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Published Bi-Weekly for the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska
Upcoming Annual
Halloween Masquerade!
page: 6
Volume 54, Number 21
For this issue of the WIN our masthead
features the icon representing the Fish Clan / Ho
Hikikarac. The Fish Clan holds many functions
within our tribe. Of those they held responsibility for our engineering, commerce, and the
environment. Fish Clan members are Friendship
clan to the Snake Clan. The Fish Clan is one
of the eight Earth clans. In ancient times, the
Fish Clan may have held a special significance,
given the name of our people is a compound
word beginning with Ho, reflected in the name
Hocak. Families belonging to the Fish Clan include: Big Head, Blackfish, Fischer, Houghton,
and Sharpback. Our gratitude to the HoChunk
Renaissance Department for their assistance in
providing this information.
2025 Veterans Powwow Poster!
page: 9
Cā mą hinąǧo wīra
Deer Pawing Moon
Saturday, October 25, 2025
Winnebago Public Health Department
Earns National Tribal Health Accreditation
Nį̄ šoc Nįgešąną
By Bethani Redhorn
Photography by Winnebago Comprehensive
Healthcare System
Congratulations to the 6th grade peewee
football team! The team won the BoomTown Showdown.
[Winnebago, NE] The Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System hosted a community celebration on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at
the Blackhawk Community Center Gym. The
event was organized to celebrate the Winnebago Public Health Department’s achievement in
becoming the 8th Tribal Health Department in
Indian Country to earn national accreditation.
This recognition follows years of dedication,
collaboration, and commitment towards
continuous improvements to the health and
wellbeing of the Winnebago community.
The celebration began with a welcoming address by Winnebago Tribal Council
Vice-Chairman Isaac Smith, who served as the
Master of Ceremonies for the special event. A
blessing and prayer were offered by Winnebago
Tribal Member and CHR/EMS Representative
Rohahes Aldrich, who opened with a powerful reminder by his late Choka and longtime
Winnebago Tribal Councilman James “Jim”
Snow. “Whenever our Chiefs signed this treaty
for us to receive healthcare, the land, water, and
all these things, it took awhile for these services
to get here. During these times, there were a lot
of diseases, illnesses, and different things. Even
the doctors that they would send here, they
wouldn’t be very helpful to us. One of these
diseases that came around was tuberculosis and
it took a lot of our people.” Continuing to share
teachings by his late Choka Jim, Rohahes continued to speak on historical events in health-
care for the Winnebago community which was
followed with the blessing and prayer.
Special remarks were made by Winnebago
Tribal Council Vice-Chairman Isaac Smith,
Winnebago Tribal Councilmember Lorelei
DeCora, Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System CEO David Edwards, Wa I pi nagu
(Diabetes) Program Director Camilla Barajas
(who spoke on behalf of WPHD Accreditation
Coordinator Linae BigFire), and Chief Public
Health Officer for the Winnebago Public Health
Department, Mona Zuffante.
Achieving accreditation through the Public
Health Accreditation Board (PHAB) is a protracted process that requires health departments
Con’t. on page 2...
UNDEFEATED WINNEBAGO INDIANS FOOTBALL: 8-0
HoChunk Renaissance hosted another evening of HoCak Bingo, Halloween
themed. This family-friendly event had
prizes, face painting, and food for attendees.
The event helps the community practice our
HoChunk vocabulary for all ages.
By Bethani Redhorn
Photography by Bethani Redhorn
The Little Priest Tribal Colleges carpentry buildings construction is making
progress. The class built the main structure, poured the concrete floor, and built a
storage shed. Construction started late August/early September. Use caution while
driving as heavy machinery is being used
around LPTC’s Maple Street entrance.
[Winnebago, NE] Football for Winnebago
Public School is on an undefeated streak as the
Winnebago Indians are the Class A #1 seed in
the All-Nations Football Conference and will
play on under the Halloween Night Lights
on Friday, October 31, 2025. Kick-off on the
Winnebago Public School Football field will
begin at 7:00 PM. The Winnebago Indians
will compete in the semi playoffs against the
winner of the matchup between Mahpiya Luta
(Red Cloud) and Lower Brule on Thursday,
October 23, 2025.
The Winnebago Indian News met with
Winnebago Public School Head Football Coach
Dusty Welsh and Winnebago Public School
Public Relations & Communications/Media
Specialist Nick Saunsoci to discuss the overall
undefeated season. We will share information
about the team players, the coaching staff,
and current overall stats for the team. Coaches
Dusty and Nick shared a timeline from the
start of the season beginning in the middle of
July when the team attended football summer
camp at Dakota State in South Dakota. Summer
football camp signals the start of the season for
the Indians and upon returning from camp, the
team began conditioning to prepare for their
first football game.
Four months into their current football
season and the Indians hold the #1 seed in the
Class A division of the All-Nations Football
Conference and an undefeated record of 8-0.
From game 1, the Indians have been on a roll
with high scoring wins against Cheyenne
Eagle-Butte (55-0), Pine Ridge (56-6), Lower
Brule (44-0), Mahpiya Luta (55-22), Todd
County (38-8), Little Wound (04-14), St. Francis (50-0), and Umonhon Nation (55-6). Season
stats and team leaders from 8 out of 8 games
for the Winnebago Indians include 2,430 total
yards, 576 total passing yards, 68.29% total
Con’t. on page 2...
Visit us at winnebagotribe.com
Page 2 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, October 25, 2025
ANNOUNCEMENTS
...Cont. from front page: WINNEBAGO PUBLIC
HEALTH DEPT. EARNS NATIONAL TRIBAL HEALTH
ACCREDITATION
to demonstrate that 10 Essential Public Health Services are provided, show continuous quality improvement and performance management, strengthen partnerships
with the community and key stakeholders, prove data and evidence-based practices
are used to guide decision-making, and commit to ongoing accountability and service delivery transparency.
“As a Tribal Public Health Department, this accreditation honors our sovereignty, our cultural strength, and our unique approach to wellness. One that is rooted in
tradition, guided by community, and driven by innovation. It shows that we are not
simply participating in Public Health, we are leading. We are shaping what Indigenous Public Health looks like for generations to come,” said Mona. Special recognition was extended to organizations, programs, and individuals that helped with the
accreditation process. Concluding the celebration with an honor song rendered by
Winnebago Drum Group, New Breed.
***Editor’s Note: In case you missed the celebration event, you can hear more of
the powerful messages shared by watching the livestream which is available on the
Big Voice YouTube channel: KWTN The Big Voice. Congratulations to the Winnebago Public Health Department and thank you to Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System for inviting the community together to celebrate this achievement.
...Cont. from front page: UNDEFEATED WINNEBAGO INDIANS FOOTBALL: 8-0
pass completion, 14 total passing touchdowns, 1,854 total rushing yards, 101 first
downs, 6 turnovers, and 12 sacks.
