Published Bi-Weekly for the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska

Published Bi-Weekly for the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska

Editor's Movie

Review:

Sugarcane

Breakfast with the

WTN Tribal Council

page: 6

Volume 54, Number 1

Our masthead for this first issue of 2025

features the icon representing the Elk Clan

/ Huwa Hikikarac. The Elk Clan holds many

functions within our tribe, including those

related to being messengers to the people,

servants of the people, and caring for the

environment overall. The Elk Clan is most

well-known for being the primary distributor

of fire throughout the villages, and while

on hunts. When at war, the Elk Clan was in

charge of the sacred fire. The Elk Clan is one

of the eight Earth clans. Its friendship clan

is the Deer Clan. Elk Clan members were

considered fierce warriors as represented by

the spear. Families belonging to the Elk Clan

include: Smith. Our gratitude to the HoChunk

Renaissance Department for their assistance

in providing this information.

page: 2

Hųc wiconį ňa

First Bear Moon

Saturday, January 18, 2025

WTN INTERNET OUTREACH BEGINS

Nį̄šoc Nįgešąną

Bago Bits

December 12th, HoChunk Renaissance hosted a Holiday HoChunk Bingo

Night! Attendees were able to learn or

recap Hocak words, win prizes and

enjoy a Christmas meal. Thank you

HoChunk Renaissance for revitalizing

our language

Winnebago Tribe Seeks Collaboration

with Reservation Landowners to Construct

High Speed Internet Network

The Winnebago Tribe is reaching out to

landowners whose property is managed by

the U.S. Department of Interior, Bureau of

Indian Affairs (BIA) to provide consent for

right of way enabling the high-speed fiber

internet network to be constructed. The

Tribe received federal funding through the

U.S. Department of Commerce’s National

Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) office Tribal Broadband

Program to serve more than 600 households, 40 businesses, and 16 tribal institutions in the rural reservation and adjacent

communities.

Bridging the digital divide in Indian Country means championing hurdles not normally

Reservation happened.” The planning and

design phases are completed. To be able to

connect to individual buildings, the fiber optic network must be built on property owned

and held in trust by the BIA for individual

landowners, and the Tribe. A majority of the

fiber optic network will be located within

existing road ditches to minimize affecting

current uses of the properties.

The last step to complete before construction can begin is to get consent from

individuals whose property is held in trust

with the BIA to allow an easement on the

property for the construction of the fiber

network. The consent of 51% of ownership

on properties held in trust is critical to ensure

Con’t. on page 2...

WCHS Welcomes New Full-time Optometrist Dr. Christine James

Check out those gasoline prices.

Shown above was the old ‘Heritage Mall’

gas pumps. Located next to the Neola

Walker Human Services building. Check

out more throwbacks in this issue!

By:Erin McElroy Communications

Manager

December 13th, the Angel DeCora

Museum & Research Center hosted a

book signing event with Cathy Coats, Author of "To Banish Forever: A Secret Society, the Ho-Chunk, and Ethnic Cleansing

in Minnesota". Cathy's book highlights

the Ho-Chunk peoples resiliency.

faced by typical telecommunication projects.

The tribe has designed the 286 miles (1.8

million feet) project across the reservation to

avoid cultural sites and to minimize environmental concerns related to the project. That

has included multi-federal and state agency

collaborations including, but not limited to, a

permit process with the U.S. Army Corps of

Engineers to cross underneath the Missouri

River in two locations.

Victoria Kitcheyan, Tribal Chairwoman

for the Winnebago Tribe shared, “This is an

exciting and monumental undertaking for

the tribe to allow residents and businesses

to be a part of the 21st century. Not since

electricity was made available to homes

here approximately 75 years ago has something so significantly important to our tribal

members and residents of the Winnebago

Winnebago, NE – The Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System is thrilled to announce the arrival of Dr. Christine James, to their Optometry

Department. WCHS is dedicated to creating and sustaining

health in the Winnebago community, and having James as a

full-time optometrist will greatly

increase the capacity of the department.

WCHS’s Optometry Department has been staffed with two

part-time contract optometrists,

limiting the reach in care that

the department can give. Dr.

James’s arrival will allow the

department to schedule specialized appointments every weekday starting in January. WCHS’s

Optometry Department is set up

to serve all ages through vision

exams, optical services, and

various treatments and care.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to expand our services

and reach more of our relatives.

Access to regular eye exams

enables early detection of eye

diseases that allow for more

timely and successful treatment

outcomes.” States Mona Zuffante, Chief Public Health Officer.

Dr. Christine James began her

journey in optometry when she

graduated in 2018 from Concordia University Nebraska with a

Bachelor of Science degree in

biology. From there, she attend-

ed the University of Missouri

St. Louis College of Optometry,

graduating in 2022. Dr. James

graduated as a member of the

Beta Sigma Kappa honor society

and received awards for “Excellence in Clinical Skills” and “Excellence in Contact Lens Patient

Care”. Within optometry, she

has a great passion for helping

patients with binocular vision

dysfunctions and is a member of

the AOA (American Osteopathic

Association), AAO (American

Academy of Ophthalmology),

and IOA (Iowa Optometric Association). Originally from Ida

Grove, IA, Dr. James now calls

Sioux City, IA home. When not

in the office, she enjoys playing

the piano, hiking, birding with

her husband, Eric, and playing

tennis in the evenings.

