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Published Bi-Weekly for the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska
2025 Harvest Celebration
Announced!
Fall Community Clean-up
Detail Flyer!
page: 2
pages: 9
Hųwą žuk wīra
Volume 54, Number 18
Featured on our masthead for this issue is the
icon representing the Bear Clan / Huc Hikikarac.
As the most populus clan within the tribe, the
Bear Clan holds many important responsibilities,
including those being related to the Earth. Their
primary function was to serve as police officers
in a peace-keeping role. Bear Clan members
ensured discipline within the tribe, and they also
carried out orders delegated from the Thunder
Clan. The Bear Clan is one of the eight Earth
clans. Several of the Bear clan’s responsibilities
include selecting the tribe’s camping grounds,
overseeing land transfers, and duties related to
traveling and hunting. Families belonging to the
Bear Clan include: Bass, Bear, Bearskin, Big
Bear, Bird, Blackhawk (descendent of Daniel),
Brown, Clay, Cleveland, Cloud (descendent of
John), Crow, Green, Greencrow, Grizzly Bear,
Harrison, John, Johnson, Lakehouse, LaMere,
LaRose, Lewis, Lincoln, Little Bear, Little
Beaver, Little Crow, Lowry, Mallory, Maney,
Mix, Painter, Payer, Prophet, Rave, Rogue,
Seymour, Smith, Snowball, Spirits, Saint Cyr,
Twin, White Bear, White Beaver. Our gratitude to
the HoChunk Renaissance Department for their
assistance in providing this information.
Elk Calling Moon
Saturday, September 13, 2025
THE TOP 6 ADVANCE
2025 General Elections
Nį̄šoc Nįgešąną
By Bethani Redhorn
Photograph from Archive
The Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System (WCHS) held their annual Salsa Showdown. Judges voted for one winner
out of three categories: fruit, vegetable, and
meat salsa. Congratulations to the winners!
[Winnebago, NE] The 2025 Primary
Elections for the Winnebago Tribal Council
was held on Tuesday, September 2, 2025. The
voting polls were stationed inside the gym at the
Whirling Thunder Wellness Center, starting at
8:00 AM until 8:00 PM. The top 6 candidates
with the most votes advanced into the General
Elections.
An important change to make note of in the
elections schedule this year is an update regarding write-in candidates. Write-in candidates
are only allowed during Primary Elections but
no longer allowed in the General Elections. In
Title 5, Article 2 of the Winnebago Tribal Code,
[TCR 25-130], for General Election, write-in
candidates are prohibited; a person may not vote
for anyone who does not appear on the ballot.
Write-in candidates are now only allowed during
the Primary Election.
Following the Primary Election, the top 6 candidates were announced to the Winnebago Tribe
of Nebraska’s Facebook page. The 6 candidates
that you will see in the General Election on the
ballot are: Tanya Baker, Trey Blackhawk, Coly
Brown, Ireta Frazier, Darla LaPointe, and Keely
Purscell. Of these candidates, the top 3 vote
getters will then earn a 3-year term to the 2025
Winnebago Tribal Council.
The General Election is scheduled for Tuesday, October 7, 2025, and will be stationed in the
same location at the Whirling Thunder Wellness
Center from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. On the day
of the General Election, the Winnebago Tribe of
Nebraska will be closed for business and re-open
the following day on Wednesday, October 8,
2025.
After the General Election, the Oath of Office
ceremony and re-organizational meeting for new
Tribal Council members will take place. This
will be on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, and will
have a livestream available on the Winnebago
Tribe of Nebraska’s social media platforms:
YouTube & Facebook. *Editor’s Note: The
Winnebago Indian News wishes each of the candidates the best of luck in the upcoming General
Election! We would also like to encourage all
the eligible voters to get out & vote on Tuesday,
October 7, 2025.
SETTING A NEW RECORD: FALL 2025
Little Priest Tribal College Student Enrollment
Ho-Chunk, Inc held their annual Indian
Corn Harvest at the Farmers Market.
Throughout the week community members
and volunteers worked to keep this tradition going. (Photos courtesy of HoChunk
Inc.)
By: Bethani Redhorn
Photography by: Little Priest Tribal College
CHR/EMS program hosted their first
Safe Sitter & More course. Participants
learned the basics of babysitting, got a
hands-on experience in the kitchen by preparing simple meals while being mindful
of safety, CPR, business coordination skills
for lining up jobs, first aid, and the history
of baby boards. Great job to the teachers
and attendees!
[Winnebago, NE] Little Priest Tribal College achieves a new record-setting number
with 258 students enrolling into the Fall
2025 semester, the highest number of student enrollment in LPTC history. This marks
the fourth consecutive year for record-setting enrollment at LPTC, surpassing the
previous record of 224 students in Spring
2025 with a 15.2% increase.
Matriculating 100 new students for the
first time in LPTC history, this semester
includes a 25% increase for new student enrollment and an 11.3% increase with 2,000+
total credit hours. President Manoj Patil
spoke briefly with the Winnebago Indian
News, expressing gratitude to the community, partners, the LPTC Board of Trustees,
LPTC faculty and staff, and students for their
continued support.
Covering the new programs offered at
LPTC, President Manoj Patil shared that the
Carpentry program is a newly offered program that began this Fall semester and filled
quickly. With 18 student spots available, the
Carpentry program is now in full swing for
Fall 2025, with construction on the programs
building currently underway. Another program mentioned is for the Certified Nursing
Assistant (CNA) which is offered to 16
students and is currently full.
Diving into the early days of LPTC, the
college was established in May 1996 and is
an educational institution that is chartered
by the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska. The
mission of LPTC is to fulfill the goal of its
namesake, Chief Little Priest, “Be Strong
and Educate My Children.” The philosophy of the college is to prepare students to
succeed in a multicultural world by bringing
quality education of the highest level to the
forefront, along with humanistic values and
life skills.
As the semester progresses and with construction in progress, the Winnebago Indian
News will continue to provide coverage of
the happenings at LPTC. President Manoj
Patil and staff will be meeting with WIN
staff quarterly to provide further updates.
Find more information or learn more about
the degrees and programs offered at the
college by visiting their website: www.
littlepriest.edu.
Visit us at winnebagotribe.com
Page 2 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, September 13, 2025
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Saturday, September 13, 2025 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 3
Wāgax hųk ra wāgax hokik’ųna
Letter to the Editor
Letter to the Editor
from Alex Mallory
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV25-135
In the Matter of the
Guardianship Petition of:
Dawn Baxter
In Re:
L.S. (Born 10/2014)
R.S. (Born 01/2012)
TO:
LEGAL NOTICE
Derrick Standing Soldier, Father
You are hereby notified that a petition has
been filed for Guardianship and a hearing
concerning the above referred Individual(s) in
Case No. CV25-135 has been scheduled and
will be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court
of Winnebago, Nebraska on the 29TH day of
August, 2025 at the hour of 11:00 A.M.
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV25-056
In the Matter of the
Name Change Petition of:
EMARIE ROSE LEVERING-RAVE
to EMARIE ROSE SNOW
To: REBECCA RAVE, MOTHER
WAYLON BROWN, FATHER
ANY INTERESTED PARTIES
You are hereby notified that a petition for
Name Change has been filed and a hearing
concerning the above referred Individual in
case no. CV25-056 has been scheduled and will
be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court of Winnebago, Nebraska on the 6TH day of October,
2025 at the hour of 10:00 A.M.
