Absentee Shawnee Tribe Receives Original Spybuck Painting (2025)

THE ABSENTEE

SHAWNEE NEWS

www.astribe.com

Volume 35, No. 02

February 2025

Absentee Shawnee Tribe Receives Original Spybuck Painting

An original painting created by tribal member Ernest Spybuck (1833-1949)

was recently given to the Absentee Shawnee Tribe.

Bonnie Crabb worked as an art teacher for the Shawnee school system in the

1930’s. She met Spybuck at a powwow

in Shawnee and after their time spent

talking, he gifted her with his painting.

The unnamed piece was stored for

many years and remained in Bonnie’s

family. Her great-nieces Connie Taylor,

Cynthia King and Sharon McAnear decided the artwork should go back to the

tribe.

They took the painting to Antiques

Roadshow where it was appraised for

$4000 in 2017. The value today is around

$8000 yet they continued to hold on to

the painting.

“I just remember my sister always saying you get a sense of where something

needs to belong. It was not like a piece

of property for us. It was given to us. We

could have done anything with it monetarily but her main thing was she just felt

a strong calling to give it back to the tribe

it wasn’t even something up for discussion so when she shared that with myself

and my other sister everybody was on the

same page” said Connie Taylor.

Spybuck paintings have made their way

all across the United States in some of the

top institutions including the Gilcrease

Museum in Tulsa, the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art in Norman, the Heard Museum in Phoenix, the National Cowboy

and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City, the Oklahoma City Museum

of Art, the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of the American Indian

in Washington, D.C., and the Museum

of the American Indian in New York. He

was also commissioned to produce mu-

rals for the Creek Indian Council House

and Museum in Okmulgee, Oklahoma

and at the Oklahoma Historical Society

Museum in Oklahoma City.

He was born on the Shawnee reservation near Tecumseh and spent most of

his life as a farmer and not a professional artist. He began painting around the

age of six with nothing more than dirt as

his canvas and a simple stick. He attended Shawnee Boarding and his education

never went beyond the McGuffey's Third

Reader which is equivalent to fifth or

sixth grade today.

Spybuck met anthropologist Mark

Raymond Harrington while he was on

a collecting trip for the Museum of the

American Indian in New York. Some of

Spybuck’s art was even done at the request of Harrington.

His style of painting and aesthetics

is unique for Native American painters

Left Photo: Unnamed Ernest Spybuck painting, ca 1915. Right Photo: Ernest Spybuck, ca 1910.

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during the early 1900’s. His natural talent

and ability can be seen on the intricate

details in his paintings. The artwork offered a rare glimpse in to early Shawnee

life with scenes depicting farming, social

activities, games and even tribal ceremonies.

Despite his work making its way across

the country, he lived his entire life on his

family allotment with his wife Anna and

their four children.

“I remember my sister saying she just

felt a strong calling to give it back to the

tribe. “Said Connie Taylor. “The sense of

spirit, if you will, that it was just more

than just a painting. It’s symbolic of this

person’s art and love and everything. It’s

a part of him. It’s a part of the tribe.”

The donated painting will remain at the

tribe and be displayed on the complex.

2

www.astribe.com

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

GOVERNOR’S REPORT

John Johnson, AST Governor

GOVERNOR

John Johnson

Hello all,

January was a cold start and it looks like

the cold is staying around for a while longer. With the frigid temperatures sticking

around please check on your elders. Keep

your homes warm and stay safe.

Solar energy is making its way into Indian country. I attended two meetings

regarding going “GREEN”. I believe this

is going to be the next big thing for everyone. I personally have a few solar panels

for my home and it has saved me tremendously on my electric bill. I would like

to get more information on going “green”

for the tribe. I see many benefits using

solar panels and the savings. I will be

gathering more information on this and

gives updates as it comes.

Phase 1 of building 3 is complete. The

SECRETARY’S REPORT

Misty McGirt, AST Secretary

Lt. GOVERNOR

Diane Ponkilla

SECRETARY

Misty McGirt

Greetings Tribal Members,

I hope everyone has been staying warm

during these cold days we been having.

This past month has been very difficult

for me I lost a huge piece of my heart, my

best friend, my kokoge (grandma). I’d like

to personally thank everyone for the condolences the help and support everyone

has shown my family during this difficult time for us all. Grief of losing someone so dear to you is not easy especially

when they were a part of your everyday

life. Work has helped me these past weeks

my office has been busy getting ready

and prepared for tax season along with

general council and Easter for this year.

I have been very busy with every day and

monthly meetings.

Here is what’s going on in some of my

departments!

