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Volume 53, Number 21

Our masthead for this issue features the

icon representing the Snake Clan / Waka

Hikikarac. The Snake Clan is of the eight

Earth clans. Waka also translates to ‘holy’,

which may have represented that at one

time the clan held responsibility for some

religious functions. The Snake Clan holds

responsibilities related to sanitation and

community service. Snake Clan warriors,

along with the Fish Clan, served as defenders of the village. Families within the clan

include: Snake, LaPointe and Whitesnake.

Our thanks to the HoChunk Renaissance

Department for providing their guidance

with the information shared here.

Cā mą hinąǧo wīra Saturday, October 12, 2024

Deer Pawing Moon

GENERAL WELFARE EXCLUSION APPROVED

Nį̄šoc Nįgešąną

Bago Bits

By Brian Chamberlain / Garan Coons

Photos: archive

September 27th, the Harvest Celebration & Green Corn Dance was held

in the Blackhawk Center gym. Dinner

was served to the guests with grand

entry at 7pm. A few contests were held:

Outgoing Senior, Harvest Princess Iron

Girl, Jr & Sr Princess. Head Man Dancer:

Pete Snowball Sr., Head Woman Dancer:

Madeline Cleveland, Arena Director:

Gentry St. Cyr, Master of Ceremonies:

Craig Cleveland Jr., Host Drum: New

Breed. Staff of WTN Ho Chunk Renaissance facilitated the event in collaboration with Ho Chunk Farms.

October 9th, the Whirling Thunder

Wellness Programs ‘Good Health and

Wellness’ team sponsored the Salsa

Showdown. Anonymous contestants

submitted their salsa recipe into 1,2 or 3

categories of: fruit, meat or veggies. With

5 places in each category. Judging was

done by community participants by picking 1 winner in each category. Winners

won kitchen ware. Top 3 of Meat salsa:

1st- Travyn Bear, 2nd- Robin Bear, 3rdDeej Redhorn. Fruit Salsa: 1st- Robin

Bear, 2nd- Jaciah Earth, 3rd- Shannon

Wright. Veggie Salsa: 1st- Jessica Smith,

2nd- Feather Earth, 3rd- Kathy LaRose.

Congrats to the winners! Photos of winners by Jordann Blackfish

[Winnebago, NE] On the last day of that

political year, October 7th, 2024, in a split

decision, the Winnebago Tribal Council

approved the payment of a General Welfare

Exclusion Payment for our Winnebago tribal

membership. The payment of Five-Hundred

dollars ($500) was approved for all enrolled

tribal member adults with the distribution

information still pending at that time. Minors were approved for One-Hundred Fifty

dollars ($150) to be added to their trust

accounts. “We must work to ensure that all

our people are included in the bounty of our

tribal operations. This is one way we can do

that.” Tribal Council Chairwoman Victoria

Kitcheyan said following the passage of

the measure.

Details on distribution are included below

as some administrative pathways must be

followed following the approval. The word

needed to be shared not only about the

approval, but the distributions’ information

is important and must reach the membership quickly. WTN CFO, Jasmine Lammers,

advised the Council that the parameters of

the payment will have some important stipulations, and the membership must be armed

with that information to avoid confusion. In

summary, that is:

Must be enrolled by October 9th, 2024.

Adult members must apply by November

15th, 2024 – NO EXCEPTIONS!

Minors do not need to apply. Their funds

will be automatically deposited into their

Con’t. on page 2...

WATER BLESSING WALK

By Brian Chamberlain

Photos by Kevin Ebert / Garan Coons /

Brian Chamberlain

[Hensley Spring / Big Bear Park] September 26, 2024 - On a beautiful morning down

toward the Missouri River bottom area, the

Ho Chunk Language Academy - Dual Language class held a special activity offering

a blessing of our waters here. “We have

been studying water this month. In making

the connection between science, environmental science, social studies, health, and

culture, we are going to host a water walk

from Hensley Springs to the Missouri River.

The littles will be carrying water. They will

pray for clean water for their futures and for

those yet to come. Relatives are welcome

to come walk and pray with us.” Michelle

Free-LaMere, instructor for the class, posted

via their social media.

The activity was the first of its kind for the

class, as well as for those in attendance. One

attendee told the WIN, “I really didn’t know

what to expect, but I’m so glad we came

down. The weather was beautiful, and the

[Hensley] spring area was quite moving.

We all felt so connected to our water and it

was good.” Planning for the event included

transportation for participants to and from

the areas, including Hensley Spring, which

is set deep into the river bluffs area. Tribal

Council Vice-Chairman, Isaac Smith, was on

hand for the event, telling the WIN how much

effort has been paid to the road along the

bluffs that leads to the spring area as well

as the effort to keep Big Bear Park in good

condition.

As part of the event, the Tribal Council

met with the US Army Corps of Engineers

and invited them to the walk. The Army

Corps sent a contingent to Winnebago and

they indeed took part in the day’s activities.

Tribal Council Chairwoman, Victoria Kitcheyan greeted the visitors while the students

were being transported to the spring area.

“We’re very happy to have our guests join

us. Our land and water mean everything to

us.,” she told the visiting group while she

and Vice-Chairman Smith regaled them with

stories of tribal history and lore.