“I am honored to have the

opportunity to join and serve

the WCHS community,” James

states. “I am looking forward to

caring for this community and

widening eye care access services in Winnebago.”

Visit us at winnebagotribe.com

Page 2 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, January 18, 2025

COMMUNITY

...Cont. from front page WTN INTERNET OUTREACH BEGINS...

construction can begin. Letters and consent forms have been sent to property

owners that would be impacted by construction of the fiber network. The help of

property owners in the path of construction are asked to assist the Tribe and this

important project by providing consent to allow the easement by returning the

signed consent forms.

The Tribe has worked closely with Tribal Council and BIA to ensure all documentation is in accordance with Tribal and federal rules and regulations. They are

excited to see the community’s support and participation in this process to move

the project forward to strengthen our Tribal members and community creating a

brighter future for the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska.

Winnebago Tribal Members, Landowners, or Community members that have

additional questions may email: fiber@winnebagotribe.com or call the Toll Free

Phone Number: 833-761-9444.

Amanda Walton Receives

WCHS’s Daisy Award

By: Erin McElroy Communications Manager

Winnebago, NE – The Winnebago

Comprehensive Healthcare System (WCHS) proudly honors Nurse

Amanda Walton as the recipient of

the 2025 Quarter 1 DAISY Award®

for Extraordinary

Nurses. In a moving ceremony,

WCHS celebrated Amanda’s remarkable achievement, alongside

the invaluable contributions of all its

nursing staff, recognizing their unwavering dedication to patients and

families.

Since its establishment in 1999

by the Barnes family, the DAISY

Foundation has become a symbol of

gratitude for the extraordinary care

nurses provide. The foundation was

created in memory of Patrick Barnes,

whose family was deeply moved by

the compassionate care he received

during his illness. The DAISY Award®

was born from this legacy, honoring

the exceptional dedication and skill

of nurses across the globe.

Amanda Walton was selected from

a group of outstanding nominees by

WCHS’s DAISY committee. Her nominator highlighted her exceptional ability to consistently provide compassionate, skillful, and patient-centered

care saying, “Her energy and smiles

are contagious. When I’d come for a

different appointment I would have

questions, and she would always

come out to talk to me and help me.

She always asks if I have everything

I need for home, like equipment to

help me walk, etc. Anytime I would

call just to update on what was going

on with me and my surgeries, she

always paid attention because when

I would come in for an appointment,

my doctor was well informed due to

Amanda’s attentive care.” Amanda’s

commitment to nursing excellence,

combined with her dedication and

attention to detail in patient care, has

left an indelible impact on her patients

and colleagues alike.

During the awards ceremony on

Monday, January 13th, Amanda was

surprised and humbled as she was

celebrated by her peers and WCHS

leadership. Sara McIntosh, Chief

Nursing Officer, shared, “Amanda

stands out as a shining example of

nursing excellence. Her commitment

to delivering exceptional care, as

described by her nominator, reflects

her profound empathy, skill, and

dedication. Amanda embodies the

true spirit of nursing, ensuring her

patients feel cared for and valued in

every interaction.”

What began as a single family’s

gesture of gratitude has evolved into

a global movement embraced by

healthcare organizations worldwide.

At WCHS, the DAISY Award® remains

a cornerstone of our commitment to

recognizing and honoring exceptional

nurses like Amanda Walton, who exemplify compassion, excellence, and

the highest standards of patient care.

Next WIN News Deadline:

January 27th

Saturday, January 18, 2025 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 3

Wāgax hų̄k ra wāgax hokik’ųna

Letter to the Editor

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of Hearing

Case No. JFJ25-005

The People of the Winnebago Tribe

In the Interest of:

Z.H. (Born 07/2012)

To:

ALL POTENTIAL FATHERS

You are hereby notified that a hearing for

an Adjudication concerning the above referred minor individual(s) in case no. JFJ25005 has been scheduled and will be heard in

the Winnebago Tribal Court of Winnebago,

Nebraska on the 12th day of February, 2025

at the hour of 1:00 P.M.

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of Suspension of Parental Rights

Hearing

Case No. CV24-135

In the Matter of the

Adoption of:

J.S. (BORN 10/2015)

TO:

SONYA WHITE, Mother

JERREN SPRINGS, Father

You are hereby notified that an Adoption

Petition has been filed and an Suspension

of Parental Rights Hearing concerning the

above referred Individual(s) in case no.

CV24-135 has been scheduled and will

be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court of

Winnebago, Nebraska on the 27th day of

FEBRUARY, 2025 at the hour of 10:00 A.M.

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of Hearing

Case No. JFJ24-023

The People of the Winnebago Tribe

In the Interest of:

R.G. (Born 08/2011)

To: DWIGHT MORRIS JR, Father

ALL POTENTIAL FATHERS

You are hereby notified that a hearing

for an Initial Appearance concerning the

above referred minor individual(s) in case

no. JFJ24-023 has been scheduled and

will be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court

of Winnebago, Nebraska on the 5th day of

FEBRUARY, 2025 at the hour of 11:00 A.M.

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of Service

CASE NO. CV24-112

In the matter of WINNEBAGO COMPREHENSIVE HEALTHCARE SYSTEM V.

