Members brave snow and

Tribal code

Ask Donna

What actually matters in this document.

Text

Member News

Restoration

Powwow 2023

Members brave snow and

chilly weather to enjoy

expanded Restoration

Powwow

December 2023

Tribal News

December 2023

Chairwoman Schmidt speaks at White House’s

“Communities in Action” event

(WASHINGTON) –

Ponca Tribe of Nebraska

Chairwoman Candace

Schmidt was in attendance at the White House

to participate in the

Biden-Harris Administration’s “Communities in

Action” event, focusing

on federal investment in

the states of Nebraska,

North Dakota and South

Dakota. Chairwoman

Schmidt shared with

White House officials

how federal investment

in Nebraska and Indian

Country is benefiting

Tribal Members by better

connecting and protecting

their communities.

“For more than 30 years,

since our restoration

by the federal government, the Ponca Tribe

of Nebraska has steadily

rebuilt our tribal rolls,

slowly reclaimed our native land by repurchasing

it and invested in critical

services our Members

deserve,” said Ponca

Tribe of Nebraska Chairwoman Candace Schmidt.

“I appreciate the White

House’s invitation to

share how federal investment is benefiting our

community. As a Tribe

restored without a settlement, federal infrastructure dollars are critical to

connect our people – both

through safe and reliable

• Investments to betterprotect smaller communities from extreme

flooding, like what the

Ponca Tribe of Nebraska

has experienced in recent

years in Niobrara, Neb.

• Three formula grant

opportunities totaling

more than $1.1 million for rural areas and

Tribal Transit through

the Infrastructure Investtransportation channels,

across Nebraska. This

ment and Jobs Act (IIJA).

and by connecting our

includes:

The Ponca Tribe of Nepeople digitally through

• $67 million in levee

braska operates the Ponca

high-speed internet that

repairs in the Missouri

Express transportation

will allow them to learn

River Basin announced by service, which is available

and access Tribal services,

the Army Corps of Engi- to both Tribal Members

like health care, job trainneers

and the general public.

ing and cultural preservation. Further, funding for

flood mitigation efforts

will protect our people,

land, crops, and our

sacred buffalo in the Missouri River Basin.”

The Ponca Tribe of Nebraska has a 15-county

service delivery area,

which spans portions

of Iowa, Nebraska and

South Dakota. The Tribe

maintains offices in

Lincoln, Neb., Niobrara,

Neb., Norfolk, Neb.,

Omaha (Ralston), Neb.

and Sioux City, Iowa.

According to the White

House, nearly $1.3 billion

in federal funding has

been announced for 127

infrastructure projects

On the cover: Ponca member Charlie Iron Thunder dances at the 2023 Restoration Powwow, held October 28 in Norfolk, NE. More pictures of

the Restoration Powwow can be found on pages 2-3.

December 2023

Tribal News

Chairwoman’s Corner

Greetings Relatives,

Standing Bear and the

small band get released

Over 146 years ago the

and allowed to continue

Ponca people experienced

northward, but the

our greatest challenge

trial was a momentous

as a people; being

victory. For it was at

forcibly removed from

this point Native people

our homelands along the

were declared “persons”

Niobrara river. During the

according to the law.

Ponca Trail of Tears we

lost nearly everything…

Despite everything our

land, resources, relatives

leaders overcame, there

of all ages, and our home. was still more our people

Even through the heavy

had to endure. In 1962,

rains, mud, cold weather,

the Northern Ponca were

and all the tremendous

identified as one of the

loss the Ponca people did tribes to be terminated

not lose hope.

through the Termination

Act. For nearly 30 years

Hope of something

the Northern Ponca lost

better back home.

even more, including

Through perseverance

our culture and identity.

and commitment to

Thankfully, once again our

fulfilling a promise, our

people did not give up.

Chief Standing Bear and a

The Ponca Restoration

band of others began the

Committee was formed

trek back north to return

in an effort to regain

home. This journey led

federal recognition. It was

to more adversity (such

through these efforts

as being arrested shortly

that we were restored

after they left), but the

33 years ago on October

outcome in the end was

31, 1990. Had those

worth it. Not only did

on the committee not

Other activities/events to highlight:

• Second general membership meeting

held on 11/18

• NCAI Convention and Great Plains Caucuses

• Strategic Planning Sessions

• BIA Budget Meetings

• G2E Gaming Expo

• Turkey giveaways and holiday events

• Nebraska Intertribal Coalition Meeting

• Office site visits and planning meetings

• Housing Legal Symposium

wí’

come together for the

betterment of all of us, we

would not have what we

do today. We have come a

long way and have a lot to

be proud of. I truly believe

together we can achieve

anything.

On Ponca Restoration

Day, we remember and

reflect. Remember all that

our ancestors endured

and overcame. Reflect on

what it truly means to be

Ponca.

I wish all our relatives

and friends a wonderful

holiday season. If this year

you have an empty seat,

leave that spirit plate in

your loved ones honor,

cherish those memories,

and be gentle on yourself.

Take care and talk soon.

WiBthaHa,

Candace Schmidt

Ponca Tribal Chairwoman

• Prairie Flower Casino celebrates 5 years

(thank you PFC team members!)

• Hand Game and Restoration Powwow

(celebrating 33 years!)

• Native American Heritage Month Proclamation

from Nebraska Governor

• Chief Standing Bear Prize for Courage Dinner

(Congrats Senator Brewer!)