At Hensley Spring the blessing began

with a prayer. Water Spirit clansman, Anthony ‘Hayna-ga’ Earth offered his words as

Con’t. on page 2...

Visit us at winnebagotribe.com

Page 2 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, October 12, 2024

COMMUNITY

...Cont. from front page GENERAL WELFARE EXCLUSION APPROVED...

...Cont. from front page WATER BLESSING WALK...

individual trust account(s).

Adults filing electronically may be eligible for ACH disbursement paid on November 26th,

2024. Details forthcoming.

For those without banking information or a bank account, paper checks will be distributed

on December 4th & 5th, 2024 in Winnebago, NE @ the WTWC Gymnasium. Timelines to be

provided later for Seniors/Elders and check cashing services, if possible.

ALL CHECKS MUST BE CASHED BY 12/31/24 CLOSE OF BUSINESS DAY. ABSOLUTELY

NO CHECKS WILL BE REISSUED AFTER THAT DATE.

The source of the funds for this General Welfare Exclusion payment dictates that all funds

claimed must be run through the payment bank account held by the Tribe prior to the close

of calendar year 2024. Any checks not cashed will become void and no other check will be

issued. So, make sure you get your money moved out of the Tribe’s bank before 12/31/2024

or you will lose out. Do not sit on your check. Do not hold onto it. Cash it immediately. You

may spend your disbursement as you wish, when you wish, but the funds must leave the

Tribe’s bank account before the 2024 deadline.

the wooded area lent itself to listening to the prayerful speech of both him and

the Vice-Chairman. Following the invocation, the students and those in attendance were invited to participate in a smudging and cleansing from the spring

waters. The students filled small buckets which they carried with them along the

walking route back to the banks of the Missouri River. “When our people pray

like this, the trees get quiet and become still and its very moving.” said one of

the group members after the people began to move through and the walkers

began their trek.

For further information please contact the Winnebago Tribe’s Administrative department.

Their phone number is (402) 878-2272 or email them at: admin@winnebagotribe.com

The Winnebago Tribe’s administration will be announcing important pieces of information

regarding paper check distribution dates, Senior/Elder hours, as soon as possible. The Winnebago Indian News will continue to provide coverage and bring those details to you when

they are approved for release. Please watch ours (Winnebago Indian-News on Facebook)

and the Tribe’s (Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska) social media for quicker details. Full details

will be printed in the WIN, time-allowing.

TRIBAL COUNCIL ELECTION RESULTS

By Brian Chamberlain

Photo by Brian Chamberlain

[Winnebago, NE] The results of the Winnebago Tribal Council election were posted

following the close of the polls at 8:00pm on Tuesday, October 8th, 2024, here. Those who

won the three-year term were, in order, Isaac Smith, Rona Stealer, and Teresa Littlegeorge.

An inauguration event was held at the Whirling Thunder Wellness Gymnasium the following

morning at 10:00am. Chief Judge Zendejas for the Winnebago Tribal Court presided over

the start of the event swearing in each of the newly elected council members. The Chief

Judge then called for nominations for Chairperson. Victoria Kitcheyan was nominated and

name Chairwoman for the Tribal Council by acclamation.

Kitcheyan then presided over the remainder of the meeting, calling for the nominations

and votes for the remaining officers of the Council. Vice-Chairman was decided to remain

Isaac Smith. Treasurer was decided to be Rona Stealer, and the Secretary was decided

to be Teresa Littlegeorge. Chief Judge Zendejas also performed the oaths of office for the

officers. Each of the officers is appointed to their posts, as such, for one year.

The entire inaugural event was LIVE streamed by the Winnebago Tribe’s Communications

Department. The LIVE broadcast was sent via Facebook LIVE and on the tribe’s YouTube

channel. Those events can be seen there in their entirety for those who may have missed

the LIVE session.

Smith, Stealer, and Littlegeorge will serve a three-year term ending in 2027. Next year,

Council members Kenneth Mallory, Aric Armell, and Coly Brown are up for re-election.

Good luck, Council members!

The walk from Hensley Spring to the Missouri River is not a short one. The dirt

road along the bluffs is the only passable route that leads to the paved road at

the West end of the ‘straight-away’ area. The tribal firing range is just across that

road as well. The overall distance is over four miles. WTN Physical Resources

Director, Ireta Frazier, told the WIN, “We drove the route [prior to] and measured

how far it is. It’s a lot farther than most people think.”

Several dozen tribal members attended the event joining the students and

dignitaries in their walk. One walk participant spoke with the WIN during the trek

saying, “I’m happy to get my steps in!” with a chuckle.

At the banks of the Missouri River the students each offered their spring water bearings to the channel of the river waters. More prayers were offered, and

tobacco was laid down with those prayers as well. Following the completion

of the walk and water blessings, a small gathering was held back at Big Bear

Park. Several members of the tribe spoke and songs from the drum were sang.

A to-go-style lunch was also provided for the students and those in attendance.

The Winnebago social media sites covered the event from many divergent

vantage points. For instance, the Communications department provided drone

footage while the WIN engaged Facebook LIVE coverage throughout the day.

As of press time there has been commentary about repeating the event annually.

However, no definite plans have been put forward yet. The WIN will continue to

cover this event and any details that come forward.