The Winnebago Indians Football Roster for 2025-2026 includes Elijah Whitebear (#1), Melvin Hulit (#2), Adarius Flemister (#3), Patrick Burtt (#4), Braden
Brownrigg (#5), Rahkim Free-Bass (#9), Zzikiya Redhorn (#10), Drake Griffin
(#12), Ayden Armell (#21), Adrian LaPointe (#22), Aaron Hulit (#23), Wakaja
Morrison (#24), Raiden DeCora (#28), Aaron Driftwood (#30), EJ LaTray (#33),
Jredyn Rave (#36), Leidy Hunter (#42), Donte Mercer (#48), Boston Thomas
(#54), Kendrick Mallory (#55), Jacob Lincoln (#62), Josiah Morgan (#65), Dimitrious Walker (#70), Deondre Elkshoulder (#74), Chris Perez (#77), Dreyus Robinson (#78), Braiden Lawrence (#88), Jared Doxey (#90), and Ashton LaPointe
(#51). Head coaching staff for the Indians includes Head Coach Dusty Welsh,
Assistant Coaches Connor Brummond, Kobe Benne, and Nick Saunsoci; Managers/Video Crew includes Cleveland Harden, Braxton Vargas, Nevin Masquat, and
Dainyn Blackfish.
***Editor’s Note: GOOD LUCK WINNEBAGO INDIANS! The Winnebago
Indian News encourages the community to show up and support the Bago Boys
Football at 7:00 PM on Friday, October 31st which is Halloween Night. For those
unable to attend in person, the Big Voice will livestream this game on YouTube
and will also host a costume contest during the halftime show of semi-playoff
games, keep an eye on our social media page: Winnebago The-BigVoice. #GOBIGBLUE
Saturday, October 25, 2025 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 3
Wāgax hųk ra wāgax hokik’ųna
Letter to the Editor
JESUS OUR SAVIOR
LUTHERAN OUTREACH
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV26-011
Notice of Hearing
Case No. JFJ25-032
The People of the Winnebago Tribe
In the Interest of:
C. ES (Born 12/2014)
In the Matter of the
Name Change Petition of:
LISA ANN CHAMBERLAIN to CONI
MANI WIGA
To:
Delrae Medicine Horse, Mother
George Elk Shoulder, Father
You are hereby notified that a hearing for
an Adjudication concerning the above referred
minor individual(s) in case no. JFJ25-032 has
been scheduled and will be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court of Winnebago, Nebraska
on the 5th day of November, 2025 at the hour
of 11:30 A.M.
You are hereby notified that a petition for
Name Change has been filed and a hearing
concerning the above-referred Individual in
case no. CV26-011 has been scheduled and will
be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court of Winnebago, Nebraska on the 4TH day of DECEMBER, 2025 at the hour of 11:30 A.M.
LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
In the Matter of the
Divorce Petition of:
CASEY KEARNES NAVA
vs
MIGUEL NAVA
In the Matter of the
Name Change Petition of:
SHARI PATTON to SHARI WHITENER
ANY INTERESTED PARTIES
To:
MIGUEL NAVA
You are hereby notified that a Divorce petition has been filed and a hearing concerning the
above referred Case No. CV24-041 has been
scheduled and will be heard in the Winnebago
Tribal Court of Winnebago, Nebraska on the
13TH day of NOVEMBER, 2025 at the hour
of 10:00 A.M.
Damon Lamont Picotte
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. CV26-010 has been scheduled and
will be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court of
Winnebago, Nebraska on the 4TH day of DECEMBER, 2025 at the hour of 11 A.M.
LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV24-155
Notice of Hearing
Case No. JFJ26-002ABCD
The People of the Winnebago Tribe
In the Interest of:
KW (Born 12/2012)
PC (Born 12/2017)
EC (Born 08/2022)
DW (Born 12/2023)
In the Matter of the
Divorce Petition of:
JAMES WESLEY
vs
LASHANE WESLEY
To:
EDWIN CODY, 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.
JFJ26-002ABCD has been scheduled and will
be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court of Winnebago, Nebraska on the 19th day of NOVEMBER, 2025 at the hour of 1:30 P.M.
To:
LASHANE WESLEY
You are hereby notified that a Divorce petition has been filed and a hearing concerning the
above referred Case No. CV24-155 has been
scheduled and will be heard in the Winnebago
Tribal Court of Winnebago, Nebraska on the
13TH day of NOVEMBER, 2025 at the hour
of 11:30 A.M.
Greetings to the Family and Friends
of Mąą Ooiną hįįp Ga (He Stomps the
Ground Hard and Everyone Hears) loosely
translated.
Damon Lamont Picotte was called home
by Mauna on Thursday, October 16, 2025,
after a short battle with cancer, he was
surround with love by his Family.
We wish to express our gratitude to all
The next issue of the WINNEBAGO INDIAN NEWS will be published on November 8, 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.
subsequent annexation of the Crimean Peninsula from Ukraine - by just
looking the other way - did this lead to
peace? NO!
Peace, true and lasting peace did not
come by Jesus merely looking the other
way, or allowing sinners to go their
way; but rather Jesus called people
to repent and to change their ways by
doing the will of God.
How did Jesus deal with sinners?
Did he merely look the other way? Did
he say ‘go and sin some more - I will
die for that sin too!’ No, he did not! To
the spiritual leaders - he said, ‘Woe to
you vipers!’ Jesus was harsh with them
since they were leading sinners further
and further away from peace.
The false prophets in Jeremiah’s day
were speaking “We are safe”— safe to
do all these detestable things?’ Detestable things like idolatry, drunkenness,
sexual immorality, and debauchery.
(Debauchery is excessive indulgence in
sensual pleasure)s.
Those false prophets were offering
up a false sense of peace - when in fact
those who followed their words of comfort would endure the everlasting wrath
of God. My fear is that some of you are
on that path - the path to utter separation from the loving presence of Jesus’
heavenly Father.
True and lasting peace comes through
the blood of the lamb of God who takes
away the sin of the world. This lamb
of God called sinners to repent - turn
back for the kingdom of God is at hand.
This lamb of God called sinners to turn
their lives around and to follow Jesus walking in his ways and doing the will
of his Heavenly Father.
Upon which path are you walking
down? The path to destruction or on the
path this is the way of peace?
In Loving Memory...
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV26-010
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV24-041
To:
To:
‘The way of peace - part 2’
‘As [Jesus] rode forward, he could
see Jerusalem (the Sacred Village of
Peace), and tears began to run down his
face.
“Jerusalem, O Jerusalem, you are the
Sacred Village of Peace”, he wept out
loud. “Of all the people, you should
be the ones who would know the way
of peace, but on this sacred day, the
way of peace is hidden from your eyes’
[Luke 19:41-42 1st Nations Version].
For so many - the way of peace is to
accept people the way they are and for
others to accept you the way you are!
This translates into ccepting people just
the way they are with no need for them
to change. With this way of reasoning
in mind, there is no need for anyone to
say ‘I am sorry.’
You can have peace by merely putting
up with those who fail to do their part
in the project; or who allow you to take
on more and more ‘good works’ while
they do what they feel like doing. Can’t
we all just go along to get along?
And if you weren’t so demanding
then life would be so much better. If
you would just chill - then you wouldn’t
be so angry, or so disappointed.