• Ponca Pa’tha’ta Ceremonial Opening of first

Ponca Earthen Lodge (congrats to our southern

relatives!)

EMAIL: candaces@poncatribe-ne.org

PHONE (call/text): (402) 860-1497

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

2023 Restoration Powwow

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

December 2023

nąbá

December 2023

dábdì

2023 Restoration Powwow

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

Culture

December 2023

Hand Game held in conjunction with Restoration Powwow

Looking for more photos? All our official Ponca Tribe of Nebraska

photos are available on Flickr @PoncaTribeofNE.

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

dúba

December 2023

Tribal News

District 3 members enjoy monthly potluck

On November 11th,

Ponca Tribe of Nebraska members in

District 3 gathered

to enjoy the first of

many monthly pot

lucks. These events

are scheduled for the

second Saturday of

every month. Tribal

Council provides

the main entree, and

members are invited

to bring a side dish

to share. For more

information, please

contact District 3

Tribal Council Representatives Susie Baker,

925.788.0649 and

Shanna Carpenter,

402.805.0883

Winners of the District 1

Pumpkin Carving Contest

Calling all

Ponca Artists!

Ponca Tribe of Nebraska members are invited to

submit their designs for the 30th Annual Northern

Ponca Powwow t-shirt. The artist whose design is

selected will be compensated $300 for their art,

and have their art credited on the t-shirt. Artists

may submit previously submitted art. Designs

MUST be submitted NO LATER THAN 11:59 pm,

February 29th, 2024.

Ponca Tribe of Nebraska members only. All

artwork must be high resolution, and scalable to

t-shirt size. For more information, or to submit

designs, please email rwrightjr@poncatribe-ne.org.

sát’ą

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

Tribal News

December 2023

Members enjoy Halloween food, fun, a

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

šáp’è

December 2023

Tribal News

and games at District events in October!

District 3

District 4

December 21 | 5-7 pm

December 14 | 6 pm

Holiday Dinner Christmas Party

Ponca Tribe of Nebraska Community Room

1600 Windhoek | Lincoln, NE

District 3 members are invited to

come celebrate the holidays together.

Join us for food, activities, Bingo,

gifts for the whole family, and

a visit from Santa! Dress your

best for FREE family portraits!

Ponca Tribe of Nebraska Gym & Cafeteria

1800 Syracuse Ave | Norfolk, NE

District 4 members are invited to come

celebrate the holidays together. Join us

for a hot cocoa station, meal, bounce houses, a

visit from Santa, and live music! Dress your best

for FREE family portraits!

For more information, please contact

Kyle Taylor at 402.750.4299.

For more information,

please contact District 3

Tribal Council Reps:

Susie Baker,

925.788.0649

and Shanna Carpenter,

402.805.0883

p’énąbà

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

Tribal News

December 2023

Cornhole tournament held before Restoration Powwow

adman

Ste

Roy-Jai

Fred Le

Stetson University vs. UNO Mavericks

December 17 |1:00 pm

Baxter Arena | 2425 S 67th Street | Omaha, NE

Jai Steadman, proud Ponca Tribe of Nebraska

member, and Head Men’s Basketball Coach at

Independence Community College in Kansas

would like to invite Native American students

and their families to come and watch as Stetson

University takes on the UNO Mavericks. There

will be free food and drinks, and holiday goodie

bags. Transportation to and from the game is also

available.

For more information, or to RSVP, please call

Nancie at 402.450.1095.

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

Honoring Fred LeRoy,

Former Ponca Tribe

Chairman

p’edábdì

December 2023

Tribal News

Omaha elders enjoy

movie showing

On Friday, October 20, some members of the

Omaha elders group had the opportunity to attend one of the first showings of “Killers of the

Flower Moon,” thanks to an anonymous donor. Everyone had a great time. We would like

to thank our donor for their generosity that

enabled these elders to have that experience!

Toys for Tots

Distribution

District 1 - Niobrara Headquarters & Sioux City

December 11 | 8 am-4:30 pm

District 2 - Ralston Transit Building

December 7 | 9 AM - 3 PM (Ponca)

December 8 | 10AM - 6PM (Ponca)

December 14 & 15 (Any Natives)

District 3 - December 15 | 10AM - 4PM

District 4 - December 14

1 hour prior to Holiday event - end

The Ponca Tribe of Nebraska is holding a Toys for Tot

distribution at all office locations for ALL Ponca Youth

(regardless of residency in the Service Delivery Area),

NO SIGN-UP REQUIRED! Members must come to the

office location on the date/time specified to pick up

gifts. No gifts will be delivered.

šák’a

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

Health

December 2023

Diabetes Program holds

Diabetes Day presentations

The Ponca Tribe of Nebraska

Diabetes Program held several

presentations across the office

locations in recognition of World

Diabetes Day on November

14th. Diabetes Program staff

presented information about

diabetes, and gave a cooking

demonstration on a diabetes diet

friendly meal.

Culture teachers

wanted!

Are you interested in sharing Ponca culture and knowledge with

others? The Ponca Tribe of Nebraska Culture Department is

seeking Ponca members interested in teaching various aspects

of Ponca culture (regalia, beading, singing, dancing, food, etc.) at

classes throughout the coming year.