Saturday, October 12, 2024 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 3

Wāgax hų̄k ra wāgax hokik’ųna

Letter to the Editor

JESUS OUR SAVIOR

LUTHERAN OUTREACH

credit for the find to his granddaughter, Laura EagleBoy who is one of our Earth Family

geneology experts. Laura is the daughter of the late Spencer Tebo and Dallas Parshall.

She resides in Albuquerque NM with her son GrayHorse

“WARNING labels - Part 2”

In the last issue I began by asking the

question: ‘Do WARNING labels work? Do

you pay any attention to them?’

I went on to write: ‘I also got to thinking

whether spiritual WARNING labels would

work?’

God’s Sacred Word is filled with words

of WARNING - His words. Do you know any

words of WARNING that Creator God’s Spirit

inspired men to record?

One can not claim ignorance by not

knowing God’s Word. We find the reason

for this in the opening chapter of the book of

Romans: ‘The wrath of God is being revealed

from heaven against all the godlessness and

wickedness of men who suppress the truth

by their wickedness, since what may be

known about God is plain to them, because

God has made it plain to them. For since the

creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—

have been clearly seen, being understood

from what has been made, so that men are

without excuse’ [Romans 1:18–20 (NIV84)].

Note well what godlessness and wickedness of men suppresses. They suppress

‘the truth.’ Paul goes on to speak the truth

to ‘all in Roman who are loved by God and

called to be saints.’ [Romans 1:7a] Paul continues: ‘Grace and peace to you from God

our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ’

[Romans 1:7b].

One word of WARNING found in God’s

Sacred Word comes in the closing verses

of the Revelation of Jesus Christ. Jesus

By: Pastor Ricky Jacob

reveals to John and to us ‘I warn everyone

who hears the words of the prophecy of this

book: If anyone adds anything to them, God

will add to him the plagues described in this

book. And if anyone takes words away from

this book of prophecy, God will take away

from him his share in the tree of life and in the

holy city, which are described in this book’

[Revelation 22:18–19 (NIV84)].

There are many who have gone against

Jesus’ words of WARNING. They have either

added to his words or they have taken away

from his words. In other words, they have

withhold or distorted the truth.

Many today do not know what is truth or

where to look for truth. Truth be told this is an

age old dilemma. Pontius Pilate asked this

question when questioning Jesus. “You are

a king, then!” said Pilate. Jesus answered,

“You are right in saying I am a king. In fact,

for this reason I was born, and for this I

came into the world, to testify to the truth.

Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.”

“What is truth?” Pilate asked. [John 18:37–38

(NIV84)].

Many today, like Pilate, do not know what

is truth even when it is staring them right in

their face. Earlier John records these words:

Jesus answered, “I am the way, the truth and

the life. No one comes to the Father except

through me” [John 14:6 (NIV84)].

Spiritual WARNINGS do work for some,

but for most they are like the WARNING

labels that are found on countless items.

The foolish do not heed them and suffer the

consequences.

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of Hearing

Case No. CV24-148

Winnebago

In the Matter of the

Divorce Petition of:

LESTER SHERIDAN

LYLA SHERIDAN

Indian News

is owned and

published by the

To:

Winnebago Tribe of

In Loving Memory...

LYLA SHERIDAN

You are hereby notified that a Divorce

petition has been filed and a hearing concerning the above referred Case No. CV24148 has been scheduled and will be heard

in the Winnebago Tribal Court of Winnebago,

Nebraska on the 28TH day of OCTOBER,

2024 at the hour of 10:00 A.M.

Nebraska”.

LEGAL NOTICE

In the Matter of the

Name Change Petition of:

GRYPHON ALEXANDER McCLELLAND

to GRYPHON ALEXANDER MALLORY

In the Matter of the

Name Change Petition of:

JOCELYN RAIYN McCLELLAND

to JOCELYN EVALYN MALLORY

To:

Notice of Hearing

Case No. CV24-077A

Notice of Hearing

Case No. CV24-077B

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. CV24-077A has been scheduled

and will be heard in the Winnebago Tribal

Court of Winnebago, Nebraska on the 17TH

day of OCTOBER, 2024 at the hour of 10:30

A.M.

LEGAL NOTICE

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. CV24-077B has been scheduled

and will be heard in the Winnebago Tribal

Court of Winnebago, Nebraska on the 17TH

day of OCTOBER, 2024 at the hour of 10:30

A.M.

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of Hearing

Case No. CV24-077C

Notice of Hearing

Case No. CV24-078

In the Matter of the

Name Change Petition of:

DANTE WILLIAM McCLELLAND

to DANTE WILLIAM MALLORY

In the Matter of the

Name Change Petition of:

ARIA ARMELL

to ARIA HINAAKE ARMELL

To:

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. CV24-077C has been scheduled

and will be heard in the Winnebago Tribal

Court of Winnebago, Nebraska on the

17TH day of OCTOBER, 2024 at the hour

of 10:30 A.M.

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. CV24-078 has been scheduled and

will be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court

of Winnebago, Nebraska on the 17TH day

of OCTOBER, 2024 at the hour of 10:30 A.M

Gregory Bassette Sr.

