AST Cultural Preservation Hosts Ohio History Connection (2024)

THE ABSENTEE

SHAWNEE NEWS

www.astribe.com

March 2024

Volume 34, No. 03

AST Cultural Preservation Hosts Ohio History Connection

The AST Cultural Preservation

Department

recently

met

with

representatives from the Ohio History

Connection. Bill Mahon, Director of

Interpretation and Experience for the

Ohio History Connection, and Kim

Koloski, Senior Graphic Designer

brought draft panel layouts for the

Interpretative Center and the traveling

photography exhibit.

The Cultural Preservation staff along

with AST Representative DeWayne

Wilson reviewed and gave comments

on the content and displays to be in the

Great Council State Park. Also joining the

meeting via zoom were representatives

from the Ohio Department of Natural

Resources and Ball State University.

The Cultural Preservation / Historic

Preservation Staff reflected on the

meeting “We were incredibly excited to

host Bill and Kim today. In OHC’s wish

to travel here to Oklahoma, the priority

of genuine collaboration on the Great

Council State Park remains absolutely

commendable. Our virtual guests from

Ball State University and ONDR too are

wonderful for taking time to sit with us

throughout the meeting. We’ve always

felt that our Tribe’s voice in this project

has and continues to be heard, and that is

a precious feeling in our persistent aim to

represent our Tribe well”.

The AST language program has been

providing words and phrases that will be

used on displays and panels throughout

the center. Ohio Department of Natural

Resources broke ground on the facility in

May of 2022 and construction is expected

to be complete in spring of 2024.

ODNR has been working with the

Ohio History Connection and the

three Shawnee tribes: the Absentee

Shawnee Tribe; Eastern Shawnee Tribe

of Oklahoma and the Shawnee Tribe to

develop plans for the interpretive center.

All displays will honor the Shawnee

tribes of the past and allow present-day

members to share their stories and legacy.

The three-story structure will have

over 12,000 square-feet and is designed

to pay tribute to the Shawnee longhouse.

A living stream will be showcased on

the main floor along with a theater. The

first floor will also feature two interactive

exhibits for kids - cattail weaving and

ribbonwork. The second floor will feature

a historical timeline of the Shawnees in

Ohio prior to European settlement and

now in modern day. The lower level will

feature temporary exhibits about culture,

history, art and the modern-day Shawnee

tribes. The building also includes a

second story balcony overlooking a view

from where the Shawnee village would

have been located at the end of the 1700s,

including the presumed location of the

original council house on site.

The facility should be open in 2024.

From The Election Commission

Tribal Members:

The Primary Election will be held on Saturday, March 16, 2024. The voting polls will

be located at the Little Axe Resource Center on Peebly Road, 1970 156th Ave NE,

in Norman, Oklahoma and at the AST Health Multipurpose Building, 2029 James L

Edwards Lane, on the Tribal Complex in Shawnee, Oklahoma. The polls will be open

from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at both locations.

APPROPRIATE POLL BEHAVIOR

According to the Election Ordinance Article VIII Section 1 – The official polling

sites and adjoining Tribal Grounds are neutral grounds, therefore, there shall be

no campaigning or loitering on Election Day by any person. It shall be the duty of

the Election Commission to request that Tribal police, be present at each polling

place and be responsible for maintaining order, prevent campaigning, and loitering

during the election process.

Tear Off 

BALLOT

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA

PRIMARY ELECTION

MARCH 16, 2024

VOTING INSTRUCTIONS: Cast your vote by placing an [X] or [] mark next to the candidate of your

choice.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

LT. GOVERNOR (4 Year Term)

In order to comply we suggest that you do not campaign in any fashion. For Example:

No “vote for. . .”sticker on cars

No disbursement of campaign material

Yvonne Diane Ponkilla------------------------------------

No campaign clothing

No counseling as to who to vote for

Do not loiter at poll site: 1. Arrive

2. Register

3. Vote

4. Exit

Unless there is a line each voter should be at the poll, no more than 10 minutes,

outside of voter booth. Each voter may take all the time they need to read the

ballot to vote in the private booth but should not “visit” with Commissioners or

other voters at the poll site.

Ezra DeLodge---------------------------------------------Leland Blanchard, Sr.-------------------------------------Isaac Gibson, Jr.-------------------------------------------TREASURER (4 Year Term)

Joseph Blanchard------------------------------------------REPRESENTATIVE (4 Year Term)

Anthony “Tadpole” Johnson----------------------------Eileen Pearce-----------------------------------------------

Any visiting of voters must occur outside of the Poll Site and adjoining Tribal grounds.

DeWayne Wilson------------------------------------------

Voting Polls close at 6:00 p.m. Voter has to be in line in order to vote.

Policies and Procedures states:

There shall be no campaigning on property of polling site. This includes signs,

person to person, clothing, etc. or within 200 ft. of the polling site. On Election

Day all signs must be over 200 ft. away from the edge of tribal property that

contain poll sites.

ELECTION COMMISSION

DEPUTY COMMISSIONER (3 Year Term)

No One Filed

COMMISSIONER #1 (3 Year Term)

Brandi Routledge-Hunt-------------

92nd Semi-Annual General Council Meeting

Saturday, April 27, 2024 - 10:00 am

AST Multi-Purpose Building - Shawnee, OK

2A www.astribe.com

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

GOVERNOR’S REPORT

John Johnson, AST Governor

GOVERNOR

John Johnson

Hello Tribal Members,

I am glad we are finally seeing more

sunshine and warmer temperatures. With

a lot of predicted bad weather for February, I had to stay prepared. The Emergency Management team does really good at

keeping me updated on all weather updates.

I attended a two day workshop sponsored by Thunderbird Sailing Club at

Lake Thunderbird. I met with the design

team, Larson Design Group. They had so

many new plans and ideals for revamping and rebranding the lake. All these

ideals were discussed amongst the 25 to

30 people in attendance. Just to name a

few they talked about Floating Cabins,

Canoeing on the north part of the lake,

adding restaurants, adding more campsites with electricity and enlarging the

walking and bike trails for campers. They

also suggested an area for floating slides

and large water inflatables for more families to enjoy. I’m very glad I attended this

workshop it was very informative for the

community. I hope they are successful

with this master plan and the feasibility

study gives them what they need to make

Lake Thunderbird great again.

LT. GOVERNOR’S REPORT

Lt. GOVERNOR

Ezra DeLodge

SECRETARY

Misty McGirt

Ezra DeLodge, AST Lt. Governor

Tribal Members,

Please see below for department updates. If you have any questions or concerns please contact me by email ezrad@

astribe.com, call my office 405-275-4030

x 3503 or cell 405-432-0733.

Maintenance:

The Facilities Maintenance Department continues to dedicate themselves to

the highest standard while demonstrating initiative, professionalism and innovation to support Tribal Departments.