Domestic Violence- Rising Warrior,

the domestic violence department of

Absentee Shawnee Tribe, has initiated a

program specifically for our Elders. This

new initiative is called The Elders Protection Program. It is the goal of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe OVC Elder Protection

Program to provide services to elderly

victims of physical abuse, physiological

abuse, sexual abuse, exploitation, neglect, financial or material exploitation,

abandonment and spiritual abuse. Elders

who have recently experienced any of the

situations above, or whom are currently

experiencing these situations, can contact

TREASURER’S REPORT

Joseph Blanchard, AST Treasurer

TREASURER

Joseph Blanchard

REPRESENTATIVE

Anthony Johnson

Hello fellow Tribal Members, Family, and

Friends:

Let me begin by sending condolences to

those who have lost loved ones in the last

couple months. I was sad for those relatives, especially of these highly respected

Matriarchs. As has been said, so much

knowledge and history was buried with

them ladies. At the same time, it reminds

us all of our responsibility to learn and

pass along our Culture and Traditions to

the next generation.

As 2025 has begun, so has a new spending cycle and budget year. The Finance

staff and I worked hard to stay within

constraints and are glad to announce the

Annual Budget only increased by 5% and

7% respectively, for the General Fund and

IDC accounts. The best news I can report

is we have a couple new opportunities to

increase funds received from the Government for our Contract Support and

the 105 Lease program. In the next few

months, once agreements have been com-

February 2025

Court building has been torn down. The

EC has started interviewing architects for

the next phase of a new administration

building. Watch for updates in future

newsletters.

I will be attending the NCAI winter session in Washington DC and the 2025 Self

Governance Conference in Arizona. It is

important for me to attend these conferences/meetings to see what changes are

coming with the new president in office.

Like many other tribes, I think we are

concerned with what is to come. I hope

the new president doesn’t make too many

new changes. I will do my best to keep

everyone informed.

In December the EC mailed out all AST

elders a gift card to Walmart for Christmas. My office has received many mail

returns. Below is a list of names that need

addresses updated. Please share the word.

Amper Foreman, Rita Johnson, John

Tallchief, Raymond Panther, Donald Alford, Tina Blancett, Brian Moore, Charles

Judkins, Ladawn Griffin, Christopher

Squire, Farrell McDowell, Violet McCoy,

Robert Surface, Jr., Larney Camp, Mary

Clark, Anthony Woodward, David Washington, Debra Eckles, David Johnson,

Lonita Stewart, William Guthrie, Ellen

McKinney, Timothy Leath, Terry Salazar,

Nathaniel Larney, Jr., Clifford Cuellar,

John Spoon, Margaret Scrapper, Cynthia

White and Tillman Johnson.

If your name is on the list please reach

out to my assistant at the number listed

below.

Should you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact my office.

Rising Warrior at 405-273-288 or fill out

an online intake at https://www.astribe.

com/domestic-violence . Once an intake

is completed, an advocate will contact the

elder and determine if eligibility is met

and what services will be provided. Services are based on funding availability.

February is Teen Dating Violence

Awareness Month. In support of this

cause, wearing orange is strongly encouraged and will be sported by our staff.

Rising Warrior and Native Connections

will be hosting an event in February as

part of community outreach. Please keep

an eye open on the AST Webpage, AST

Facebook page and the Absentee Shawnee Tribe Rising Warrior Facebook page

for event information. A new addition to

Rising Warrior is the ability to assist with

boarding pets for fleeing survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, teen dating violence, stalking, sex-trafficking and

elder abuse while being housed in a shelter or misplaced due to the victimization.

All of our services are free and completely

confidential.

Meeting’s I attended this past month.

December 3 2024- Budget meeting

@ 10:00am all Executive members were

present. I attended a Gaming commission

meeting @ 11:00am. I attended a Finance

meeting @2:30pm along with Governor,

Lt. Governor and Treasure.

December 4 2024- We had our employee Christmas dinner.

December 5 2024- 11:30am meeting

with all Executive members.

December 6 2024- I attended a con-

struction meeting @ 10:00 along with

Governor, Lt. Governor, Representative

and staff.

December 7 2024- I attended the Veterans Christmas dinner.

December 9 2024- I had a meeting

with our attorney general and Enrollment

department @ 10:00am.

December 10 2024- I attended T.E.I

meeting @ 5:30pm-9:00pm.

December 14 2024- I attended ICW

Christmas party from 11:00am-2:00pm.

December 16 2024- I called in for our

round table meeting @ 11:00-11:30 with

Governor, Lt. Governor, and Representative.

December 17 2024- I called in on health

board meeting @ 9:00am-3:40pm. I called

in on a Gaming commission meeting @

11:00am-1:05pm.

December 18 2024- I attended Housing meeting @ 9:00am with Representative Johnson. At 1:00pm we had our Executive meeting.

December 20 2024- I attended a construction meeting @ 10:00am along with

Governor, Lt. Governor, and Representative.

December 30 2024- I called in for

round table meeting all Executive members were present.

pleted, we will announce a couple other

chances for our Tribe to increase revenue

and create new jobs.