Gregory Alan Bassette, Sr age 65 of

Winnebago, NE passed away at his home

in Winnebago, NE. Greg was a member

of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska and

the Waterspirit Clan. His HoChunk name

was Wank Ga Ja Ho “He comes from

above”. Traditional services will be held

at the HoChunk Center in Winnebago with

John Blackhawk officiating. Visitation is

from now until services on Saturday October 5, 2024, at 10:00 am with a meal to

follow. Greg will be laid to rest next to his

wife, Cheryl in the Winnebago Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of

the Winnebago Wake and Burial Program.

Greg was born on June 15, 1959 to Pamelia (Earth) and Howard Bassette, Sr.

Greg received his GED and went on to

attend college at Indiana Vocational. He

earned a degree in Diesel Mechanics

and CDL for Truck Driving. Greg was the

manager of the Company A Gas Station,

Custodian at Winnebago Public School,

Heavy Equipment Operator for the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska and worked at

Winnavegas during his twilight years.

Greg married Cheryl Agnes Redhorn

and they were lifelong residents of

Winnebago. Greg enjoyed fast cars,

horseshoes, classic rock, and spending time with his friends and family.

Greg is survived by his children Danelle

(Miguel) McDonald of Sioux City, IA,

Gregory (Lanette) Jr Bassette of Onawa, IA, Joshua (Tara) Bassette, Norma

Jean Bassette, Angel Bassette and

Ivan Redhorn Sr. all of Winnebago, NE,

Grandchildren include Elijah Quagon,

Mason McDonald, Terrance McDonald, Princess Rave, Kitana Whitewater,

Toby Bassette, Zayne Bassette, Arik

Bassette, Joshua Bassette, Jr., Otis

Bassette, Aurora Bassette, Jayden

Robinson, Xayden Robinson, Genesis

Robinson, Phillip Robinson, Jr., Axel

Bassette, Aziel Bassette, Brett Hunter

Bassette, Jedidiah Bassette and Cheryl

Bassette. Siblings include; Gloria (Joey)

O’Shogay of Lac Courte Orielles, WI,

Howard “Sonny” (Maribeth) Bassette,

Jr., of Emerson, NE, Holly (Joe Post)

Brownrigg of Lac Courte Orielles, WI,

Darryl (Caroline) Bassette of Winnebago

NE and Julie Bassette of Winnebago

NE, Special Niece and Nephew, Keely

Bassette (Bradley) Purscell and Anthony Bassette Sr., special friend Jackie

Tweedy, and numerous nieces and

nephews and the best relatives on his

Earth and Hunter sides of the family.

Greg was preceded in death by his

wife of 33 years, Cheryl, grandsons

Tayden and JaJump, sister Sharon Rose, parents Howard and Pamelia, Grandparents Tom and Alice

(Two Crow) Earth and Allie Hunter.

Pallbearers are; Arik Bassette, Joshua

Bassette Jr., Otis Bassette, Ryan Redhorn,

Skylar Redhorn and Jayden Robinson.

The next issue of the WINNEBAGO INDIAN NEWS will be published on October 26, 2024. DEADLINE for this issue will be October 22, 2024.

——————————————————

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

——————————————————

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

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

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Winnebago Indian News

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or contact us at our e-mail address:

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Garan Coons.............................Comm. Officer

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Christina Parker.............................Web Master

Kevin Ebert..................Multimedia Coordinator

Page 4 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, October 12, 2024

TRIBAL COUNCIL MINUTES

does not draw a salary from the Winnebago

Tribe. Isaac Smith seconded.

OBJECT: AA

VOTE: (7) yes, LD, RS, KM, TL, CB, ED,

IS (0) no (1) abstain, AA

TRIBAL COUNCIL:

Motion carried.

Victoria Kitcheyan

Aric Armell motioned for the Chairwoman

Isaac Smith

to take all actions necessary to resolve the

Lorelei DeCora

Human Resources Personnel Issue. Teresa

Rona Stealer – PTO

Littlegeorge seconded.

Eugene DeCora, Sr. – in at 9:06 a.m. Out at

OBJECT: CB, ED

10 a.m.PTO

VOTE: (6) yes, LD, AA, RS, KM, TL, IS

Coly Brown – PTO

(0) no (2) abstain, CB, ED

Kenneth Mallory – out at 10 a.m.

Motion carried.

Aric Armell

Aric Armell motioned to adjourn. Eugene

Teresa Littlegeorge – PTO

DeCora seconded.

OTHERS:

VOTE: (8) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Annabess Preston

Motion carried.

Christina Parker

Chairwoman Victoria Kitcheyan adBarbara Pretends Eagle

journed the meeting at 1:23 p.m.

Garan Coons

Brittany Thomas

Respectfully submitted,

Sharon Frenchman

Lorelei DeCora,

CALL TO ORDER: Chairwoman Victoria

Winnebago Tribal Council Secretary

Kitcheyan Called the Meeting To Order at

9:03 a.m.

PRAYER: Offered by Kenneth Mallory

AGENDA: Add Tribal Council Item; Tribal

Member and under Executive Session, 2 items.

WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA

Aric Armell motioned to approve the agenGENERAL COUNSEL MEETING

da. Isaac Smith seconded.

September 18, 2024

VOTE: (4) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

TRIBAL COUNCIL:

READING OF THE MINUTES:

Victoria Kitcheyan

September 4, 2024 Regular Tribal Council

Isaac Smith

Meeting Minutes.

