Deposit Accounts; Individual Retirement Accounts; Money
a wide range of products and services to meet today’s
Market; Now Accounts
&
Consumer
Loans
including
Auto,
Boat
and
more.
AllNations Offers Free ATM/Debit Card with each personal
consumer demand including
account that can be
used at our Shawnee OK Drive Up ATM. In addition, we offer a wide selection of Safe Deposit Boxes for rent at
our AllNations Bank Free Checking Account; Savings Account; Certificate of Deposit Accounts; Individual
competitive prices.
Retirement Accounts; Money Market; Now Accounts & Consumer Loans including Auto, Boat and more.
Contact Us for Details As Follows:
AllNations Offers Free
ATM/Debit
Card -with
each
personal
account
that can
be used at our Shawnee OK
Calumet
Office
Gene
Davis
or Dixie
Smith
405-893-2240;
Drive Up ATM. In addition, we offer a wide
selection
of
Safe
Deposit
Boxes
for
rent at competitive prices.
114 E Main, Calumet, OK
Shawnee Office - Contact
Gene Davis
Eugene
Stidham 405-273-0202;
Us for or
Details
As Follows:
2023
S.
Gordon
Cooper
Drive,
Shawnee,
OK
Calumet Office - Gene Davis or Dixie Smith 405-893-2240;
Business Banking:
114 E Main, Calumet, OK
In addition to our Commercial Checking account, AllNations
Bank offers a wide range of products and services to meet today’s business
Office
- Gene Davis
or Eugene
Stidham
405-273-0202;
needs including all types of CommercialShawnee
and Small
Business
Loans;
Merchant
Services;
Night Depository Drop & More.
2023
S. Gordon
Cooper
Drive,
Shawnee,
OK
Contact
Us for
Details
As
Follows:
Business Banking: Calumet Office - Gene Davis or Dixie Smith 405-893-2240;
114 E Main, Calumet, OK
In addition to our
Commercial
Checking
account,
AllNations
BankStidham
offers a wide
range of products and
Shawnee
Office
- Gene
Davis
or Eugene
405-273-0202;
2023 S.
Gordon
Cooper
Drive,
Shawnee,
OK
services to meet today’s business
needs
including
all types
of Commercial
and
Small Business Loans;
Banking Hours: Merchant Services; Night Depository Drop & More.
2023 S. Gordon Cooper Drive, Shawnee, OK 74801Contact Us for Details As Follows:
Lobby Hours 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Monday - Friday
Office - Gene Davis or Dixie Smith 405-893-2240;
Drive In Hours 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM MondayCalumet
- Friday
114 E Main, Calumet, OK
Saturday: 9:00 AM-12:00 Noon

AllNations Bank

25

Shawnee Office - Gene Davis or Eugene Stidham 405-273-0202;

FOSTER CARE

WHAT IS A FOSTER CARE WORKER?

Why do we need Indian Child Welfare?
Why do we need Tribal Foster Homes?

Foster care caseworker training involves completing a bachelor's degree
program in social work through a college or university. Students take
courses in psychology, abnormal psychology, sociology, economics,
ethics, child welfare policies and complete a supervised internship.

Foster-Care System Stretched Too Far

The child’s Foster Care Worker needs to be a partner with the foster
parents to ensure that each child receives the full spectrum of services
provided and/or arranged by the Department.

Recent news reports reported on July 2 that Sally Schofield, the foster
mother of Logan Marr, was found guilty June 25 of wrapping the 5-yearold's body with 42 feet of duct tape during a "timeout," causing the little
girl to suffocate.
Schofield could face up to 40 years in prison for the child's death.

Some aspects of this relationship include the following:
• Sharing information on an ongoing basis regarding the child’s
individual needs, family situation and adjustment to the foster
home
• Encouraging the foster parents to participate in the total service
planning process
• Providing the foster parents the opportunity to discuss the
child’s progress and any unmet needs which they assess
• Providing the foster parent with information, support, guidance
and referrals to other professionals on the child’s behalf
• Helping the foster family, when necessary, to identify and
obtain services for the foster child; e.g., medical, educational
• Ensuring that the foster family, on the child’s behalf, has access
to all financial resources available to the child while in foster care.
A Foster Care Worker works in conjunction with Tribal Courts, Tribal
Law Enforcement, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and other county services.
Indian Child Welfare’s goal is to ensure the safety of our tribal children
when they placed in foster care. The homes that our tribal children
are placed in must complete Child Welfare Background Check, OSBI
Background Check, Income Verification, Home Study, and a Physical.
Our AST foster homes are licensed by our Foster Care Committee.
F o s t e r C a r e P ay m e n t s a r e a s f o l l o w s :