Last Fall, I mentioned the importance

of our members voting in the Presidential

election. By the time one reads this report, the Inauguration of President-Elect

Trump will have concluded and usher

in a new workforce at the U.S. Capitol.

I have scheduled a visit to establish new

relationships with the incoming Cabinet

members specifically the new Treasurer,

Secretary for the Department of the Treasury, and IRS Director. As a member of

TETRAA, a subcommittee in NCAI, we

coordinate and work directly with the

Treasury Tribal Advisory Committee

(TTAC). There are several new policies

that will be implemented and go into effect the next few months after the Comment Period ended in January. Likewise,

Tribal Leaders will be able to enter opinions on the Record at the TTAC Quarterly Meeting.

I wanted to clarify a topic of confusion

after some members recently questioned

me about the Agriculture Department.

They were amazed to learn I am no longer

the oversight to that program, and haven’t been since June. So I answered what

questions I could and suggested they contact either the Lt. Governor or the Secretary with any specific concerns. I am

very proud of the work we accomplished,

how the Department progressed, and the

National attention we received from the

Indian Ag Council. I am still a part of the

IAC National Committee and serve as the

Southern Plains Region Alternate Representative. My term ends next December,

unless I’m re-elected to that position for

a 2nd term.

As I conclude, I want to say “Thank

you!” to those who continue to show support, offer advice, and provide encouragement to me and my staff. Should you

have any questions, or would like to share

your concerns, please send me an email

at: jblanchard@astribe.com or call me at:

(405) 275-4030 Ext. 3510.

governor@astribe.com

405-275-4030 ext. 3500

alvinab@astribe.com

405-275-4030 ext. 3501

That’s all I have to report at this time if

you have any questions or concerns about

anything you may contact my office.

Ne yi wa!

Secretary McGirt

Neyiwa!

Joseph H. Blanchard

Tribal Treasurer

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.

February 2025

www.astribe.com

3

Language Department

S’ke pi ye ke s’fwa

(Sap Month)

February

February is called “sap month or moon”. A long time ago, this is the time when Shawnees would tap maple trees to get the sap and make sweet syrup. Of course

Ground Hog Day and Valentine’s Day is this month.

Ki qi ke sa ke – Ground Hog Day

(kah qah key seh key)

Se se k’wa me se – Maple tree

(see see k’weh mee see)

Wi pi k’ko fi – Bucket

(wah pah k’ko thah)

S’ke pi ya yi – Sap

(neh pee wee yah)

Fi k’qa ni – Hug

(thah k’qeh nah)

Pi g’ki me lo – Kiss me

(pah ch’kah mee lo)

Hi qa la te wa – Love

(hah qeh leh tee weh)

We ki na te wa – Friendship

(wee kah neh tee weh)

Ho la fe – Pretty

(ho leh thee)

Ke ti qa la ma la –(Sap

I Love

You

Month)

(key tah qeh leh mehFebruary

leh)

S’ke pi ye ke s’fwa

Ho wa s’pa ni fe wa – Compassion

(ho weh s’peh nah thee weh)

Fi ke la g’ya na te pa – Hold hands

February is called “sap month or moon”. A long time ago, this is the time when Shawnees

keysap

lehand

ch’yeh

nehsweet

tee peh)

would tap maple trees to(thah

get the

make

syrup. Of course Ground Hog Day and

Valentine’s Day is this month.

Ka ho wa se Wi ne ta fe p’wi – Play nice

(keh ho weh see wah nee teh thee p’wah)

Ki qi ke sa ke – Ground Hog Day

Se se k’wa me se – Maple tree

(kah qah key seh key)

Te ka ki k’yi wa – Don’t be jealous (see see k’weh mee see)

(tee keh kah k’yah weh)

Wi pi k’ko fi – Bucket

S’ke pi ya yi – Sap

Ki ke ki ka ho ti ka la te pa – Let’s respect

other all the time

(wah pah k’ko thah)

(neh peeeach

wee yah)

(kah key kah keh ho tah keh leh tee peh)

Ne hi qa la te wa me yi we – Love is the answer

(nee hah qeh leh tee weh mee yah wee)

We ko ge ke ho la fe fe – You are so cute

(wee ko chee key ho leh thee thee)

Te ka pi pi ke ge ki wa – Don’t argue

(tee keh pah pah key chee kaw weh)

Fi k’qa ni – Hug

Pi g’ki me lo – Kiss me

(thah k’qeh nah)

(pah ch’kah mee lo)

(hah qeh leh tee weh)

(wee kah neh tee weh)

He ne ko ge! Si li no ke ka no la p’wi!- That’s all! See you all again!