Kenneth Mallory motioned to approve the Lorelei DeCora

September 4, 2024 Regular Tribal Council Rona Stealer

Eugene DeCora Sr.

Meeting Minutes. Isaac Smith seconded.

Coly Brown

VOTE: (4) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Kenneth Mallory

Motion carried.

September 9, 2024 Physical Resources Aric Armell

Report Meeting Minutes.

Teresa Littlegeorge

Isaac Smith motioned to approve the Sep- OTHERS:

tember 9, 2024 Physical Resources Report Spencer Price

Meeting Minutes. Aric Armell seconded.

Marvin Rosberg

VOTE: (4) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Kyle Rosberg

Motion carried.

Danelle Smith

RATIFY THE FIVE SIGNATURES:

Michele Mitchell

Aric Armell motioned to Ratify the Five

Signature of September 6, 2024 Approval of Zeriah James

Resolution #24-189 FY25 Nebraska Game & Ireta Frazier

Parks Commission Land and Water Construc- Annabess Preston

tion Fund for the S’gac Hakikz’u All Playing Jasmine Lammers

Together. The Winnebago Tribe will apply to Willy Bass

the US Dept of Interior, National Park Service Leta Gorrin

for funds totaling $600,000.00. Isaac Smith Andrea Snowball

seconded.

Tyresha Romer

VOTE: (4) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Lynelle Blackhawk

Motion carried.

Cecelia Earth

Isaac Smith motioned to Ratify the Five Josh Pitre

Signature of September 11, 2024 Approval of Todd Mormon

October 2024 Election Adoption Ballot from

Deidre Redhorn

Enrollment. Aric Armell seconded.

Billie Kitcheyan

VOTE: (4) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Barbara Pretends Eagle

Motion carried.

CALL TO ORDER: Tribal Chairwoman

Isaac Smith motioned to Ratify the Five

Victoria

Kitcheyan Called the Meeting To

Signature of September 11, 2024 Approval of

Resolution #24-175A WTN-Child Support Pro- Order at 9:06 a.m.

PRAYER: Offered by Isaac Smith

gram (WTN-CSP) FY25. The Tribe will apply

AGENDA: Add under 13. SBA; Add

for funding totaling $307,255.33. This grant

will strengthen the families of the Winnebago 14. Executive Session; Add Woodbury

Tribe of Nebraska by providing the assistance County Zoning

to gain financial support from non-custodial

Letter, Move the Subway Presentation

parents. Aric Armell seconded.

to the start of the meeting.

VOTE: (4) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Rona Stealer motioned to approve the

Motion carried.

agenda. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded.

ED – in 9:06 a.m.

VOTE: (8) yes (0) no (0) abstain

WinnaVegas Winnebago Senior Free Play

Motion carried.

Discussion.

Subway Presentation – Spencer Price,

Aric Armell motioned to go into Executive

Marvin Rosberg, Kyle Rosberg.

Session. Isaac Smith seconded.

Discussion

VOTE: (5) yes (0) no (0) abstain

ACTION ITEMS:

Motion carried.

Winnebago Hemp Code Revisions –

In Executive Session at 9:18 a.m.

presented by Andrea Snowball

ED – out at 10:00 a.m.

KM – out at 10:00 a.m.

Eugene DeCora motioned to adopt

Chairwoman Victoria Kitcheyan Recessed Resolution #24-204 approval of Amendthe Meeting at 10:00 a.m. due to the loss of a ments to the

Tribal Council quorum.

Winnebago Tribal Hemp Code and

WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA

MID-MONTHLY MEETING

September 16, 2024

Respectfully submitted,

Lorelei DeCora,

Winnebago Tribal Council Secretary

WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA

RESUME MID_MONTHLY MEETING

September 17, 2024

TRIBAL COUNCIL:

Victoria Kitcheyan

Isaac Smith

Lorelei DeCora

Rona Stealer

Eugene DeCora Sr.

Coly Brown

Kenneth Mallory

Aric Armell

Teresa Littlegeorge

OTHERS:

Chairwoman Victoria Kitcheyan Resumed

the Recessed Mid-Monthly Meeting of September 16, 2024 at 11:40 a.m. Resume In the

Executive Session.

Aric Armell motioned to come out of the

Executive Session. Isaac Smith seconded.

VOTE: (8) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Out of Executive Session at 1:15 p.m.

Kenneth Mallory motioned to honor the vehicle repair request from Tribal Member A.A.

out of Human Services Account #9360 as he

Certification for Submission to U.S. Department of

Agriculture. Rona Stealer seconded.

VOTE: (8) yes

(0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Human Services – Vulnerable Adult

& Elderly Person Protective Services

Program Policy

And Procedures Manual – presented

by Michele Mitchell .

RS - out

Isaac Smith motioned to adopt Resolution #24-205 Approve the Adult and

Elderly

Protective Services Policies and Procedures. Aric Armell seconded.

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

Motion carried.

Letter to Woodbury County Board of

Supervisors RE: Woodbury County Zoning

Land for

Nuclear Power Usage. – presented by

Danelle Smith, Michele Mitchell

Aric Armell motioned to authorize the

Letter to Woodbury County, RE: Woodbury County

Zoning Land for Nuclear Power Usage.

Isaac Smith seconded.

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

Motion carried.

Aric Armell motioned to authorize the

same Letter to the Nebraska Public Power

District.