MOHAMED HUMAD, M.D., M.B.A.

To: MOHAMED HUMAD, M.D., M.B.A.,

Respondent

You are hereby notified that the Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System has filed a Civil Petition to Establish

Debt against you in the Winnebago Tribal

Court to recover an unpaid debt in the

amount of $120,000, plus interest, and

all costs and reasonable attorneys’ fees

incurred in recovering such debt. You

must file an answer to the Civil Petition to

Establish Debt within thirty-one (31) days

from the date of this publication or entry

of a default judgment against you may be

rendered, accordingly.

Pursuant to Section 2-306 of the Winnebago Tribal Code, this notice shall serve

as service of process upon posting in the

Winnebago Indian News.

JESUS OUR SAVIOR

LUTHERAN OUTREACH

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of Hearing

Case No. CV25-027AB

‘Despair - Denial - or Delight’

What are the most terrifying words in the

In the Matter of the

English language?

Guardianship Petition of:

Nearly forty years ago - at a press conSalena Pedroza

ference a government leader said, “The

In Re:

nine most terrifying words in the English

T.W. (Born 06/2012)

language are ‘I’m from the government and

S.W. (Born 03/2018)

I’m here to help.’”

Let me change it up a bit - what if we were

TO:

CHERISE LYONS, MOTHER

to reduce the most terrifying words to three.

What three words do you think would receive

the greatest emotional response?

You are hereby notified that a petition has

How about: ‘I am pregnant’? When heard

been filed for Guardianship and a hearing unexpectedly these words could bring terror.

concerning the above referred Individual(s) Undoubtedly these words brought terror

in Case No. CV25-027AB has been sched- to King David’s mind when Bathsheba inuled and will be heard in the Winnebago formed him that she was pregnant. Yes, one

Tribal Court of Winnebago, Nebraska on response to terror is the feeling of despair!

the 3rd day of February, 2025 at the hour David was in despair!

of 11:30 A.M.

While praying in the temple in Jerusalem

Zechariah was told by the angel his wife

Elizabeth, who was barren, was soon to be

pregnant and they would have a son. His

response was one of denial! Due to his unLEGAL NOTICE

belief he was left speechless - literally, until

Notice of Hearing

the birth of their son John.

Case No. JFJ25-009A

However, these three words ‘I am pregThe People of the Winnebago Tribe

nant’ can also be the most exciting words

In the Interest of:

in the English language. The responses for

L.B. (Born 12/2007)

Elizabeth and for Mary were not despair nor

denial but delight - they were delighted or

delight-full!

To: ALL POTENTIAL FATHERS

What response do you have regarding

the news of the pregnancies of both Eliza

You are hereby notified that a hearing beth and Mary? Do these words bring you

for an Adjudication concerning the above delight? or denial - so what? or despair referred minor individual(s) in case no. anger!?

I would venture to write, when it comes

JFJ25-009A has been scheduled and will

be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court of especially to the pregnancy of the virgin

Winnebago, Nebraska on the 5th day of Mary and the birth of her son, the son of God,

that these are the three typical responses.

March, 2025 at the hour of 1:30 P.M.

Most people around the world are in denial

of this story. Or should I write that most are

ignorant even of this story. The miraculous

birth of Jesus is impossible. In the words of

Ebenezer Scrooge ‘Bah humbug!’

Others respond much like King Herod the

LEGAL NOTICE

Great.

When King Herod was visited by the

Notice of Suspension of Parental Rights

Hearing

Case No. CV24-136ABC

By: Pastor Ricky Jacob

Magi he, along with many in Jerusalem, went

into despair. King Herod’s despair moved

him to attempt to end the life of the baby

boy born in Bethlehem. He had his soldiers

murder every boy under the age of 2 in the

town of Bethlehem.

You might be wondering how God could

allow this to happen? Today there are many

who end the lives of their unborn babies right

here in America. This is sadly, tragically an

all too often response to the three words ‘I

am pregnant.’

While Creator God is not the cause of

the evil in the world, He did something to

redeem sinners who do evil things. And His

only begotten son was born to die, but not

as a baby in Bethlehem. That was for a different time and a different place according

to God’s plan of salvation.

The usual response to the news of the

birth of Jesus is either that of denial or despair! However, for a few the response is

one of delight! Those who are delighted at

this good news gather together to give their

Creator glory and praise that He would love

us so much as to send a Savior! Did you

take time to offer your thanks on Christmas

eve or Christmas Day in one of His houses

of worship?

It is the love of our Creator that Jesus was

born. Jesus took on flesh and blood in order

that he would give up his life and offer to be

the Savior of the world.

So what is your response to The Christmas Story? Are you in despair? Or are you in

denial? Or are you in delight? Yes, delighted

as you receive the Christmas gift in faith and

with the angels sing praise and thanks to

Jesus’ heavenly Father!

This delight moves believers in Jesus to

thank and praise God each and every day.

This same delight moves His adopted sons

and daughters to gather together each and

every week. The good news that the angels

shared with the shepherds moved them to

worship Jesus. How do you respond to this

same good news - despair, denial or delight?