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV25-061
In the Matter of the
Guardianship Petition of:
Melissa Littlegeorge
In Re:
T.L. (Born 07/2020)
T.L. (Born 12/2022)
LEGAL NOTICE
TO:
BAILEY BLACKDEER, MOTHER
Notice of Service
TRISTEN LASEY, FATHER
Case No. TCS18-005
For the Tribe’s interest in collection of child
You are hereby notified that a petition
support:
has been filed for Guardianship and a hearing
In Re:
concerning the above referred Individual(s) in
A.W.
Case No. CV25-061 has been scheduled and
Talia Neff, petitioner
will be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court
Allen Weitzel Jr., respondent
of Winnebago, Nebraska on the 25TH day of
September, 2025 at the hour of 11:30 A.M.
TO: ALLEN WEITZEL JR.
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV25-106
In the Matter of:
Derrick Littlebear
vs.
Jalyssa Harlan
To: JALYSSA HARLAN,
You are hereby notified that a Divorce petition
has been filed and a hearing concerning the
above referred Individual(s) in case no. CV25106 has been scheduled and will be heard in
the Winnebago Tribal Court of Winnebago,
Nebraska on the 15TH day of September, 2025
at the hour of 11:00 A.M.
Last week, my Cōka Kenny Mallory, wrote his farewell letter after deciding not to seek reelection
on the Winnebago Tribal Council, closing out three decades of service. This week, I’d like to share
three leadership lessons he passed on to me.
Lesson one: Be the first to listen and the last to speak. Ho-Chunk means “People of the Big
Voice.” Cōka reminded me that to have a big voice does not mean to have the loudest voice, but a
voice that listens and responds to the vulnerable among us. That is the real meaning of a big voice,
he said. In a world full of shallow distractions, his wisdom always brings me back to the core—
honoring others by listening to their stories before offering my own.
Lesson two: Practice patience. After a failed rain dance ritual in Tim O’Brien’s The Things They
Carried, the character Kiowa observes, “the earth is slow, but the buffalo is patient.” Whenever
I grew discouraged by setbacks, Cōka would remind me of the same truth: patience turns effort
into fulfillment. In today’s culture of instant gratification, he taught me that patience is essential to
justice, leadership, and lasting change.
Lesson three: Serve a cause greater than yourself. Service does not require lofty titles or
world-changing ambitions. It can be as simple—and as profound—as recognizing the humanity
in the people around you. Introduce yourself to the person who is raking the leaves, shoveling the
snow, or emptying the trash. Learn their name and call them by it. Look others in the eye and say
thank you. Be sincere.
One of the greatest teachers known to man, Jesus of Nazareth, said never tire of doing good. Cōka
adds, be the future your ancestors prayed for. I say, remember your ancestors, and do good.
Thank you, Cōka, for three decades of servant leadership and a lifetime of love. Aho!
You are hereby notified that a Complaint
for Modification of an Order entered April 11,
2018, has been filed to determine the following: 1. Respondent’s current monthly child
support obligation; 2. Respondent’s obligation
to provide medical insurance on behalf of
said minor child if such benefit is available
to Respondent and if said minor child is not
eligible for Indian Health Services coverage;
3. For any further relief the Court deems fair
and just. An appropriate response to the Complaint for Modification must be served on the
parties and filed with the office of the Clerk of
the Court within twenty (20) days of August
30, 2025. If you fail to respond, the Court
may enter judgment for the relief demanded
in the Complaint for Modification. A hearing
concerning the above-referred individual(s) in
Case No. TCS18-005 has been scheduled and
will be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court
of Winnebago, Nebraska on the 14TH day of
October 2025 at the hour of 10:30 A.M.
The next issue of the WINNEBAGO INDIAN NEWS will be published on September 27, 2025.
——————————————————
The Mission of the WIN is to inform and to educate
the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska of issues that
affect them, and to be a vehicle in which stresses
positive and beneficial concerns and points of view.
LETTER POLICY: Signed editorials, letters and
articles appearing in the WIN are the responsibility
of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the
opinion or attitude of the Winnebago Indian News
or the Winnebage Tribal Council.
The WIN encourages the submission of Letters to
the Editor; however, letters must be signed and
addressed. Letters may be edited for language
and length.
Postmaster Send Address Changes To
Winnebago Indian News
P.O. Box 687
Winnebago, Nebraska 68071
——————————————————
The Winnebago Indian News (WIN), founded ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. The reproduction of
in January 1972, is published bi-weekly for the editorial or photography content without permission
is prohibited.
Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska.
DEADLINE for this issue will be September 23, 2025.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please send change of Advertising/News Deadline
address with old mailing label to:
12:00 Noon Monday Printing Week
Winnebago Tribal Council
Victoria Kitcheyan................Chairwoman
Periodicals Postage Paid
Isaac Smith...................... Vice Chairman
(Issn 1060-3026) At Winnebago, NE
Teresa Littlegeorge.................. Secretary
Rona Stealer........................... Treasurer
winnebagoindiannews@winnebagotribe.com Winnebago Indian News Staff
Phone: 402-878-2272
Bethani Redhorn.....................................Editor Coly Brown................................ Member
Tyler Snake............................. Office Manager Kenny Mallory.............................Member
“Official Newspaper of
Christina Parker...................Desktop Publisher Aric Armell..................................Member
the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska”
Lorelei DeCora...........................Member
Yearly Subscription Rates
Nebraska Residents....................................$25.00 WTN Communications
Eugene DeCora..........................Member
Winnebago Indian News
P.O. Box 687
Winnebago, NE 68071
or contact us at our e-mail address:
Out-Of-State................................................$35.00
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Per Column Inch............................................$7.00
Garan Coons.............................Comm. Officer
vacant............................Comm. Office Manger
Christina Parker.............................Web Master
Kevin Ebert..................Multimedia Coordinator
Page 4 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, September 13, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL MINUTES
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
MID-MONTH TRIBAL COUNCIL MEETING
August 19, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Victoria Kitcheyan
Teresa Littlegeorge
Rona Stealer
Kenneth Mallory
Lorelei DeCora
Eugene DeCora
Coly Brown
OTHERS PRESENT:
Chad Smith
Tyresha Romero
Gordon Rave
Daniel Gillman
William Bass
Jewel Parker
Christina Parker
Anna Bess Preston
Tiffany Armell-Buchanan
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Aric Armell (Excused)
Isaac Smith (PTO)
CALL TO ORDER: Chairwoman Kitcheyan called to order at 9:02 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Councilman Eugene
DeCora offered the opening prayer.