To be considered, please send a sample of your work (video,

picture, etc.) to Culture Director Ricky Wright, Jr. at rwrightjr@

poncatribe-ne.org or 402.371.8834.

MEMBER NEEDED FOR POWWOW COMMITTEE VACANCY

Due to a resignation, there is a vacancy on the Pow Wow Committee for a term that will expire on 9/30/25.

Letters of Interest are being accepted at this time. Committee members are paid a $250 stipend plus mileage

reimbursement up to 410 miles at the current federally approved rate. If you are interested in serving please submit

your letter of interest to Ponca Tribal Council, Attn: Candace Repenning, P.O. Box 288, Niobrara, NE 68760 or via

e-mail to crepenning@poncatribe-ne.org. Deadline to apply is December 31, 2023.

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

gdébą

December 2023

Health

Do you have a medical billing concern?

In the event that Ponca Health Services cannot provide the needed specialty care, the PRC program may

be available to pay for care administered by private or external healthcare providers. The PRC Program is

considered the payer of last resort and Federal Regulations require patients to exhaust all health care resources

available to them from private insurance, state health programs (e.g., Medicare, Medicaid) before the PRC

program can provide payment. There are several requirements before a patient can be authorized for the

program. Please call 402-371-8834 for more information about the PRC program.

Questions to ask yourself when you are referred

to an outside doctor:

1. Did your Ponca Health Service provider submit a PRC referral?

2. Did you consult with the PRC Department about your referral?

3. Did you inform the outside doctor’s office that you are PRC eligible?

4. Did you provide your insurance card to the doctor’s office

during your visit?

Steps to take when you receive a medical bill in the mail:

1. Call the phone number that is located on your patient bill:

• Inform the office that you received a bill in the mail.

• Provide account number and any other information they request.

• Inquire if they have your insurance information, if not provide it.

• Inform them that you are Ponca Health Service PRC eligible.

Facts to know about PRC Funds:

1. PRC receives yearly funding. It is used

from October 1st to September 30th.

2. All PRC patient referrals must be approved,

otherwise PRC funding will not be applied

to your patient bill.

3. PRC patients must apply for any alternate

resources for which you may be eligible

(Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance etc.)

4. PRC funding is a Payer of last resort. It

pays only for costs not paid for by your

alternate resources.

2. Submit your bill to the Ponca Health Service PRC Department:

• PRC does not always know that you have an unpaid medical bill.

• Please contact a PRC Staff member to discuss your bill.

• Please submit your most current updated insurance card,

so our system can be updated accordingly.

Ponca Health Services - Purchased/Referred Care (PRC)

1800 Syracuse Ave | Norfolk NE 68701

Phone: 402.371.8834 or 800.405.0365 | Fax: 402.371.0176

agdíwį

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

Emergency Services

December 2023

Take these important steps to prepare your car and home

There are lots of things to look

forward to in December – the

holidays, good food, family, bright

lights, but with this joyful time of

year also comes winter weather.

contact with the road surface,

causing a loss of traction. In

some cases, a little under inflation (2-4 psi) may be beneficial.

life. They are best kept stored

for long periods by charging fully then discharging

to about 70-75% of storage

capacity before storage.

Winter weather in the Midwest is

extremely variable and can sometimes prove unpredictable, even for

the most seasoned meteorologists.

That’s why we should always be

prepared to face any winter weather conditions.

d. Brakes serviced and inspected

The Ponca Tribe’s Environmental

and Emergency Services Departments would like to share a comprehensive list of important tips

and tricks to be properly prepared

for winter weather.

g. Air conditioning serviced.

Some makes of automobiles

route defroster air through air

conditioning first to dry it out

b. Booster packs for jump-starting automobiles use a leadacid battery. They should

be stored in a place where

temperatures are well above

freezing when not packed

for travel and should not be

subjected to very cold temperatures for long periods.

They should be maintained,

routinely checked for charge

purposes, and recharged immediately after use to maintain optimal efficiency. Many

booster packs now come with

additional power features,

such as USB ports for charging cell phones and digital

devices. Some booster packs

even come with built-in AC

power inverter and can run

some low-power AC devices

1. Have proper winter footwear

and outerwear.

e. All fluids at optimal levels

and changed as needed, especially engine oil, transmission

fluid, and brake fluid

f. Windshield wipers replaced

4. Make sure you always have at

least a half tank of gas in your

car at all times during the winter

months.

2. Always have some sort of emera. Top off before you go on any

gency roadside survival kit ready

trips greater than 10 or 15

in case your car gets stuck or

miles away from your starting

stalls during bad weather. This

point over open roads

roadside kit could consist of any

b. Keep your gas tank full durof the following: first aid kit,

ing periods of extreme cold

c. Avoid discharging your cell

winter clothes, snow shovel and

to help fight development of

phone. Be sure to not let your

brush, blanket(s), emergency

moisture in the fuel tank due

cell phone get below a healthy

blanket, flare(s), jumper cables,

to condensation (temps below

minimum battery life, such

cell phone charger, flashlight,

-10F)

as 30%. This helps the batwater, snacks (non-perishable

tery maintain life in very cold

foods), tow rope, spare tire,

5. Have flashlights and extra battemperatures.

survival candles, compass etc.

teries stored at work and at

home. Keep in mind, very cold

6. If you take any prescription

3. Be sure to have your car or

temperatures can greatly reduce

medications, make sure you

truck made ready for winter.

battery life. Batteries, flashlights,

are stocked up in case you are

a. Battery tested and charged

and booster packs should not be

unable to get to the pharmacy.