In the Matter of the

Adoption of:

A.E. (BORN 03/2012)

A.E. (BORN 02/2014)

A.E. (BORN 02/2014)

TO:

SONYA WHITE, Mother

ERIC ELMORE, Father

You are hereby notified that an Adoption

Petition has been filed and an Suspension

of Parental Rights Hearing concerning the

above referred Individual(s) in case no.

CV24-136ABC has been scheduled and will

be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court of

Winnebago, Nebraska on the 27th day of

FEBRUARY, 2025 at the hour of 10:00 A.M.

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of Hearing

Case No. CV25-019

In the Matter of the

Guardianship Petition of:

Cynthia Earth

In Re:

J.W. (Born 08/2018)

TO:

ALL POSSIBLE FATHERS,

You are hereby notified that a petition has

been filed for Guardianship and a hearing

concerning the above referred Individual(s)

in Case No. CV25-019 has been scheduled

and will be heard in the Winnebago Tribal

Court of Winnebago, Nebraska on the 16TH

day of JANUARY, 2025 at the hour of 10:00

A.M.

The next issue of the WINNEBAGO INDIAN NEWS will be published on February 1, 2025. DEADLINE for this issue will be January 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.

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

Brian Chamberlain...................................Editor Coly Brown................................ Member

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the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska”

Lorelei DeCora...........................Member

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Page 4 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, January 18, 2025

TRIBAL COUNCIL MINUTES

4-year term:

Rona Stealer motioned to appoint Lynelle

Blackhawk to the LPTC Board. Kenneth

Mallory seconded the motion.

OBJECT: Lorelei DeCora

VOTE: (5) yes (1) no, LD (0) abstain

Motion carried.

WCHS Board – 2 Vacancies; applicants

Eugene DeCora motioned to appoint Willy

Bass and Lynelle Blackhawk to the WCHS

Board of Directors for 3-year terms. Kenneth

Mallory seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain Motion

carried.

IRB Board – 2 vacancies; 1 applicants

Coly Brown motioned to appoint Melanie

Parker to IRB Board & to advertise the other

vacancies until filled. Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

HCI Board – advertisement; 30 days

Eugene DeCora motioned to accept the

resignation of Lynelle Blackhawk and advertise the vacancy for 30 days. Kenneth

Mallory seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Wildlife & Parks Commission – advertisement; open until filled.

Rona Stealer motioned to readvertise one

(1) vacancy open until filled. Isaac Smith

seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

PHYSICAL RESOURCES

EOP (Emergency Operations Plan) APPROVAL – Julie Smithart

Eugene DeCora motioned to approve

the EOP Plan as presented. Coly Brown

seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

WLP job descriptions

Isaac Smith motioned to table the Wildlife

& Parks job descriptions. Eugene DeCora

seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

HUMAN SERVICES

Trialer name approval – Wozoki Hoci

Eugene DeCora motioned to approve

the trailer name “Wozoki Hoci”. Coly Brown

seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

ENROLLMENT

Tribal Enrollment Applicants; Resolution

Isaac Smith motioned to adopt resolution

#25-63: Tribal Enrollment Applicants [A4269,

A4284, A4450, A4529, A4530, A4534,

A4537, A4538, A4552, A4555, A4564]. Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

BREAK: reconvene at 12:34 p.m.

TRIBAL COUNCIL ITEMS

LPTC President’s annual presentation –

presented by Manoj Patil

Isaac Smith motioned to authorize Chairwoman to send a letter to Senator Fischer

and the Senate Colleagues and House

Representatives to support the NACIE Improvement Act. Loreli DeCora seconded

the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Kenneth Mallory motioned to accept the

LPTC Annual Presentation. Eugene DeCora

seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

Isaac Smith motioned to go into Executive Session at 1:50 p.m. Eugene DeCora

seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Eugene DeCora motioned to come out of

Executive Session at 3:01 p.m. Rona Stealer

seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Lorelei DeCora motioned to approve CB

request for vehicle repair to come out of TC

donations for $1,490.00. Kenneth Mallory

seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

ADJOURN:

Rona Stealer motioned to adjourn. Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Chairwoman adjourned the meeting at

3:02 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Lorelei DeCora, Tribal Council member

CONCURRED:

Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary

Winnebago Tribal Council

WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA

MID-MONTHLY TRIBAL COUNCIL

MEETING

December 17, 2024

TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:

Victoria Kitcheyan

Teresa Littlegeorge

Lorelei DeCora

Coly Brown

Eugene DeCora

Kenneth Mallory

Isaac Smith (in at 9:06 a.m.)

OTHERS PRESENT:

Cecelia Earth

Christina Parker

Crystal White

Kellen Kelsey

Brittany Thomas

Rona Stealer

Ireta Frazier

TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:

Aric Armell

CALL TO ORDER: Chairwoman Kitcheyan called to order at 9:04 a.m.

OPENING PRAYER: Coly Brown offered

the opening prayer.

APPROVE AGENDA:

Eugene DeCora motioned to approve

the agenda. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded

the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

READING OF THE MINUTES:

December 2, 2024 – Regular Tribal

Council Meeting

Rona Stealer motioned to approve the

December 2, 2024 – Regular Tribal Council

Meeting minutes. Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

December 2, 2024 – Law Enforcement/

Fire Department/BIA Report Meeting

Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the

December 2, 2024 – Law Enforcement/Fire

Department/BIA Report meeting minutes.