APPROVE AGENDA:
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the
agenda with additions. Rona Stealer seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
READING OF THE MINUTES:
August 4, 2025, Regular Tribal Council
meeting minutes
Rona Stealer motioned to approve the August
4, 2025, Regular Tribal Council meeting minutes. Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
August 6, 2025, Special Tribal Council meeting – Winnebago Gaming Commission minutes
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the August 6, 2025, Special Tribal Council meeting –
Winnebago Gaming Commission. Rona Stealer
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
August 12, 2025, Physical Resources Report
meeting minutes
Kenneth Mallory motioned to approve the
August 12, 2025, Physical Resources Report
meeting minutes. Eugene DeCora seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
August 13, 2025, CEO Report meeting
minutes
Kenneth Mallory motioned to approve the
August 13, 2025, CEO Report meeting minutes.
Coly Brown seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
RATIFY FIVE SIGNATURE:
Wake & Burial: Approve to move forward
with funeral arrangements for tribal member
(R.C.R.)
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to ratify the
five-signature approving Wake & Burial to
move forward with funeral arrangements for
tribal member (R.C.R.). Rona Stealer seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
NEW BUSINESS:
Veterans Letter – Gordon Rave
Information only, no action taken.
BREAK: 9:31 a.m., reconvene at 9:41a.m.
OLD BUSINESS:
Wildlife & Parks: Missouri River Backwater
Access for Iowa State University
Presented by Daniel Gillman
Eugene DeCora motion to table until the next
available meeting. Rona Stealer seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Election Board approval
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to approve
Clarissa M. Hoffman to the Election Board.
Kenneth Mallory seconded
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
TRIBAL COUNCIL ITEM:
Richmond, VA travel approval
Lorelei DeCora motioned to approve travel
for the descendants of our relatives at Carlisle School, Thelma Whitewater and Charles
Hensley, to attend the hearing in Richmond,
VA on September 10, 2025, to come out of
Tribal Council Travel budget. Eugene DeCora
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Rona Stealer motioned to go into Executive
Session at 10:10 a.m. Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Eugene DeCora motioned to come out of
Executive Sesson at 10:59 a.m. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Eugene DeCora motioned to support the two
board members of 12 Clans Unity Hospital/
WCHS to call a special meeting regarding a
personnel issue. Kenneth Mallory seconded the
motion.
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
SPECIAL TRIBAL COUNCIL MEETING –
HUMAN SERVICES
August 19, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Victoria Kitcheyan
Teresa Littlegeorge
Rona Stealer
Eugene DeCora
Coly Brown
Lorelei DeCora
Kenneth Mallory
OTHERS PRESENT:
Miskoo Petite
Christina Parker
Lauren Buchanan
Kumiko Masquat
Tyresha Romero
Tiffany Armell-Buchanan
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Aric Armell (Excused)
Isaac Smith (PTO)
CALL TO ORDER: Chairwoman Kitcheyan called to order at 1:10 p.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Councilman Brown
offered the opening prayer.
APPROVE AGENDA:
Child and Family P&P
Social Services P & P
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to approve the
agenda. Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
DISCUSSION ON POLICY AND PROCEDURES:
[Lorelei out at 1:24 p.m., in at 1:28 p.m.]
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the
CFS/PNF Policy and Procedures. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Rona Stealer motioned to approve the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska Social Services Policy and Procedures Manual. Teresa Littlegeorge
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
ADJOURN:
Eugene DeCora motioned to adjourn the
meeting at 2:07 p.m. Rona Stealer seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Chairwoman Kitcheyan adjourned the meeting at 2:07 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
SPECIAL MEETING WITH OUR FEDERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT PARTNERS
August 25, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT;
Victoria Kitcheyan, Chairwoman
Lorelei DeCora, Member
Kenneth Mallory, Member
Aric Armell. Member
Eugene DeCora, Member
OTHERS PRESENT:
Rob Sellers
Daryl LaPointe, Jr.
Kevin Ebert
Christina Parker
Marvin Grassrope
Joe Barnes
Chad Smith
Cecelia Earth
Kellie Snow
Danelle Smith
Kiana Lewis
Darla LaPointe
Kristine Earth
Anna Bess Preston
Keely Purscell
Donald Klein
Mikayla Heard
Lecia Wright
Tiffany Armell
Leslie Woods
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Rona Stealer, Treasurer, PTO
Coly Brown, Member, PTO
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary, PTO
Isaac Smith, Vice-Chairman, PTO
CALL TO ORDER: Chairwoman Kitcheyan Called the Meeting to Order at 10:16 am.
PRAYER: Offered by Aric Armell.
AGENDA: Discussion With Our Federal
Law Enforcement Partners and An Executive
Session.
Kenneth Mallory motioned to approve the
agenda. Eugene DeCora seconded.
VOTE: (4) yes
(0) no
(0) abstain.
Motion carried.
Lecia Wright, Tribal Liaison, US Attorney’s
Office, District of Nebraska
Case Updates Since She was Last Here
Meeting with the Tribal Council.
An Involuntary Manslaughter Conviction
A Felony Child Abuse Conviction
A Voluntary Manslaughter Conviction
A Violation of Title 18 Assault Conviction
A Second Degree Murder Conviction
A Tampering With Documents Conviction
An Assault Resulting in Violent Injury
Conviction
Made a recommendation to the Tribal Council for a Code Addition on Leaving the Scene
of a Crime.
The US Attorney’s Office usually does an
Operational Plan in August. Offers to do a
training working with our Chief of Police for
the Police Officers to handle federal cases.
Update provided by Donald Klein, Chief of
General Crimes Unit, District of Nebraska
Leslie Woods, US Attorney, District of
Nebraska introduced herself via virtual attendance.
Aric Armell motioned to go into Executive
Session. Eugene DeCora seconded.
VOTE: (4) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
In Executive Session at 10:48 am.
Aric Armell motioned to come out of Executive Session. Eugene DeCora seconded.
VOTE: (4) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Out of Executive Session at 11:37 am.
Kenneth Mallory motioned to appoint
Miskoo Petite, Kellie Snow, Thelma Whitewater, Rebecca DeCora and Daryl LaPointe Jr.
to the Winnebago Public Safety Commission.
Eugene DeCora seconded.
VOTE: (4) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Chairwoman Kitcheyan draw names for the
Winnebago Public Safety Commission terms:
1 Year Term – Kellie Snow
2 Year Term- Miskoo Petite
3 Year Term – Daryl LaPointe Jr.
4 Year Term – Rebecca DeCora
5 Year Term – Thelma Whitewater
Aric Armell motioned to affirm the Winnebago Public Safety Commission terms. Eugene
DeCora seconded.
VOTE: (4) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve a
$750.00 Stipend per meeting for the Winnebago Public Safety Commissioners. Lorelei
DeCora seconded.
VOTE: (4) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Aric Armell motioned to offer the Chief of
Police position, under Self Governance, to Jeremiah Lonewolf. Eugene DeCora seconded.
VOTE: (4) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Eugene DeCora motioned to Adjourn. Kenneth Mallory seconded.
VOTE: (4) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
ADJOURN At 11:43 am.
Respectfully,
Lorelei DeCora,
Winnebago Tribal Council Member
Concur:
Victoria Kitcheyan,
Winnebago Tribal Council Chairwoman
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
TREASURERS REPORT MEETING
August 29, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Victoria Kitcheyan
Teresa Littlegeorge
Rona Stealer
Coly Brown
Eugene DeCora
Kenneth Mallory
Lorelei DeCora (in at 9:08 a.m.)
