# Absentee Shawnee Tribe Receives Original Spybuck Painting (2025)

> Briefs, arguments, decisions, and more.

URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aabsentee%3Aee1e8b49ae2cb091

## Record

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

## Text

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.
ABSENTEE SHAWNEE 477 DEPARTMENT

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VENDOR CONTACT: MELINDA FERRELL EXT. 3667
ALL OTHER INFO: SCOTT MILLER EXT. 3528
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AST 477 PROGRAM IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ACCIDENTS, INJURIES, OR THEFT.
NO ALCOHOL OR DRUGS ALLOWED.
SUBJECT TO CHANGE CHECK AST OFFICAL FACEBOOK PAGE FOR ANY UPDATES

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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6

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

C

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N

E

K

I

N

I

V

Y

M

I

Z

J

T

N

M

X

A

J

X

D

N

Y

H

I

K

K

G

S

M

I

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P

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P

I

G’

K

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F

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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

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Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aabsentee%3Aee1e8b49ae2cb091. Public record. Not legal advice.