Hi qa la te wa – Love

la fe – Pretty

MA LI SE KE TA HEHo

(ho leh thee)

SWEETHEART

We ki na te wa – Friendship

S'KE PI YE KE S'FWA

Ke ti qa la ma la – I Love You

(key tah qeh leh meh leh)

Sap Month's Word Search

Ho wa s’pa ni fe wa – Compassion

(ho weh s’peh nah thee weh)

Find the Shawnee and English words below in the word search.

V

NE KI

NI

FRIEND

NeEhi

K

L qa la te wa me yi we – Love is the answer

C

N

N

E

K

I

N

I

V

J

T

N

M

X

A

Y

H

I

K

K

G

E

P

S

E

V

T

K

I

M

E

L

O

P

Ka ho wa se Wi ne ta feFp’wiR– PlayI niceE

N

D

Q

I

L

R

R

C

F

A

K

A

E

L

A

F

E

E

U

T

G

T

H

Y

hahIqeh leh tee weh mee yah Y

wee) M

I

Z

K(nee

EF

E

We ko ge ke ho la fe fe –J YouXare soD cuteN

(wee ko chee key ho leh thee thee)

LAUGH

S

M

I

L

Fi ke la g’ya na te pa – Hold hands

NI SE

QA

(thah key leh ch’yeh neh tee peh) P

SMILE

(keh ho weh see

I

G’

wah nee teh thee p’wah)

E

E

S

PTe

IG

ka’KIki k’yi wa – Don’t be jealous

M(tee

Ekeh

J

H

O

LOkah k’yah weh)

Te ka pi pi ke ge ki wa –V Don’t

Q argue

X

C

Q

P

P

F

(tee keh pah pah key chee kaw weh)

KISS ME

T

K

I

S

S

M

E

E

Ki ke ki ka ho ti ka la te pa – Let’s respect each other all the time

HO LA

FE

(kah key kah keh ho tah keh leh tee peh)

Y

PRETT

HI QA LA TE WA,

PI G’KI ME LO

NI SE QA

NE KI NI

“KISS ME”

“SMILE”

“FRIEND”

He ne ko ge! Si li no ke ka no la p’wi!- That’sHO

all! See you all again!

LA FE

KE LI KE FE

LOVE,

477 DEPARTMENT

ELECTION COMMISSION

“PRETTY”

“LAUGH”

Answer key on page 6

AST Elders

ANNOUNCEMENT OF PROSPECTIVE CANDIDATES

FOR ELECTED OFFICE’S IN 2025

FROM THE ELECTION COMMISSION

Prospective Candidates filing for Elective Offices in 2025 are listed below.

ELECTION COMMISSION

Commissioner

James Cody Spybuck, Jr.

Deputy Commissioner

No Filing

Secretary

No Filing

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe will be closed

Monday, February 17th - Presidents' Day

AST Elders visit Chickasha Festival of Lights on December 21. The group

activity was generously made possible by ASTHS Executive Director Chris

Larkin and the capable driver, Darrol Davis. Davis drove 15 Elders to see the

lights and stopped at McDonald’s on the way back. Everyone had a great time!

The AST Elders Association wants to thank them both for their time and

help with this trip!

February 2025

www.astribe.com

4

AST Education Department:

Big Jim Youth Awards

•

Applications will be accepted from January 1, 8 am CST to February 28, 2025, 5 pm

CST.

o All applications and supporting documents must be postmarked (mail) or

received (in person or email) by February 28th at 5:00 pm CST. Our network

may quarantine emails from Gmail accounts so please call or email to make sure

applications and documents have been received.

o Documents received after the deadline will not be reviewed by judges.

o Official transcripts will be accepted via email, from school personnel, or as a

hard copy. Faxed copies will not be accepted.

The official application form is available at www.astribe.com on the Education page under the

Services tab. The $1,000.00 award is in the form of a scholarship to the school where the award

recipient will attend for the fall 2025 semester. The scholarship must be used for the fall 2025

semester.

Applications are for the following awards:

• Big Jim Academic Achievement Award (Male and Female)

• Big Jim Athlete of the Year (Male and Female)

Please refer to the application for required documents. Eligible applications 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 at a date to be determined after April/May 2025.

Award recipients will be recognized as the 2024-25 Big Jim Academic Achievement Award

winner or the Big Jim Athlete of the Year. In addition to this recognition the award recipients

will receive the $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 3533

youthaward@astribe.com

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma

Building Blocks C.D.C.

2025 S. Gordon Cooper Dr.

Shawnee, Ok. 74801

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

It’s February and our teachers & children are excited about

Valentine’s Day as they do lots of fun activities. On Friday,

February 14th @ 3:00 p.m. the classrooms will have

Valentine’s Day Parties.

Building Blocks will be

closed Monday, February

17th in observance of

President’s Day.

Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 5 pm CST

Finalists announced:

2025 S. Gordon Cooper Drive

Shawnee, OK 74801

April/May 2024

(405) 275-4030 Ext. 3533

youthaward@astribe.com

Check one:

Absentee Shawnee High school seniors of both genders within the 50 United States are eligible

to apply for these awards for the 2024-25 academic year.