Aric Armell (in at 9:23 a.m.)
OTHERS PRESENT:
Tom Teesdale
Ray Thomas
Mike Means
Christian Rogers
Cheryl Painter
Beth Wewel
Erin Miller
Brittany Thomas
Kellen Kelsey
Nakia Mallory
Tanya Baker
Kevin Ebert
Anna Berridge
Lance Morgan
Aaron LaPointe
Tyresha Romero
Charli Earth
Kiana Lewis
Angel Derochie
Cecelia Earth
Terrie Lee Medina
Kellie Snow
Keely Purscell
Lynelle Blackhawk
Willy Bass
Darla LaPointe
Fannie LaTray
Ricky Jacobs
Petra Nielsen
Deliah K.
Sharon Redhorn-Chamberlain
Brian Chamberlain
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Isaac Smith
CALL TO ORDER: Chairwoman Kitcheyan called to order at 9:01 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Kenneth Mallory
offered the opening prayer.
AGENDA:
Coly Brown motioned to approve the agen-
da. Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
WTN FINANCIAL REPORT:
June 2025 and July 2025 Financial Reports
Presented by Cheryl Painter, Acting CFO.
Eugene DeCora motioned to accept June
2025 and July 2025 Tribal Financial Report as
presented. Coly Brown seconded the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[LD in at 9:08 a.m.]
Approvals
25-133A FY25 Physical Resources – ARPA
Home Repair Winnebago Community Development Fund
Kenneth Mallory motioned to adopt resolution #25-133A: FY25 Physical Resources-ARPA Home Repair Winnebago Community Development Fund. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
FY25 Tribal Farms/Community Garden Winnebago Community Development Fund
Eugene DeCora motioned to adopt resolution
#25-154A: FY25 Tribal Farms/Community
Garden Winnebago Community Development
Fund. Rona Stealer seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
WCHS FINANCIAL REPORT:
June and July 2025 Financial Report and
Revenue Generation Report
Presented by Beth Wewel and Erin Miller.
Kenneth Mallory motioned to accept the
June and July 2025 Financial Report and
Revenue Generation Report. Eugene DeCora
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Aric in at 9:23 a.m.]
GAMING COMMISSION:
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to accept the
June 2025 and July 2025 Winnebago Gaming
Commission Report. Eugene DeCora seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
WARHORSE REPORT:
Presented by Angel Derochie.
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to accept the
June 2025 and July 2025 Warhorse Reports
as presented. Lorelei DeCora seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Refinancing Warhorse updated.
[Lorelei out at 9:37 a.m., in at 9:40 a.m.]
BREAK: 9:41 a.m., reconvene at 9:56 a.m.
[Lorelei out]
WINNAVEGAS REPORT:
June 2025 and July 2025 Financial Reports
Presented by Mike Means and Tom Teesdale.
[Lorelei in at 9:58 a.m.]
Aric Armell motioned to accept the WinnaVegas June and July 2025 Financial Reports.
Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Promotions Performance – presented by
Petra Neilsen.
BREAK: (Due to a power surge, taking time
to reboot the meeting) 10:18 a.m., reconvene at
10:28 a.m.
WinnaVegas approvals – Presented by Tom
Teesdale and Christian Rogers.
Security Department Request
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the Security Department request to establish a banned
player policy along with standard operating
procedures (SOPs) for implementing the policy.
Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Marketing Department Request
Aric Armell motioned to approve the Marketing Department Request of the $100,000
Monster Cash Bash promotion. Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Marketing Department Request
Aric Armell motioned to approve the Marketing Department Request of the Tricks or
Treats promotion. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Human Resources Department Request
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the Human Resources request to add a Senior Finance
position to the finance department. Teresa
Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Human Resources Department Request
Aric Armell motioned to approve the Human
Resources request to update the position title
from Accounts Payable Clerk to Accounts
Payable Specialist. Eugene DeCora seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Human Resources Department Request
Rona Stealer motioned to approve the Human Resources request to have the information
technology department report to the General
Manager. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Saturday, September 13, 2025 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 5
TRIBAL COUNCIL MINUTES
Human Resources Department Request
Aric Armell motioned to approve the Human
Resources request to add the retail operations
(gift shop, golf simulator, and box office) to
the hotel division to align the non-gaming
revenue-generating departments reporting to
the hotel manager. Eugene DeCora seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Human Resources Department Request
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the
Human Resources request to have the Human
Resources-shared services supervisor report to
the director of Human Resources. Coly Brown
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Human Resources Department Request
Aric Armell motioned to approve the Human
Resources request to add the count team to the
guest services division (Casino Cage, Count
Team) to align the banking functions reporting
to the guest services manager. Coly Brown
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
WGDC-NATIVE STAR/IRON HORSE
REPORT:
June 2025 and July 2025 Native Star and
Iron Horse Reports
presented by Sharon Redhorn-Chamberlain
and Deliah K.
Rona Stealer motioned to accept the June
and July 2025 Native Star and Iron Horse
Reports.
Kenneth Mallory seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
TRIBAL COUNCIL ITEMS:
Jesus Our Savior Lease –Ricky Jacobs and
Fannie LaTray
[Teresa out at 10:59 a.m., in at 11:01 a.m.]
[Rona out at 11:04 a.m., in at 11:06 a.m.]
[Aric out at 11:17 a.m., in at 11:20 a.m.]
Clarification on the increase of the lease
was that the residential lease was changed to a
business lease.
Aric Armell motioned to table the Jesus Our
Savior Lease until the General Counsel meeting. Coly Brown seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Aric Armell motioned to go into Executive
Session at 11:25 a.m. Teresa Littlegeorge
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Teresa out at 11:58 a.m.]
[Lorelei out]
Aric Armell motioned to come out of Executive Session at 12:10 p.m. Eugene DeCora
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
ADJOURN:
Aric Armell motioned to adjourn the meeting
at 12:11 p.m. Eugene DeCora seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Chairwoman Kitcheyan adjourned the meeting at 12:11 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
GENERAL COUNSEL MEETING
September 3, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Victoria Kitcheyan
Teresa Littlegeorge
Kenneth Mallory
Lorelei DeCora
Eugene DeCora
Isaac Smith (in at 9:25 a.m.)
Aric Armell (in at 10:00 a.m.)
Coly Brown (PTO/ in at 2:20 p.m.)
OTHERS PRESENT:
Danelle Smith
Christina Parker
Sarah Herring
Josh Pitre
Darla LaPointe
Kiana Lewis
Anna Bess Preston
Kristine Earth
Tyler Smith
Caden Cleveland
Keely Purscell
Chad Smith
Cecelia Earth
Terri Lee Medina
Garan Coons
Todd Mormon
Kirstin Lowry, BFL
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Rona Stealer (travel)
CALL TO ORDER: Chairwoman Kitcheyan called to order at 9:18 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Councilman Eugene
DeCora offered the opening prayer.
APPROVE AGENDA:
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the
agenda as updated. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
VOTE: (4) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
FEDERAL ADVOCACY - presented by
Josh Pitre
Appropriations Updates
Congressional Updates
Administrative Updates
FEMA Tribal Listening Session
[Kenny out at 9:26 a.m.]