"The child-welfare system failed Logan Marr in every possible way," said
Richard Wexler, the executive director of the National Coalition for Child
Protection Reform. "They failed her … by … ignoring her cries of abuse
and they failed her by letting her die in that foster home."
Six weeks before she was killed, Logan was on a visit to her birth mother
when, in the presence of a child-welfare worker hired to supervise the visit,
she complained that her foster mother was hurting her. "She did this to me
and I cried 'cause it hurts me," the child is heard saying on a videotape,
although she isn't seen.
The truth is that we must protect our tribal children; we must protect
them from a system that is overworked and in desperate need of an
overhaul. We must have a voice in the child welfare system for our tribal
children. As tribal child welfare workers there is not a day that goes by
where we are not fighting for the rights of one of our tribal children and
working to make sure that employees of the State are following OICWA
and ICWA. Silence will not ensure the rights of this generation, or the
next generation of Absentee Shawnee Children. The Absentee Shawnee
Foster Care Program is in need of tribal foster care homes for AST children.
A strong tribe must have a system in place to protect the youngest of
its members when they need protection. If we do not have tribal foster
homes, our Absentee Shawnee children go into State homes. We have
not control over these homes; therefore, the children placed in these
homes are more vulnerable. Some will say that no one can love their child
as much as a parent, but when parents are unable to care for their children
properly, we as a tribe need to be there for the children….We must love
that child as their parent.

We use a Native American tradition of the talking
stick. You sit and pass it around and whoever has
the stick has to talk. Some people just hold it.
Others really share.

0-5 age $14.73 day $441.97 month
6-12 age $17.12 day $513.57 month
12 and over $19.30 day $579.13 month
I N ORDER T O R E C E I V E P A Y M E N T, A L L T HE A B O V E M U S T B E M E T
A N D T U R N E D I N T O T HE S T A T E .
O N C E PROCESSED S T A T E P A Y M E N T W I L L B E ISSUED .
This is just a little information on what type of work a foster care worker
performs on a daily basis. If you are interested in becoming a foster
home, please call 405-878-4030 ext. 133.

Let us be a tribe that protects the youngest of our tribal members,
let us just not say the words, but open our homes to those children
who need us to protect them and offer them safety. If you are
interested in becoming a foster parent please notify:
Julie Wilson
AST/CPS/FOSTER CARE

405-878-4702

The Child Welfare Department would like to welcome Glenna Jones and Dara Thorpe as new members of the
Foster Care Committee. We appreciate their dedication and willingness to advocate for our children.
Preservation of American Indian culture starts with protection of our most precious resources -- American Indian children and families.
Only when our children and families are healthy and happy can there be harmony in our world.
Problems Facing American Indian Children and Families
Today, 5.2 million American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/AN) live in the United States
•American Indian children have the third highest rate of victimization
•American Indian/Alaska Natives have the highest rate of poverty of any other racial group in the nation
•In 2006, suicide was the leading cause of death for AI/AN males ages 10-14.
•A 2006 study found that, compared to other groups, AI/AN youth have more serious problems with mental health disorders.
•Alcohol-use disorders were more likely among American Indian youths than other racial groups.
•The AI/AN youth population is more affected by gang involvement than any other racial population.
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP?
Children often get lost in a system that is supposed to protect them when their parents can’t take care of them. They need someone
who can provide a home that is safe. They need their emotional needs met by an adult who can act as if they are their parent. These
children need love, shelter, safety, and a place that they can belong, they need a home. They need to know that they are not alone.
If you are able to provide these things to one of our tribal children please contact: 405-878-4702 (ext. 133) Julie Wilson ICW/FC.

26

open your home? If so please contact Julie Wilson ICW/FC/C
133).

FOSTER CARE

Racial disproportionality is defined as the over-or under-representation of certain groups
(e.g. racial/ethnic, gender, age) relative to the group’s proportion in the general population.
Reports conducted in 2008 showed that, compared to other groups, Native American children
were:
• 3 times more likely to be referred to CPS
• 1.6 times more likely to be removed from their biological homes
• Twice as likely to remain in foster care for over two years
• Less likely to be adopted and more likely to be in guardianships
• Less likely to be reunited with their biological parents
The sad reality is that there are not enough culturally appropriate homes for these children,
resulting in the placement of Native American children in homes that do not share their
cultural heritage or traditions. We want to place “our tribal” children in our own homes, to do
this we need tribal members to open their homes and their hearts. Are you willing to open
your heart? Are you willing to open your home?
If so, please contact Julie Wilson ICW/FC/CPS 878-4702 (ext. 133).
Native American youth are facing a crisis. These children are being removed from their homes and placed into the child welfare
system at rates much higher than any other population. Native American children are often placed in homes outside of their
families, tribes, and Native American culture and all this contributes to significant social problems. The story of Native American
people is a complicated one marked by significant trauma and atrocities. Often times this trauma consisted of the removal of
Native American children from their homes on tribal land and sending them to religious and BIA boarding schools. The legacy of
abuse which happened to these young and vulnerable children in many of these schools resulted in overwhelming
intergenerational trauma and unresolved grief. This trauma which interrupted the ability to parent has led directly to the most
current social problems that plague Native American communities today including alcohol/drug abuse, domestic violence, child
abuse, sexual abuse and parenting deficiencies. All of these problems have contributed to the break-­‐down of the family unit,
leading to the removal of large numbers of Native American youth from their families. The journey of healing and breaking the
cycles which have been put in place by the historical trauma experienced by generations of Native Americans requires that the
cultural identity for so long denied to these children be returned. Native American youth have two distinct influences, that of
their family of origin and that of their caregivers. Absentee Shawnee Tribal Foster Care is in need of homes for children that
are in our child welfare system. Your participation in being a foster parent helps to ensure that these children have positive
connections to their culture which in helps nurture a positive sense of identification as a Native American. By being willing to do
this, you can be a valuable part of the healing journey that will help strengthen this next generation of Absentee Shawnee
children; in turn, helping those children become the parents that their children will need them to be. Our children are our
future, what will we have our future be? Will you as Absentee Shawnee member do your part if you are able? If you are
interested in becoming a foster parent, please contact Juliann Wilson ICW/CPS/FOSTER CARE at 275-­‐4030 ext. 133.