We are in the process of restructuring/

reorganizing of the department, which is

currently staffed by five full-time maintenance workers and 2 full-time housekeepers. The guys have been super busy

with maintaining all incoming work orders which consist of minor repairs, moving/ rearranging offices and assembling/

installing new furniture. Housekeeping

has been working effortlessly with maintaining the upkeep of the buildings on the

complex. I would like to thank the Maintenance staff for all the hard work they do

for the department and Tribe.

OEH:

TREASURER’S REPORT

Joseph Blanchard, AST Treasurer

TREASURER

Joseph Blanchard

REPRESENTATIVE

DeWayne Wilson

Hello fellow Tribal Members, Family,

and Friends:

The last few months have been difficult

for many of us. Each is trying to move on,

in their own way, after dealing with the

loss of loved ones. For me, I take solace

in knowing they are no longer suffering

and are in a much better place. They have

been reunited with our ancestors. It is

my hope the Creator helps to fill the void

and provides the comfort one requires in

their time of need. Prayers and blessings

to those affected.

Spring is right around the corner and

the changing of the seasons is near. The

plants will be blooming and the trees budding. Before long, many will be spending

their evenings at the ball field, cheering

on their favorite players. I hope for a successful, prosperous season without any

major injuries. I do my best to provide

support for our young up and coming

athletes when families invite me. If you

would like me to attend, forward a schedule on to my office.

In other news, as a part of the Tribal

Economic Tax Reform Advocacy Alliance

REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORT

DeWayne Wilson, AST Representative

Hello to all Tribal members and I hope

everyone is in good health. Spring is

right around the corner. I hope everyone

has a HAPPY EASTER with family and

The AST Food pantry still has hams left

for any AST Tribal elder that has not received one. You will need to call ahead of

time to schedule a time for pick up. They

recently made a trip to the Midwest Food

bank in Dallas and received several new

items to help restock the shelves. These

items are on a first come first serve basis only. Once we build this relationship

with this company we will be able to go to

them once every three months to restock.

The Food Pantry manager will update applicants when new items are available to

you.

I want to personally congratulate the

two individuals (right) who have successfully completed Pro Driving School.

They have done an excellent job and successfully completed all required courses

to obtain their CDL. I want to tell them

both Congratulations and job well done.

Be looking for important dates and

announcements on the website. It will

also be in April’s newsletter. General

Council will be announced along with

other AST hosted events.

Please feel free to contact my office for

any questions or concerns you may have.

Thank you ,

John Johnson, Governor

governor@astribe.com

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

March 2024

Falon Powell

AST Food Pantry Manager

Dakoda Cody

AST Member

In total for 2024 OEH has assisted Tribal members with 12 different septic renovations and installations, water well drilling and installations, well renovations,

and community water connections.

For 2024, we have collected, processed,

and recycled 4 bales of shredded office

paper and cardboard equaling roughly 3

tons of recyclable waste that has been diverted from landfills.

The Police Safety Center has been completed and is currently in the process of

becoming operational.

We would like to remind Tribal Members that if they see any activities related

to illegal dumping of trash or other discarded items on Tribal lands to please

contact OEH at the email or phone number listed below.

Jarrod Lloyd, OEH&E Director

jlloyd@astribe.com - (405) 214-4235

Self-Governance

As I have mentioned previously I have

been working with the City of Norman

on several safety projects. We are now including a bride to the project list. I plan

on submitting a bridge application for

Porter Avenue Little River Bridge once a

resolution is passed.

I have also discovered that we have sev-

eral bridges in our jurisdictional area that

are not listed in our inventory. I will be

trying to get those added to our National

Tribal Transportation Facility Inventory.

Any questions or concerns please

email me at TwylaB@astribe.com or call

(405)275-4030.

Wood delivers will be ending soon as

we begin to have nice Spring time weather. Land Management with be helping Ag

with plowing gardens. They will also continue to help Realty with fences.

Weatherization

The weatherization program is still

working in the Shawnee Tecumseh area

and are still accepting applications. This

program is designed to stop air infiltration from windows and doors to help cut

energy cost. We have 10 elders remaining

on the list. Once the elders are taking care

of we will start on the remaining tribal

members. This has been a timely process

and we appreciate every ones patience. If

you have any questions you can reach me

by e-mail at dmarshall@astribe.com or by

cell phone 405-827-4311. Thank you and

have a blessed day.

(TETRAA), I was able to attend the Quarterly Treasury Tribal Advisory Council

(TTAC) meeting, held during February

in Washington, D.C. While there, along

with other Tribal leaders, we were able to

schedule meetings with U.S. Senate and

House members to discuss pressing issues in Indian Country, and educate these

individuals about the responsibilities and

obligations of the U.S. Government to

our Tribes. Additionally, I was able to get

comments put on the record about suggestions to the TTAC Council in their

advisory role to the U.S. Treasurer, Chief

Lynn Malerba.

This past month, I attended a Consultation Meeting in Tulsa with a group of

Archaeologists based out of Kentucky

and Ohio. I have shared the information

with Governor Johnson and provided a

suggestion and recommendation for our

involvement or approval for the group to

proceed with their study. We will wait

for the announcement of the results to be

published. So far, the researchers are only

waiting for the Eastern Shawnee to give

their blessing to move forward.

As of today, it was reported to me that

our Ag Department is in the middle of

Calving Season and so far, we have 11

heifer and 7 bull calves on the ground.

There is one loss due to a stillborn birth.

The guys have been working with Tribal

members to get them scheduled for tilling or plowing of individual gardens. My

only request is folks make a determination of how much area they can manage

prior to staff coming to do the work. Be

on the lookout next month for the Spring

Plant Distribution, as well as, the Pig

Roast. Once dates are confirmed, we’ll

send out the flyer.

In conclusion, I want to say “Neyiwa!”

to those who continue to provide advice,

encouragement, and support. Despite the

negativity, I continue to fulfill my responsibilities and provide opinions to keep

our Tribe progressing in the right direction. I want to say “Good Luck” to the

candidates running for their respective

positions and look forward to working

with whoever the Members deem worthy

to complete these tasks.

As always, should you have questions or

would like to schedule an appointment,

please do not hesitate to contact my office

at: (405) 275-4030 Ext. 3510; or send an

email to: jblanchard@astribe.com .

friends. I encourage everyone to get out

and VOTE. My door is always open and

as always Take Care of one another.

477 Program: Currently the 477 Program has 328 participants, one of which

has transitioned to full-time regular employment. We continue to process 477

applications and assign them to case

management and/ or 477 Program Administration. The 477 Program Case

Management Software was installed and

is working to upload case information to

ease reporting requirements. We will be

submitting our first 477 Program Report

for our first year of the AST 477 Plan.

Respectfully,

Lt. Governor DeLodge

Respectfully,

Joseph H. Blanchard

(Continued on Page 3A)

March 2024

www.astribe.com 3A

REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORT

(Continued from Page 2A)

CCDF Program: The CCDF Child

Care Staff have officially moved into the

new After School Program (ASP) building on the complex across the street from

Building Blocks II. The ASP Shawnee

staff had a soft opening and is planning a

Grand opening/ ribbon cutting ceremony event for March, 2024. CCDF Staff

have been working hard, setting up offices and classrooms to making sure to give

adequate service to providers & ASP children. Some more good news, after some

water pressure testing conducted by the

City of Shawnee, the new ASP building

DOES have adequate water pressure to

operate this facility.