Coly Brown seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

[Isaac in at 9:06]

December 3, 2024 – Physical Resources

Report Meeting

Rona Stealer motioned to approve the

December 3, 2024 - Physical Resources

Report meeting minutes. Isaac Smith seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

December 9, 2024 - Physical Resources

Report Meeting

Eugene DeCora motioned to approve

the December 9, 2024 - Physical Resources

Report meeting minutes. Isaac Smith seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

December 11, 2024 – CEO Report

Meeting

Isaac Smith motioned to approve the

December 11, 2024 – CEO Report Meeting

minutes. Eugene DeCora seconded the

motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

RATIFY FIVE SIGNATURES:

Adopt resolution #25-54: Emergency

Enrollment (A4598)

Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to ratify

the five-signature adopting resolution #2554: Emergency Enrollment (A4598). Rona

Stealer seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

NEW BUSINESS:

Planning Department

Amending Resolution #22-05 HUD

ICDBG (Housing and Urban Development

Indian Country Community Development

Block Grant) Single Purpose Public Facility

Project Grant

Isaac Smith motioned to adopt resolution

#22-05A: Amending Resolution #22-05 HUD

ICDBG (Housing and Urban Development

Indian Country Community Development

Block Grant) Single Purpose Public Facility

Project Grant. Eugene DeCora seconded

the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Resolution – Home Electrification & Appliance Rebates Program for Indian Tribes

Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to adopt

resolution #25-64: Home Electrification & Appliance Rebates Program for Indian Tribes.

Coly Brown seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Resolution – Winnebago Tribe IRA Iowa

Tree Planting Grant

Isaac Smith motioned to adopt resolution

#25-65: Winnebago Tribe IRA Iowa Tree

Planting Grant. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Resolution – Child Victims and Witnesses

Support Materials Application for Printed

Materials

Eugene DeCora motioned to adopt resolution #25-66: Child Victims and Witnesses

Support Materials Application for Printed Materials. Rona Stealer seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

OLD BUSINESS: none.

TRIBAL COUNCIL ITEMS: none.

ADJOURN:

Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to adjourn.

Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Chairwoman adjourned the meeting at

9:19 a.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary

Winnebago Tribal Council

WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA

GENERAL COUNSEL MEETING

December 18, 2024

TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:

Victoria Kitcheyan

Teresa Littlegeorge

Rona Stealer

Kenneth Mallory

Lorelei DeCora

Eugene DeCora

Coly Brown

Isaac Smith (in at 9:49 a.m.)

OTHERS PRESENT:

Danelle Smith

Michele Mitchell

Zeriyah James

Tyresha Romero

Deidre Redhorn

Cecelia Earth

Annabess Preston

Kiana Lewis

Barbara Pretends Eagle

Kellie Snow

Anna Berridge

Brittany Thomas

Darla LaPointe

Andy Snowball

Terri Lee Medina

Ireta Frazier

Summer Snow

Don Wesley

Jewel Parker

Josh Pitre

Burke Harr

Joey Adler Ruane

Todd Morman

TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:

Aric Armell

CALL TO ORDER: Victoria Kitcheyan

called to order at 9:09 a.m.

OPENING PRAYER: Eugene DeCora

offered the opening prayer.

APPROVE AGENDA:

Coly Brown motioned to approve the

agenda with additions. Eugene DeCora

seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

ACTION ITEMS:

WTN Radio Station Ernest Sanchez Attorney Contract

Eugene DeCora motioned to adopt resolution #25-67: Approving Independent Contractor Agreement for Legal Services for the

Sanchez Law Firm P.C. for the WTN Radio

Station. Rona Stealer seconded the motion.

VOTE:(6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Powwow Committee Bylaws

Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to remove

part b. and d. under 3, iii from the Bylaws

and adopt resolution #25-68: Approving the

Winnebago Pow Wow Committee Bylaws.

Lorelei DeCora seconded the motion.

OBJECT: Eugene DeCora

VOTE; (2) yes, TL, LD (2) no, CB, ED

(2) abstain, RS, KM

Chair votes in favor of the motion

FINAL VOTE: (3) yes, TL,LD, VK (2) no,

CB,ED (2) abstain, RS,KM Motion carried.

[Isaac in at 9:49 a.m.]

[ED out 9:50 a.m., in at 9:54 a.m.]

Land Management Residential Land

Lease Policy

Lorelei DeCora motioned to table the

Residential Land Lease Policy. Eugene

DeCora seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Land Management Residential Lease

Cancellation SOP

Eugene DeCora motioned to adopt resolution #25-69: Approving Winnebago Tribe

of Nebraska Residential Land Lease Cancellation Standard Operating Procedures

(“SOP”). Coly Brown seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

GAO P.L. 280 Study - Request

Isaac Smith motioned to approve to request a letter sent to Senator Fischer to sign

on to the GAO P.L. 280 Study. Rona Stealer

seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

BREAK: reconvening at 10:14 a.m.

SUSPEND THE RULES

Eugene DeCora motioned to suspend the

rules to advertise for the Pow-wow Committee. Kenneth Mallory seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

[TL in at 10:16 a.m.]