(replace if it is 5 years or

stored in vehicles overnight or

NOTE: Some drugs are conolder)

for lengthy periods.

trolled substances and stock of

additional doses or refilling beb. Tire tread at least 4/32” deep

a. Li-ION powered storage

fore a prescription runs out may

on all four tires

devices, such as power bricks,

not be possible.

should be charged and disc. Tires inflated to proper prescharged every three months

7. Always have an emergency heat

sure. Over inflation causes the

to maintain their best battery

source available in case your

tire tread to not have good

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

agdínąbá

December 2023

Emergency Services

e, to protect yourself and your family in winter weather.

primary heat source fails. Examples of this include: a fireplace,

wood stove, or a space heater.

able food that can sustain your

household for at least a week.

13. Have extra food and an appropriate warm shelter for animals

living on your property. For

animals that spend a majority

of their time outside, care must

be taken to protect them from

strong winds that come along

9. Be sure to have sewer vents and

with winter weather. Outdoor

chimney flues inspected and

animals may also require more

ensure proper operation. If vents

feed than normal during cold

are not maintained, they may

periods.

ice up and cause a back-up of

gas into the house. Chimney

14. If possible, purchase a NOAA

flues that are not cleaned when

Weather Radio or portable radio

needed may be at risk of causing

to receive emergency information.

a chimney fire when in use.

a. Download a weather radio

10. Weatherproof your home,

app, NWS Weather app, or

check for and seal any drafts,

FEMA Alerts app on your

especially around doors and

phone.

windows.

b. Be able to receive weather and

11. If you have babies or toddlers

community information by

in your home, be sure to stock

means other than internet or

up on plenty of diapers, forprovider subscription service.

mula, baby medication, baby

15. Finally, if you are stranded

foods, and/or additional nursing

while driving, do these things:

supplies that may be needed, including high protein foods and/

a. Stay with your vehicle – it is

or lactation aid supplements for

the best form of shelter you

the nursing mom.

will be able to find, especially

if you have it stocked with

a. Traveling with baby, be sure

a winter survival kit. It also

to have an extra diaper bag in

offers you the best chances

the trunk with items such as:

of being found by immediate

portable changing pad, extra

responders or others willing/

diapers, diaper cream, hand

able to give aid.

sanitizer, baby wipes, extra

sippy cup, bottle and/or pacib. Call – be sure to call on your

fier. Be sure to keep a heavy

cellphone for help. Most

winter coat, hat, gloves,

smart phones are equipped

warm socks, extra baby food,

with a maps app that you can

and toys/games for baby in

use to give your location to

the cabin with you.

emergency responders.

8. Make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are working correctly and that the outside vent

is clear of leaves, debris, and

snow.

12. In case of power outages, keep

on hand a supply of non-perishagdídábdì

c. Take Inventory – if you have

one, go through winter survival

kit to check on all items. If you

do not have a winter survival

kit, take and inventory supplies

and tools that are in your vehicle. Take stock of how much

fuel the vehicle has.

d. Remain calm – In this situation, it is best to remain calm

to avoid expending too much

energy.

e. Keep Warm – use emergency

survival blankets and winter

clothes to stay warm. Several

people can huddle together

for warmth and conservation

of body heat.

f. Turn on Hazard lights – Be

sure to turn on your hazard

lights so emergency responders can see your automobile.

This also alerts snow plows

that you are there to avoid

any collisions.

g. Run Car Periodically – Run

the vehicle as necessary every

hour to keep the battery and

cell phone charged and the

cabin warmed. Avoid running

many auxiliary systems to

conserve power.

h. Occasionally check that the

exhaust pipe is clear of snow.

A clogged pipe can lead to

carbon monoxide poisoning

i. Wait – Wait for help

If you have any further questions

on topics about or related to this

article, please reach out to the Environmental Department or Emergency Services Department. All

contact Information can be found

on the Ponca website: https://www.

poncatribe-ne.org/

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

Health

December 2023

Members and staff go pink for Breast Cancer Awareness

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

agdídúba

December 2023

Elders

Elders groups

get spooky for

Halloween!

Elders Christmas Parties

Lincoln: December 11

Omaha: December 12

Sioux City: December 13

Norfolk: December 14

Niobrara: December 15

12-2 pm all locations!

Elders are invited to join the

CHWs for holiday food and

fun. Enjoy holiday games, and

wear your ugliest sweater for

the Ugly Sweater Contest!

Prizes will be awarded.

agdísát’ą

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

Behavioral Health

December 2023

Behavioral Health

Book Club gets active

The Behavioral Health Book Club in Lincoln promoted activity at the November

meeting, with a variety of traditional activities including archery and lacrosse, followed

by a book discussion. This club is part of a

partnership with the Lincoln Indian Center,

and meets the first Monday of each month.

Behavioral Health Food Pantry

Third Wednesday of each month | 9 am-12 pm

Ponca Admin Building | 5805 S 86th Circle | Omaha, NE

Ponca Health Services | 1600 Windhoek Dr | Lincoln, NE

Ponca Tribe Gym Building | 1800 Syracuse Ave. | Norfolk, NE

Ponca Health Services – Behavioral Health is pleased to be able to

offer food pantry to all current Ponca Health Services clients. Sioux

City and Niobrara will have pantry delivery available. Please reach

out to your case manager.