Applications accepted:

Big Jim Youth Award

□ $1,000 Scholarship Big Jim Academic Achievement Award (Male)

□ $1,000 Scholarship Big Jim Academic Achievement Award (Female)

□ $1,000 Scholarship Big Jim Athlete of the Year (Male)

□ $1,000 Scholarship Big Jim Athlete of the Year (Female)

STUDENT INFORMATION

Name: ___________________________________________________

(LAST)

(FIRST)

(MI)

Tribal Enrollment #:

Address: _________________________________________________________________________________

(STREET)

Home Phone: (

(CITY)

)

(STATE)

Cell Phone: (

(ZIP)

)

Email:

College/university/vocational institution you plan to attend and course of study/major?

HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION

High School Name:

City:

State:

Advisor/Counselor:

Phone #:

Sport, if applicable:

Position:

Coach:

Phone #:

Indian Education Director:

Phone #:

All Absentee Shawnee High School Seniors are eligible and encouraged to apply.

If applying for both Academic Achievement and Athlete of the year, applicant must provide two (2) separate

applications and sets of supporting documents.

Documents to be included with application:

□ Official High School Transcript (emailed copies sent directly from school personnel will be accepted)

□ Tribal Enrollment Card (copy)

□ Résumé of all relevant Academic or Athletic accomplishments, activities, work experience, etc. (if applying

for both Academic Achievement and Athlete of the Year, you will need two distinctly different résumés)

□ Letter(s) of Recommendation (Educator/Coach/Tribal/Church)

□ 500-word Essay: How do you feel your accomplishments (culture/knowledge/training) as well as your being

an Absentee Shawnee Tribal member will influence your future plans?

□ Video (optional): no more than 10 minutes in length

Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma

Building Blocks III Child Development Center

16051 Little Axe Drive

Norman, OK 73026

PHONE: (405)360-2710 FAX: (405)360-2726

We are a 5 star grant operated facility that is open to the public

and currently accepting applications, if you are interested in your child

attending our center just give us a call. In January we enjoyed a visit

from “The Finer Arts” program, to engage our little artists. We also

enjoyed some snow here and there that was perfect for some science

experiments. The infant’s bulletin board in the picture below was voted

best bulletin board by parent’s for December.

Upcoming Closures

President’s Day - February 17th

Upcoming Events

Valentine’s Day Party – February 14th

Building Blocks Inclement Weather Policy

is that if Shawnee Public Schools Closes

due to weather then Building Blocks will

also Close. Also, if the AST Complex

closes for weather then Building Blocks

will also be Closed!

Have a Fantastic February!!

Story Time with Norman Library - February 19th

STEAM Activity – February 20th

Mad Scientists - February 21st

Director: Skye Foreman Sforeman@astribe.com

Assistant Director: Renee Richardson rrichardson@astribe.com

Thank You

The family of Margie Kinsey wants to thank everyone for their kind words,

help and food during her funeral. We appreciate all of you. Ne yi wa

Tribal Member Corner:

February 25 Article:

Member has asked for the local elders to receive yearly, by Dec 1st, either a one-time

weekly free pay, via check of $520.00 or choose the option, to have the $10 weekly free

play, through the year from the Thunderbird Casino.

The leading causes of house fire, are the following: Cooking, heating devices,

electrical malfunction, smoking, candles, intentional fire setting, Christmas trees,

clothes dryers and washing machines.

Travel when you are young. Upon the many years, I have traveled the US, I seen

many elders struggling to walk, as many of the tourist areas require extensive walking.

In retirement, may not have the resources to travel or health, or live long enough.

Attend a church service and take the time to write an article.

Eileen Pearce, Tribal Member

Comments: Lapearce@att.net

February 2025

www.astribe.com

INTERNATIONAL BOOST SELF-ESTEEM MONTH

AST NATIVE CONNECTIONS FEBRUARY

NEWSLETTER

INTERNATIONAL BOOST SELF-ESTEEM MONTH

BE POSITIVE, BE KIND!

The International

observation to take care

and learn to love

Boost Self-Esteem

1. Remember your past

ourselves.

Month is annually

observed in February. It

accomplishments.

Boosting your self-

is a period set aside in

esteem is important

the year to help us

because it directly

believe in and appreciate

impacts your overall

ourselves

more,

well#WEDORECOVER

despite

HOW TO BOOST

YOUR SELFESTEEM

being,

allowing

whatever we may be

you to feel more

facing. With high self-

confident, motivated,

esteem, one can prevent

resilient in the face of

many problems, like

challenges, improve your

mental health disorders,

relationships, and

and enjoy good overall

achieve your full

health and a state of

potential in

well-being. One is also

life; essentially, a

able to be of valuable

positive self-image

help and support to

empowers you to take on

others. Our mental health

opportunities and

is as important as our

navigate life with a more

physical health, so we

optimistic mindset.

should use this month of

February 1, 2025 [Edition 1, Volume 1]

This is a great period to

remind yourself of the

amazing things you’ve

done, no matter how little

they seem. By, doing this it

will encourage you to look

forward to doing more.