Education Department: The Education Director continues to attend weekly

meetings of the OK STEP Grant Project

with Sac and Fox Nation and TEDNA.

The Education Director also conducts/

attends weekly FY24 CTAS Planning

meetings. This month, Education Director attended the OKC Metro ESSA Tribal Consultation at Moore Public Schools

and a Title VI and Impact Aid Parent

Meeting at Little Axe Public Schools.

Finally, Education Director conducted

an Education Committee Meeting this

month, the first in a while. The Tribal

Youth Program Coordinator participated

in a Zoom meeting with Dream Navigator creator to begin development of our

tribal specific career readiness curriculum.

Workforce Program: The H/VAC

mechanic and the H/VAC interns have

been busy completing work orders on the

Tribal Complex and to Tribal member

homes. In the near future, the H/VAC

Department will be transitioning from

heating to air- conditioning service. Let

us know if we can be of service.

Cultural Preservation: The Cultural

Preservation and THPO departments,

along with the Language Program will be

partnering with the CCDF/After School

Program for an exciting project! This

project/ partnership will meet once or

twice a month, sharing the language, culture, and history of the Shawnee people

with the participants of the CCDF/ After School program. These topics will be

taught through games, crafts, and presentations in lessons titled, “We Are Shawnee”. ! As mentioned in the previous

newsletter, the Gift Shop and the Library

will be rebranding in the coming months.

As both programs are a part of Cultural

Preservation, they plan to have books

and items that are more culturally inclusive and reflect the department’s mission

and goals.

Please note, they will be asking for your

opinions in the coming months with a

survey. In the latter part of February, the

Cultural Preservation Dept., the Tribal

Historic Preservation Office and Language Program will have an in person

meeting with Mr. Bill Mahon, Director

of Interpretation and Experience and Ms.

Kim Koloski, Senior Graphic Designer,

both with the Ohio History Connection.

At this meeting, draft panel layouts for

the Great Council State Park Interpretative Center will be reviewed and comments given by the staff of Cultural Preservation Depts. Also, we will review the

traveling photography exhibit the Ohio

History Connection developed in partnership with Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Our excitement grows

as the opening date of the Great Council

State Park in the State of Ohio nears!

Gaming Commission: This month

is the official start of our Internal Audit being conducted in-house which the

Gaming Commission is very excited to

get started. As it was mentioned in last

month’s newsletter, the Gaming Commission was getting ready for the renewal

process of Thunderbird Casino Norman

location facility license. It has been completed. The license is scheduled to be

signed by the Gaming Commissioners at

our next Gaming Commission meeting.

On a similar note, we are still currently

looking for a third Gaming Commissioner. If you are interested in being a Gaming Commissioner please send a Letter

of Interest (LOI) to Secretary McGirt’s

Office.

Youth Camp: Not much to report on

construction, we are currently in the 30

day process of having to re- advertise

(Public Notice) for bids pertaining to

Camp Nikoti lighting. Cleveland County

is doing some road work.

In closing, it is my pleasure to serve our

Tribe as the Tribal Representative. If you

have any questions or concerns regarding

these programs or need my assistance,

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

at Ext. 3512

Ne Yi Wa

DeWayne Wilson

Tiny Homes

FOR RENT

Absentee shawnee

tribe

Citizen Village

Located

benson park road &

13th Street

Property

Features

1 Bedroom

1 Bathroom

Washer / Dryer

Kitchen Appliances

All Electric

432 SQ FT

PROGRAM IS LIMITED TO

ENROLLED ABSENTEE

SHAWNEE MEMBERS WHO

ARE 55YRS OR OLDER

$400 PER MONTH; $200

DEPOSIT; PAYMENTS DUE

TO FINANCE DEPARTMENT

TENANT RESPONSIBLE FOR

UTILITIES

Please inquire with the Realty Department for more information

at 405.275.4030 ext. 3593

Homeowners

Assistance Fund (HAF)

Federally funded by the

U.S. Department Of The Treasury

ATTN: APPROVED HAF APPLICANTS!!

2023 PROPERTY TAXES ARE DUE NOW!!

IF YOU WERE APPROVED FOR PROPERTY TAX PAYMENTS OR

PROPERTY INSURANCE PAYMENTS: PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR YEARLY

BILL TO THE HAF OFFICE FOR PAYMENT!

THESE COMPANIES DON’T ALLOW CREDITS SO WE CAN ONLY PAY

YEARLY!!

FOR QUESTIONS: Call - (405) 275-4030 Ext. 3632

HAF@ASTRIBE.COM

March 2024

4A www.astribe.com

Tribal Member Strikes Gold at Winter Games;

Heading to State Games

Tribal member Gregory James recently received a gold medal in bowling at the area Winter Games. He is a member of the Norman Marvels Special Olympics

team. He bowled a 124 securing his right to compete in the State Games in Stillwater coming up in May.

He typically practices about once a week and has only been back in the sport since September 2023. He normally bowls around 80 so this high score was even

a shock to his mom Billie James .

She was so caught up in the moment that she didn’t even take any pictures. “I was on the edge of my seat. I was so surprised. I just couldn’t believe it.” She said.

John Seals, Vice President of Sports and Training for the Special Olympics said that bowling is the only sport that you have to win the Winter Games in order

to compete at the State games. Any of the other sporting events you only have to compete to go to state.

But James isn’t in this just for the hardware. He really likes the camaraderie. His mom said if he doesn’t make strikes he doesn’t get mad. James said the best

part of bowling is being with his friends.

And once you meet him, you have made a true friend. His big personality and positive demeanor shines through.

His coach Eva Smith couldn’t agree more. “Gregory has been a joy to have on the Norman Marvels team. He has the spirit of a true Olympian with his

determination to better his scores every week as well as by the kindness he shows to all of his teammates. He always shows up with an amazing positive attitude

and enthusiasm to cheer on the team.”

This year 382 Special Olympians qualified for the bowling State Games and at least 250-300 will go on to compete. The State Games are expecting close to

5,000 athletes this year.

No matter the outcome, Gregory James will always be a winner and true champion.

News Release

To:

From:

Date:

Subject:

The Absentee Shawnee News

AllNations Bank

2-15-2024

AllNations Bank Joins National Bankers Association

AllNations Bank, the Tribe’s wholly owned bank, has recently joined

the National Bankers Association (NBA). The NBA is the national trade

association for Minority-owned Depository Institutions (MDIs). The NBA

advocates for MDIs with regulatory agencies and Congress on matters of

particular interest to minority institutions. NBA also provides various services

to MDIs including providing access to products and services that assist the

banks in meeting the banking needs of their customers including minorities,

low-income individuals and small businesses.