Clients MUST reach out to their

case manager to ensure all required

assessments are completed in

advance of pantry days.

Omaha: Bri Gardner

402.738.3153

bgardner@poncatribe-ne.org

Lincoln: Salissa Tonkin

402.940.2602

stonkin@poncatribe-ne.org

Norfolk: Kylie Haase

531.242.1027

khaase@poncatribe-ne.org

Sioux City: Chris Denney

712.258.0500

cdenney@poncatribe-ne.org

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

agdíšáp’è

December 2023

Behavioral Health

Norfolk Behavioral

Health Youth Group in

full swing with fall events

The Norfolk area Behavioral Health

Youth group has been active this fall,

participating in a variety of activities

and awareness events, including Go

Purple events to promote domestic violence awareness. The group meets each

Wednesday. For more information, contact Leah Franklin at 402-371-8834.

agdíp’énąbà

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

Tribal News

December 2023

D2 SDA elder

holiday basket

thank you

A special THANKS to Shannon Malone

and Trezure Patlan for always ensuring

that our D2 SDA elders are taken care of

with their holiday food baskets. Shannon

and Trezure continue to help purchase,

assemble, and deliver these baskets to our

elders 65+ in the Omaha area. We appreciate all you do!

- Becci and Falon

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

CIL

Limit of two products per female Ponca Tribe of NE member. Must be

between the ages of 12-24. Must be actively enrolled and information must

match that of enrollment. Please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery.

Female Ponca Tribe of Nebraska members ages

12-24 can order any two menstrual products:

• Period Panties

• Menstrual Cup

• Nighttime Pads

Order any two products

for FREE online at https://

ow.ly/YxtJ50PKLpt. The

products will be mailed

directly to you.

Period.

No problem.

All female Ponca Tribe

of Nebraska members

ages 12-24 are invited to

participate in the Osni

Ponka Youth Council No

Problem. Period. Project.

agdíp’edábdì

December 2023

Youth Council

Youth Council Great Pumpkin Contest Winners

Youth Winners

1st Place - Aidan Thompson

2nd Place - Rolando Venegas

3rd Place - Ava Beauvais

Adult Winners

1st Place - Elizabeth Venegas

2nd Place - Michael Wright

3rd Place - Bradley Johnson

Interested in obtaining your GED?

The Ponca Tribe of Nebraska offers members a $250 incentive upon

successful completion of the program plus $60 to be applied toward

testing fees.

For any questions or to obtain an application, please contact Aubrey

or Pat in Education at (402) 371-8834 or you may email them at

aknudsen@poncatribe-ne.org or pate@poncatribe-ne.org.

agdíšąk’a

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

Education

December 2023

Did you know?

Our PTN Education

programs are open to

members nationwide!

• Need based funding in our Higher Education, Adult

Vocational Training, and Graduate programs at the

post-secondary level.

• K-12 Youth Incentive program

• GED Incentive Program and GED testing fee assistance

For more information on any of these programs, please

contact the Education Department at 402.371.8834, via

email at pate@poncatribe-ne.org

or aknudsen@poncatribe-ne.org, or via mail:

Ponca Tribe of Nebraska, Department of Education

1800 Syracuse Ave | Norfolk, NE 68701

Attention All AVT/HIED

Students Nationwide:

Please remember to submit your official

transcripts after EACH term funded in order to

be eligible to receive future funding. Students

must apply each school year.

Spring 2024 deadline: December 15, 2023

Summer 2024 deadline: May 15, 2024

Fall 2024 deadline: August 15, 2024

The Ponca Educational Trust Fund is available

nationwide to students who enroll at one of

the University of Nebraska Campuses/Online

Courses: Lincoln ~ Omaha ~ Kearney (Must

be enrolled in 12 or more credit hours per

semester to be eligible)

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

Attention All K-12 YIP Students Nationwide:

• High School Seniors for the 2022-2023 school year are eligible to receive a

$500.00 Graduation Incentive!

• Our department is accepting projects for incentives in the following areas: Art,

Essay/Poetry, and Student of the Month. *Winners may receive $100.00 for

1st place, $50.00 for 2nd place, and $25.00 for 3rd place. Grade divisions are as

follows: Primary (K-2), Intermediate (3-5), Middle (6-8), and High School (9-12)

• Perfect Attendance $100.00 (0-.49 days of absenteeism), $50.00 (.5-3.49 days

absenteeism), and $25.00 (3.5-5.49 days of absenteeism).

Deadline to apply for the 2023-2024 school year is July 31, 2024.

All Education Department Applications and Program Information are available

online on our tribal website. If you have any questions for the education

department, please feel free to contact Aubrey Knudsen at: office (402)3718834, work cell (402)844-0957, or aknudsen@poncatribe-ne.org. *Ponca tribal

enrollment is required for ALL education programs*

gdébąnąbá

December 2023

Tribal News

COMING SOON: FREE Online Cybersecurity in Agriculture Training!

Calling all Farmers, Ranchers, Rural Landowners, Farmers Markets, and related

businesses who have an interest in bolstering your technology; Cyber Security

and National Security interested people and businesses that want to learn more

about how they can work within the $1+ trillion-dollar agriculture industry. We

have FREE cybersecurity in agriculture online training coming soon! More to

come as we begin to create the modules/training. All training will be available

virtually, so you may take it in the privacy of your home. In-person training will

also be available as we work to set up locations if that is your preference.