2. Accept and Give

Compliments.

Make sure that when

someone admires and says

something nice about you,

or what you have, you

believe them and sincerely

appreciate the words. As

you feel more confident

with the compliments,

reciprocate to others feel

the same too.

3. Build Habits That Will

Promote Self

Improvement.

Whether it’s to get healthier

in shape or to perform

better in class, develop

habits that will help you

achieve these goals.

Eventually, they will

become realities and you

will see just how amazing

you are!

RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS

Make Kindness the Norm

Random Acts of

Kindness Week –

February 14-20, 2025. We

annually. It's a celebration of

What can you do to

all the ways we can become

celebrate Random Acts of

a positive influence in each

Kindness Week?

other's lives. Even one small

celebrate Random Acts of

act of kindness can mean a

Kindness Week from

great deal to somebody.

February 14 to February 20

International Boost Self-Esteem Month

Volunteer: Help out at a

Create: Create a kindness

local charity or donate your

Help: Help an elderly

time to a volunteer effort

neighbor or relative with

Donate: Donate

clothing, canned food, toys,

or books to a local library or

Little Free Library.

groceries, or help a

pedestrian cross the street.

bulletin board or handmade

Valentine's Day cards.

Support: Support small

businesses by purchasing

gifts or services from them.

Reach out: Call a friend

Compliment: Compliment

a friend or give sincere

to check in, or send a

thoughtful text or handwritten

note.

compliments to people

Host: Host a listening

circle where people can

share their stories.

around you.

AST Native Connections “Journey to Heal”

2025 S. Gordon Cooper Dr.

Shawnee, Ok 74801

Microsoft Office User

International Boost Self-Esteem Month

AST Native Connections “Journey to Heal”

vscarberry@astribe.com

(P) 405.275.4030 X3536

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February 2025

www.astribe.com

We would like to wish our daughter, Kodi

Lauderdale, a Very Happy Birthday!! She’s smart,

a straight A student, silly, she keeps us laughing

daily and she is the most wonderful, loving

Daughter, Sister and Auntie!

We Love You Kodi!!

Love,

Mom & Dad, Lisa & Michael

Sisters-Sianna & Leah & Brother-in-law-Josh and

her baby niece-Sage loves her Auntie Koko

Obituary

Lewis “Sonny” George Snake was born February 10, 1943 to Lewis Snake and Elizabeth “Betty” Ann (Middleton) Sales

in Shawnee, Oklahoma. He passed from this life January 10, 2025, at his home in Shawnee, at the age of 81.

After high school Sonny joined the United States Army. While in the military he served as a Sergeant Major in the

Green Berets, an Army Special Forces Unit. Military awards he received include Expert (Rifle M-1); Marksman (Rifle

M-14 & Carbine Caliber 30); Sharpshooter (Carbines & Rifle); National Defense Service Medal (10 Oak Leaf Clusters);

Army Commendation Medal; Bronze Star Medal; Vietnam Service Medal; Vietnam Campaign Medal; Vietnam Cross

of Gallantry with Palm; Meritorious Unit Commendation; Korean Service Medal; Combat Infantryman Badge; Vietnam Civil Actions Medal (1st Class); Good Conduct Medal (7th Award); Meritorious Service Medal; United Nations

Service Medal; Master Parachute Badge; Vietnam Parachute Badge; 3 Oversea Bars (Indicating 54 months or 4.5 years

of Military Service Overseas – 18 months for each bar); 7 Service Stripes (Indicates 21-23 years of Honorable Service).

Other awards and achievements include Certificate of Recognition from the United States Black Belt Federation to

Certify that: Snake’s Moo Duk Kwan Association and Snake’s Moo Duk Kwan Karate Do, under the leadership of Lewis

George Snake, are fully recognized and duly recorded as a Sogo Budo Ryu in the registry of the United States Black Belt

Federation. Received 10th Degree Black Belt and Title of Hanshi (Master) in the Discipline of Snake’s Moo Duk Kwan

Karate Do by the United States Black Belt Federation.

After retiring from Tinker, he became a private investigator and worked in security. Sonny married Marion “Kay” Hensley on February 19, 2005. He liked doing crossword puzzles, he enjoyed watching Wheel of Fortune, and Friends, and

older TV shows like Andy Griffith, Leave It To Beaver, Happy Days, and Cheers. He really enjoyed playing the game

“Super Mario Brothers” on the Nintendo with his late wife, Kay. He enjoyed seeing the “Great Archway,” in St. Louis and

“Graceland,” the home of Elvis Presley. His greatest achievement was his children, becoming a Master of Martial Arts,

and his military service as a Green Beret in the United States Army. He was a member of the United States Black Belt

Federation, Member of the Masonic Lodge of Freemasonry, and a member of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Marion “Kay”; grandson, Taylor “Lew” Lewis, and several aunts and uncles he was raised and grew up with in Texas.