Isaac Smith seconded.

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

Motion carried.

Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to authorize the Letter to Gretta Goodwin, Director,

GAO P.L. 280 Study. Eugene DeCora

seconded.

VOTE: (7) yes

(0) no

(0) abstain

Motion carried.

FEDERAL ADVOCACY:

USDA FDPIR Program Update – presented by Josh Pitre

US House of Representatives held a

Hearing on the FDPIR Crisis on September 11, 2024 and USDA held a Tribal

Consultation on September 12, 2024.

RS – back

Aric Armell motioned to submit comments to the Hearing on the FDPIR Hearing and the USDA Tribal Consultation on

the FDPIR On-going Crisis. Isaac Smith

seconded.

VOTE: (8) yes (0) no (0) abstain

motion carried.

NACIE Improvement Act

Big Fire Law is encouraging Representative Smith’s office to help get the

Senate-passed bill though the House and

send the bill to the President.

H.R. 7227 Trust & Healing Commission

on Indian Boarding School Policies Act

Big Fire Law and the Tribe are continuing to advocate for the enactment of this

important legislation.

Aric Armell motioned to authorize the

Tribal Council to participate in the passage of H.R.

7227. Isaac Smith seconded.

VOTE: (8) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Councilman DeCora volunteered to

participate.

Califano Mental Health Funding Update

Great Plains Indian Health Service will

take Tribal Consultation Comments from

the Great

Plains Tribe by September 27, 2024.

Big Fire law will provide the Tribal Council

with draft

Consultation Comments in advance of

the September 27, 2024 deadline.

Winnebago Land Transfer Act Update

On September 4, 2024 the Winnebago

Wildlife and Parks Commission & Department and

Big Fire Law met with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (“DNR”) to

discuss the the transition of administration

of the WTN returned land from the DNR to

the Tribe and Wildlife & Parks. A Senator

Chuck Grassley staffer, Garrett Arbuckle

is available after 12:30 p.m. on October

10, 2024 . and is interested in seeing the

returned land. The General Counsel will

coordinate with the Chairwoman and Tribal Administration to coordinate his visit.

Lunch Break at 12:27 p.m.

Resume Meeting at 1:04 p.m.

Army Corp Staff-To-Staff Meeting –

September 26, 2024

Aric Armell motioned to approve WinnaVegas for the Tribal Council to host the

September 26, 2024 Army Corp of Engineers Staff-To-Staff Meeting 10:00 am –

12 Noon. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded.

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

Motion carried.

ED – out at 1:14 p.m.

Law Enforcement

Federal Task Force Update

No response to our letter yet.

Tribal Self Governance Planning Update

Discussion.

Emergency Management – Woodbury

County Letter.

No response to our letter yet.

NE Class III Gaming Compact

Still waiting for a response from the

State on our Class III Proposal. Glen

White emailed a draft response to our

Class III proposal.

TDHE -WHDC

General Counsel did meet with the

WHDC attorney and Director.

Discussion on why WHDC would use

the Tax Credit Tenants’ Escroll Funds

for mold mitigation when the Tax Credit

Tenants Escroll Funds were set up for

the Tenants to use to buy their Tax Credit

home? Further Discussion.

Aric Armell motioned to go into Executive Session. Teresa Littlegeorge

seconded.

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

Motion carried.

In Executive Session at 2:12 p.m.

RS – back at 2:54 p.m.

Rona Stealer motioned to come out of

Executive Session. Teresa Littlegeorge

seconded.

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

Motion carried.

Out of Executive Session at 3:47 p.m.

Aric Armell motioned to advertise the

CEO Position for 30 days. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded.

OBJECT: KM

VOTE: (6) yes, LD, TL, RS, CB, AA,

(0) no (1) abstain, KM

Motion carried.

Aric Armell motioned to adjourn. Rona

Stealer seconded.

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

Motion carried.

Chairwoman Victoria Kitcheyan adjourned the meeting at 3:49 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Lorelei DeCora,

Winnebago Tribal Council Secretary

WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA

STRATAEGIC PLANNING – COMPREHENSIVE 5 & 10 YEAR PLAN

September 20, 2024

TRIBAL COUNCIL:

Victoria Kitcheyan

Isaac Smith – in at 9:07 a.m.

Lorelei DeCora – in at 9:01 a.m.

Rona Stealer

Coly Brown – Another Meeting

Kenneth Mallory

Aric Armell – in at 9:48 a.m.

Teresa Littlegeorge

OTHERS:

Barbara Pretends Eagle

Kellen Kelsey

Miskoo Petite

Danelle Smith

Brittany Thomas

Lynelle Blackhawk

Jennifer Berridge

Eugene DeCora Sr.

CALL TO ORDER: Chairwoman

Victoria Kitcheyan Called the Meeting

To Order at 8:59 a.m.

PRAYER: Offered by Miskoo Petite

AGENDA: As Presented

Eugene DeCora motioned to approve

the Agenda. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded.

VOTE: (4) yes

(0) no ( 0 )

abstain

Motion carried

LD – in at 9:01 a.m.

IS – in at 9:07 a.m.

INTRODUCTION TO JUDICIAL REFORM:

Tribal Code Revisions

Juvenile Code Revisions

Discussion on Parenting Strengthening & Building it into the Code

Discussion on strengthening Child

Removal Prevention which also needs

companion services.