Eugene DeCora motioned for Tribal Council
to submit comments to the FEMA Listening
Session. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (4) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Kenny in at 9:36 a.m.]
Fiber Project – No Cost Extension
Searching for status of the No Cost Extension.
Notice of Funding Opportunity – Delayed
Announcements
NACIE – nomination of Amy LaPointe,
update.
[Lorelei out at 9:47 a.m., in at 9:51 a.m.]
BREAK: 9:52 a.m., reconvene at 10:02 a.m.
STATE ADVOCACY: presented by
Danelle Smith
Legislative Bus tour – September 16, 2025 –
update on details, no action.
LR 176 – Interim study to examine the establishment and recognition of tribal customary
adoptions for Native American Children in
Nebraska
TRIBAL FLAG & GREAT SEAL
TRADEMARK UPDATE: Presented by Tyler
Smith.
Submitted the Tribe’s Flag and Great Seal
to the USPTO for trademark protection. No
further updates.
WOODBURY COUNTY NUCLEAR ENERGY ZONING ORDINANCE: Presented
by Danelle Smith.
Woodbury County voted to move forward
with the Nuclear Energy Zoning Ordinance.
[Kenny out at 10:28 a.m.]
TRIBAL CONSTITUTION AMENDMENTS – SECRETARIAL ELECTION
[Lorelei out at 10:27 a.m., in at 10:30 a.m.]
[Isaac out at 10:30 a.m., in at 10:31 a.m.]
[Kenny in at 10:56 a.m.]
[Lorelei out at 10:58 a.m., in at 11:00 a.m.]
[Teresa out at 11:14 a.m., in at 11:16 a.m.]
[Lorelei out at 11:22 a.m., in at 11:25 a.m.]
BREAK: 11:38 a.m., reconvene at 11:54
a.m.
WINNEBAGO HOUSING & DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION:
WHDC MOA was approved in July by the
Tribal Council and WHDC needs to add to their
agenda for approval.
Homes at Thunderway - still waiting for
NIFA.
Discussion on Streetlights at Thunderway
Issues with the Village and the Deeds for the
Homes.
BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB CONSTRUCTION NMTC PROJECT QALICB: Update
only.
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Aric Armell motioned to go into Executive
Session at 12:18 p.m. Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Lorelei out at 12:18 p.m., in at 12:25 p.m.]
[Lorelei out at 1:40 p.m., in at 1:42 p.m.]
[Aric out at 1:53 p.m., in at 1:57 p.m.]
BREAK: 2:05 p.m., reconvene at 2:20 p.m.
[Coly in at 2:20 p.m.]
[Lorelei out at 2:42 p.m., in at 2:45 p.m.]
[Isaac out at 2:53 p.m., in at 2:55 p.m.]
Lorelei DeCora motioned to come out at
4:09 p.m. Kenneth Mallory seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Lorelei Decora WGDC Board to provide the
list of items to the Tribal Council as recommended by the General Counsel. Aric Armell
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
*a letter will be drafted by General Counsel
to the WGDC Board.
Issac Smith motion to direct the board of
Directors to have the CEO at WCHS/12 Clans
follow the board motion. Aric Armell seconded
the motion.
OBJECT: Eugene DeCora, Teresa Littlegeorge
VOTE: (4) yes, AA, IS, CB, LD
(2) no,
ED, TL
(1) abstain, KM
Motion carried.
Isaac Smith motion to request WCHS/12
Clans Board members to follow up on
WCHS/12 Clans Board members term limits
and provide them to the Tribal Council. Aric
Armell seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
ADJOURN:
Aric Armell motioned to adjourn the meeting
at 4:14 p.m. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Chairwoman Kitcheyan adjourned the meeting at 4:14 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
SPECIAL TRIBAL COUNCIL MEETING
ELECTION CANDIDATE AND ADOPTION BALLOT APPROVAL
September 4, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Teresa Littlegeorge
Coly Brown
Lorelei DeCora
Eugene DeCora
Kenneth Mallory
Aric Armell (in at 9:16 a.m.)
Isaac Smith (in at 9:19 a.m.)
OTHERS PRESENT:
Anthony Earth
Trey Blackhawk
Adrianne Blackhawk
Patrice Bass
Charli Earth
Buffalo Bass
Ramona Sheridan
Terri Lee Medina
Kiana Lewis
Anna Bess Preston
Tyresha Romero
John Blackhawk
Kellie Snow
Danelle Smith
Kristine Earth
Willie Bass
Christina Parker
Keely Purscell
Darla LaPointe
Cecelia Earth
Tiffany Armell-Buchanan
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Victoria Kitcheyan (travel)
Rona Stealer (travel)
CALL TO ORDER: Secretary Littlegeorge
called to order at 9:08 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Councilman Eugene
DeCora offered the opening prayer.
APPROVE AGENDA:
Coly Brown motioned to approve the agenda. Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (4) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
APPROVE SUCCESSFUL WRITE-IN
CANDIDATE:
Kenneth Mallory motioned to approve the
successful write-in candidate Trey Blackhawk.
Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (4) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
APPROVE CANDIDATE LIST:
Tanya Baker
Trey Blackhawk
Coly Brown
Ireta Frazier
Darla LaPointe
Keely Purscell
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the
October 2025 Candidate List. Kenneth Mallory
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (3) yes, KM, LD, ED
(0) no
(1) abstain, CB Motion carried.
APPROVE ENROLLMENT ADOPTION
BALLOT REQUEST:
Kenneth Mallory motioned to approve the
Enrollment Adoption Ballot request for October
2025 [A4477, A4478, A4484, A4516, A4517,
A4546, A4556, A4659, A4572, A4589, A4592,
A4650, A4651, A4656, A4657, A4658, A4660,
A4727, A4677, A4684]. Lorelei DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (4) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Discussion: Regarding the Secretarial
Election.
[Aric in at 9:16 a.m.]
[Isaac in at 9:19 a.m.]
ADJOURN:
Eugene DeCora motioned to adjourn the
meeting at 9:26 a.m. Kenneth Mallory seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Secretary Littlegeorge adjourned the meeting
at 9:26 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
Project Title: Winnebago Tribe Senior Home Improvement Project FY25
Funds requested for USDA: Up to 100,000.00
Type of Grant: US Department of Agriculture, Rural Development,
Housing Preservation
Grant Program
Project Period: October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026
Grantee Type: Federally recognized Tribe – Winnebago Tribe of
Nebraska
Tribal Program Madisyn Redhorn, Tribal Housing Department
Contact:
Project Purpose:
The HPG program is a grant program which provides eligible entities
grant funds to assist very low- and low-income homeowners in repairing
and rehabilitating their homes in rural areas. The Winnebago Tribe
Senior Home Improvement Project FY26 will be a homeowner
assistance program maintaining adequate housing for Senior Citizen
homeowners on the Winnebago Reservation who are low or very low
income. Financial assistance for a home improvement project is capped
at $9,000.