Those left to cherish his memory are his children: Danny and Terrie Sullivan; Raymond Sullivan; Barry and Pam Snake; Gerald Snake; Brandi and Charles “Chuck” Lewis;

Stewart and Tyann Snake; Amber Snake and Scott Roden; Julia and Jimmy Horn; and Yolanda and Chris Cullison; numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

S'KE PI YE KE S'FWA

Sap Month's Word Search

Find the Shawnee and English words below in the word search.

V

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N

E

K

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PI G’KI ME LO

NI SE QA

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“KISS ME”

“SMILE”

“FRIEND”

HO LA FE

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“PRETTY”

“LAUGH”

February 2025

www.astribe.com

www.asthealth.org

February 2025

www.asthealth.org

ASTHS February 2025 Monthly Update

February is Heart Health Awareness Month

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death among American Indians and Alaska Natives. CVD rates are particularly high in younger American Indians and Alaska Natives. Over a third of CVD deaths occur before the age of 65 and most are secondary to coronary heart disease

(CHD). Over the past 50 years, the prevalence of CVD has been rising

among American Indians and Alaska Natives.

Diabetes is a major contributor to disproportionately higher rates of coronary heart disease among American Indians and Alaska Natives compared

to other racial and ethnic groups. Additional risk factors for CVD include

LDL-C levels, hypertension, renal disease, age, and sex. Smoking and exposure to toxic metals are risk factors for some sub-populations. A quarter

of American Indians live below the federal poverty line, thus low socioeconomic status is an important social determinant of cardiovascular health.

Community-based interventions have reduced CVD risk in American Indians and Alaska Natives. Underreporting of American Indian and Alaska

Native race may underestimate extent of CVD in this population.

How to Prevent a Heart Attack

you have a family history of heart disease or stroke, and mention your own

medical history.

B: Control your blood pressure.

Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing against the walls of

the arteries. If your blood pressure stays high for a long time, you may suffer

from high blood pressure (also called hypertension).

High blood pressure increases your risk for heart attack or stroke more

than any other risk factor. Find out what your blood pressure numbers are,

and ask your health care professional what those numbers mean for your

health. If you have high blood pressure, work with your health care professional to lower it.

C: Manage your cholesterol.

Cholesterol is a waxy substance produced by the liver and found in certain

foods. Your body needs cholesterol, but when you have too much, it can

build up in your arteries and cause heart disease.

There are different types of cholesterol: One type is “good” and can protect

you from heart disease, but another type is “bad” and can increase your risk.

Talk to your health care professional about cholesterol and how to lower

your bad cholesterol if it’s too high.

The best way to survive a heart attack is to never have one. How can you

prevent becoming one of the millions of Americans who suffer a heart attack? There is actually a lot you can do to protect your heart. Knowing the D: Don’t smoke.

risks and symptoms of heart disease is a good start.

Smoking raises your blood pressure, which increases your risk for heart

Key risk factors for heart disease are:

attack and stroke. If you smoke, quit. Talk with your health care professional

about ways to help you stick with your decision. It’s never too late to quit

• High Cholesterol;

smoking.

• Hypertension;

Strategies for improving heart health:

• Smoking;

Community-designed strategies

• Diabetes;

•

Unhealthy body weight;

•

Too much alcohol; and

•

Lack of physical activity.

Strategies that promote tribal sovereignty and decolonization have been

effective. The most effective ways to help, the authors said, are to build relationships, seek the support of leaders, and figure out the barriers and what

resources they need – all done in a way that recognizes bias and respects

culture.

Age is also a risk factor. Your risk for heart disease goes up as you age. In

fact, heart disease is the leading cause of death in people 65 and older. There Integrate traditional healing

are lifestyle choices and changes you can make to lower your risk. When you

Strategies that combine traditional healing with Western medicine have

control your risk factors, you help protect your heart. It’s easy to get started.

been effective. For instance, community talking circles that allow for shared

Here are a few ideas:

decision-making between a patient and their health care provider have

been a longstanding tradition among some American Indians and Alaska

• Eat healthy meals.

Natives. In talking circles, everyone in the group has the right to provide

○ Add vegetables, fruits, whole grains and low-fat dairy to your menu.

uninterrupted perspectives, and they've been used to educate and manage

Enjoy fish at least twice a week. Limit meats, butter and cheeses

diabetes in hard-hit communities.

that are high in saturated fat. Steer clear of packaged and processed

foods. Read food labels so you can avoid foods loaded with added Effective health communication

sugar and salt.