AA – in at 9:48 a.m.

Break

LAW ENFORCEMENT – SELF GOVERNANCE

Discussion.

A Winnebago Tribe long term goal is

establishing our own Law Enforcement

Training Center. The Tribe needs to

create a pathway for our young Tribal

members toward a law enforcement

career from the Academy, Little Priest

Tribal College, Western Iowa Tech and

the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center in Grand Island, NE. For 18

year olds, they can be considered for

dispatch, transport and security while

they are working toward their law enforcement training.

The Winnebago Tribe needs to consider establishing a Winnebago Tribal

member Governing Body over Law

Enforcement under Self Governance.

TRIBAL COURT

The Winnebago Tribe needs to pursue it’s own Legal Aid funding for our

Tribal members to have legal representation in our Court.

There is a need for more Prosecutors,

Public Defenders and Clerks. Since the

Tribal Court leases the building from

HCI, perhaps the Court can ask HCI

to add an extension to the building to

accommodate more Court Staff?

The group closed out the meeting

with voicing each person’s Clan to

show how many of our 12 Clans were

represented in this important Strategic

Planning for Law Enforcement and Judicial for our Tribal Members.

Aric Armell motioned to adjourn.

Eugene DeCora seconded.

VOTE: (7) yes

(0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Respectfully submitted,

Lorelei DeCora,

Winnebago Tribal Council Secretary

Saturday, October 12, 2024 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 5

COMMUNITY

Empowering Our Community: The Path to Tribal Sovereignty

through Right of Way Consent for Fiber Optic Expansion

PUBLIC NOTICE

OMAHA PUBLIC POWER DISTRICT (OPPD) NOTICE TO PERFORM TRANSMISSION LINE MAINTENANCE ON WINNEBAGO/

OMAHA TRIBE ALLOTMENTS OCTOBER 2024 THROUGH APRIL

2025

In an era where connectivity is essential,

Jājąp proudly stands as the telecommunications department of our Tribe, dedicated

to fostering a robust and reliable Internet

Service Provider (ISP) for our community.

With a clear mission to enhance digital

access and empower our members, Jājąp

has embarked on an ambitious journey to

bridge the digital divide that affects many

Native communities. Thanks to generous

funding, we have successfully launched this

initiative, marking a significant step forward

in our commitment to improving the quality

of life for all.

A major milestone in our journey has

been our funding agency’s completion and

approval of the environmental review. This

achievement not only reflects our dedication

to responsible development but also sets

the stage for the next crucial benchmark:

securing the right-of-way consent from landowners along the proposed route. This step

is not merely a legal formality; it is a pivotal

moment in our collective effort to enhance

our sovereignty, create job opportunities,

and build a brighter future for everyone on

the reservation.

As we move forward, we urge community members to engage in this process,

recognizing that their consent is vital to

our success. Together, we can pave the

way for a connected future that honors our

heritage while embracing the opportunities

that technology brings.

The path to the right-of-way consent!

We understand that securing right-ofway consent requires clear communication

and mutual understanding. That’s why we

are reaching out directly to our tribal members to explain the benefits of this project

and address any concerns. We will be

mass-mailing all owners of the land the fiber

will be running through. With the mail would

be a letter of consent for you to sign and

mail back and a legal description of you and

where the fiber would be laid in the ground.

The fiber optic network we are building

will be the backbone of Jājąp Telecommunications. It will connect homes, schools,

healthcare facilities, and businesses, ensuring that our community is no longer left

behind in the digital divide. But beyond the

technical aspects, this project is about more

than just faster internet speeds—it’s about

empowerment.

Our team is here to answer your questions and provide all the information you

need to make an informed decision. This is

not just a government initiative; it’s a community-driven effort that requires the participation and support of every tribal member.

no longer left behind in the digital divide.

But beyond the technical aspects, this project is about more than just faster internet

speeds—it’s about empowerment.

A Steppingstone to Economic Independence

Establishing Jājąp Telecommunications

is a monumental step toward economic

independence. By owning and controlling

our digital infrastructure, we are laying the

foundation for a wide range of new opportunities on the reservation. This project will

bring jobs in construction, IT, customer service, and management. It would also create

pathways for our youth to pursue careers in

technology and entrepreneurship.

Moreover, Jājąp Telecommunications

means that profits generated from internet

services will stay within our community,

supporting other essential services and

projects. It’s a sustainable model that aligns

with our values of self-determination and

long-term prosperity.

Conclusion

The fiber optic project and the establishment of Jājąp Telecommunications

represent a turning point in our history. By

coming together and granting right-of-way

consent, we are taking control of our future.

This is more than just a technological upgrade; it’s a declaration of our sovereignty

and a commitment to creating a thriving,

connected community.

We encourage all tribal members to engage with us in this process, ask questions,

and be part of this transformative journey.

If you know any landowners, please contact them about getting the consent form

signed and mailed back to help push the

project along, we are at the point where

it’s a community effort to spread the word,

and together we can build a future where

our reservation is not just connected but

empowered.