Native American youth are facing a
crisis. These children are being removed
from their homes and placed into the
child welfare system at rates much
higher than any other population. Native
American children are often placed in
homes outside of their families, tribes,
and Native American culture and all
this contributes to significant social
problems. The story of Native American people is a complicated one
marked by significant trauma and atrocities. Often times this trauma
consisted of the removal of abuse which happened to these young and
vulnerable children in many of these schools resulted in overwhelming
intergenerational trauma and unresolved grief. This trauma which
interrupted the ability to parent has led directly to the most current social
problems that plague Native American communities today including
alcohol/drug abuse, domestic violence, child abuse, sexual abuse and
parenting deficiencies. All of these problems have contributed to the
break-down of the family unit, leading to the removal of large numbers
of Native American youth from their families. The journey of healing
and breaking the cycles which have been put in place by the historical
trauma experienced by generations of Native Americans requires that
the cultural identity for so long denied to these children be returned.
Native American youth have two distinct influences, that of their family
of origin and that of their caregivers. Absentee Shawnee Tribal Foster
Care is in need of homes for children that are in our child welfare
system. Your participation in being a foster parent helps to ensure that
these children have positive connections to their culture which in helps
nurture a positive sense of identification as a Native American. By being
willing to do this, you can be a valuable part of the healing journey that
will help strengthen this next generation of Absentee Shawnee children;
in turn, helping those children become the parents that their children
will need them to be. Our children are our future, what will we have
our future be? Will you, as Absentee Shawnee member, do your part if
you are able? If you are interested in becoming a foster parent, please
contact Juliann Wilson ICW/CPS/FOSTER CARE at 275-4030, ext. 133.

Native
American youth have two distinct influences, that of their
Native American youth have two distinct influences, that of their family of origin and that of their
family
ofAbsentee
origin
and Tthat
of their
caregivers.
Absentee
Shawnee
caregivers.
Shawnee
ribal Foster
Care is in
need of homes for
children that are
in our child
welfare
s
ystem.
Y
our
p
articipation
i
n
b
eing
a

f
oster
p
arent
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elps
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nsure
t
hat
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hese
c
hildren
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Tribal Foster Care is in need of homes for children that are in
our
positive connections to their culture. This interaction helps these children nurture a positive sense of
child
welfare
system.
Your
participation
in
being
a
foster
parent
identification as a Native American. By being willing to do this, you can be a valuable part of the
helps
to ensure
that
these
children
have
positive
connections
healing journey
that will help
strengthen
this
next generation
of Absentee
Shawnee
children; in turn,
helping
those
children become
parents that their
children these
will need tchildren
hem to be. Our
children are a
to
their
culture.
Thisthe
interaction
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uture,
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hat
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ill
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ave
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positive sense of identification as a Native American. By being
willing toABSENTEE
do this, you
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SHAWNEE
CHILDpart
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strengthen this
next133)
generation of Absentee
(ext.
Shawnee children; in turn, helping those children become the
parents that their children will need them to be. Our children are
our future, what will we have our future be?

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE CHILD WELFARE
405-878-4702 (ext. 133)

Foster Care News

ooking for dedicated individuals to contribute to
ee. If you are interested in becoming part of our
ter to the Secretary that states your interest in
ng a member of our Committee.

>>

Currently there are three (3) openings on the Foster Care Board. If you are
interested in serving on the board, send your letter of interest to Secretary
Dawsey at the Tribal Complex, 2025 S. Gordon Cooper Dr., Shawnee, OK 73801.

27

OEH
WATER POLLUTION PROGRAM
AST WATER POLLUTION
PROGRAM HAS TAKEN
OPPORTUNITY AT THE
HALLOWEEN SAFETY CARNIVAL
WITH THE AST POLICE
DEPARTMENT DURING THE
MONTH OF OCTOBER TO
PRESENT OUTREACH TO THE
TRIBE.
THE PROGRAM SETUP BOOTHS
TO SHOW SOME OF THE WATER
FIELD SITES TO SHARE WITH
THOSE WHO ATTEND THIS
EVENT.
THE LONG TABLE
REPRESENTED THE RIVERS, IN
THIS CASE IT WAS THE LITTLE
RIVER, WHERE THE
DEPARTMENT MONITORS TWO
RIVERS NORTH CANADIAN AND
LITTLE RIVER. THE