Now answer this - Will the more you
allow someone do what they want actually end up doing what you want or
need? Or will they continue to do only
what they feel like doing? If you give in
to the bully, the tyrant, the dictator, then
all will go well and there will be peace
for our time. Right!?
How did that work out for British
Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain
following the Munich Agreement of
1938? Did his words of ‘peace in our
time come to pass? No, World War II
was the end result. Or in 2014, when
Vladimir Putin ordered the invasion and
By: Pastor Ricky Jacob
who had a part in providing care to him
during his illness: June Myler, Angel Decora Barclay (St. Croix Hospice), WCHS,
Buffet Cancer Center, Tribal EMTs, June
E. Nylen Cancer Center, Unity Point Hospital, and Faith Regional of Norfolk, NE.,
and the NAC chapter of Winnebago, NE.
We would also thank the Winnebago
Tribe of Nebraska and Hoocak Nation of
Wisconsin for the assistance they extended to our Family. The Winnebago Wake
and Burial and the Facilities Departments
for ensuring that things were done in an
honorable way for him. Also thank you to
Metropolitan Community College staff.
We wanted to extend our thanks and
appreciation to Anthony Walker, and his
helper Shannon for being in charge. Also,
Angie and Cree Walker and their assistants
for cooking all the tasty meals.
Thank you to all the family and friends
who blessed us with your presence, and
anyone who made donations of any kind.
Damon loved his family, his tribe, and
the many friends he made over the years.
Damon had a heart of gold and helped
everyone that he could, it was his way to
be so caring and kind to others. Pinagigi
(Thank you).
DEADLINE for this issue will be November 4, 2025.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please send change of Advertising/News Deadline
address with old mailing label to:
12:00 Noon Monday Printing Week
Winnebago Tribal Council
Coly Brown.............................. Chairman
Periodicals Postage Paid
Isaac Smith...................... Vice Chairman
(Issn 1060-3026) At Winnebago, NE
Teresa Littlegeorge.................. Secretary
Rona Stealer........................... Treasurer
Winnebago
Indian
News
Staff
winnebagoindiannews@winnebagotribe.com
Phone: 402-878-2272
Bethani Redhorn.....................................Editor Victoria Kitcheyan...................... Member
Tyler Snake............................. Office Manager Ireta Frazier................................Member
“Official Newspaper of
Christina Parker...................Desktop Publisher Trey Blackhawk..........................Member
the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska”
Lorelei DeCora...........................Member
Yearly Subscription Rates
Nebraska Residents....................................$25.00 WTN Communications
Eugene DeCora..........................Member
Winnebago Indian News
P.O. Box 687
Winnebago, NE 68071
or contact us at our e-mail address:
Out-Of-State................................................$35.00
Overseas.....................................................$50.00
Advertising Rate
Per Column Inch............................................$7.00
Garan Coons.............................Comm. Officer
Gayla Whitewater..........Comm. Office Manger
Christina Parker.............................Web Master
Kevin Ebert..................Multimedia Coordinator
Page 4 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, October 25, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL MINUTES
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
CEO REPORT MEETING MINUTES
October 6, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Victoria Kitcheyan
Isaac Smith
Teresa Littlegeorge
Lorelei DeCora
Aric Armell
Coly Brown
Rona Stealer
Eugene DeCora
OTHERS PRESENT:
Kellen Kelsey
Christina Parker
Aaron LaPointe
Cory Cleveland
Anna Bess Preston
Iva Masquat
Terri Lee Medina
Ann Bledsoe-Downs
Kristine Earth
Michelle Armell
Trey Blackhawk
Ramona Sheridan
Kiana Lewis
Charli Earth
Anthony Earth
Garan Coons
Tiffany Armell-Buchanan
Joseph DeCora
Janelle DeCora
Kellie Snow
Lynelle Blackhawk
John Blackhawk
Anthony Earth
Keely Purscell
Ireta Frazier
Lance Morgan
Darlyn St. Cyr
Ricky Suarez
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Kenneth Mallory
CALL TO ORDER: Chairwoman Kitcheyan called to order at 2:40 p.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Chairwoman
Kitcheyan acknowledged the prayers from this
morning.
APPOVE AGENDA:
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the
agenda with the tabled items from the regular
meeting. Aric Armell seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
ADMINISTRATION:
CEO SEPTEMBER REPORT: Presented by
Darla LaPointe
[Isaac out at 2:46 p.m., in at 2:49 p.m.]
[Lorelei out at 2:54 p.m., in at 3:00 p.m.]
[Isaac out at 3:00 p.m.]
[Rona out]
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to approve
the September CEO Report. Eugene DeCora
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
CAO SEPTEMBER REPORT: Presented by
Darla LaPointe
[Isaac in at 3:07 p.m.]
[Rona in at 3:08 p.m.]
Aric Armell motioned to approve the September CAO Report. Isaac Smith seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
ICWA COMMITTEE:
Re-appointment
Isaac Smith motioned to reappoint Felicia
Masquat to the ICWA Committee. Eugene
DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Isaac Smith motioned to rescind the motion
to reappoint Felicia Masquat to the ICWA
Committee. Eugene seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Aric motioned to readvertise three (3) vacancies for the ICWA Committee to advertise until
filled. Isaac seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
PLANNING DEPARTMENT:
Winnebago Tribe Native American Affairs:
Technical Assistance to Tribes for FY 2025
Lorelei DeCora motioned to adopt resolution
#26-01: Winnebago Tribe Native American
Affairs: Technical Assistance to Tribes for FY
2025. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
ENROLLMENT:
Absolute Relinquishment (383-U04375)
Aric Armell motioned to adopt resolution
#26-02: Absolute Relinquishment (383U04375). Eugene DeCora seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Lorelei out at 3:27, in at 3:28]
Tribal Enrollment Applicants
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to adopt resolution #26-03:Tribal Enrollment Applicants.
Rona Stealer seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Blood Quantum Correction (383-U02184)
Eugene DeCora motioned to adopt resolution
#26-04: Blood Quantum Correction (383U02184). Coly Brown seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Blood Quantum Correction (383-U04506)
Coly Brown motioned to adopt resolution
#26-05: Blood Quantum Correction (383U04506). Eugene DeCora seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Aric out 3:31 p.m.]
Blood Quantum Correction (383-U04940)
Isaac Smith motioned to adopt resolution
#26-06: Blood Quantum Correction (383U04940). Coly Brown seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Blood Quantum Correction (383-U05071)
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to adopt
resolution #26-07: Blood Quantum Correction
(383-U05071). Coly Brown seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Blood Quantum Correction (383-U07337)
Coly Brown motioned to adopt resolution
#26-08: Blood Quantum Correction (383U07337). Eugene DeCora seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Aric in at 3:34 p.m.]
BREAK: 3:45 p.m., reconvened at 3:55 p.m.
HUMAN RESOURCES:
Approve WTN Policy Manual changes for
FY 25
Discussion and review.
Employee Complaint and Grievance Process
(revised September 2025) will be discussed
at the General Counsel meeting with Human
Resources.