An immediate benefit from joining the NBA happened shortly after the

bank joined the association. AllNations Bank was selected to be one of 15

banks designated to participate in a program to assist the bank in assessing and

implementing improvements in the bank’s use of technology. This program is

funded by a $10 million grant from the Citi Fund, a foundation supported by

Citibank.

AllNations Bank continues to remind customers of the importance of fraud

prevention on social media posts and the bank website. One recent enhancement

to the bank’s efforts to protect customer information and banking activity is

“Debit Card Transaction Activity Alerts”. If you sign up, when your debit card

is used, an email alert is sent to you when your card is used. If you didn’t use

it, you can turn the debit card off in the Manage Cards portion of the mobile

app then notify the bank. You can sign up for the alerts in the Manage Cards

area on the mobile app or online banking.

Additional information on cyber security and avoiding online banking fraud

and other scams is available on the bank’s website at www.anbok.com on the

“Resources” page then “Online Security”. If you have questions, please consult

with a Calumet or Shawnee banker.

AllNations Bank is showing up in

denim, and many other fabrics.

We know that you work hard and live a busy lifestyle. Since it's not always

convenient for you to go to the bank, AllNations Bank is coming to you.

Download our mobile banking app today and get access to your account 24

hours a day, rain or shine.

2023 Gordon Cooper Dr. • Shawnee, OK 74801 • (405) 273-0202

www.anbok.com

NOTI CE

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SUBMIT AN ARTICLE OR STORY

Please give us a call at (405) 598-1279 or send an email to

media@astribe.com

All articles for the next month’s issue are DUE by the 15th of the current month.

Unfortunately we can only accept

ONE PICTURE PER BIRTHDAY PERSON, not per birthday wish.

March 2024

www.astribe.com

5A

CULTURAL PRESERVATION DEPARTMENT

The first two months of the year have been full of planning and exciting transformation for Cultural Preservation. Following is a breakdown of each departmental

program’s most recent activities.

Cultural Preservation

We are excited to be partnering with CCDF/After School Program for a collaboration labeled “We Are Shawnee”! We have had a first sit down planning meeting with

the staff of CCDF in which we were introduced to the goals of this collaboration.

Once or twice a week or as time permits, Cultural Preservation staff will be sharing

the language, culture, and history of the Shawnee people with the children enrolled

in the program. We plan to do this through hands on activities such as games, crafts,

and presentations. The overarching goal of this collaboration is to give the children

participants a sense of identity and introduce them to the Shawnee culture.

Gift Shop

The Gift Shop is currently open, and we are having an inventory clearance sale! Almost everything in the Gift Shop is on sale. However, please be aware, soon we will be

closing our doors for a period of time to prepare for a transformation. The gift shop is

a program of Cultural Preservation, and as so, the staff of Cultural Preservation will

be rebranding the shop. We will be no longer be carrying some of the items that we

currently have in stock, and instead, we will be purchasing items that are more culturally inclusive and reflects the department’s mission and goals of preserving the history of the Shawnee culture. When you enter the gift shop, we want you to see items you

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

are Shawnee and Shawnee made. Some of the items we as a department have already

discussed to carry are books about Shawnees, more supplies, tribal member’s handmade items, and of course more emblem barring items. Also, we will be distributing

a survey so that we can hear your opinions of what you would like to see us carry.

Please look for that soon.

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

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

us at Cultural.Preservation@astribe.com.

Po s’qe ke s’fwa

(Halfway Month)

March

Ma lo ki me – Spring

S’ke pi k’yi – green

S’ke pi k s’ki t’we – The grass is green

Pi pa ke wa ni – flowers

We ko ge ma se k’ki ke – It’s very windy.

Hi mi mo lo ho wa ke ma ge pe mo

Wake up from hibernation.

Ka na na qi pe la ti si ma ke n’ge ka yi qa

Get the garden ready.

Wi pi ka ka ge k’ka pe la

Plow the garden tomorrow.

k’te ki

Hi ta pe ka ni ti mi ka

Can you help?

Ka ke s’sko li ke ne ke me yi se fi ke hi se la ko ni qa

Get the potatoes ready to plant.

Qe li he ka la ko ni pa ne ke me yi se fi ke pi f’we pa m’fa ta po s’qe ke s’f’wi

We need to plant potatoes by middle March.

Ka mi mi to ma hi se

ni ti mi ko yi qa me ta la ma wa ti ke ma ke n’ge ka wa

Pray the Creator helps our garden.

Ka k’ge ta la mi ke ke’ ka kyi ma ni ke

Watch over our elders.

Gi ke we ya fi ka ho wa se la p’wi

Library

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

to 5 p.m. Last month, activity in the library included 3 library visitors with a total of Ki ke ki ka mi ge

10 books checked out. Also, 20 virtual books were checked out. Ms. Paula Jackson, Keep going.

Librarian, added 1 new patron to the system. Please note the library application has

been converted to a digital format that can be emailed. If you would like the applica- Si li no ke ka no la p’wi

See you all again

tion please contact Ms. Jackson at (405) 275-4030 ext. 3530 or at PJackson@astribe.

com.

If you would like to view what books we have in the library currently, please visit https://www.librarycat.org/lib/ASTribe to view the catalog. Also, if you have a library card,

please check out the virtual library (https://okvirtuallibrary.overdrive.com/) which currently has approximately 74,600 books available.

Like with the Gift Shop, we will be rebranding the library. We want to carry more Native American and more specifically Shawnee books and resources. Please let us know

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

THPO (Tribal Historic Preservation Office)

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

Martinez, have together received 575 new Section 106 projects for review and consultation. The program staff has successfully consulted on 420 of these received projects, of

which occur in 12 of our 25 areas of interest/states. The THPO Staff, including myself as Director, have also taken part in 10 teleconference calls regarding Section 106 projects

or NAGPRA cases.

NAGPRA

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

more agencies/museums/colleges both in the states and overseas have been reaching out. Currently, we are in consultation with 12 different facilities concerning the ancestors

and funerary objects they have in their possession.

Great Council State Park

We continue to collaborate with the Ohio History Connection and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources on content for the Great Council State Park Interpretive Center located in Ohio. As mentioned last month, the language program has been providing words and phrases that will be used on displays and panels throughout the Center.

In addition, our Tribal Historic Preservation Office has been working with Ohio, for an extended time, on the content of the panels, and on February 22nd, Mr. Bill Mahon,

Director of Interpretation and Experience for the Ohio History Connection, and Ms. Kim Koloski, Senior Graphic Designer also with the Ohio History Connection, came to

the complex for an in person meeting. At this meeting, draft panel layouts for the Interpretative Center and the traveling photography exhibit were reviewed and comments

given by the staff of Cultural Preservation. At the time of writing this article, no grand opening date has been set.

Language

We are estimating to begin open language classes by mid-April. It is likely we will provide online classes along with in-person classes as we understand we have tribal members who live at great distances or may not have the means to make an in-person class.

Moving forward, all material, whether it is lessons or coloring books or flash cards, will have a QR code to scan. This allows young and old to hear how the words or phrases

are said, especially if there is no one close that can speak Shawnee.