THE CIRCLE REPRESENTED THE
RESERVOIRS, IN THIS CASE IT WAS
THE SHAWNEE TWIN LAKES. HERE
THE PARTICIPANTS AIMED FOR A
FISH WITH A RING ROPE. THE
DEPARTMENT ALSO MONITORS
THUNDERBIRD LAKE. THIS IS THE
SECOND YEAR FOR MONITORING
FOR THE DEPARTMENT FOR THE
SITES MENTIONED.
THE PARTICIPANTS WHO PLAYED
OUR BOOTHS GOT SOME SPIDERS,
& FISH GUMMY CANDY AND
SMALL TOYS, FLASH LIGHT FOR
FINGER AND FOOTBALL,
IT WAS REALLY FUN TO SEE THOSE
WHO TOOK PART AND SEEN
DIFFERENT STRATGY TO WIN
THEIR OPPONENT AS YOU CAN SEE
THE PHOTOS ON THE NEXT PAGE IT
WAS SUCCESSFUL.

CARNIVAL & OUT REACH TO ALL AGES
ABOUT AST WATER SITE

28

PARTICIPANTES USED AIR
TO MOVE THE BOAT UPSTREAM
ON THE “LITTLE RIVER”

PARTICIPANTES FISHED AT
“SHAWNEE TWIN LAKES”

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma Building Blocks C.D.C.
2025 S. Gordon Cooper Dr.
Shawnee, OK 74801
P: (405)878-0633
F: (405)878-0156

Building Blocks News...

We hope everyone had a merry Christmas!! All of
our teachers and children were very busy in December
with holiday art projects, learning Christmas songs, and
preparing for our Christmas program. We would like
to thank all of those who attended and showed support
to the children and the staff. Everyone worked so very
hard to make it a special occasion. Our teachers also put
together classroom Christmas parties. Thank you to all of
the families that contributed snacks to the parties and
to those who were able to join us. A special ‘Thank you’ to
Charlie Hayes for being Santa at our Christmas program
and our class parties!! He even distributed gifts to each of
the children. They loved it!!
Building Blocks currently has 58 children enrolled. With
the completion of the holiday season, we are in the process
of enrolling children from our waiting list. If you are
interested in placing your child on our waiting list, please
contact the center at (405) 878-0633. We can email or fax you a waiting list application. We are open to the public, but
preference is given to Native American children.
We also have the Assistant Director position available. If you are interested in applying, please visit the AST website
(www.astribe.com) and look under the ‘Employment’ tab to view the job requirements. Applications can be submitted
online, through Human Resources, or delivered to Building Blocks.
Dates to remember:
Monday, Jan. 19th: Closed in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Thank you,
Billie Thompson Director

29

The AST Health System values ALL feedback.
We will listen....
*Patient Advocate Jim Robertson
405-447-0300
*Customer Service Line
405-701-7623
*Patient Questionnaire located in each of our
clinics or on our website
www.ASTHEALTH.ORG
Shawnee Clinic
Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System
2029 S. Gordon Cooper Dr.
Shawnee OK, 74801
405-878-5850

Little Axe Health Center
Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System
15951 Little Axe Drive
Norman OK, 70326
405-447-0300

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBAL HEALTH SYSTEM IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE
NATIVE AMERICAN U.S. DEPT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS PARTNERSHIP
Shawnee Clinic
Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System
2029 S. Gordon Cooper Dr.
Shawnee OK, 74801
405-878-5850

Little Axe Health Center
Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System
15951 Little Axe Drive
Norman OK, 70326
405-447-0300

NOW ACCEPTING VETERANS HEALTH BENEFITS!

Schedule Your Appointment Today!

» Basic Medical Eligibility
» Behavioral Health Services
» *Service-Connected Disabilities
» *Dental Services
» *Vision Services
CDIB required
*Veteran must be VA Service-Connected
Annual Required VA Hospital Visit must be current!
VA disability assessment and annual VA hospital visit
must be scheduled at a VA facility

LITTLE AXE HEALTH CENTER
Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System
15951 Little Axe Drive
Norman, OK 73026
405.447.0300

www.asthealth.org
www.va.gov

30

SHAWNEE CLINIC
Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System
2029 S. Gordon Cooper Dr.
Shawnee, OK 74801
405.878.5850

31

Are you at risk for diabetes, have diabetes or know
someone who does? Type 2 diabetes is the most
common type of diabetes and affects millions of
Native Americans. Many people are unaware
that they have diabetes or pre-diabetes. Native
Americans are twice as likely to develop Type
2 diabetes than others. Some common signs and
symptoms include:
•
•
•
•
•

Frequent infections
Blurred vision
Cuts/bruises that are slow to heal
Tingling/numbness in the hands/feet
Recurring skin, gum, or bladder infections