Lorelei DeCora motioned to remove Juneteenth from the standard holidays.
Motion failed for lack of a seconded.
Aric Armell motioned to table the WTN
Policy Manual Changes for FY 25 until the
November CEO Report. Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
BREAK: 4:55 p.m., reconvened at 5:05 p.m.
POLICE DEPARTMENT:
Budget Discussion/Approval – Discussion
only.
TABLED ITEMS:
AA - Gas & Fuel Purchases – Roads Program only able to purchase from HCI
AA - Non-gaming HCI Dividends – need
more growth on the percentage of revenue.
Aric Armell motioned to raise the HCI
Non-Gaming dividend to 35% to go into effect
immediately. Isaac Smith seconded the motion.
Discussion: further discussion is suggested.
OBJECTION: Lorelei DeCora
VOTE: (3) yes, CB, AA, IS
(4) no, LD,
RS, TL, ED (0) abstain
Motion failed.
ADJOURN:
Aric Armell motioned to adjourn the meeting
at 6:12 p.m. Eugene DeCora seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Chairwoman Kitcheyan adjourned the meeting at 6:12 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
REGULAR TRIBAL COUNCIL MEETING
October 6, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Victoria Kitcheyan
Isaac Smith
Teresa Littlegeorge
Rona Stealer
Lorelei DeCora
Eugene DeCora
Aric Armell
Kenneth Mallory
Coly Brown
OTHERS PRESENT:
Darla LaPointe
Anna Bess Preston
Joseph DeCora
Kristine Earth
Christina Parker
Tyresha Romero
Tiffany Armell-Buchanan
Lynelle Blackhawk
Elizabeth Bayer
Cecelia Earth
Aaron LaPointe
CALL TO ORDER: Chairwoman Kitcheyan called to order at 9:15 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Councilman Kenenth Mallory offered the opening prayer.
APPROVE AGENDA:
Aric Armell motioned to approve the agenda
with additions. Isaac Smith seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
READING OF THE MINUTES:
September 23, 2025 – Mid-Monthly Tribal
Council meeting minutes
Isaac Smith motioned to approve the September 23, 2025, Mid-Monthly Tribal Council
meeting minutes. Eugene DeCora seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Kenneth out at 9:18 a.m.]
September 25, 2025 – WTN Housing Plan
meeting minutes
Isaac Smith motioned to approve the September 25, 2025 – WTN Housing Plan meeting
minutes. Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
September 26, 2025 – Treasurer’s Report
meeting minutes
Aric Armell motioned to approve the September 26, 2025 – Treasurer’s Report meeting
minutes. Coly Brown seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
September 29, 2025 – General Counsel
meeting minutes
Aric Armell motioned to approve September
29, 2025 – General Counsel meeting minutes.
Isaac Smith seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
RATIFY FIVE SIGNATURES
Adoption of resolution #25-267: Authorization and Approval of Title IV Self-Governance
Compact, Funding Agreement, Tribal Transportation Program Addendum and Related
Agreements with the Secretary of Interior.
Isaac Smith motioned to ratify the five-signature adopting of resolution #25-267: Authorization and Approval of Title IV Self-Governance
Compact, Funding Agreement, Tribal Transportation Program Addendum and Related Agreements with the Secretary of Interior. Eugene
DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Approval to extend the FY 25 Budget for
60 days to prepare FY 26 Budget. This will
give the tribal appropriations departments the
authority to spend in FY 26 until the final FY
26 Budget gets approved and imported into
Sage Intacct.
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to ratify the
five-signature approval to extend the FY 25
Budget for 60 days to prepare FY 26 Budget.
This will give the tribal appropriations departments the authority to spend in FY 26 until the
final FY 26 Budget gets approved and imported
into Sage Intacct. Aric Armell seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
OLD BUSINSESS:
Gaming Commission vacancy
Eugene DeCora motioned to readvertise the
Gaming Commission vacancy for 30 days.
Isaac Smith seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
NEW BUSINESS:
GPTLHB – eCR data share
Lorelei DeCora motioned to authorize the
Chairwoman to sign the letter to shar the eCR
data. Aric Armell seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
TRIBAL COUNCIL
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Rona Stealer motioned to go into Executive
Session at 9:28 a.m. Eugene DeCora seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Aric Armell motioned to come out of Executive Session at 11:37 a.m. Eugene DeCora
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Kenneth out]
War Horse Gaming Dividend Revenue Allocation Plan 2026
Rona Stealer motioned to table items 2. War
Horse Gaming Dividend Revenue Allocation
Plan 2026, 3. Gas and Diesel Purchases, and
4. Non-Gaming HCI Dividend until the CEO
Report for a non-livestream meeting due to
being financial. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Isaac Smith motioned to have the first two
payments that come from War Horse go into
the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska Portfolio.
Aric Armell seconded the motion.
OBJECT: Lorelei DeCora
VOTE: (5) yes (2) no, LD, RS
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
ADJOURN:
Aric Armell motioned to adjourn. Eugene
DeCora seconded the motion.
[Kenneth in at 11:59 a.m.]
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Chairwoman adjourned the meeting 12:00
p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
OATH OF OFFICE – SWEARING IN
CEREMONY
October 8, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Victoria Kitcheyan
Isaac Smith
Teresa Littlegeorge
Rona Stealer
Eugene DeCora
Coly Brown
Lorelei DeCora
Trey Blackhawk
Ireta Frazier
OTHERS PRESENT:
Lou Mae Hunter
Francine Smith
Kirstin Murrufo
Randy DeCora
Jannelle DeCora
James Sun
Brian Chamberlain
Lloyd Hamilton
Carm Kennedy
Judge Jordan Zendajas
Christi Walker
Liz Smith
Pete Snowball
Monica Flores
Aaron LaPointe
Pam Makahk
Gordan Rave
Brandon Stout
OTHERS PRESENT:
Fanny LaTray
Leah Hunder
John Rave
Cory Cleveland
Dubz Berridge
Teresa Sharpback
Reggie Frazier
Cece Grant
Melanie Parker
Allison DeCora
Amy Painter
Carm Latray
Les Painter
John Snowball
Ron Nohr
Darrian Rave
Lacoya Blackhawk
Tyson Blackhawk
Lynelle Blackhawk
Jessica Stealer
Tatum Blackhawk
Norma Stealer
Tylyn Blackhawk
Lio Grant
Lilly Kearnes
Anna Berridge
Olivia Parker
Drake Gorrin
Gerri Lyons
Autumn Nieman
Monica Cleveland
Kurt Lyons
Matthew Cleveland
Kenny Blackhawk
Terri Lee Medina
Mickayla Armell
Crystal R. Ross
Monica Smith
Lyndsi Brown
Tyren L. Wolfe
Patrice Bass
Mark Aldrich
Grace Earth
Kim Sulsberger
Wanda John
Tara Hernandez
Leta Gorrin
Morgyn Redhorn
Billie Kitcheyan
Oscar Earth II
David Russell
Osi Earth Henry Rice
Bethani Redhorn
Garan Coons
Karl Baker
Kevin Ebert
Caden Cleveland
Christina Parker
Tyler Snake
Thelma Whitewater
Louis LaTray
Ronald Painter
Christian Roberts
Tana Laurence
Kyle Urbanec
Jeremiah Lonewolf
Anna Bess Preston
Annette Bass
Lawrence Payer
Darla LaPointe
Tiffany Armell-Buchanan
Tyresha Romero
Buffalo Bass
Pastor Ricky Jacobs
Emmy Scott
Angie Walker
Tonia Keller
Kayleen Blackhawk
Glenn N. Johnson Sr.