Expected Impact on Community:
Senior Citizen homeowners will have:
· Installation and/or repair of sanitary sewer and waste disposal
systems;
· Water softener/reverse osmosis systems;
· Energy conservation measures such as insulation and screenstorm windows, and
Screen doors;
· Repair or replacement of heating systems;
· Repair of structural supports and foundations;
· Repair or replacement of roof, and gutters;
· Alterations for accessibility;
· Necessary repairs to manufactured housing
For additional information, please contact Brittany Thomas at 402-8782272 ext. 2707 or stop by the Planning and Development Department
located at: 121 S. Bluff St., Winnebago, NE. (68071)
Page 6 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, September 13, 2025
Question of the Issue:
September 13th is “Positive Thinking Day”.
What positive quote do you live by?
FALL 2025 APPRENTICE
INTRODUCTION
GARAN: “YOLO”, I should’ve left it with those four letters but you know me. I got
curious and did a little research on those letters which means “You Only Live Once”.
Here is a little did you know on them. The acronym YOLO was popularized in the
modern era by Canadian rapper Drake in his 2011 song “The Motto.” While he didn’t
invent the phrase, his use of it in the song and on social media led to its rapid spread
and popularity as a modern cultural motto. It’s a modern version of the Latin phrase
“Carpe diem,” which means “seize the day.” Hoat!
BRIAN: "Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and
more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn
a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend” - Melody Beattie.
From the first reading of this quote, it’s been one that has stuck with me many years
later.
TYLER: "Put it in gods hands” and I feel this cause ever since I worked at comm
dealing with the lack of childcare, I’ve been stressed with figuring it out, and when I
put that into the world things have worked out for me.
CHRISTINA: "Don't be afraid to be alone. Goals are personal."
KEVIN: “You can do anything you put your mind too.” -My Dad, Mike McKeegan
BETHANI: “Start each day with a positive thought & a grateful heart.” – Roy T.
Bennett. I believe that feeding your mind, heart, & soul with positivity can uplift even
the heaviest of days. Expressing gratitude releases neurotransmitters in the brain, like
dopamine & serotonin, which bring that feeling of happiness. It is a good, simple
reminder. Gratitude & positivity for the WIN!
College Beginnings
By Sinya Harlan
Guest Contributor
Starting out at Little Priest Tribal
College, I was nervous but open minded in the first week. Within the first
few weeks, I ran into a few challenges
but with the guidance and support of
the staff, I quickly found my footing
and started off with a strong foundation. I got my classes and books
handled right away; I also had the opportunity to meet my instructors, who
immediately made me feel welcome.
They were approachable, kind, and
willing to help with anything I needed.
I even had the chance to enjoy lunch
with my aunt, a former LPTC student
herself. She came along to assist me
with some of the small tasks I needed to complete. She reminded me of
a simple but powerful truth, success
in college begins with showing up to
class and being willing to learn. A few
of her former instructors, now teaching me, echoed the same advice. Their
encouragement reassured me that I
was surrounded by people who truly
want to see me succeed; it made me
feel good that I’m starting my journey
with motivating people surrounding
me. I feel this is the best way for a
new college student to succeed in
school, stay motivated and disciplined.
Having instructors and staff who
check in regularly, answer questions,
and make sure you’re not falling
behind creates a positive learning
atmosphere. It motivates me to stay
disciplined, attend class consistently,
and keep moving toward my goals. In
addition to my in-person classes, I am
also enrolled in an online course. Last
summer, I took a Zoom based class at
LPTC and found it to be very engaging since I could interact with the
instructor in real time.
This semester, however, I am taking
an asynchronous online class, which
feels a little more challenging. Without the live interaction, it requires
extra discipline and time management.
Still, I’ve received a lot of support to
keep me on track. Even though the
class is asynchronous, my instructor is
always just an email away and willing
to meet with me if I set up an appointment, which has been very reassuring.
Reflecting on my first few weeks
at Little Priest Tribal College, I feel
proud of the progress I’ve made.
I’ve learned that asking for help is
not something to fear if one person
cannot help, they will always connect
you with someone who can. With the
encouragement of my instructors, the
wisdom of my aunt, and the resources
available on campus, I feel motivated and confident as I continue this
journey. My start at LPTC has been
both positive and inspiring, and I truly
believe I am on the right path toward
success.
I’m Kaevyn Harden. I am proud to carry my Ho-Chunk name,
‘Hap’Pi’Mani’ga,’ which you know, means ‘walking in the good
day.’ It’s a reminder of where I come from and what’s important to
me.
Being a member of the Ho-Chunk Tribe of Nebraska is a big part
of who I am. My upbringing was shaped by those traditions and
values. I went to St. Augustine Indian Mission when I was younger,
and that’s where I really fell in love with playing guitar. I was in
a guitar ensemble, which was great for learning and getting better
together.
Right now, I am a senior at Winnebago Public School, so I’m
on the verge of figuring out what’s next. It’s a bit of a whirlwind,
but I’m excited. I’m incredibly lucky to have my grandparents,
Fran Sharpback and Fred Harden, in my life. They’ve taught me so
much.
Every day, I try to live up to my name, ‘Hap’Pi’Mani’ga.’
Whether I’m playing music, hanging out with friends, or just
getting through the school day, I try to remember to appreciate the
good things and keep moving forward.
If you ever need an extra guitarist/bassist in your band, please
consider me.
Notice:
Winnebago Housing and Development Commission
Resident Services is sending out letters for Annual
Housing keeping Inspections. It has come to my attention
that there are several tenants that have changed P. O
Boxes and or never got a P.O Box or refuses to pay for
them to stay open. It is stated in the lease you have signed
with WHDC to always have an active mailing address. It
is your responsibility as a Tenant of WHDC to inform us
on any changes with mailing addresses, phone numbers,
employment status and or of household changes. This is
a violation and can lead to termination of your lease.
Once your letter is received by to post master, we are
legally able to enter our property with-in two days’ time.
We have been lenient in allowing two- three weeks.
So, this is a notice that when you are scheduled for
inspection WHDC; Resident Services and Maintenance
will be proceeding to do what is required. Regardless if
you have received your letter or not. All tenants should
always be ready for an inspection any day of the week,
as we could use your home to showcase, if need be, this
is also stated in your lease.
Remember it’s your responsibility to inform us of any
changes.
Saturday, September 13, 2025 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 7
Updates from HoChunk Renaissance…
Hanac Hinikaragi. Hocak rasra Wanik co
ga egi maixete rasra Lewis “Bleu” St.Cyr ga
higaire. Huc hikikarac hiza wa’uaje egi nisoc
eja howawaji na. I would like to greet each
of you. My HoChunk name is Wanik Co
(Blue Bird), and my English name is Lewis
“Bleu” St. Cyr. I am a proud member of the
Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska and belong
to the Bear Clan. Since August 2015, I have
served as Program Director for the HoChunk
Renaissance Language Program.
Founded in 2001, the HoChunk Renaissance Language Program is the official tribal
language program of the Winnebago Tribe
of Nebraska. While we have long served as
a community resource for cultural information, our primary mission is to revitalize and
sustain the HoChunk language for future
generations. Through this article, I would
like to provide our tribal membership with
an update on the latest projects, initiatives,
and accomplishments of HoChunk Renaissance.
