Shatka Bear Step
Chief Shatka Bear-Step, an old friend of the Scottsdale Jaycees, performed with them in their early play-acting scenes of the old West during the Parada del Sol. A horse stealer was one of several roles he played. He was known for his Appaloosa stallion, Apache Tears.
Bear-Step, whose real name was Richard Spencer, was a silversmith by trade.
An Appaloosa showman and promoter, Shatka Bear Step added colorful and romantic aspects to the breed. Shatka was the father of Mr. Dick Spencer (Western Horseman Magazine) and a well-known silver and turquoise artist. He was featured on national television depicting the Lord’s prayer in Indian Sign Language. He produced several awards for the Appaloosa Horse Club, including the Shatka Bear Step award given to the overall high point youth at each National Show.