Omaha Public Power District (OPPD) is committed to maintaining the

safe and reliable operation of its electric transmission system. Federal,

regional and electric industry regulations and standards require continuous

maintenance of high-voltage overhead transmission lines. OPPD and/or its

partnered contractors will be accessing transmission line right-of-way to

perform necessary maintenance work including various repairs, structure

replacements and inspections. Inspections include assessment of the

condition of poles, wires, insulators and hardware.

As part of this work, OPPD and/or its contractor/s will be accessing

transmission line right-of-way to perform necessary maintenance work

including various repairs, structure replacements and inspections. Inspections include assessment of the condition of poles, wires, insulators

and hardware. This work allows OPPD to continue to provide safe and

reliable power.

Work is scheduled for October 2024 through April 2025.

FREE household hazardous waste collections in October for

residents of Washington, Burt, Thurston, Dakota, Dodge, and

Cuming counties

The Nebraska Loess Hills Resource Conservation & Development (RC&D)

Council is coordinating (3) FREE household hazardous waste collections in October for residents of Washington, Burt, Thurston, Dakota, Dodge, and Cuming

counties. Hazardous chemical products can be found in almost every home in

Nebraska. A product is considered hazardous if it can catch fire, react, or explode

when mixed with other substances, or if it is corrosive or toxic. Special handling

of hazardous chemical products is required to ensure safe disposal and to protect the environment from possible contamination. Area residents can dispose

of paint, stain, varnish, lawn and garden chemicals, cleaning chemicals, insecticides, batteries, fluorescent light bulbs, car batteries, used oil, antifreeze, and

most other household chemical materials at this collection. Only HOUSEHOLD

QUANTITIES of material can be processed so a LIMITED number of 2.5-gallon

jugs will be accepted by the HHW contractor who has final discretion on items

and amounts that will be received.

Time and Locations of these (3) collections:

Blair, NE - Friday, October 11th from 3:00-6:00 p.m.

at the Washington County Recycling Center (440 South 3rd Ave)

North Bend, NE – Saturday, October 12th from 9:00-11:00 a.m. South of the

City Park (1040 Elm St.)

Pender, NE – Saturday, October 12th from 1:00-3:00 p.m.

At Pender Lanes Bowling Alley (415 South 4th St.)

This collection will NOT accept tires, electronic equipment, appliances, PCBs,

Picric Acid, Science Lab Materials, radioactive materials, or biological hazards.

Materials received at these collections will be recycled if possible, or disposed

of in a safe and environmentally sensitive manner. These collections are made

possible through a grant from the Nebraska Department of Environment and

Energy, Cargill, Papio-Missouri River NRD, Washington County Recycling, Lower

Elkhorn NRD, and Lower Platte North NRD. For more information, contact Tricia

Bracht at the Nebraska Loess Hills RC&D Council office (402)685-4020, or email:

office@nlhrcd.org.

Volunteers are always needed for these events. If interested, please contact

Tricia Bracht to volunteer.

Nebraska Loess Hills RC&D

Contact:

Tricia Bracht

Phone:

(402) 685-4020 or cell (402)380-9091

Address:

P.O. Box 24

Oakland, NE 68045 E-mail: Office@nlhrcd.org

Questions? Please contact OPPD Real Property and Land Management

Hotline at (531) 226-3062 or email us at landmanagement@oppd.com.

Page 6 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, October 12, 2024

Question of the Issue:

What LIVE concert was the most memorable

or 1 2 remember 4 U?

Garan: I am a concert junkie. So, I wish the question was “what were your

top 100 memorable concerts?” Because each of them had something magical,

special and memorable. So, because I am forced to say just one, I am going

to go with Linkin Park at the Qwest Center in Omaha. They had moving LED

screens, they played live, had pyro and I loved it when they did an encore.

Unfortunately, Linkin Park will never sound the same because the lead singer

passed away in 2017, I am so glad I got to see them live and in concert. It was

amazing!!!

Brian: Most of the concerts I see have a special place in my memory. The

absolute best, so far, tho was when me and Sharon went to see The S.O.S.

Band in Council Bluffs. That show was everything I could have ever wanted

and more. They sang their entire catalogue of hits and even did the extended

version of many. We danced and sang all throughout their show. So much fun!

It was a night to remember for sure and Mary’s voice was amazing as ever.

Love, love, loved it! #SOS4EVER!

Tyler: I actually just attended my first ever concert this past September. It

was Sexyy Red! I had a great time but not sure I can say memorable lol, maybe toooooo much fun ;p

Kevin: It was my first one, the Scorpions in Sioux City. When I was 14 my

older brother took me so I could DD them home. Wasn’t worth the free ticket.

Christina: I had to really think about this one because theres so many more

I would like to see! I would have to say Metallica was the baddest! The show

was at the Qwest Center which is now the CHI Center in Omaha, the stage

was middle of the ground floor, so there wasnn't a bad seat in the whole place.

Bethani: My most memorable LIVE concert was from April 2023. All the

way in Raleigh, NC aka Dreamville! My girl DLo & I drove 22 ½ hours (straight

through at that!) to attend the 3rd Annual Dreamville Festival. It was a 2-day

event filled with a super stacked line up of artists. They even had special

guests. Jordana and I predicted special guests, making a very memorable.

For me, it was a definite once in a lifetime experience and I’d love to do it

again.

WINGETT GOES PRO

By Darla LaPointe / Brian Chamberlain /

Victory Sports Club

Photos by Darla LaPointe / David Wingett/