Daily HoChunk Classes at Educare
This fall, our language instructors are
teaching at Educare and are actively serving
10 classrooms. Additionally, the staff are
providing resources and materials to 6
additional rooms. Our approach uses paired
instruction, allowing teachers to model
conversations in the language so that children are fully immersed. Research shows
that language acquisition begins as early
as the womb and continues through early
childhood. By exposing children to words
and phrases in real dialogue and instruction, we increase opportunities for them to
understand and use the language naturally.
Furthermore, we are scheduled to provide
professional development for Educare
instructors every month.
Expanding Language Instruction at
Winnebago Public Schools (WPS)
The HoChunk Renaissance program first
began planning the dual language initiative in 2018. That same year, I proposed
funding for the program to the Winnebago
School Board and requested a dedicated
classroom in the school’s new addition.
Soon after, our department hired a project
development specialist to lead the effort.
Despite the challenges of the pandemic, we
successfully launched our first dual language classroom with a 1st grade cohort.
In October 2024, the Winnebago Public
School officially absorbed the initiative,
and the classroom is no longer overseen by
our department. However, the HoChunk
Renaissance program continues to support
the effort by helping fund community-building activities, including a Water Walk
cultural event and sponsoring the students’
end-of-year trip to Cahokia National Monument in St. Louis, MO.
This spring, we plan to expand HoChunk
language instruction at Winnebago Public
Schools to include grades Kindergarten
through 6th grade, adding 5th and 6th grades
to the program, which previously served
K–4. Limited staffing has previously restricted instruction across all grade levels and
continues to present challenges. Despite this,
we are continuing to offer the HoChunk language course as a World Language elective
at Winnebago Public Schools for high school
students in grades 9–12.
This fall, our high school course has six
students enrolled, and we hope to have
additional students this spring. WPS has allocated approximately (1) fifty-minute class
a week for language instruction in grades
K–4. While this approach has demonstrated
some success in introducing students to the
language, it is insufficient for developing
fluency.
To address this, our team is implementing
innovative strategies designed to accelerate
language acquisition. These include supplemental language learning materials appropriate for all ages, a dual language initiative,
after-school programs, and evening activities
targeting youth. We recognize, however, that
parental involvement and consistent use of
the language at home are essential for longterm success. To support this, we continue to
offer community language courses, provid-
ing families with the tools and opportunities
to engage in the HoChunk language outside
of school.
Community Language Classes
In May 2018, we launched our “Hoit’e
Coni na” language classes, open to families,
tribal members, and the wider community.
Hoit’e Coni na translates to “the first language” in our sacred language.
Participants are actively engaged in
learning, and we believe these classes help
strengthen language use within the home.
Our free 8-week course—open to all ages—
will be announced again this October 2025.
Classes are primarily immersion-based
and include a hands-on curriculum, workbooks, incentives, and plenty of interactive
activities. The fun, welcoming atmosphere
encourages learning through games, cultural
connections, and community interaction.
Although our spring session was canceled
due to no enrollment, we are excited to open
registration for the fall session. Details will
be shared on our social media platforms, and
flyers will soon be posted throughout the
community.
Curriculum Development
Our curriculum is structured using the
proficient speakers, which require preparation and focused study. These evaluations
encourage apprentices to move beyond basic
vocabulary and begin forming complete
sentences and meaningful phrases.
The Language Apprentice team participates in daily internal language classes with
proficient and fluent speakers, as well as
online courses through the Hoocąk Academy. Their learning goes beyond language
alone; they are also challenged to engage
with cultural knowledge by hosting quarterly
elder gatherings. Through this multifaceted
approach, our apprentices are gaining the
skills and confidence needed to carry our
language and culture forward.
New Language Radio Episodes
The HoChunk Renaissance department
has launched a series of language and cultural episodes on KWTN 100.9 FM – The
Big Voice. These occur weekly on Tuesday
afternoons. The content includes language
lessons, historical information, cultural stories, taboos, clanship & kinship, and more.
The episodes will also be available on our
SoundCloud podcast.
HoChunk Children’s Books – Second
Series
Our first series of HoChunk children’s
books was launched in December 2018,
featuring three titles:
Hocici, Suk, Wakanaske (Boy, Dog, Frog)
Huc Xunuik (Little Bear)
Wak maxi howaji na (The Man Who Fell
from the Sky)
American Council on the Teaching of
Foreign Languages (ACTFL) guidelines.
These nationally recognized standards are
widely used in world language education
and provide a framework that supports
faster evaluation and acquisition of language
skills. Adapting these guidelines to the
HoChunk language, however, is a complex
and time-consuming task. Even so, we have
already seen first-time learners excel rapidly
through our novice-level curriculum, which
is supported by a wide range of resources.
The curriculum is organized into three
main blocks: Novice, Intermediate, and
Advanced (Superior). Each block is further
divided into three levels—low, mid, and high
(for example, Novice-Low and Novice-Mid).
Our curriculum team has been working
diligently and collaboratively to create a
teaching guide that will serve both current
learners and future generations. The chart
below illustrates the stages of our curriculum.
Our program includes daily lesson plans,
activities, objectives, material boxes, supportive binders, and digital tools such as
PowerPoints and Quizlets. These resources
are currently being used in local schools as
well as in our Hoit’e Coni na community
classes. While we have established a strong
foundation, this is an ongoing, long-term
project. Our curriculum continues to grow
and adapt, especially with the integration of
new software and evolving teaching tools.
Language Apprentices – Next Generational Speakers
In addition to the extracurricular activities
and projects we host, we
are deeply investing in
our next generation of
speakers. Our Language Apprentices are
actively studying daily
terms and phrases that
align with our unique
curriculum. With clear
deadlines in place, apprentices are regularly
evaluated through oneon-one assessments with
As of August 2025, we are proud to announce our second series:
Tok 1974 (Summer 1974)
Ma’e Xete ra (The Big Storm)
Max Wagijire ra (The Garden Helpers)
Each book comes with an audio drive
narrated by eminent speaker Phyllis Armendariz, complete with sound effects to
enhance the storytelling experience. Physical
copies are available at our office, and
e-books can be accessed via our YouTube
channel (HoChunk Renaissance) and our
website.
New Cultural Learning Center
Our program has acquired a St. Augustine
brown trailer, located on Elm Street, which
is currently under renovation. This site will
serve as a Cultural Learning Center for
language instruction and cultural activities.
With our FY26 Annual Operating Plan completed, we have upcoming language classes
and a range of cultural events scheduled for
the coming year. Additional details will be
shared as plans progress.
Language resources & materials
The program provides a range of resources
and materials at our office headquarters and
has expanded accessibility online for tribal
members living off the reservation. Our website, www.hochunklanguage.com, features:
Downloadable resources and language
books
History and cultural information
Language games
Video and audio content
Ordering tribal flags
Event and activity information
The website also includes forms to order
physical materials and request translations.
Our language programming can be accessed
across multiple platforms, including:
YouTube
Quizlet
SoundCloud
www.hochunklanguage.com
The Future of HoChunk Renaissance
With the decreasing number of fluent
speakers, our language team remains com-
mitted to revitalizing the HoChunk language
through education, collaboration and community engagement. We continue to expand
opportunities for language learning and
cultural enrichment across the community.
Our primary goals for this year include:
Community Outreach and Language
Awareness – promoting the use and visibility
of the HoChunk language.
