Dear Tribal Citizens,

We are living in an unprecedented time, facing unprecedented challenges.  Situations, details change daily, sometimes even hourly. I think it’s important that you know that our tribe is stable. We have always been a tribe known for paying its bills, taking care of our people, limiting our debt. Let me assure you that is still the Easter Shawnee Tribe, even in these turbulent times. Let me also assure you, your Business Committee, your Business Managers, your tribal employees and your Chief are working tirelessly to address these current challenges. Let me further assure you that with every decision we make, we are acutely concerned with how that decision impacts our tribal citizens. You, each one of you, you are our number one concern.

 

Currently, both of our casinos are closed as well as our Early Childhood Learning Center, our Wellness Center, and the Shooting Complex. These are scheduled to be closed the entire month of April and re-opening dates will be reevaluated at that time since no one can predict the length and severity of COVID 19. We value our employees and even though these businesses and services have been closed since early March, we have paid these employees through April 2.

 

Some services have remained in force. Our Travel Center is closed to inside-the-building traffic, but continues its fuel service plus we have a drive-up window where pick-up service for requested products is available. Simply call ahead with your list if possible. That number is 918 238 2400. We are feeding 90-100 daily at our AOA (Senior Center) via a drive-through or local home delivery. Hours are 11-12:30 M-F. And our Social Services Department has not missed a beat. The entire department continues to process reimbursement requests and receive new ones. Nothing has changed there except for social distancing, meaning that local individuals drop off their paperwork in the foyer, not inside the building.  Again, your benefits have not been changed, are being processed as quickly as possible. We have no intention of cutting those benefits.

 

Unfortunately, effective April 3, we have had to furlough many employees, especially those in the closed businesses and programs. Additionally we have had to reduce number of employees in several departments and reduce hours of some in an attempt to reduce our expenditures. This was a most difficult decision, one we did not want to make but felt we had to. Furlough is not a termination, it is not a layoff.  It is intended to be temporary, ending when we are able to reopen our businesses and programs. In TEMPORARY furlough, employees are on standby and will be eligible to draw unemployment benefits until they are called back to work. We value our employees and want them to return as soon as possible.

 

We have some buildings closed, several employees teleworking from home; but they can still be accessed by calling the Bluejacket Building or the Charles Enyart Building. Those numbers are 918 666 2435 or 918 666 5151.

 

Finally, remember that we are family. We take care of each other. We support each other. We don’t tear down each other. We will get through this together. I may be reached at 918-666-2435, ext. 1820, by text, or by email gjwallace@estoo.net  Walk in balance.