Toni Williams
Regina Wolfe
Xerxes Long
William St. Cyr
Cashus Kearnes
Mia St. Cyr
Summer Snow
Jennifer Berridge
Tyler Smith
Denise Milford
Alyssa Wolfe
Danelle Smith
Deidre J. Redhorn
Mary Merrick
LaDonna Holstein
OTHERS PRESENT (CONTINUED):
Brooke DeCora
Shar Fogleman
Tina Bigbear
Nona Bearskin
Con’t. on next pg...
Saturday, October 25, 2025 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 5
TRIBAL COUNCIL MINUTES
Sharon Frenchman
Respectfully submitted,
Kiana Lewis
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
Ann Marie Bledsoe-Downes
Paula Brown
Recording secretaries:
Jaralyn Bear
Anna Bess Preston,
Craig “Tunny” Cleveland, Jr.
Executive Assistant/Chair
Kellen Kelsey
Tyresha Romero, Executive Assistant/CEO
Cindy Johnson
Tammy Littlewalker,
Judith Maney
Administrative Assistant
Monica Whitebeaver
Roberto Gorrin, Sr.
Audreianna Levering-Galvin
James Neff
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
Theodora R. Angerman
PHYSICAL RESOURCES REPORT
Robert Angerman
MEETING
Crystal Snowball
October 14, 2025
Julya Starr
Aseanna Overfelt
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Trisha Rivers
Coly Brown
John Blackhawk
Taylor Bass Teresa Littlegeorge
Rona Stealer
Michelle Armell
Ireta Frazier
Scott Aldrich, Sr.
Gerry Earth Lorelei DeCora
Victoria Kitcheyan
Aric Armell
Trey Blackhawk
Eugene DeCora
CALL TO ORDER: Victoria Kitcheyan
OTHERS PRESENT:
called the meeting to order at 10:09 a.m.
Brian Chamberlain
WELCOME SONG: New Breed drum
Autumn Nieman
group.
Ron Nohr
PRESENTATION OF FLAGS: WinnebaFannie LaTray
go Veterans
Crystal Ross
OPENING PRAYER: Larry Payer offered
Christina Parker
the opening prayer.
Tom Teesdale
SWEARING IN OF NEWLY ELECTED
Cecelia Earth
OFFICERS:
Kiana Lewis
Judge Jordan Zendejas swears in the newly
Tyresha Romero
elected Tribal Council members: Trey BlackAnna Bess Preston
hawk, Coly Brown, and Ireta Fraizer.
Darla LaPointe
APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS:
Keely Purscell
Judge Zendejas requests nominations for
Chad Smith
Tribal Council Chair.
Tiffany Armell-Buchanan
Lorelei DeCora nominated Victoria KitcheyGaran Coons
an. Seconded by Teresa Littlegeorge.
Kellie Snow
Isaac Smith nominated Coly Brown. SecBillie Kitcheyan
onded by Ireta Frazier.
Terri Lee Medina
Isaac Smith motioned to cease nominations.
Brittany Thomas
Teresa Littlegeorge seconded.
Charli Earth
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Motion carried.
Isaac Smith
VOTE: Victoria Kitcheyan 4 votes
Coly Brown 5 votes
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Brown
Coly Brown is appointed as the Chairman.
called to order at 9:01 a.m.
Chairman Brown assumes the chair.
OPENING PRAYER: Councilman Trey
Chairman Brown calls for nominations for
Blackhawk offered the opening prayer.
Vice Chairman.
APPROVE AGENDA:
Lorelei DeCora nominates Isaac Smith.
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the
Seconded by Ireta Fraizer.
agenda with additions. Teresa Littlegeorge
Isaac Smith nominates Eugene DeCora.
seconded the motion.
Trey Blackhawk seconded.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Isaac Smith motioned to cease nominations.
Motion carried.
Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
PHYSICAL RESOURCES REPORT:
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Monthly Report – Presented by Autumn
Motion carried.
Nieman and Brian Chamberlain
VOTE: Isaac Smith 5 votes
Lorelei DeCora motioned to approve the
Eugene DeCora 4 votes
Physical Resources September 2025 monthly
Isaac Smith is appointed as Vice-Chairman.
report as presented. Eugene DeCora seconded
Chairman Brown calls for nominations for
the motion.
Secretary.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Eugene DeCora nominates Teresa LitMotion carried.
tlegeorge. Rona Stealer seconded.
Update on additional funding for Facilities
No further nominations.
Rona Stealer motioned to cease nominations. dumpster expenses. Information only.
Update on Blackhawk Community Center
Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
remaining contingency funds
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
BHCC Renovation contingency funds, perMotion carried.
centage payable to the tribe is 75%, the dollar
Teresa Littlegeorge was appointed as Secreamount is $60,000.
tary by Acclamation.
WLP information
Chairman Brown calls for nominations for
Legal funding for JD modifications
Treasurer.
Reimbursement for transport costs associated
Lorelei DeCora nominates Ireta Frazier.
with PD on call
Isaac Smith seconded.
Job Descriptions modifications
Teresa Littlegeorge nominates Rona Stealer.
LAND MANAGEMENT:
Eugene DeCora seconded.
ACTION ITEM: Storage Shed at H Lake
(no motion to cease nominations, Chair
location.
called for vote).
Lorelei DeCora motioned to approve the
VOTE: Ireta Frazier
3 votes
location of the Storage Shed at option #1 as
Rona Stealer
5 votes
recommended by the construction manager.
Rona Stealer appointed as Treasurer.
Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
ADDRESS MEMBERSHIP AND NOVOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
TIFY OF SPECIAL VOTE TO APPROVE
Motion carried.
TRIBAL ENROLLMENT ADOPTIONS:
[LD out at 10:05 a.m., in at 10:07 a.m.]
Chairman Brown reads a statement to the
TRIBAL COUNCIL ITEMS:
community regarding the Special Vote to ApCommittee Resignation
prove Tribal Enrollment Adoptions.
Lorelei DeCora motioned to accept the resigVictoria Kitcheyan motioned to adopt resolunations from Ireta Frazier from the Winnebago
tion #26-09: Approval to hold Special vote on
October 24, 2025, to approve Tribal Enrollment Housing Development Commission and HCI
Board of Directors, and Advertise those vacanAdoptions. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the
cies for 30 days, also allow her to attend the
motion.
meetings as the standing community member
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
until filled.
Motion carried.
Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
Remarks to the community from Tribal
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Council members.
Motion carried.
Judge Jordan Zendejas Swears in the newly
[Victoria out at 10:11 a.m.]
appointed officers of the Winnebago Tribal
WinnaVegas Action Item:
Council.