Further, we are collaborating with the Afterschool Program and SPR-PFS Grant to provide language material to local students who are part of their programs. Through this

collaboration we will reach more tribal children to provide them with the opportunity to learn Shawnee and teach them about the Shawnee culture.

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

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

March 2024

6A www.astribe.com

Building Blocks III C.D.C

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma

Building Blocks C.D.C.

2025 S. Gordon Cooper Dr.

Shawnee, Ok. 74801

(405)878-0633 FAX(405)878-0156

[Type text]

16051 Little Axe Dr., Norman, OK 73026

Phone: (405)360-2710; fax: (405)360-2726

February was a busy month at Building Blocks. March will also be

busy and exciting for the children with lots of activities and learning

as the children play.

th

Dr. Seuss’ Birthday & Read Across America Week is March 4 -March

8th. We will be doing dress up week and inviting volunteers to read

Dr. Seuss books to the children.

Remember to Spring Forward and

set your clocks ahead on Sunday,

March 10th.

March Newsletter

In the Classroom

In the Center:

March is the beginning of spring. One theme of Ms.

Shelly’s this month is “up in the clouds”, teaching the

littles about the fundamentals of the sky. Ms. Rachel

and Ms. Sara are teaching the children about the

changes of nature that come along with spring,

reading Dr. Seuss and learning some fun facts about

St. Patrick’s Day. Ms. Cheri’s class is focusing on

nature, helping them to compare the different colors,

sizes, textures and weights.

“Children want the same things we

want. To laugh, to be challenged, to

be entertained, and delighted.”

Dr. Seuss

Remember to grab your child’s daily

sheet at the end of each day. This

has their daily curriculum along with

any important information from

their teacher.

St. Patrick’s Day is Sunday, March

17th: remember to wear GREEN.

Reminders:

Tuesday, March 19th is the First Day

of Spring.

March 29 – Closed for Good Friday

March 4th -8 - Dr. Seuss spirt week

Easter Egg Hunts for Building Blocks children will be at 3:00p.m. on

Thursday, March 28th with Easter Parties to follow.

March 28th – Easter Parties and Egg

hunt.

Building Blocks is closed for Good Friday on March 29th. Easter is

Sunday, March 31st. We wish Everyone a Happy Easter.

We did lots of fun activities for February. AST Librarian and Pioneer

Library System visited and read books to the children and done

activities with them. Also, we celebrated Valentine’s Day on the 14th

with classroom parties. We share these pictures with you:

We are currently hiring staff, if you are interested in applying visit

https://www.astribe.com/employment for applications and to see

what positions are available.

Building Blocks is accepting waiting list applications for all of our ages;

6 weeks through Pre-K/4 Year Olds. If you are interested in getting

your child on our waiting list please call and we can email you a

waiting list application or you may stop by to fill one out.

Have a Sunshiny March!!

Absentee Shawnee Tribe's Domestic Violence Department

We help with:

Our mission is to:

Domestic Violence

Eliminate violence in

Sexual Assault

Native Country and to

Dating Violence

strengthen

Stalking

Native families to end the

Sex Trafficking

cycle of violence.

Our services are confidential and include:

Safety Planning

Emergency Assistance

Court Advocacy

Shelter Placement Assistance

Referrals

Must be intimate partner

related violence and the

victim must be fleeing the

home/situation

Who we serve:

Where we serve:

Natives and non-Natives

LGBTQ2S+

Any Religion

Any income level

EVERYONE

Because we are federally funded

we get to serve all populations

within our *service area, which

includes Cleveland, Oklahoma and

Pottawatomie counties.

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

you.

Contact Us:

Office Line 405.273.2888

Fax 405.273.1192

Webpage https://www.astribe.com/domestic-violence

Link to intake https://www.astribe.com/forms/victim-intake

@ASTRisingWarrior

For emergencies call 911 or AST PD @ 405.275.3200

This project was supported byGrant No. 2015-TW-AX-0016 awarded by the Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations

expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women.

March 2024

www.astribe.com

Wanted to wish Taylor Carter

a Happy Birthday!

Love ya,

Mom

A BIG, BIG THANK YOU

We would like to express our sincere thanks to all our family, friends and loved

ones that visited Marvin while he was in the hospital. Your presence brought

him happiness and hope and for a time let his mind be free of everything that

was going on with his failing body. He felt all the love and support and was very

humbled by all the people that cared for him.

The Creator’s plan was not what we expected, and Marvin left us to be in a

much better place. He is now healthy again, and we are sure making everyone

laugh with all his craziness.

We would like to thank the Absentee Shawnee Tribe’s Departments that

assisted Marvin over these last few years. Also, thanks to the AST Clinic and

the Wellness Program. The Little Axe AST Physical Therapy went above and

beyond to help Marvin stay mobile and to stay in his home. This was an absolute

blessing. Another big thank you to the AST Transportation Department who

religiously transported him to dialysis three times a week and to the numerous

doctor and specialist appointments.

Our thanks to all the family, friends and loved ones that attended his tribal

rights, despite the cold and rainy weather. There was a very large turnout

and that gave us great comfort to know he was that loved and respected. We

appreciate so much all the prayers, support, phone calls, texts and love shown

to our family. In addition, thank you for all the food, drinks, desserts, ice, and

paper goods given for all the meals and feast. Also, a big thank you to the

wonderful ladies that cooked and cleaned for each meal. A special thank you

to Glenn Mann for handling tribal rights in such a good way. We also want

to thank Jason Bender and the AST Honor guard for providing the flag and a

veteran’s farewell. A special thanks to all the men that dug the grave and carried

him to his final resting space.

If we inadvertently left anyone out, please forgive our oversight.

Everyone made our family feel proud and honored, and we are sure Marvin

would feel the same.

May you be blessed for all the kindness you have shown all of us, during our

loss.

WILSON

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE

REPRESENTATIVE

A VOTE FOR THE FUTURE

DEWAYNE WILSON

AST REPRESENTATIVE

2021-CURRENT

MY PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

HARD WORKING

Dec 20th 2023 L-AS-2023-33 resolution was passed for the Tribal

Energy Assistance program. My application for assistance was submitted

1/2/24. And, as of today there are no new guidelines on our tribal website.

On changing the verbiage from “net” to “gross”. For the TEA that has

been $150.00 since 2008 or maybe longer. I have been told several times

by the other members of the EC that the verbiage on the resolution was

in error and that it would be corrected. As of 2/6/24 today it still has not

been addressed or have there been any updates on our website.

This $150.00 is for all tribal members, and I was told by the Director,

that this only affected “my application”. Since the website is incorrect and

that it still shows net. My application needs to be honored. Until it is

updated. This is how we need to conduct our business.

How are to operate as a “Tribal Entity” when our actions should be

accountable as such. When we can’t even address such a minor glitch?

Sure, It’s not a sufficient amount of money but as a tribal member, let

alone a tribal elder. I am entitled by application on what is in black

and white. And not to what you can just change but not fully change

everything that it pertains too.