The following are current programs administered by the
following
are current programs
AbsenteeThe
Shawnee
Tribe Education Department:

administered by the Absentee Shawnee
Tribeof Education
Department:
These are brief descriptions
current programs. Program
guidelines are available in
Often people with type 2 diabetes have no symptoms.
hard copy at the Education Department office or for download at www.astribe.com.
These are brief descriptions of current programs. Program
Some ways to prevent and manage diabetes is through healthy lifestyle
guidelines are available in hard copy at the Education
behaviors. One question that many people with diabetes or pre-diabetes often
•Department
Academic (K-12)
Program:
with academic
related expenses, and a
ask is “What can I eat?”. The American Diabetes Association states that you
office
or forassists
download
at www.astribe.com.
do not have to be deprived or restricted. The key factors are learning what
portion of funds can be used for school-related athletic program expenses.
are the “superfoods”, how much of it you can have and how often. Getting
into the habit of eating a healthy diet helps you manage diabetes and prevent
•Program
Academic
(K-12)
assists
has a maximum
fundingProgram:
limit for the academic
year. with academic
complications caused by diabetes.
related
expenses,
and
a
portion
ofcanfunds
• Zahn Program: established from a trust fund, program
help withcan
somebe
The following foods are listed on the American Diabetes Association web site
used for
school-related
athletic
graduation
expenses,
and awards two (2)
incentives:program
one for GEDexpenses.
recipients
as” superfoods”. Try to incorporate as many of these foods into your daily meal
Program
has
a
maximum
funding
limit
plan to enhance the nutrient content of your meals.
and one for High School graduates. Program has a maximum amount offor
fundingthe
year.
The foods listed have a low glycemic index (causes slower rise in blood glucose
foracademic
graduation expenses.
after eating) and provide key nutrients that are lacking in the typical western
• Zahn Program: established from a trust fund,
• Job
Training Adult
Education
Program:
for vocationalexpenses,
training at
diet such as:
program
can help
with
somefunds
graduation
• magnesium
• calcium
accredited
vocational institutions.
Program
has a maximum one
funding for
limit forGED
the
• vitamins A, C, and E.
• potassium
and awards
two (2)
incentives:
• fiber
calendar
year or perand
program.one for High School graduates.
recipients
Beans,dark green leafy vegetables, citrus fruit, sweet potatoes, berries, tomatoes,
fish high in Omega-3 fatty acids, whole grains, nuts, fat-free milk and yogurt.
• Higher
Education:
Incentive amount
Award Program:
funds forfor
Program
hasEducation
a maximum
of funding
To learn more about eating these superfoods and recipes visit diabetes.org and
undergraduate
degrees,
one associate or bachelor degree, at any accredited college
graduation
expenses.
sign up for Wellness and Healthy Eating classes at the Little Axe Clinic. Call
Sidna McKane to sign up at 405 701-7977.
•or Job
Training
Education
Program:
university.
Funding levelsAdult
are determined
based upon grade
point averagefunds
and
Source: American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.org
for vocational
full-time
or part-time status. training at accredited vocational
institutions.
hasfora one
maximum
limit
• Graduate
ScholarshipProgram
Program: funds
master’s degreefunding
or one doctoral
for the
calendar
year or
per program.
degree,
and can
fund one graduate
admissions
test. This program has funding
•levels
Higher
Education:
Education
Incentive Award
based upon full-time and part-time status.

Program: funds for undergraduate degrees, one
associate or bachelor degree, at any accredited
• Big
Jim Youth
Award Program:
annual levels
incentive are
for determined
High School
college
or university.
Funding
Seniors
Academicgrade
Achievement
Athlete of theand
Year.full-time
Deadline foror
basedforupon
pointandaverage
part-time
status.
application
submission
is March 31st of each year.
• Graduate Scholarship Program: funds for one
master’s degree or one doctoral degree, and can
All funding is based upon the availability of funds at the time of application.
fund one graduate admissions test. This program
has funding levels based upon full-time and partAll applications
and guidelines are available at www.astribe.com. Click on
time status.
Services
and select
• Big
JimEducation.
Youth Award Program: annual incentive for
High School Seniors for Academic Achievement
For moreand
information,
please call
at (405)
275Athlete
ofTresha
the Spoon
Year.
Deadline
for application
submission
is
March
31st
of
each
year.
4030, Ext. 121 or 1-800-256-3341 or email to
tresham@astribe.com.

All funding is based upon the availability of funds at
the time of application.

All applications and guidelines are available at
www.astribe.com. Click on Services and select
Education.
For more information, please call Tresha Spoon
at (405) 275-4030, Ext. 121 or 1-800-256-3341 or
email to tresham@astribe.com.
32

Low Rent Housing
Our low rent housing program is provided to families in need of
housing in the Shawnee and Tecumseh area. Rental houses are
furnished with kitchen appliances, central heat and air, and mini
blinds all throughout.
In the Shawnee area, the Absentee Shawnee Housing Authority
has two elderly/handicap communities. These areas have fully
and partial handicap accessible units. A laundry facility is located
in the community for tenant use only.
Tenants in our rental program are provided services through our
Maintenance Department; if any maintenance issues should arise
you would contact the Housing Authority and a crew member will
come and do the repair.

Introduction
The information being provided is to help families
understand what programs are offered through the Absentee
Shawnee Housing Authority and how to apply.
Our programs target low income Native American families
who need housing assistance. The programs currently
being provided are Rental, Lease to Own and Down
Payment Assistance.