Rona Stealer motioned to approve the
Coly Brown, Chairman
request form Human Resources to seek external
Isaac Smith, Vice-Chairman
recruitment services (The Foundation, LLC) to
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
support the hiring process for key senior-level
Rona Stealer, Treasurer
positions. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the
HONOR SONG: New Breed Drum Group
motion.
RETREAT OF FLAGS: Winnebago VetVOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
erans
Motion carried.
ADJOURN:
[Victoria in at 10:14 a.m.]
Isaac Smith motioned to adjourn the meeting
ADJOURN:
at 11:13 a.m. Ireta Fraizer seconded the moEugene DeCora motioned to adjourn at 10:14
tion.
a.m. Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Motion carried.
Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting at
Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting at
11:13 a.m.
10:14 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
GENERAL COUNSEL MEETING
October 15, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Coly Brown
Isaac Smith (in at 9:07 a.m.)
Teresa Littlegeorge
Rona Stealer
Ireta Frazier
Lorelei DeCora
Victoria Kitcheyan
Trey Blackhawk
Eugene DeCora
OTHERS PRESENT:
Danelle Smith
Brittany Thomas
Kellen Kelsey
Anna Berridge
Chad Smith
Darla LaPointe
Anna Bess Preston
Sarah Herring
Kiana Lewis
Terri Lee Medina
Christina Parker
Kevin Ebert
Josh Pitre
Cecelia Earth
Tyresha Romero
Keely Purscell
Kellie Snow
John Blackhawk
Tiffany Armell-Buchanan
Ken Vampola (asked to leave)
Kirstin Lowry
Todd Mormon
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Brown
called to order at 9:02 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: General Counsel
Danelle Smith offered the opening prayer.
APPROVE AGENDA:
Lorelei DeCora motioned to approve the
agenda with additions. Rona Stealer seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
ACTION ITEMS:
Planning Department – Resolution for FY
2025 EPA General Assistance Program
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to adopt resolution #25-169A: Winnebago Tribe FY 2026
EPA General Assistance Program. Eugene
DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Isaac in at 9:07 a.m.]
Boys & Girls Club Construction NMTC
Project QALICB (item #9)
Discussion was held while Planning Department is available.
EPA Tribal Consultation request – Secondary
Lead Smelting NESHAP Rule
Lorelei DeCora motioned to have General
Counsel assist EPD to submit comments to
EPD Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards. Ireta Frazier seconded the motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Resolution – Authorized Tribal Officials
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to adopt resolution #25-10: Authorized Tribal Officials.
Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Rona out at 9:29 a.m., in at 9:31 a.m.]
[Lorelei out at 9:31 a.m., in at 9:35 a.m.]
UPDATES/DISCUSSION ITEMS:
FEDERAL ADVOCACY – Presented by
Josh Pitre.
Congressional Updates
Administrative Updates
Government Shutdown
Senate Confirms Assistant Secretary for
Indian Affairs – William Kirlland
Senator Fischer’s FDPIR Bill
[Isaac out at 9:56 a.m., in at 9:57 a.m.]
[Isaac out at 9:57 a.m. for EMS office meeting at the Hospital]
Boarding School Legislation
Eugene DeCora motioned to have Big Fire
Law draft a letter to support the advance of S.
761 to the Truth and Healing Commission on
Indian Boarding School Policies Act in addition
a letter to Tom Cole with words of encouragement to introduce the bill in the House of
Representatives. Trey Blackhawk seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
National Advisory Council on Indian Education Nomination
USDA Tribal Consultations
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
USDA Reorganization Plan – Tribal consultation on the reorganization plan is October 16,
2025, with written comments accepted until
November 15, 2025.
[Victoria out 10:10 a.m.]
[Lorelei out 10:12 a.m.]
Eugene DeCora motioned to submit
comments to Tribal Consultation on USDA
regarding the USDA Reorganization Plan. Ireta
Frazier seconded the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Victoria in at 10:14 a.m.]
BREAK: 10:15 a.m., reconvene at 10:28
a.m.
[TC Present: CB, TL, RS, IF, LD, TB, ED,
VK]
STATE ADVOCACY:
LR176 – Customary Adoptions for Native
American Children in Nebraska
Tribal College Funding – follow-up with
Senator Fredrickson’s office.
Follow up from legislative bus tour – decision on whether the Tribal Council will hold
another tour this year.
Discussion: Thank you letter to those that
attended will be sent to the Chairman for
signature.
[Eugene out at 10:55 a.m.]
Planning for 2026 session
Priorities
Meeting with Lobbyists
Legislative Luncheon – January 2026
Tribal Council Elections/Special Vote –
Update.
Broadband Fiber Project Update – Bids will
be reviewed and brought to the Tribal Council
with recommendations. Updated timeline for
the project. Also, a link for the meetings was
requested to be forwarded to the Tribal Council.
Tribal Constitution Amendments – Secretarial Election
Discussion regarding a survey from Enrollment.
[Lorelei out at 11:20 a.m., in at 11:23 a.m.]
[Isaac in at 11:26 a.m.]
BREAK: 11:28 a.m. (experiencing technical
difficulties) reconvene at 11:42 a.m.
[Isaac, Lorelei and Victoria out]
Winnebago Housing & Development Commission
Thunderway homes
Deeds of defunct village housing
MOA
[Isaac in at 11:44 a.m.]
[Lorelei in at 11:48 a.m.]
[Eugene in at 12:13 p.m.]
[Lorelei in at 12:18 p.m.]
Eugene DeCora motioned to direct all CEOs
, and Board Chairs of the entities of HCI,
Winnebago Tribe, and WHDC to attend all the
Housing Plan meetings. Teresa Littlegeorge the
motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
GAO Request – National Register of Historic
Places
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Eugene DeCora motioned to go into Executive Session at 12:28 p.m. Rona Stealer
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion
carried.
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to come out of
Executive Session at 4:16 p.m. Eugene DeCora
seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(6) yes
(0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
ADJOURN:
Eugene DeCora motioned to adjourn at 4:17
p.m. Victoria Kitcheyan seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion
carried.
Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting at
4:17 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
Page 6 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, October 25, 2025
Question of the Issue:
Share with us a Halloween memory that still haunts,
tricks or treats you to this day?
GARAN: Crazy story but I remember one year when I was a kid, Halloween in
Winnebago was cancelled due to a major snowstorm. I was really worried about my
candy stash that year. I think it was postponed for a week, but we still got to go trick or
treating a couple of days later.
BRIAN: Halloween was always a good time, especially getting the candy and treats
back in the day. We would trick or treat as soon as the sun went down and go until the
lights went out. Candy, popcorn balls, suckers, those weird black and orange things, it
was all good. Mona Kay would always have popcorn balls, and my dad used to like to
play this Halloween sounds record really loud that scared the little kids. Good times,
crazy costumes, and those masks that you couldn’t breathe out of. Glory days of the
70s and 80s. Loved it.