Eugene DeCora motioned to advertise

the 7 vacancies for the Pow-wow Committee

to be filled on January 20th, 2024. Lorelei

DeCora seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Furniture Bid – Brittany Thomas

Eugene DeCora motioned to approve

the All Native Solutions bid for the Boys and

Girls Club furniture bid for the amount of

$192,502.00. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded

the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

UPDATES/DISCUSSION ITEMS:

Federal Advocacy – Administrative updates – Presented by Josh Pitre

Winnebago Land Transfer Act Implementation

USDA FDPIR Program Update

[Lorelei out 10:46 a.m.]

Califano Fund Implementation

[Isaac, Virtual on travel to Apprenticeship

Ceremony at WinnaVegas]

[Lorelei in at 10:48 a.m.]

[Isaac in 10:48 a.m.]

Treasury Consultation – Tribal General

Welfare Benefits

Federal Advocacy – Congressional

updates

NACIE Improvement Act

Strengthening Tribal Families Act (STFA)

Truth & Healing Commission on Indian

Boarding School Policies Act

Federal Advocacy – 2025 Federal Priorities

State Advocacy (Request 11:00 a.m.) –

Don Wesely, O’Hara Lindsay

[Lorelei out 11:18 a.m.]

Tribal College Funding

[Rona out 11:20 a.m., in 11:23 a.m.]

2025 State Legislative Priorities

2025 Legislative Luncheon

[Lorelei out 11:31 a.m., in 11:35 a.m.]

[Eugene out 11:36 a.m., in 11:40 a.m.]

[Rona out at 11:47 a.m. for WPS Foundation mtg.]

[Lorelei out at 11:58 a.m., in 12:03 p.m.]

[Victoria out 12:11 p.m., in at 12:13 p.m.]

[Isaac out at 12:14 p.m.]

BREAK: Reconvening at 12:32 p.m.

Nikjak Wakacak (Sacred Children) Care

Center North NMTC Financing Project

Law Enforcement

[Eugene out 12:47 p.m.]

[Lorelei out at 12:49 p.m., in at 12:50

p.m.]

TDHE – WHDC

[Kenneth out at 12:56 p.m., in at 12:59

p.m.]

[Eugene in at 12:59 p.m.]

[Lorelei out at 1:10 p.m.]

Tribal Code Revision Project

[Lorelei in at 1:16 p.m.]

Cannabis – legal challenges

[Rona in at 1:23 p.m.]

EXECUTIVE SESSION

Eugene DeCora motioned to go into

Executive Session at 1:24 p.m. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

[Teresa out at 1:26 p.m., in at 1:30 p.m.]

[Lorelei out at 1:56 p.m.]

[Victoria out at 2:17 p.m., in at 2:39 p.m.]

[Eugene out at 2:54 p.m.]

[Lorelei in at 2:56 p.m.]

[Eugene in at 2:57 p.m.]

Eugene DeCora motioned to come out of

Executive Session at 3:29 p.m. Coly Brown

seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

ADJOURN:

Coly Brown motioned to adjourn. Eugene

DeCora seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Chairwoman Kitcheyan adjourned the

meeting at 3:29 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary

Winnebago Tribal Council

WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA

TREASURER’S REPORT MEETING

December 20, 2024

TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:

Victoria Kitcheyan

Isaac Smith

Teresa Littlegeorge

Rona Stealer

Lorelei DeCora

Coly Brown

Eugene DeCora

Kenneth Mallory

OTHERS PRESENT:

Jasmine Lammers

Brittany Thomas

Keely Purscell

Kellie Snow

Lynelle Blackhawk

Joy Johnson

Deidre Redhorn

Cecelia Earth

Tom Teesdale

Petra Nielsen

Ray Thomas

Mark Grant

David Edwards

Beth Wewel

Darla LaPointe

Kiva Harden

Christina Parker

Saturday, January 18, 2025 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 5

TRIBAL COUNCIL MINUTES

Lance Morgan

Kristine Earth

Tanya Baker

Thomas Snow

Ireta Frazier

Barbara Pretends Eagle

Tyresha Romero

Sharon Frenchman

Damon Payer

Nakia Mallory

Terri Lee Medina

Sandy Scott

Monica Cleveland

Caden Cleveland

Billie Kitcheyan

Kiana Lewis

Brian Chamberlain

Sharon Redhorn-Chamberlain

Annabess Preston

CALL TO ORDER: Chairwoman

Kitcheyan called to order at 9:13 a.m.

OPENING PRAYER: Vice Chairman

offered the opening prayer.

APPROVE AGENDA:

Rona Stealer motioned to approve the

agenda with additions. Eugene DeCora

seconded.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

[RS out 9:15 a.m.]

CFO Tribal Financial Report: Jasmine

Lammers

Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to approve

the September, October, and November

Tribal Financial Reports. Eugene DeCora

seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

APPROVALS:

Winnebago Tribe Wildlife & Parks FY 25

Bison Project Funding

Lorelei DeCora motioned to adopt resolution #25-70: Winnebago Tribe Wildlife &

Parks FY 25 Bison Project Funding. Teresa

Littlegeorge seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

WTN Tribal Clean Energy Planning and

Development FY 25

Eugene DeCora motioned to adopt

resolution #25-71: Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska Tribal Clean Energy Planning and

Development FY 25. Coly Brown seconded

the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

[Rona in]

Amending Resolution #22-05 HUD

ICDBG (Housing and Urban Development

Indian Country Community Development

Block Grant) Single Purpose Public Facility

Project Grant

Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to adopt

resolution #22-05B: Amending Resolution

#22-05 HUD ICDBG (Housing and Urba

Development Indian County Community

Development Block Grant) Single Purpose

Public Facility Project Grant. Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

Lorelei DeCora motioned to go into

Executive Session at 9:35 a.m. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

[LD out at 10:03 a.m.]