• Do you have an on-line presence related to agriculture or cybersecurity products affecting accounting, feed, inventory,

food, planting, land usage or other aspects of the agriculture industry?

• Do you feel the need to be more informed about Cybersecurity?

• How could Ransomware affect you and your business? How could it affect crops, produce, cattle, Buffalo, finances,

inventory, and more?

• Are you Ponca, another tribe, or any agricultural producer located in Nebraska currently using some amount of tech for

your agriculture? You may be eligible for an additional specific learning opportunity!

Please reach out to lloucks@pedco-ne.org for more information!

Interested

in pursuing

a career in

trucking?

The Ponca WIOA Program

may be able to connect

you with resources!

PONCA TRIBE OF NEBRASKA

Colleen Plasek | Ralston | 402.315.2765

Bianca Moreno | Norfolk | 531.207.2455

Lisa Agans | Lincoln | 531.893.3931

gdébąnąbá kí wí’

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

Enrollment

December 2023

HELP US UPDATE OUR MEMBER INFORMATION!

Hello Members,

The Enrollment Department is doing their best to keep our members information current and up to date but we

can’t do it without your help. If you’ve moved or need to report a death please contact us to let us know.

Below is a list of members that are inactive. This means that we do not have a current address for them on

file or maybe a death was never reported or documents were never received. If you see the name of someone

you know who has moved please contact them and tell them to update their information with us. If there is the

name of

someone you know who has passed please contact us. We need a death certificate or document on file in

order to change their status.

You may contact the Enrollment Department at enrollment@poncatribe-ne.org, or contact the Niobrara

or Lincoln offices.

We appreciate your help!

INACTIVE MEMBERS AS OF 12/1/2023

Ahlman, Dylan Andrew

Anthony, Jr., Steven Scott

Arrow, Robert Eugene

Bagent, Wayne Orval

Baggett, Alex James

Baggett, Donovon Joseph

Banuelos, Christa Rose

Barber, Gabriela Marie

Bear, Joshua Gilbert

Beaver, Jason Chaska

Becker, Jr., Anthony Arnold

Becker, Sr., Anthony Arnold

Becker, Tyller Randell

Bell, Darian Patrick

Bell, Shaune` Kay

Birdhead, William Randolph

Blowe, Dominick Adams

Blowe, Isaiah Fredrick

Blowe, Tyrone Richard

Boettger, Dakota Birdhead

Boettger, Jarell Duncan

Boyer, Berlin N.

Branstiter, Brett Theodore

Brownrigg, Steven Francis

Burston, Sandra Lee

Carter, Amber Lynn

Christiansen,

Delores Alexandrea

Christiansen, Kari Bianca

Cooks, Jeremy Jurai

Cournoyer-Galindo,

Monique Rosabelle

Courtright, Michael Todd

Crowder, Delorse Sue

Cutshall, Katline James

Danielson, Daniel James

Drapeaux, Juston Lee

Eckley, Lane Emory

Eckley, Leigha Irene

Evans, Kaci Antonette

Evans, Matthew James

Fasthorse, Beverlee Ann

Fink, Alissa Rose

Flagg, I I I., George Albert

Flowers, Diamonds Ann

Flowers, Joseph

Foley, Michael Joseph

Foster, Michele Paige

Freeman, Xavier Lee

Garcia, Cia Christine

Glenn, John Allen

Glisan, Cynthia Lynn

Gortarez, Gina Marie

Gortarez, Rudy John

Goss, Mamie L.

Govia, Isaiah Lee

Govia, Mc Kenzie Jo

Grant, I I I., Jesse Clarence

Haahr, Anneliese Teresa

Haak, Mikayla Patricia

Hamilton, Bobbi-Jo Danielle

Hansen, Dorothy Johannah

Hart-La Londe,

Kaedyn Mikael

Hennek, Gail Howe

Henritze, Joseph Dale

Henritze, Karen June

Hill, Mary Jane

Hocking-Gosnell, Zalla C.

Hope, Dorothea Jo Ann

Horine, Ashley Danielle

Howard, Truman Ardell

Howe, Richard H.