TYLER: Dang Halloween was a mission; we would start near home then go to the
park-side of SSC’s middle school (back when the whole street was lit up) and end
up all the way down to 25th street. Although I had fun childhood memories as a kid, I
think Halloween gets better when you have kids. Dressing them up, taking them doorto-door and seeing their happiness does it!
CHRISTINA: My earliest trick or treat memory was when I was like 5 or 6 years
old. Keely took me trick or treating and we were in the Reformed Church Pastors yard.
I remember some older boy trying to scare me and I was scared because it was dark,
and I also remember hearing Keely telling whoever it was “don’t scare her!” She kept
me safe that year. Every year I enjoyed going to Darlene's house (Robin Bear's Mom),
she handed out little brochures and I thought they were so cool. I enjoyed all the neat
things I would find in my candy bag besides candy.
KEVIN: When I was a kid, i had one Halloween that went a little off-script. Me and
my little brother were getting ready, costumes on and all that. But my brother decided
to strap on a BB gun as part of his getup. mom asked why on earth he needed that,
he just said, “Well, last year some teenagers stole my candy, and this year I’m gonna
make sure they don’t.”
BETHANI: Back in the days of the Family Life Center, we got to go on incentive
trips & one year during Elementary, we went to Nightmare on 4th street. Well, on the
drive up, I’m feeling confident and not even scared. Fast forward to us being in line,
fear begins to set in. I start trying to back out to wait in the van, and this is why I will
always remember this memory. My Tega Eug DeCora was a chaperone for our group
and gave me the best pep talk which helped me brave my way through with them. I
walked directly behind him, and still somehow got pulled to the back of the group.
We were just getting to the scary clown part, and I got scared again. I stood there with
my hands over my eyes while my childhood friend Jordin was yelling at the clown to
leave me alone! The worst part was that I got left behind when I had my eyes covered.
I think the haunted house workers felt bad for me towards the end though, because all
I hear in a deep, scary voice is: “They. Went. Thaaaat. Wayyyy.” I ended up finding
them at the exit and literally ran out of there.
GAYLA: I remember in the early 90s, I was in HeadStart. I was really fired up to wear
my Jasmine costume (from Disney’s Aladdin), but on the day of Halloween, a cold
front came through. My mom made me wear a bulky sweatsuit underneath my costume, so I had this ugly Bum Equipment sweatsuit with a Jasmine costume stretched
over it and a teal windbreaker over that. I threw a big fit about it, but thankfully, I did
get a lot of candy that year! Probably due to most kids’ parents having their kids stay
home due to the weather.
Due to the possible interruptions in SNAP benefits for
November 2025, individuals and households in our service
area (Woodbury County in Iowa. Thurston, Dixon and Dakota
Counties in Nebraska) wishing to apply at our Food Distribution
Program are urged to close their Iowa or Nebraska SNAP case
ASAP. Please call us with questions 833-568-5989.
BIG VOICE RADIO
KWTN100.9 FM
Official Radio Station of the
Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska
Saturday, October 25, 2025 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 7
COMMUNITY
Vision Maker Media Expands Native Youth Media Project
Program Provides Training for Young Native American
Filmmakers
LINCOLN, NE – October 17, 2025 - - Vision Maker Media (VMM), the premier source
of media by and about Native Americans since
1976, announces the expansion of its Native
Youth Media Project (NYMP), an initiative
launched in 2020 to train Native youth in filmmaking skills and provide them with the tools
they need to carry on the essential cultural
tradition of Native story-telling.
The Native Youth Media Project connects
talented young people with experienced media
professionals who provide technical abilities to
grow self-expression and creative story-telling
talents. Participants in the program also develop leadership, community involvement, and
public speaking skills. Local NYMP programs
are established in tribal communities, with Vision Maker Media providing funding support.
“Following the recent closing of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting — the long-time
primary funder of our work — Vision Maker
Media has been focused on identifying new
ways to support the production, presentation,
and perpetuation of Native American films,”
says Vision Maker Media president and CEO
Francene Blythe-Lewis. “Our Native Youth
Media Project is just that. Designed to be
self-sustaining, it teaches filmmaking craft to
Native storytellers and, within the framework
of the program, allows career media professionals to pass on their knowledge and their
expertise as trainers. The ultimate goal is for
tribal communities to establish and sustain
their own NYMP training programs.”
In the short time since its inception, Vision
Maker Media’s Native Youth Media Project
has already generated its first success story.
Kanesia McGlashan-Price, a member of the
Unangax̂ tribe with no prior film experience,
participated in the program in 2021, creating a
short film titled “Letter to Ilguning,” which she
called “a visual poem to my future grandchildren on caring for our homelands and the
homelands of our Indigenous kin.”
She later responded to a joint call from
VMM and GBH, the public media station in
Boston, for filmmakers who could explore
unique challenges of climate change facing
Native communities. Kanesia’s proposal,
submitted alongside “Letters to Ilguning,”
was one of only six selected. Applying skills
that she gained in the NYMP program, she
traveled to Unalaska, on Alaska’s Aleutian
Islands, to produce “Tides of Tradition,” a
10-minute film following Unangax̂ hunter
Trever Schliebe, who struggles to feed his
community: warming oceans caused by
climate change have caused the population
of sealions – a traditional food source for the
Unangax̂ - to decline precipitously. The visually stunning film, which powerfully explores
the resiliency of Indigenous peoples and how
they draw strength from family and the land,
was presented to national audiences on the
GBH streaming platform.
Tribal leaders, Native filmmakers, or
community members who are interested
in establishing a local Native Youth Media
Project or participating in the program should
go to Native Youth Media Project – Vision
Maker Media
For more information about Vision Maker
Media’s Native Youth Media Project or to
interview Francene Blythe-Lewis, please contact Chris Kelly, Fifth House PR, at ckelly@
fifthhousepr.com or 617/510-2333.
Request for Bids:
Food Service Contract for Sacred Children Care Center
Issued by:Sacred Children Care Center
Facility Name: Sacred Children Care Center
199 HWY 77/75 Winnebago, NE 68071
Overview
The Sacred Children Care Center is a newly established childcare facility that will serve up to70
children, including:
- 16 infants
- 24 toddlers (18–36 months)
- 18 preschoolers (3–5 years)
- Additional children as needed, up to full capacity
We are seeking bids from qualified food service vendors to provide nutritious, age-appropriate
meals and snacks for children enrolled at the center.