Eugene DeCora motioned to come out

of Executive Session at 10:07 a.m. Rona

Stealer seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

BREAK: Reconvened at 10:12 a.m.

WCHS FINANCIAL REPORT: David Edwards and Beth Wewel

October 2024 Financial Reports

Revenue Generation Report

November 2024 Financial Reports

Revenue Generation Report

Eugene DeCora motioned to accept

the WCHS October and November 2024

Financial Report. Coly Brown seconded

the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

[Isaac out]

GAMING COMMISSION REPORT: Da-

mon Payer and Nakia Mallory

Eugene DeCora motioned to accept the

October and November Financial Report

from Gaming Commission Report. Coly

Brown seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

[Isaac in at 10:40 a.m.]

WARHORSE REPORT: Lance Morgan

and Angel Derochie

Kenneth Mallory motioned to accept the

October and November WarHorse Financial

Reports.

Lorelei DeCora seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

[Lorelei out at 10:42 a.m.]

[Isaac out at 10:42 a.m.]

WINNAVEGAS REPORT: Tom Teesdale

and Mike Grant

October 2024 Financial Report

November 2024 Financial Report

[Kenny out at 10:43 a.m.]

[Isaac in at 10:44 a.m.]

[Kenny in at 10:45 a.m.]

[Lorelei in at 10:51 a.m.]

Rona Stealer motioned to accept the WinnaVegas October and November Financial

Reports. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded

the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

[Coly out]

WGDC – NATIVE STAR/IRON HORSE

REPORT: Sharon Redhorn-Chamberlain

Isaac Smith motioned to set up a Special

Meeting with the Winnebago Gaming Development Corporation Board, Tribal Council

and Native Star/Iron Horse Administration.

Lorelei DeCora seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Isaac Smith motioned to accept the

Winnebago Gaming Development Corporation August, September, October, and

November Financial Reports. Rona Stealer

seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

[Coly in]

BREAK: reconvened at 11:58 a.m.

[Aric Armell in at 11:58 a.m., via phone

call]

TRIBAL COUNCIL ITEMS:

Boys and Girls Club

Eugene DeCora motioned to adopt

resolution #25-72: Investment Portfolio

Drawdown – Boys and Girls Club Shortfall.

Kenneth Mallory seconded the motion.

Chair is voting on this resolution.

VOTE: (9) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

[Aric Armell out}

Jacks’s Uniforms Invoice

Kenneth Mallory motioned to approve

Jack’s Uniforms & Equipment invoice of

$2,182.80 for the Veterans out of Tribal

Council donations. Isaac Smith seconded

the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

Rona Stealer motioned to go into the

Executive Session at 12:40 p.m. Eugene

DeCora seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Rona Stealer motioned to come out of

Executive Session at 1:29 p.m. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

ADJOURN:

Eugene DeCora motioned to adjourn at

1:29 p.m. Kenneth Mallory seconded the

motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Chairwoman Kitcheyan adjourned the

meeting at 1:29 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary

Winnebago Tribal Council

Page 6 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, January 18, 2025

Question of the Issue:

Editor's Movie Review:

Winnebago is deep into the Winter season.

What memories do you have about these frigid

days?

“Bitter and Unsweetened”

Sugarcane

Garan: The very first Last Bear Moon Powwow in 2018 it was predicted that

we would have the winter storm of the century! I was part of the discussions to

either cancel or proceed. We held an emergency meeting, and it was said that

everything would work out fine. It did, the winter storm held off until everyone

got there. Then during the evening grand entry it was a wicked snowstorm!

Complete white conditions, 5ft drifts, and roads were closed. Funny thing is

that we were all fine with it. We had music, dancing, and amazing singing.

[Editor’s Note: Goot one!]

Brian: Sledding as a kid was always so much fun. Back then we had snow

as early as October, and the season seemed quite long. The hill where I grew

up had a great icy track where we could use sleds with metal runners on them.

Freezing days and nights, but it was worth it! My aunt Dorcee and her friends

would join in too and we’d crash into one another. Do they even make those

sleds anymore? Don’t ask me about the time we used an old car hood! ;-p

And the hot cocoa and soups afterwards made everything ok. Anyway… good

times, good times (but give me Summer!)

Tyler: hmmm... I had a hard time thinking of a good memory for the winter.

It’s hard to say because I hate the cold I would say snow days, late starts

and winter break! I’d rather hibernate.

Kevin: Back in elementary school I was attending school at St. Augustine’s

Indian mission. We used to sled ride down the big Mission Hill. This one-time,

Lance Denny, just got a new wooden toboggan. It was about 10 to 12 feet

long. We all jumped on the toboggan for its maiden run. We were going down

the hill and we started heading for a tree. We all bailed off but Lance. He was

stuck on the front of the sled; his knees were inside the chains. He could not

get off in time, so he hit the tree at full speed and separated the toboggan into

two pieces. We never rode it again.