Humphreys, Belinda Kay

Jeppesen, Zachary Lee

Johnson, Daniel James

Johnson, Lukus Tyler

Johnson, Nicholas Adair

Jones, Christopher Lee

Kelso, James Alan

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

Kerrigan, Kathleen Ann

King, Gavin Michael

Klug, Jeremy Tyler

Knudsen, Anthony James

Krueger, Annette Marie

Kyles, Jarred Joseph

Latimer, LaRohn Lewis

Le Roy Jr, Uriah David

Le Roy, Gisele Marie

Lerew Jr, Zachariah Ray

Lieb, Donovan Joseph

Lieb, Sylas Vittorio

Little, Jeromy Todd

Livermore, Lakin Mardell

Lopez, Jr., Juan Francisco

Maben, Jessica Paige

Mann, Sydney Desiree`

Mategko, Lisa Louise

McAtee, Laiya Nicole

McClure III,

Tommy James Franklin

McGrath, Bryan Thomas

McGrath, Daniel Patrick

Mercier, Jade Sharice

Morris, Joseph James

Mullen, Owen Dean

Pass, Taylor Lynn

Peck, Brandalynn

Peck, Tyler Duane

Petersen, Kevin Lee

Phillips, Noah Trench

Phillips, William Diamond

Pierce, Raychel Marie

Polly, Rachael Anne

Prichard, Joseph John

Prunty, Austin Joe

Quintana Jr, Arthur Jose

Raymond, Joseph Allen

Richard, Robert Brandon

Roberts, Marquitta Ruby

Rulo, Byron

Russell, Kristina Anne

Sainz, Tritia Jeanene

Sarton, Gwendolyn Lee

Schmidt, Jr., Karl Michael

Scuderi, Jana Marie

Scurlocke,

Athena Larissa Lucille

Sherman, Cody Lee

Sherman, Harold Dewayne

Sherman, John Glenn

Sherman, Michael Ray

Sherman, Mitchell Everett

Sherman, Robert Le Roy

Shiltz, Shirley Ann

Smith, Ashley Nicole

Standsblack, Marko Tulio

Stegman,

Mi’a Miwasa Nevaeh

Stivers, Andrew Jonathan

Stuczynski, Drake Keegan

Swinarski, Alicia Estrada

Thomas, II,

Scott Richard Herbert

Thomas, Jenny Anne

Thomas, Natana Lynn

Thomas, Robin Diane

Treichler, Jasmine Dawn

Tubbs, Shea Micah

Vaughan, Linda Lou

Veals, Clifford James

Velder, Tristen Leo Spencer

Voss, Michael Roy

Waters, Deon Koleen

Wayte, April May

Wells, Isaiah David

Wright, Kiera Michelle

Young, Ma Kenna Kay

gdébąnąbá kí nąbá

December 2023

Enrollment

(Please sign your name in the area below with a BLACK felt tip marker)

TRIBAL MEMBERS

(please print)

NAME:_________________________________________DOB:_________________________

ADDRESS:____________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________PHONE:______________________

I DO YOU WANT YOUR SS NUMBER ON YOUR ID CARD? YES_________OR NO_________

If yes, please check one of the following: Full SS number_____ or Last 4 digits only_____

By marking Yes you understand it is your responsibility to keep your SSN confidential and acknowledge

that the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska is not responsible if the card is lost or stolen.

TRIBAL MEMBERS

(pleaseON

print)

WOULD YOU LIKE YOUR BLOOD QUANTUM

YOUR ID? YES_____OR NO_____

***Don't forget to include

your picture!

FOR A PHOTO

ID PLEASE SIGN AND FILL OUT THIS PAGE.

NAME:_________________________________________DOB:_________________________

DON’T FORGET TO SEND (EMAIL) YOUR PICTURE AS WELL

Photo ID Instructions

ADDRESS:___________________________________________________________________

1. Signature

Please completely fill in the information on the bottom of the signature page. With a black felt tip marker

____________________________________________________________________________

please sign your name in the middle of the top of the signature page. (Please note that children do not require

a signature

for theirs.)

YOU WANT

YOUR SS NUMBER ON YOUR ID CARD? YES_________OR NO_________

please

check

one of

of the

the following

following:must

Full be

SSsubmitted:

number_____ or Last 4 digits only_____

2. yes,

Clear

readable

copies

a: State Driver’s License, State ID Card or other

valid

Picture ID card

TRIBAL MEMBERS

(It

must

have

your

picture

and

signature

it)

By marking Yes you understand it is your responsibility

to keep your SSN confidential and acknowledge

(please print)

thatb:the

Ponca

Tribe

Nebraska

not

responsible

the

card

is lost

oris,stolen.

If you are not an enrolled member of the Ponca Tribe, but your

child

you must still submit a copy of your

State Driver’s License, State ID Card or other valid Picture ID and a copy of your child(s) Social Security Card

and Tribal Enrollment Card for proof of enrollment.

NAME:_________________________________________DOB:_________________________

3. Photo Options:

ADDRESS:___________________________________________________________________

You can email a current photo (without filters) to - enrollment@poncatribe-ne.org

You may mail documentation and your

____________________________________________________________________________

current photo to:

DOPonca

YOUTribe

WANT

YOUR SS NUMBER ON YOUR ID CARD? YES_________OR NO_________

of Nebraska

Enrollment

Department

If yes, please check one of the following: Full SS number_____ or Last 4 digits only_____

PO Box 288

ByNiobrara,

marking NE

Yes68760-0288

you understand it is your responsibility to keep your SSN confidential and acknowledge

that the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska is not responsible if the card is lost or stolen.

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

gdébąnąbá kí dábdì

Enrollment

December 2023

Change of Address Form

Mail to: PTN Enrollment Dept PO Box 288 Niobrara, NE 68760 Fax: 402-857-3771

HEAD OF HOUSEHOLD MUST BE AN ENROLLED PONCA TRIBE MEMBER

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

OTHER ENROLLED PONCA TRIBE MEMBERS IN HOUSEHOLD:

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

PREVIOUS ADDRESS: (Street/P.O. Box, Apt #, City, State, Zip, County)

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

NEW ADDRESS: (Street/P.O. Box, Apt #, City, State, Zip, County)

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

PHONE NUMBER:_______________________________________________________________

ALTERNATE/CELL NUMBER:______________________________________________________

E-mail: ____________________________________________________________________________

DATE NEW ADDRESS IN EFFECT:__________________________________________________________________________

To provide better services to Ponca tribal members, this information will be shared

with all PTON Departments as needed. Any service may be suspended until this

information is corrected and/or updated.