Thank you

Janene F. Alford

WE ARE

HIRING

Join Our Team

BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH US

MEDICAL, DENTAL, VISION

BASIC & VOLUNTARY LIFE

SHORT-TERM DISABILITY

401K RETIREMENT W/5% MATCH

VACATION & SICK LEAVE

13 PAID HOLIDAYS PLUS BIRTHDAY

VACANCIES FOR

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE

Apply at www.astribe.com/employment

ELECT

PLEASE VOTE FOR

POSITIVE GROWTH &

PROSPERITY ON

MARCH 16, 2024

To Whom It May Concern

AND ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBAL HEALTH SYSTEM

Sincerely and Respectfully,

The family of Marvin Lee Smith

EXPERIENCED

DETERMINED

DEPENDABLE

AGGRESSIVE

STABILITY

DEDICATED

LEADERSHIP

ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2021-CURRENT

REVITALIZED YOUTH CAMP DEVELOPMENT

INCREASED FUNDING FOR EDUCATION PROGRAMS

CREATED WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM FOR

TRIBAL MEMBERS

RE-ESTABLISHED LANGUAGE PROGRAM

HELPED RESEARCH/DEVELOP PUBLIC LAW 102-477

I APPRECIATE YOU TAKING THE TIME TO READ THIS.

NE YI WA

7A

March 2024

8A www.astribe.com

P H O N E D I R E C T O RY - D I R E C T N U M B E R S

O F F I C E O F T H E T R I B A L S EC R E TA RY

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

AST Complex – (405) 275-4030

Toll Free - 800-256-3341

All Nations Bank…………………………………………(405) 273-0202

Brendle Corner…......……………………………………(405) 447-3372

Building Blocks….........…………………………………(405) 878-0633

Building Blocks III LA….....……………………………(405) 360-2710

Court………………………......…………………………(405) 481-8575

Domestic Violence…………….....………………………(405) 273-2888

Enrollment……………………….....……………………(405) 481-8650

Food Pantry………………………...……………………(405) 481-8640

Gaming Commission………………....…………(405) 360-9270 x1110

Housing Authority………………………………………(405) 275-1050

Human Resources……………………….....……………(405) 275-1468

ICW………………………………………………………(405) 395-4490

Media………………………….…………………………(405) 598-1279

OEH/OEP…………………….…………….…….………(405) 214-4235

Police…………………………………………(405) 275-3200/275-3432

Social Services…………….…………………….…….…(405) 878-4723

Tax Commission…….……………….……………….…(405) 481-8600

Thunderbird Casino Norman…….……….……………(405) 360-9270

Thunderbird Casino Shawnee…………….….…………(405) 273-2679

Tribal Store Little Axe……………………………………(405) 364-0668

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe will be closed

Friday, March 29 - Good Friday

Tribal Member Corner:

March Article:

Questions for Executive Committee, Health, Language, Realty:

I submitted last month for Agenda, the sample resolution, for 2-year

term for Executive Committee, to send to referendum vote.

Follow Us on

Social Media

For tribal members, 50 years of age with no heart issues, we need to pay

for heart scans that insurances do not pay. This is a preventative measure

for health and future cost. It can be paid from our health general funds.

Norman Regional has them for $35.00? Can this be implemented?

I asked last year, regarding CPR classes for tribal members. It is important

to know CPR for our families at home. When can one be scheduled?

I contacted health two years ago, for an updated copy of our health

guidelines, I have not received. Tribal Members need a copy.

We have an AST flag policy that was written in 2000. We gave flags to

mourning families or can be purchased. Has this been adhered too?

Follow us on

@absenteeshawneetribe

There may be other old passed resolutions, that need to be observed

and have been forgotten. I would like to utllize an AST language pocket

booklet to carry, maybe others would like one.

We need to work on realty trust lands, reduce number of heirs. Sell to

heirs and paid by remaining heirs at appraised price?

Maybe we need to hear from members regarding, a meeting?

Tax information: To claim a qualified relative, the relative can’t make

more than 4700 year. Earned Income credit, maximum amount credit for

3 or more children, is $7430.

Eileen Pearce

Contact: lapearce@att.net

Tribal member

Absentee Shawnee Tribe

www.asthealth.org

March 2024

Section B

ASTHS March 2024 Monthly Update

National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

National Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer in the United States. Yet it's one of the few cancers that is preventable thanks to screening. Here

are two reasons why getting checked matters:

• Screening can find the warning signs of colon and rectal cancer, letting doctors take action to prevent the disease.

• Screening can also find colorectal cancer early, when treatment is most effective

Native American People are More Likely to get Certain Cancers Compared to Non-Hispanic White People

American Indian and Alaska Native (Native American) people have much higher rates of getting several cancers, including lung, colorectal, liver, stomach, and kidney cancers, compared to non-Hispanic White people in the United States. There are also important differences in the rate of getting cancer between the six regions where most Native American people

live.

Scientists used United States Cancer Statistics data to see how many Native Americans got cancer from 2012 to 2016. They compared rates of getting cancer in six regions: the Northern

Plains, Alaska, Southern Plains, Pacific Coast, East, and Southwest.

•

American Indian and Alaska Native people were more likely to get liver, stomach, kidney, lung, colorectal, and female breast cancers than White people in most regions.

•

Compared to White men, Native American men had higher rates of getting liver, stomach, kidney, colorectal, and lung cancer and myeloma.

•

Compared to White women, Native American women had higher rates of getting liver, stomach, kidney, colorectal, and cervical cancer.

•

Native American men were more likely to get cancer than Native American women. The difference ranged from 23% more likely for lung cancer to 129% more likely for liver

cancer.

•

The biggest differences in cancer rates between Native American men and White men were found in Alaska, followed by the Southern Plains, Southwest, and Northern Plains.

•

The biggest differences in cancer rates between Native American women and White women were found in the Southern Plains, followed by the Northern Plains, Alaska, and Pacific

Coast.

Build Awareness of Colorectal Cancer

1. Early Detection and Screening is Key

Cancer is deadly, but the good news is thousands of cancer cases, and deaths can be prevented through early detection and screening.

2. Cancer is a Leading Cause of Death

In 2019, cancer was said to be the world's second leading cause of death, with breast (2.26 million cases) and lung (2.21 million cases) being the most common types of cancer, according

to the WHO.

3. Cancer Research has Decreased Death Rates

More effective cancer treatment has decreased the death rate according to the American Cancer Society and, more specifically, lung cancer.

4. Smoking Increases Your Risk of Lung Cancer

The most effective preventative measure against the disease is to stop smoking. The more cigarettes you smoke, the higher your risk.

5. February 4 Marks “World Cancer Day”

Founded in 2000 and led by the Union for International Cancer Control (U.I.C.C.), the day aims to increase global awareness about cancer and save many from suffering and death.