Curriculum Development and Preservation – creating structured resources to ensure
sustainable language learning for various
ages and grade levels.
Technology and Resource Development
– integrating modern tools and materials to
support learners of all ages.
Language Apprenticeship program –
Strengthening proficiency with our next generational speakers and knowledge holders.
To achieve these goals, we are implementing innovative strategies to accelerate
language acquisition for all learners, while
emphasizing the importance of commitment
from the entire tribal nation. Our efforts
also aim to foster stronger cultural pride
and identity, including visible community
projects such as tribal flags, culture camps,
children’s park collaboration, street signs
in HoChunk, culturally themed billboards,
building names and wordage, and banners
featuring tribal designs throughout the Winnebago community.
Looking ahead, we remain dedicated
to overcoming challenges and developing
creative ways to make the HoChunk language accessible to all tribal members. We
encourage every member of the community
to participate by attending language and
cultural events, utilizing available resources,
and speaking the language in the home and
community. Daily practice is essential, as the
preservation of our language is intrinsically
tied to the preservation of our identity as
HoChunk people.
We firmly believe that revitalizing the
HoChunk language requires the active participation of the entire tribal community, not
solely the language program. In light of the
upcoming tribal council elections, we also
invite candidates to meet with our program
administration and staff to discuss strategies
for collectively and constructively supporting the growth of our department’s efforts
and emphasizing the urgency of language
preservation.
By working together, we can ensure that
the HoChunk language continues to thrive
for future generations. Our language team remains committed to leading this “HoChunk
Renaissance” with passion and dedication.
We are always available to provide cultural and language resources to all HoChunk
people and sincerely thank the community
for its ongoing support. We look forward to
offering many more HoChunk Renaissance
language projects and events in the years
ahead.
Naigizi wa’iniginapwi. Pinagigiwi,
Lewis “Bleu” St.Cyr / Wanikco
Program Director
HoChunk Renaissance
402-878-4135
Lewis.stcyr@winnebagotribe.com
Page 8 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, September 13, 2025
COMMUNITY
WCHS’s Senior Citizen Center Celebrates a Summer
of Connection, Care, and Community
Chief Standing Bear Courage Prize Committee
Announces Wes Studi as Inaugural Prize
Recipient
Dateline: September 7, 2022 Lincoln, Nebraska — The Chief Standing Bear Prize for Courage Project announces the selection of actor Wes Studi as its inaugural Chief Standing Bear Prize
for Courage recipient.
By: Erin McElroy Flores, Communications Manager
Winnebago, NE – The Senior Citizens Center in Winnebago, NE has had a busy and exciting summer, continuing its mission of serving community elders with nutritious meals,
meaningful activities, and a welcoming space to gather.
The Senior Citizens Center is best known for its efforts to combat food insecurity in
senior populations by providing lunch from 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM for elders ages 55+ to
enjoy. In just June and July alone, the Center provided 10,246 meals to elders— both served
in person and delivered directly to homes for those who are eligible for Meals on Wheels.
These nutritious meals provide community elders opportunities for connection, laughter,
and improved mental and physical health.
Beyond daily meals, the Center offers a wide range of resources and services designed to
meet the needs, elevate the quality of life, and support well-being of elders. The facility
features handicapped accessible furniture, air conditioning, a pool table, and comfortable indoor and outdoor furniture, a brand-new flat screen TV. Relatives can enjoy puzzles,
games, access washer and dryer, and more.
“We are more than just a meal program — we are a place where elders can come together, share stories, and feel connected,” said Bobbie Wolfe, Director of the Senior Citizens
Center. “It’s been wonderful to see so many of our elders joining us this summer, whether
it’s to enjoy a meal, take part in activities, or just spend time with friends.”
The Senior Citizens Center’s weekly activities include games, wellness events, social
gatherings, and excursions all designed to enrich the lives of elders in the community.
Their monthly newsletter provides updates, resources, and event information to keep
everyone engaged.
The Senior Citizens Center remains dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for elders — a place to nourish both body and spirit.
WCHS Hosts Teen Health Fair
By: Erin McElroy, Communications Manager
Winnebago, NE – On Monday, August 25, the Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare
System’s Public Health Nursing team hosted its annual Teen Health Fair in the Winnebago
Public School gym, this event welcomed 7th–12th grade students, preteens, and teacher for
a day of learning, connection, and fun.
The event featured interactive booths, educational resources, and health screenings designed to empower teens with knowledge and tools to make healthy choices. Many teens
are not aware of the various health issues that can affect them. A health fair provides a fun
and accessible platform to educate them on a wide range of topics, including nutrition,
mental health, physical fitness, substance abuse prevention, CPR, healthy relationships,
and more!
Local healthcare professionals, community organizations, and school staff collaborated
to provide hands-on activities and answer questions in an approachable, teen-friendly
environment.
Attendees had the opportunity to participate in games, receive educational resources to
support their health and well-being year-round.
“The Teen Health fair is funded by an outreach grant focused on providing culturally
centered efforts to reach every age in our community! This event was centered on our
middle and high schoolers, meeting these adolescents where they are. We want to provide
accurate information, practical skills, and a safe space to ask important questions,” said
Carla Griffin, Public Health Nursing Director. “Education is the first step to building a
healthy lifestyle.”
WCHS thanks Winnebago Public School, participating organizations, and all the students and families who joined in making the day a success. By learning together, the community takes one more step toward stronger, healthier futures for Winnebago’s youth.
The Chief Standing Bear Project, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation, was created in 2022
to promote the life and civil rights legacy of Ponca Chief Standing Bear by presenting public discussion groups, forums, lectures and other event on a national level. The initial kick-off program
of the Project is the presentation of the Standing Bear Prize for Courage, awarded to those Native
Americans who exemplify courage in the spirit of Standing Bear in doing what is right, rather
than what is expedient.
Katie Brossy, board president of the Chief Standing Bear Project a 501 (c)(3) non-profit corporation stated that Studi was selected for the prize on the basis of his acting career. “Mr. Studi
has exhibited real courage in bringing his unique presence in each of his roles that has allowed
the broader audience to see beyond Native American stereotypes and caricatures and instead see
Native people as human. That is truly what Chief Standing Bear stood for in federal district court
in 1879 when he persuaded a federal judge to recognize Native Americans as “persons” within the
meaning of the law” said Brossy. “During his lifetime, not only through his acting roles, but in
his dedication and passionate activism in the promotion and preservation of indigenous languages,
Mr. Studi has shown great courage in the spirit of Chief Standing Bear. It is particularly meaningful that Mr. Studi’s acting career began with his role in the 1988 PBS production of The Trial of
Standing Bear.”
As the recipient of the prize, Mr. Studi will be presented with his award at an event held at
the Lied Center for Performing Arts in Lincoln, Nebraska on Indigenous Peoples Day, Monday,
October 10, 2022. He will receive a statuette of Chief Standing Bear created by renowned artist
Benjamin Victor, the sculptor of the iconic Statuary Hall Chief Standing Bear sculpture, as well as
a cash honorarium.
More information about the prize and the award event will be released shortly and will be
posted at www.chieftandingbear.org
Saturday, September 13, 2025 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 9
ANNOUNCEMENTS
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.