Application Process
Our process begins with the completion of our housing application.
When completing the application be sure and answer all the
questions that pertain to you and sign all attached forms. If you
should have any questions regarding the application; call or come
by our office and ask our staff in the Programs & Admissions
Department and they would be glad to assist you.
The application will also require documents to be attached in order
to complete the process; which are:
 Photo I.D.
 CDIB Card
 Social Security Card
 Birth Certificate
 Marriage License/Divorce Decree/Custody Decree (if applicable)
 Declaration of Section 214 (form is included with application)
Each household member must provide a birth certificate, social
security card and CDIB card (if enrolled in a federally recognized
tribe). The Housing Authority will conduct a criminal background
check and credit check on all adult household members over the
age of 18. A home visit is the final step in completing your
application.

!

The Lease to Own Program is available for any Native
American family who has met our requirements and would like
to purchase a home through the Housing Authority. The
Subhead. Subhead.
Subhead.
homes offered are ones currently in inventory and owned by
the Housing Authority.
This program is designated for income eligible families who
107 N. Kimberly
have been renting but now feel they are ready for the
Shawnee, OK 74801
opportunity to purchase their own home. The application is
P.O. Box 425
the same as the rental; accept the income requirements are
Shawnee, OK 74802-0425
different.
Be sure and specify when completing your
application, that you are applying for the Lease to Own
Phone: 405-273-1050
Program. If you have substantial rental history and meet the
Fax: 405-275-0678
income requirements, your name may be placed on the
Office Hours: 8:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.
waiting list.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Eligibility for each program
has income requirements;
please be sure and review
the current income limits on
your application.
We will not be able to
process your application if
you do not meet the income
criteria.

This program offers a one-time grant of up to $20,000 to assist
with down payment and/or closing cost to purchase a home and
is designed to make home mortgage payments more affordable
Eligibility Requirements
•
Applicant must be eighteen (18) years of age
•
Must be Native American enrolled in a Federally
Recognized Tribe, with priority given to enrolled members of
the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma to apply
•
Applicant must qualify as a low-income family, and
must meet minimum income guidelines
•
Applicant must be first-time homeowner
•
Primary residences only
•
Must be approved for home loan
•
Dwelling Unit must pass environmental inspection

!
!

!

All applicants are required to attend a
counseling class conducted by our
Resident Counselor before signing a
lease.
Annual Recertification are required
for Rental/Lease to Own programs
Inspections are performed on our
homes annually

MONTHLY RENT IS CALCULATED BY YOUR INCOME

!

OUR LOW RENT UNITS HAVE 1, 2, 3, & 4 BEDROOMS

!

LEASE TO OWN HOMES HAVE 3 & 4 BEDROOMS

Waiting List
A letter will be mailed out once your application has been
approved notifying you of the date your name was placed on the
waiting list. It is very important to stay in contact and notify the
Housing Authority anytime changes occur in income, household
composition, or contact information.
In the event that your name is next in being offered a home; you
will be notified by letter or phone.
Annual Updates required to remain on the waiting list.

Applications are now being accepted for families that are over the
income limits for our IHBG funded programs. Please contact our
Programs & Admissions Department for further details.
NOTE: There is limited homes available for this program.

Absentee Shawnee Housing Authority

ABSENTEE SHAWEE TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE DEPARTMENT

107 North Kimberly
P.O. Box 425
Shawnee, OK 74802-0425
Phone (405)-273-1050
Fax (405)275-0678

Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Advocacy
The AST Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Programs are on-call 24 hours per day to provide
emotional support, advocacy and crisis counseling to survivors at hospitals, police stations and
throughout the legal system. The programs also serve as a resource center to the community by
offering educational information and referrals.
Transitional Housing
The AST DV Transitional Housing Program serves victims of Domestic Violence/Sexual
Assault. Participants have up to six months to obtain education and job skills needed to begin a
new life.

Down Payment Assistance Program for
Over Income AST Tribal Members

Court Advocacy
Assists survivors with domestic violence court related costs (when funding is available) and
appearances as well as filing for emergency protective orders (EPO) or restraining orders.

This program is to provide Over-Income enrolled Absentee Shawnee Tribal members
only with affordable homeownership financing oppportunites. The Over-Income Down
Payment Assistance will include payment of reasonable closing cost associated with the
first mortgage and the ASHA’s second mortgage with the remainder of the money going
toward the down payment. The maximum amount for each homeowner is $5000.00.

Shelter Placement Assistance
The Absentee Shawnee Tribe’s Domestic Violence Program works with other shelters within
Oklahoma in order to help victims obtain safe housing. Emergency transportation for
the victim and children may also be available.

Eligibility
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Housing and Utility Assistance
Assists victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and/or dating violence in
emergency situations. This assistance may allow for a victim to either receive housing or utility
assistance.

Applicant must be eighteen (18) years of age
Must be enrolled members of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe with gross incomes over
100% of the median income adjusted for family size to apply
Applicant must be first-­‐time homeowner
Primary residences only
Property must be located within the state of Oklahoma
Must be approved for home loan
Dwelling Unit must pass all Housing Quality Standards inspection as well as
Environmental Inspection

Referral Assistance
Assists with providing community resources to those who are in need of additional services
outside the scope of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe’s Domestic Violence Program.
Community Outreach
The Absentee Shawnee Tribe’s Domestic Violence Program offers educational trainings,
informational displays, and community events in order to provide more awareness to both Tribal
and Non-Tribal communities.