Why National Cancer Prevention Month Is Important

One in 24 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in their lifetime, but you can make a difference today. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cancer worldwide; incidence varies greatly by country and racial group. We compared 2018 American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) CRC incidence rates in Alaska to other Tribal, racial, and international population

rates. AI/AN persons in Alaska had the highest CRC incidence rate among US Tribal and racial groups. AI/AN persons in Alaska also had higher rates than those reported for any other

country in the world in 2018 except for Hungary, where males had a higher CRC incidence rate than AI/AN males in Alaska. This review of CRC incidence rates from populations in

the United States and worldwide showed that AI/AN persons in Alaska had the highest documented incidence rate of CRC in the world in 2018. It is important to inform health systems

serving AI/AN persons in Alaska about policies and interventions that can support CRC screening to reduce the burden of this disease. This does not mean that CRC cannot affect other

AI/AN in other parts of the US, including here in Oklahoma.

US Trends

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most frequently diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the general US population. Cancer screening programs are

partly responsible for declining CRC incidence and mortality in the United States. Unfortunately, American Indians (AIs) have experienced either no change or an increase in CRC

incidence and mortality, disproportionate diagnosis of late-stage disease, and poorer survival.

Low Screening Rates

Despite the effectiveness of CRC screening tests for average-risk adults, these tests are significantly under-utilized by AIs, especially compared to urban Hispanic Whites, adjusting for

socio-economic status and other factors. Nearly two-thirds (65%) of US adults are current with CRC screening per US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines. However,

based on the Indian Health Service (IHS) Government Performance and Results Act data, screening rates ranged from a low of 28.1% in the Phoenix Area to a high of 50.5% in the

Oklahoma Area, and 35% in Tucson and 41.9% in the Albuquerque Area. Most tribes possess remarkably few healthcare resources to address CRC screening disparities and face many

issues that underscore the need to implement effective CRC screening interventions targeting AIs, while engaging them with culturally appropriate interventions.

How Can Cancer Rates Be Lowered Among Native American People?

American Indian and Alaska Native people have some of the highest rates of getting certain cancers in the United States. To help lower the number of future cancers, experts suggest:

• Making sure American Indian and Alaska Native people get cancer screening tests. Screening tests can prevent some common cancers or find them early, when they are easier to

treat.

•

Making sure preventive health care services and programs are available to help people quit smoking.

•

Developing programs that promote healthy eating and keeping a healthy weight.

What Can You Do?

• Make an appointment for your yearly examination with your provider to be checked for colorectal cancer, especially if there is a family history.

•

Watch your diet for foods that may contribute to an unhealthy lifestyle.

•

Stop smoking and using tobaccos that are not healthy for you.

•

Begin an exercise program that fits into your schedule and stick with it to maintain a healthy weight.

As always, speak to your healthcare provider if you have any questions about any concerns you have about your health.

References: 1. Colorectal Cancer Alliance. (2024). National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. https://colorectalcancer.org/get-involved/advocate/colorectal-cancer-awareness-month 2. Haverkamp D, Redwood D, Roik E, Vindigni S, Thomas T. Elevated colorectal cancer incidence among American Indian/Alaska Native persons in Alaska compared to other populations worldwide. Int J Circumpolar Health. 2023

Dec;82(1):2184749. doi: 10.1080/22423982.2023.2184749. PMID: 36867106; PMCID: PMC9987760. 3. Kennedy A, and Srinivasan S. Dissemination of a Colorectal Cancer Screening Program Across American

Indian Communities in the Southern Plains and Southwest United States. National Cancer Institute, Division of Cancer Control & Population Sciences, 2023. https://cancercontrol.cancer.gov/hdhe/native-american-health/colorectal-cancer-screening-american-indian 4. Melkonian SC, Weir HK, Jim MA, Preikschat B, Haverkamp D, White MC. Incidence and trends of the leading cancers with elevated incidence among

American Indian and Alaska Native populations, 2012–2016. American Journal of Epidemiology 2020.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

Little Axe Health Clinic

•

•

•

•

Primary Care – The front entrance to Primary Care is awaiting final inspection scheduled to be completed/ opened by the time of this publication.

Pharmacy Expansion – There was a delay in the arrival of the pneumatic tubes that pushed back the opening. The Pharmacy will be closed on Feb. 23-24 for relocation and will

be open in their new location on Monday, Feb. 25th.

Remodel of Current Primary Care for New PlusCare and Specialty Clinic – Specialty will be open in their new location on March 4th and PlusCare will be in their new location

on March 7th.

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

Shawnee Health Clinic

NEW SHAWNEE HEALTH CLINIC! (Coming Soon!) - 39665 Benson Park Road, Shawnee, OK 74801 (adjacent to Tecumseh Lake)

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

shortly. Planning for Groundbreaking Ceremony will begin soon!

February 2024 Health Employee Awards of the Month

Employee of the Month: Connie Bottaro, Patient Benefits Manager

Team of the Month: Maintenance

Special Leadership Award: Molli D. Coon, Lead Patient Registration

Chris A. Larkin, MBA, FACHE, CHC

Executive Director

March 2024

2B www.astribe.com

Tune In to Our New Video!

Alzheimer’s Disease Program Ini�a�ve

(ADPI) Program is proud to share our

new Music & Memory Tes�monial

video with you!

Scan the QR Code below to check it out!

405.827.8216

adpi@astribe.com

asthealth.org/seeking-hope

Funded by @ACLgov

Diabetes & Wellness Department

March is National Nutrition Month!

National Nutrition month has become an annual observance since 1980

after an influx of interest in nutrition. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics strives to promote the importance of making better food choices,

mindful eating, and increasing physical activity.

This year’s theme for National Nutrition Month is, “Beyond The Table.”

We encourage you to think beyond the table by:

Reading Food Labels



Choose lower fat foods



Add more fiber like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables



Decrease salt intake

Moving More



Sit less and add more movement throughout the day



Work up to at least 150 minutes per week of moderateintensity aerobic activity



Include resistance or weight training activity at least

twice a month



Join our 100 Miles into Spring Challenge by scanning the

QR code below

Being Well



Set a consistent sleeping schedule



Stress management

VA

U.S. Department of

Veterans Affairs

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE AND THE U.S. DEPARTMENT

OF VETERANS AFFAIRS WILL BE HOSTING A:

During the event,

Speak with representatives

Get answers to VA Benefits and Claims questions

File your claim

Get same day decisions when you share complete information

Receive VHA Toxic Health Screens

Widows unsure if you qualify for benefits,

please come in and let us research it for you

For more information contact:

Were you exposed to burn pits, herbicides,

or other toxins while in the military?