Health communication that considers cultural factors can help reduce

• Add exercise to your life.

misperceptions and increase risk-reducing behaviors. Patients, health care

professionals and community stakeholders should all learn the risk factors

○ Take a brisk 10-minute walk three times a day, 5 days a week.

for cardiovascular disease and act to prevent it.

• If you smoke, quit.

Always talk to your health care provider for diagnosis and treatment, in○ Make a plan to quit, and then set a date to start.

cluding your specific medical needs. If you have or suspect that you have

• Talk with your health care provider.

a medical problem or condition, please contact a qualified health care

○ Ask about lifestyle, exercise and dietary changes you can make to professional immediately. If you are experiencing a medical emergency,

cut your risks. Follow your doctor's advice and take your medicines call 911 or call for emergency medical help immediately.

as directed.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women. The most

common type of heart disease is coronary artery disease, which can lead to

a heart attack. While some heart attacks are sudden and intense, others can

start slowly with mild pain or discomfort. Often people aren't sure what's

wrong and wait too long before getting help. Pay attention to any of the following warnings of a possible heart attack:

References:

American Heart Association (2020), Heart disease, diabetes rates higher for American Indians, Alaska Natives. https://www.heart.org/en/news/2020/05/28/heart-disease-diabetes-rates-higher-for-american-indians-alaska-natives

Breathett K, Sims M, Gross M, et al. Cardiovascular Health in American Indians and Alaska Natives:

A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2020;141(25):e948-e959.

doi:10.1161/CIR.0000000000000773

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2020). ABCS of Heart Health. https://millionhearts.hhs.

gov/data-reports/factsheets/ABCS.html

•

Chest pain or discomfort;

•

Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck or back;

•

Feeling weak, light-headed or faint;

•

Pain in arms or shoulder;

NEW SHAWNEE HEALTH CLINIC!

•

Shortness of breath; and

39665 Benson Park Road, Shawnee, OK 74801 (adjacent to Tecumseh Lake)

•

Nausea (an extra symptom in women).

Shawnee Construction: Design and Development are substantially completed.

Planning for Shawnee ground breaking is being scheduled (February); delayed d/t

zoning (final approval has been attained).

Most importantly, if you think you are having a heart attack, call 911

right away. Quick action helps save lives.

What are the ABCS of heart health?

A: Take aspirin as directed by your health care professional.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

Shawnee Health Center

January 2025 Health Employee Awards of the Month

Employee of the Month: Sandra Abshire, Desktop Analyst

Team of the Month: Nikki Damrill, LPN and Brittany Snolis, LPN

Ask your health care professional if aspirin can reduce your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Be sure to tell your health care professional if Special Leadership Award: Bertha “Mae” Amous, Behavioral Health RN

Chris A. Larkin, MBA, FACHE, CHC

Executive Director

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February 2025

www.astribe.com

MONDAY

TUESDAY

3

CHICKEN FRIED STEAK

MASHED POT/GRAVY

TURNIP GREENS

PEARS

10

PORK CHOP

BRUSSEL SPOURTS

BREAD

MIXED FRUIT

17

PRESIDENT’S DAY

CLOSED

4

24

25

BEEF FINGERS

MASHED POT/GRAVY

BEETS

PINEAPPLES

11

18

TACO

TUESDAY

MANDARIN

ORANGES

CHILI W/BEANS

CHEZ STICKS

APPLESAUCE

BAKED CHICKEN

WILD RICE

VEGGIES

ROLL/APRICOTS

SLOPPY JOE

TATER TOTS

COOKIE

ORANGE

WEDNESDAY

5

CHICKEN ALFREDO

*TOSSED SALAD

GARLIC BREAD

FLUFF

12

HOAGIE

SANDWICH

MAC SALAD

JELL-O

19

GRILLED CHEZ

SANDWICH

VEGGIE SOUP

PUDDING

26

BAKED ZITA

TOSSED SALAD*

PEARS

THURSDAY

6

EGG ROLL

FRIED RICE w

VEGGIES

FORTUNE COOKIES

13

CHICKEN BROCC &

RICE CASSEROLE

PEACHES

20

HAM

RANCH ROASTED

BROC

ROLL/CAKE

27

TURKEY

DRESSING

YAM PATTY

CRISP

MENU SUBJECT TO CHANGE*

LUNCH IS SERVED FROM 11 AM TO 1PM

BREAKFAST IS SERVED FROM 9AM TO 11AM

SERVING AT THE SHAWNEE SITE AND LITTLE AXE RESOURCE CENTER

FRIDAY

7

WAFFLES

BACON

APPLE SLICES

14

SAUSAGE GRAVY

BISCUIT

GRAPES

21

ENGLISH MUFFIN

SAUSAGE PATTY

FRUIT

28

CEREAL

SAUSAGE PATTY

TOAST/FRUIT