For more Program Information, please contact Kimberly
Vermillion at Ext. 260.

For any questions regarding any of the above services please contact the Absentee Shawnee
Tribe’s Domestic Violence staff at (405) 273-2888.

33

The Absentee Shawnee
Health System
is pleased to announce that
plans are being made to open
an Extended Hours Health
Clinic in 2015.

Come join us at the AST Resource Center!!!
Free tutoring in all subjects!
Games and activities!
Delinquency prevention!
Healthy lifestyles!

And much more!

OPEN TO ALL MIDDLE SCHOOL AND HIGH SCHOOL
STUDENTS

Coming
soon!
2015

Everything is offered at no charge….Little Axe School’s bus will
transport students to the AST Resource Center on Peebly Road and
parents are responsible for picking students up by 6:00 pm.
Duration: Starts September 2nd and will run through the school year.
Monday-Thursday, 2:45pm-6:00pm

The Extended Hours Health
Clinic will be located in the
“old” Little Axe Clinic in the
Casino Parking lot
15702 East HWY 9
Norman, OK 73026

The Extended Hours Health Clinic will be similar to an
“AM/PM” clinic for acute illness or injury needs. The
clinic will be staffed with a Physician, Physician Assistant,
or a Nurse Practitioner. This acute needs clinic is
designed to allow increased access to care for our
patients after the regular Primary Care clinic is closed
and on weekends. If you have an emergent condition
such as chest pain or suspected stroke, please call 911 or
go to the nearest ER. *The Extended Hours Health Clinic
will not be equipped for emergent care.

For more information and to sign up please contact Blake
Goodman at (405) 364-­‐7569.

34

Coming
soon!
2015

Martial Arts
Camp

On November 8th, the Absentee Shawnee Diabetes and Wellness Program hosted a martial arts camp for the
tribal youth at the AST Health Facility in Little Axe. The kids participated in learning about the discipline of
Taekwondo, a Korean martial art. Children and parents participated in learning the basic self-­‐defense methods
of taekwondo. Other camp activities included instructions on how to perform a proper warm-­‐up, how to pull
away from strangers, and breaking boards. The Absentee Shawnee Diabetes and Wellness Program would like
to thank all of the parents and children that participated in this fun and active event.

35

RETURN SERVICE
REQUESTED

Basket: so so ne
Bed: te fi ne
Blanket: hi qe wa
Broom: ge ki te te ki
Table: ti we fa ne ke
Chair: hi pi pe wa
Stove: ti la fa lo ke
Iron: ta pe ya ke fe ki
Kettle: ho ko ko wi
Roof: hi pi qi ne fa ke
House: we ke wi
Floor: ti ta pi ke fa ke

ast Language corner

OF INDIANS OF OKLAHOMA
2025 S. GORDON COOPER DR.
SHAWNEE, OK 74801

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE

NOTE:

Gov.
Lt. Gov.
Secretary
Treas.

PAGING ZONES
ALL PAGE ...............................................70
Finance page.............................................71
EMAIL ADDRESSES FOR EMPLOYEES ARE TYPICALLY THE FIRST INITIAL OF THEIR FIRST NAME FOLLOWED BY THE LAST NAME AND @ASTRIBE.COM.
FOR EXAMPLE, AN EMPLOYEE NAMED JOHN DOE CAN BE REACHED AT JDOE@ASTRIBE.COM. THERE ARE SOME EXCEPTIONS FOR OLD EMAIL ADDRESSES.
CORRECTIONS? E-MAIL TO PHONELIST@ASTRIBE.COM
UPDATED: APRIL 15, 2014

Edwina Butler-Wolfe ............................ 188

(After School Program Director)

HORSE SHOE BEND

ENROLLMENT
Larry Buckley ....................................... 107
Sujata Sturm ......................................... 168

ELECTION COMMISSION
Emily Longman ..................................... 150

EDUCATION
Tresha Spoon ......................................... 121

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE/FAMILY SERVICES
Kimberly Stephens ................................ 156
Jackie Denny ......................................... 206
Linda Gouge (Sexual Assault Adv) ............. 235
Melissa Lopez ........................................ 195
Cheri Hardeman ................................... 108
Heather Napier ...................................... 113

CULT. PRES. / GIFT SHOP
Receptionist ........................................... 301
Joseph Blanchard(Director) .................... 302
Carol Butler ........................................... 303
Colleen Butler........................................ 304
Tracy Wind............................................ 305
Esther Lowden (Gift Shop Manager) ......... 307
Gift Shop ................................................ 308
Cecil Wilson

COURT
Kathy Brock (Court Clerk) .................. 120
Vanessa Ryder ....................................... 139
Luis Almanza......................................... 238

ATTORNEY
Ray Campbell ........................................ 134

TITLE VI
Thomasine (Doss) Owings (DIR) ..........169
Johnnie Mae Bettelyoun ........................180
Donna Butler ..........................................149
Robert Schoolfield .................................149
Ted Watson ............................................149

TERO
Bridgette Wilson ....................................163
Jeff Gibson .............................................135

TAX COMMISSION / TAG
Alicia Engler...........................................136
Tara Battise ............................................179
Yolanda Williams ..................................137