Mary Culley, 405-626-3426

If you have ever served in the military and

have questions because you are not sure if

you qualify, please come in and ask

Connie Bottaro, 405-701-7629

mary.culley@va.gov

cbottaro@astribe.com

March 2024

www.astribe.com

3B

*MENU SUBJECT TO CHANGE*

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

LUNCH SERVED MONDAY – THURSDAY 12 PM TO 12:30 PM AT BRENDLE CORNER

MARCH

MARCH 2024

2024

BREAKFAST SERVED FRIDAYS 9 AM TO 11 AM SHAWNEE SITE

BREAKFAST SERVED FRIDAYS 10 AM TO 10:30 AT BRENDLE CORNER

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

1

4

SMOKED SAUSAGE

CABBAGE

CORNBREAD/FRUIT

5

CHICKEN STRIPS

MASHED POT/GRAVY

VEGGIES

CHEF SALAD

W TURKEY

EGGS,CHEZ,ONIONS

CRACKERS/PEACHES

12

BAKED CHICKEN

WILD RICE

BRUSSEL SPROUTS

APPLESAUCE

19

PORK & POTATOES

GREENBEANS

MANDARIN ORANGES

25

26

11

COLD CUT SANDWICH

LTOP

CHIPS/YOGURT

18

TURKEY

SANDWICH

BAQKED CHIPS

PEACHES

SALMON PATTY

MAC N CHEZ

COLESLAW

COOKIE

GRITS

SAUSAGE PATTIES

FRUIT

6

7

13

14

BEEF TIPS & NOODLES

TOSSED SALAD*

CRISP

15

SCRAMBLED EGGS

SAUSAGE GRAVY

BISCUIT

20

KRAUT & WEINERS

BROCCOLI

BREAD/FRUIT

21

22

27

28

SCRAMBLED EGGS

GRAVY

BISCUIT

FRUIT

CHICKEN RICE &

BROCCOLI CASSEROLE

COOKIE

BEANS

STEAKFRIES

ONIONS

SPINACH

MEATLOAF

MASHED POT/GRAVY

VEGGIES

CAKE

ROAST

CARROTS

RED POT/ROLL

PUDDING

SOFT TACO

LTOC

REFRIED BEANS

SALSA/FRUIT

8

BOILED EGG

BACON

TOAST

CEREAL

SAUSAGE PATTIES

TOAST

29

MARCH 31

SINGO

On Friday, February 9th, the Absentee Shawnee Tribe’s (AST) Tribal Opioid Response (TOR) project organized their first 2024 outreach event in partnership

with Ensuring Hope and Native Connections. This event was held at Brendle Corner in Little Axe. Participants were treated to SINGO, snacks, prizes and

most importantly information about how AST grant funded projects like TOR, Ensuring Hope and Native Connections benefit and strengthen the native

community. TOR provides prevention, treatment and recovery resources for citizens of federally recognized tribes in Cleveland, Lincoln, Logan, Oklahoma and

Pottawatomie counties. The applicant age for TOR resources ranges from adolescent to adult. As part of our prevention outreach, TOR is hosting a Ribbon

Skirt Class in Little Axe in late February. This class was full within an hour. Only 10 people per class are allowed. We’ll be offering other classes in the months

ahead so keep your eyes and ears open.

For more information about TOR and the other grant programs contact:

Tribal Opioid Response project| 405.561.7836 |tor@astribe.com

Ensuring Hope Project | 405.878.4716 |efoster@astribe.com or rmeely@astribe.com

Native Connections | 405.275.4030 |nativeconnections@astribe.com

Tiffany Rodriguez, Grant Coordinator, Native Connections

(Left) and Elizabeth Foster, Director, Ensuring Hope (Right)

SINGO Table Display

Participants playing Singo (3)

Vicky Stewart, Director, TOR. NI YA WEH to

Treasurer Joseph Blanchard, Ensuring Hope,

Native Connections, AST Cultural Preservation

Gift Shop, AST Elder Marjorie Kaniatobe, Harp’s,

Sonic and others that donated gifts and their

time to make the SINGO event successful.

March 2024

4B www.astribe.com

HEALTH BUZZ!!

Hello, spring! Spring is all about new things, and AST Health System has something new in the works.

The population of older Native Americans is growing quickly, leading to an increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. By 2060, the number of Native

Americans aged 65 and older living with dementia is projected to increase five-fold.

Expanding the capability for dementia care within ASTHS got a boost late last year with the award of a grant “Addressing Dementia in Indian Country: Models of Care”.

What is a model of care?

A model of care is a multifaceted approach to how health care services are delivered. It outlines best practice care and services for a person, their caregiver, or population

group as they progress through the stages of a condition, injury, or event.

By developing models of care, we can support the expansion of all-inclusive and sustainable dementia care and services in AST Health System that are responsive to the

needs of persons living with dementia and their caregivers.

Care for persons living with dementia includes care for their caregiver. Also, families and other caregivers need help in navigating services, help in understanding what to

expect, how to respond to the challenges of living with dementia, and support for self-care. Interventions like Savvy Caregiver in Indian Country and Music & Memory will

continue to be provided through grant funding so there is no cost to participants.

Be sure to check out our Music & Memory video testimonial on ASTHS’s Facebook page with Absentee Shawnee Tribal Member, Raymond Tiger! We also have a Savvy

Caregiver in Indian Country video testimonial coming soon. We thank our two very gracious participants for sharing a bit about their stories, why they chose to participate,

and about their positive experiences. These individuals mean a lot to us and we thank them for allowing us take a peek into their lives.

If you or someone you know would benefit from the Savvy Caregiver in Indian Country or Music & Memory, please email me, Gayla Temple, at gtemple@astribe.com or

adpi@astribe.com, or call 405.827.8216 or 405.561.7870. You can also visit the Seeking Hope webpage. Go to the AST Health System’s website, asthealth.org, click on

“Programs and Prevention”, and click on “Seeking Hope”.

Warmest regards,

Gayla Temple

Dementia Care Specialist

MEDICARE PART B SPONSORSHIP/REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM

Dear Absentee Shawnee Tribal Member,

All Absentee Shawnee Tribal members 65 and older that live in the following

counties: Cleveland, Lincoln, Logan, Oklahoma and Pottawatomie, may

qualify for the Medicare Part B premium Reimbursement Program.

To qualify for Medicare Part B Tribal Sponsorship Program, you

must be an active patient with the ASTHS Primary Care. As your

primary care healthcare provider and/or your PRC - Contract Health

Services coordinator, ASTHS agrees to reimburse you for your

Medicare Part B premiums paid through Social Security

Administration’s Medicare Benefit program.

If you would like to take advantage of this sponsorship program, please

contact Melinda Ferrell at 405.701.7175 or email mferrell@astribe.com.

Melinda Ferrell

PRC Patient Resource Specialist

We Can Help You!

Per PRC Guidelines: You must apply for other resources, and a denial letter must be attached to the application

documenting that tribal member did seek other resources.

For more information:

Melinda Ferrell, PRC Patient Resources Specialist

405.701.7175 or mferrell@astribe.com

Know Your Native Options

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

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

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

SoonerCare medical and dental programs. Native American SoonerCare members have

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

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

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

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

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

the medical and dental plans, and enroll.

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

enrollment closes or the member will be auto-enrolled.

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

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

Two Ways to Enroll:

$18,768

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

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

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

Plans but can help navigate the process.

$38,304

Contact a Patient Benefit Advocate

Little Axe Health Center 405.447.0300

Shawnee Clinic

405.878.5850

www.asthealth.org

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