Scope of Services Requested
Vendors should outline their ability to provide the following services:
- Daily breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack
- Menus that meet USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines
- Accommodation of dietary restrictions and allergies
- Delivery and/or on-site preparation options
- Food safety and sanitation compliance
- Staff training or support (if applicable)
Bid Submission Requirements
Please include the following in your proposal:
- Company profile and relevant experience
- Sample menus for each age group
- Pricing structure (per meal or per child)
- Licensing and certifications
- References from similar contractsBid Evaluation Criteria
Bids will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Compliance with USDA CACFP guidelines
- Quality and variety of proposed menus
- Experience and references
- Cost-effectiveness and pricing structure
- Ability to accommodate dietary restrictions
- Delivery or preparation capabilities
- Licensing and certifications
Timeline
- Bid submission deadline: November 30, 2025
- Contract start date: April 2026
- Initial contract term: 1 year with renewal optionContact for Inquiries
Miskoo Petite
Human Services Director
Email: miskoo.petite@winnebagotribe.com
Phone: 402-922-2997
Page 8 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, October 25, 2025
COMMUNITY
PUBLIC NOTICE
WarHorse Gaming Secures $300 Million Refinancing Milestone
OMAHA PUBLIC POWER DISTRICT (OPPD) NOTICE TO
PERFORM TRANSMISSION LINE MAINTENANCE ON
WINNEBAGO/OMAHA TRIBE ALLOTMENTS
NOVEMBER 2025 THROUGH APRIL 2026
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 contractor(s) will be accessing transmission line
right-of-way to perform necessary maintenance work including various repairs, structure replacements, inspections and/or vegetation management. 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 November 2025 through April 2026.
WINNEBAGO, Neb. – Nebraska’s largest casino operator, WarHorse Gaming, LLC, has secured refinancing of $300 million in startup loans to a favorable 5-year deal that’ll launch the next
phase of casino expansions and construction of a new casino.
The deal is one of the fastest to come together in the pro rata financial market, organized in less
than one month by U.S. Bank, including Capital One, KeyBank, The Huntington National Bank,
BOK Financial, and Comerica Bank.
“This rapid refinancing shows our bank partners value what we’re doing, and see the great
potential ahead,” said Lance Morgan, CEO of Ho-Chunk, Inc., the parent company of WarHorse
Gaming. “We are proud to have them join us for this next big chapter.”
The refinancing puts in motion WarHorse Gaming’s continued expansion of its state-regulated
casinos at horse racetracks in Nebraska’s largest cities, Omaha and Lincoln. New construction of
a third WarHorse Casino will start next summer in South Sioux City, Nebraska.
WarHorse Lincoln’s highly-anticipated spring 2026 expansion includes larger gaming areas for
machines, more table games, a new steakhouse, and a high-end sports bar. WarHorse Omaha’s
expansion opened in April and continues strong growth and increased visitation.
WarHorse Gaming has rapidly grown with $94.8 million total gaming revenue year to date,
reported Aug. 25 by the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission. Gaming taxes on this year’s
WarHorse revenue have totaled $22.5 million so far, mostly earmarked for property tax relief
under Nebraska law. WarHorse Gaming expects to double its operating cash flow in 2026.
“WarHorse Gaming is Nebraska grown and owned. We believe in providing a world-class
gaming experience, while investing in our communities, our state, and the Winnebago people,”
Morgan said.
Contact: Drew Niehaus
Winnebago Health Foundation Announces New
2025 Scholarship Winners
Questions? Please contact our OPPD Real Property and Land Management hotline at
(531)226-3062 or email us at landmanagement@oppd.com.
HELP WANTED
Thurston County Clerk’s Office is accepting applications for a full-time
clerical position.
Preferred skills include MS office, data entry, basic computer and math
knowledge. Good communication and customer relation skills. Preference to Veterans.
Application and job description are available from the County Clerk’s
office.
Closing date: Until position is filled.
By: Erin McElroy, WHCS Communications Manager
Winnebago, NE – The Winnebago Health
Foundation is proud to announce the second round
of recipients for the 2025 Foundation Scholarships.
These winners have demonstrated outstanding
academic achievements, community involvement,
and a strong commitment to their future careers.
These scholarships aim to support their educational journeys and empower them to contribute
significantly to the Winnebago community.
Gregory Bass II (University of Nebraska-Lincoln)
An enrolled member of the Winnebago Tribe of
Nebraska, Gregory is pursuing a Master of Business
Administration (MBA). Previously serving as Chief
Executive Officer of the Boys and Girls Clubs of the
Hocak Nisoc Haci, he successfully led fundraising
efforts and oversaw the design of a new youth
facility that reflects Winnebago culture and values.
His continued education will help him expand his
leadership and community development impact.
Belle Bearskin (Little Priest Tribal College)
An enrolled member of the Winnebago Tribe of
Nebraska and a Training Specialist at WCHS, Belle
is earning her degree in Business Administration.
Her education focuses on leadership development
and workforce growth. She plans to use her degree
to strengthen staff training, enhance employee
engagement, and improve patient experience
throughout the healthcare system.
Amanda Hallowell (Morningside University)
An enrolled member of the Umonhon (Omaha)
Tribe of Nebraska and an inpatient registered nurse
at WCHS, Amanda is pursuing her BSN with plans
to continue to graduate-level education. She is passionate about improving quality care for Indigenous
patients, advancing representation in the healthcare field, and incorporating traditional healing
and natural remedies into modern medicine.
Jennifer Hardeman (University of North Dakota)
An enrolled member of the Winnebago Tribe of
Nebraska, Jennifer serves as the Injury Prevention Coordinator at WCHS and has worked in the
Winnebago community for more than 15 years. She
is completing a Master of Public Health with a
concentration in Indigenous Health—one of only
two such programs in the country. Jennifer plans
tocontinue into the Doctorate of Indigenous Health
program after graduating in 2026 and to dedicate
the remainder of her career to serving her Tribe.
Shaylee Kearnes (Little Priest Tribal College)
An enrolled member of the Winnebago Tribe of
Nebraska, Shaylee is majoring in Early Childhood
Education. She is committed to supporting young
children’s academic, cultural, and social development while integrating Winnebago traditions and
values into education. Her goal is to build a career
serving local families, ensuring that early childhood programs reflect the community’s culture,
language, and wellness priorities.
Jodie Moore (Western Governors University)
A dedicated nurse with 17 years of experience,
Jodie began her career in inpatient care and now
serves in the Wound/IV Clinic at WCHS. As a single mother and lifelong learner, she is pursuing her
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with plans to
become Wound Care Certified and eventually earn
her Nurse Practitioner credentials.
Mia Regalado (Western Iowa Tech Community
College)
An enrolled member of the Winnebago Tribe of
Nebraska, Mia is an EMS trainee at WCHS and is
working toward her Associate of Applied Science
in Paramedicine. She is committed to applying her
education directly to her work at WCHS, strengthening emergency services and care for patients
across the community.
Valery Soto (Bellevue University)
A Human Resources Generalist at WCHS, Valery
is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in human resources management. Her studies focus on advancing
inclusive and supportive workplace practices that
promote staff engagement, diversity, and professional growth. She aims to apply these skills to
strengthen the workforce and improve healthcare
outcomes for the Winnebago community.
The Foundation is honored to support these
exceptional individuals in their educational
endeavors. Their dedication and passion reflect the
values and mission of our organization. We look
forward to witnessing their future achievements
and contributions to the Winnebago community.
For more information on the Winnebago Health
Foundation and to explore future scholarship opportunities, please visit https://www.wchs.health/
foundation.
Saturday, October 25, 2025 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 9
VETERANS DAY POWWOW
This is a copy of a public record, reproduced as it was published. It is not legal advice, and it may not be the version a court would rely on. Check the official source before you cite it.