_______________________________________

SIGNATURE REQUIRED

Ponca Tribe

O Nebraska

Approved:

10/18/2008

_______________________________

DATE

gdébąnąbá kí dúba

December 2023

Member’s Corner

Welcome!

Phoenix Au, born on Sept 10th. He gets his name from

the his grandma on his dads side and the mythical

bird. His grandpa gave him his indigenous name which

is dragonfly. His name means to overcome hardship.

Dragonflies remind us to take time to reconnect with our

own strength courage and happiness. We also believe he

was handpicked by his big brother in heaven.

Phoenix’s mother, Nikki, and his father, William, come

from vastly different cultures and walks of life. Nikki was

born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska in a multi-racial

family and William was born and raised in Brooklyn, New

York as Chinese-American but with their unity came

the wonderful creation of new chapters in the lives of

many and a path of new beginnings. Phoenix is a proud

member of the Ponca tribe and the newest descendant

to Chief Standing Bear.

Elder’s Committee Meetings

December 4 | 10 am

Headquarters | Niobrara, NE

January 8 | 10 am

Ponca Office | Norfolk, NE

Adopt a buffalo today!

You can help our buffalo to prosper by adopting one or more members

of our herd. Our Adopt-A-Buffalo program is open to both Tribal

members and Non-Tribal friends. You will receive a photo of your

buffalo along with an official adoption certificate.

Just choose from the three categories of yearly

support listed below:

$25 for the Yearling Group

$50 for the Buffalo Herd Group

$100 for the Head Herd Bull Group

Make Checks payable to: Northern Ponca Buffalo Program

Mail to: Ponca Tribe of Nebraska

P.O. Box 288

Niobrara, Nebraska 68760

ATTN: Northern Ponca Buffalo Program

gdébąnąbá kí sát’ą

Ponca Tribe OFNebraska

P.O. Box 288

Niobrara, NE 68760

onc

org

atrib

Office Locations

NIOBRARA 68760

Headquarters

2523 Woodbine St., P.O. Box 288

Ph: (402) 857-3391

Fax: (402) 857-3736

Enrollment

2523 Woodbine St., P.O. Box 288

Ph: (402) 857-3391

Fax: (402) 857-3771

Cultural

P.O. Box 288

Ph: (402) 857-3519

Fax: (402) 857-3652

Ponca Hills Clinic

Ph: (402) 371-8780

(402) 371-5726

Fax: (402) 379-4291 - Pharmacy

(402) 379-4293 - Registration

(402) 371-4094 - Medical Lab

Administration

125 6th Street

Ph: (712) 258-0500

Fax: (402)939-0297

OTHER RESOURCES

Ponca Express Child Abuse Hotline

Ph: 877-769-3111

800-652-1999 (Nebraska)

800-362-2178 (Iowa)

Northern Ponca Housing Authority

877-244-0864 (South Dakota)

1501 Michigan Ave.

Ph: (402) 379-8224

National Child Abuse Hotline

(800) 367-2320

800-422-4453

Fax: (402) 379-8557

Purchased/Referred Care

Ph: (800) 405-0365

Administration

Fax: (402) 371-0176

1600 Windhoek Dr.

Ph: (402) 438-9222

OMAHA 68107

Fax: (402) 438-9226

Fred LeRoy Health & Wellness Clinic

Ponca Health Services-Lincoln

2602 “J” Street

1600 Windhoek Dr

Ph: (402) 733-3612

Ph: (531) 248-3030

Fax: (402) 733-3487

Osni Ponca

2756 O Street

Administration

Ph: (402) 434-2127

5805 South 86th Circle, 68127

Fax: (402) 434-2128

Ph: (402) 315-2760

LINCOLN 68512

SIOUX CITY 51103

National Suicide Hotline

800-273-8255

Domestic Violence Hotline

800-799-7233

National Human Trafficking Hotline

888-373-7888

National Problem Gambling Helpline

800-522-4700

Elder Abuse Hotline

800-252-8966

NORFOLK 68701

Dental Boys Town Crisis Line

2602 “J” Street

800-448-3000

Ph: (402) 733-1325

Fax: (402) 733-3487

Drug Treatment & Referral Hotline

877-726-4727

Northern Ponca Housing Authority

Gym Building

10635 Birch., 68134

Nebraska Family Helpline

1800 Syracuse Ave.

Ph: (402) 505-3055

888-866-8660

Ph: (402) 371-8834

Fax: (402) 505-3066

Fax: (402) 379-0988

Veterans Crisis Line

800-273-8255

Administration Building

1800 Syracuse Ave.

Ph: (402) 371-8834

Fax: (402) 371-7564

ahgthee dubah

The Ponca Tribe of Nebraska Newsletter is published monthly and printed by Printco Graphics, Omaha, Nebraska.

Deadline for submissions is the 1st of each month. In the event the 1st falls on a weekend, submissions are due the Friday before.

All submissions of a political nature are subject to Tribal Council approval. Send to Jessica Hitchcock, jhitchcock@poncatribe-ne.org.

See or print the newsletter archives in full color on the web site at: www.poncatribe-ne.org

This is a copy of a public record, reproduced as it was published. It is not legal advice, and it may not be the version a court would rely on. Check the official source before you cite it.