Christina: As a child I remember the funnest times during winter was with

my brother Gabe. We always played outside even in the rain. We used to live

on "witch mountain" and theres a huge hill that goes down to "sunrise drive"

and all the neighborhood kids would be there with just about anything you

could slide down the hill in. I remember one of the kids had one of those kiddie

plastic pools going down the hill in a big group. On one of the trips down, my

brother and I jumped in and we flew down and I think we even tipped over at

the bottom. I remember we all just laughed becuase it was so fun.

Bethani: A wintertime memory for me is going to be from when I was a kid.

Sledding with my dad & big sister. He took us to the big hill by St. Augustine’s,

which was my first time ever going sledding on this hill. We shared 1 sled, so

it was one at a time. The sled was circular & plastic, nothing fancy. I watched

my sister go first, then my dad, and it came to my turn. I went last on purpose,

I was so excited to try but once we were there & I had seen how much the hill

sloped downward, I was trying to back out. Finally, it’s my turn! O_O (my eyes,

in that moment) After a good pep talk from my dad, I built up the courage to

go. I was scared for good reason!!! I go flying down the hill, the fastest I’ve

ever gone, & next thing you know, I am face first in the snow. The sled hit a

little bump, flipped with me on it, 1 of my snow boots flew off & that was it. The

sled did fly into the fence down at the bottom & so it was kind of a good thing

that I wiped out, otherwise I would have crashed into the fence.

Point your phone’s camera at the QR

code to go to the Big Voice Radio

webpage!

KWTN 100.9 FM

The Official Radio Station of the

Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska

By Brian Chamberlain

Photos - National Geographic Documentary Films

Any film about the life and times of

tribal people is one that usually grabs

the attention of Indian Country. Over the

years there have been several, ranging

from big budget Hollywood blockbusters to the small Indie style films that

fight for their place in the cannon. In

January 2024, National Geographic

Documentary Films released the latest

in that line of smaller movies, our review

for this issue – Sugarcane.

Lately there seems to be a real

push for entertainment offerings from

the Indigenous communities of North

America. Both American and Canadian

voices have rose to become modern

day storytellers, with the subject matter

being widely diverse. Everything from

pure nonsensical folly to hard-hitting

docudrama have grown to become a

factor in mainstream American society,

and this is where we find ourselves when

it comes to Sugarcane.

Set in a ‘reserve’ of ‘the Grandfather-land’, as one would call it, aka Canada, Sugarcane takes the documentary

genre by storm. Under the direction of

Julian Brave Noisycat and Emily Kassie

the story unfolds around the time the

graveyards filled with children were

being discovered at many residential

boarding schools across that nation.

Shedding its typical documentary feel,

National Geographic takes a story notorious for horrific tales of abuse and turns

it into a personal journey but loses none

of its power.

Sugarcane follows the storylines of

two different protagonists. Men who

could not be more disparate in their

livelihoods but are inextricably linked

within the all too familiar story. Taking

place near the Sugarcane Reserve, the

movie gets its name and begins just as

so many have before – with the awareness of a legitimate horror. A terrible

reality that remains all too real for many,

and Sugarcane is no different.

However, the directors capture a real

change in the way the people are displayed. With tears, with anger, with lives

destroyed, and with resilience, Sugar-

cane is able to tell a terrible story with

a depth that so many others somehow

lose. From the stark reality of the people and their families to the empty and

soulless interactions of tribal leadership

with the outside world, the movie carries

onward like a landslide.

The directors are adept at keeping

the film going by increasing the vocal

outreach of each of the storytellers, all

who add wonderfully to the depth of

what they are attempting to show each

viewer. The absolute hollow heart of the

government and the vapid deranged

dismissal by the church have never

been shown in such full and complete

view. Those scenes are infuriating while

at the same time tragic and somber.

Sugarcane was released to massive

critical acclaim that I also feel is very

well deserved. Its depiction of tribal

people takes on a new tac that keeps

the storytelling within those who lived

it and directed by those who share in

that experience. There is much to see,

and much to learn here, even though

we all understand the circumstances

of the story. We know it all too well!

However, this film captures the heart

of one reservation and two men, each

who find themselves incomplete because of this atrocious horror known

only to Indigenous peoples. The North

American genocide is a story that must

be told. Sugarcane takes claim of one

step forward. I hope there are many

more to come.

On our World-Famous HaazZaat

scale Sugarcane gets all 5 Haazs. Sad,

tragic, horrific, stark, funny, enraging,

and resilient, take the time and watch

this one. I watched it on HULU.

Sugarcane

Directors – Julian Brave Noisycat /

Emily Kassie

Producers – Emily Kassie / Kellen

Quinn

Cinematography – Emily Kassie /

Christopher LaMarca

Distributed by – National Geographic

/ Variance Films / Films We Like

Saturday, January 18, 2025 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 7

THROW BACKS

IHS Twelve Clans being constructed

WPS’ old blue park

Pony Gas building being placed

21 Gun Salute at Homecoming Powwow

Who can recognize these Lady Indians?

Heritage Vs Hyvee prices in ‘02

Delmar Free, Don Lee, Lorelei DeCora, Michelle Smith and ???

Homecoming Powwow 1990?