SOCIAL SERVICES
Annie Wilson (Director) ...........................167

OTHER EXTENSIONS
Bldg. 1 Conf. Rm. .................................109
Bldg. 1 Break Rm ..................................185
LITTLE AXE RESOURCE CENTER
Gov. Bldg. 2 Conf. Rm. .........................211
Bucky LittleCharley .................... 585-8310 Fam. Svcs. Conf. Rm. ............................191
Duke Blanchard ........................... 585-3669 Finance Conference Rm ........................171
MAINTENANCE
OTHER ENTITIES & TOLL FREE
Cecil Walker .......................................... 196 All Nations Bank .......................... 273-0202
Reta Harjo ............................................. 128 ASEDA ......................................... 878-6782
Stephen Fife ........................................... 176 AST Campus ................................ 275-4030
Donna Simon, Sherri Yetter, Isaac
Toll Free ............................. 1-800-256-3341
Bettelyoun, John Mann, Kevin Kaseca
Brendle Corner ............................ 447-3372
Tom White, Donnie Marshall, Lance
Building Blocks ........................... 878-0633
Nanaeto, Levi Littlecreek ..................... 211 (Billie Thompson, Briana Ponkilla)
Housing ......................................... 273-1050
MUSIC
Phil Bradley ........................................... 117 Human Resources ........................ 275-1468
Indian Child Welfare................... 878-4702
MIS........................................ Helpdesk 400 (Sena Yesslith, Ronelle Bouchard, Julie Wilson)
Rico Coon .............................................. 208 Country Kitchen Restaurant ...... 366-7220
Michael Berry ....................................... 183 Media(Sherman Tiger) ..................... 598-1279
Josh Gibson ........................................... 209 OEH/OEP ..................................... 214-4235
Nishant Shrestha ................................... 207 (Kenny Jones, Dennis Burks )
Police Dept.................. 275-3200 / 275-3432
POLICE DEPT............... 275-3200 / 275-3432 Thunderbird Casino NRM ......... 360-9270
Brad Jackson (Chief) .............................. 182 Shawnee Casino ........................... 273-2679
Diane Ponkilla ....................................... 140 Tribal Store (Little Axe) ................. 364-0668
Trent Norton ......................................... 155 Harrah Smokeshop.................454-0055
Anthony Johnson .................................. 141
LITTLE AXE CLINIC
Jason Brinker ........................................ 138
Clinic - Medical ............................ 447-0300
Scott Wilson........................................... 174
After hours ................................... 447-0498
David Spector ........................................ 138
Clinic - Dental .............................. 307-9704
Shawn Crowley ..................................... 147
Diabetes ........................................ 360-0698
Pharmacy...................................... 292-9530
PROCUREMENT
Asaycia Clayton .................................... 178 Resource Center........................... 364-7298
Valentina Jimenez................................. 123 (Chrissy Wiens, Buster Bread, Blake Goodman)
Kayla Ketakea ....................................... 160 SHAWNEE CLINIC
Clinic (Bldg. 17)............................... 878-5850
REALTY
Pharmacy......................................
878-5859
Rachel Howell (Director) ......................... 125
Johnnie Hagan (Probate)......................... 126 Toll free .............................. 1-866-742-4977

Governor Edwina Butler-Wolfe ... 188 HUMAN RESOURCES
Cora Masquas ................................ 187 John Carrington ................................... 131
Lesa Shaw ....................................... 181 Elizabeth Clark .................................... 170
Rachael Lankford ................................. 111
Lt.Governor Isaac Gibson............. 132 Sue Ann Roberts ................................... 239
Andy Warrior ................................ 189 Direct Number ............................. 275-1468
Mary Billy....................................... 146
Scott Miller (BIA Spec.) .................... 205 FINANCE
Retha Wilson-Pearman ................. 112 Belinda Collins(Controller) ...................... 162
Genevieve Foster(Asst. Cont.) .................. 161
Secretary Vera M. Dawsey............ 104 Amy Hilderbrand (Pay. Spec.)................. 159
Jerry Ann Knox ............................. 186 Jessica Gonzales .................................... 115
Alvina Barnes ................................. 154 Courtney Green .................................... 129
Lea Bettelyoun (Receptionist) ........... 101 Jenny Ware (Acct. Pay.) ........................... 143
Treasurer Leah Bates .................... 118 Holly Davis (Acct. Pay. Spec.) .................... 144
Peyton Watson ............................... 119 Dee Wood (Staff Acct. II) .......................... 110
David Deer ............................................. 151
Twyla Blanchard (Staff Acct. II) ............. 175
Representative Ken Blanchard ..... 202
Jennifer Hernandez(Budget Analyst) ....... 213
Leonard Longhorn ........................ 237 Glenna Jones (Grants)....... 878-4702 ext 129

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE – SHAWNEE DEPARTMENT EXTENSIONS (405) 275-4030

As of January 19, 2015 a new phone system will be installed.
This extensions list will be updated for the next issue.

ASEDA
Eddie Brokeshoulder ............................ 148

Rep.

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Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aabsentee%3Afcde384d7d0e2286. Public record. Not legal advice.
