Published Bi-Weekly for the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska
Tribal code
Ask Donna
What actually matters in this document.
Text
Published Bi-Weekly for the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska
Child Support Office
has a new location!
More Last Bear Moon
powwow Photos!
page: 7
Volume 55, Number 5
In honor of the new year’s thunder this
past weekend, our masthead for this issue
features the icon representing the Thunder
Clan / Wakaja Hikikarac. The Thunder Clan
is the clan from which the Chief was traditionally selected. The Thunder Clan is one
of the four sky clans. Peacetime decisions
were made by the Thunder Chief, while
war related actions may have been decided
by another clan leader. Pipe carriers from
the Thunder Clan functioned also as the
guardians of peace among the membership
and outside people. Families within the clan
include: Baker, Bassette, Bradford, Beaver,
Bigfire, Blackhawk, Grayhair, Hanken
(descendent of Smoke family), Hunter,
Kelsey, Payer, Raymond, Smith, and Tebo.
Our gratitude to the HoChunk Renaissance
Department for providing their guidance
with the information shared here.
page: 6
Wake hikiruxe wi
Racoon Mating Moon
Saturday, March 14, 2026
The World’s Best One-Day Powwow: Last Bear Moon 2026
Nį̄ šoc Nįgešąną
By Bethani Redhorn
Photography by Garan Coons
On March 3rd, a recognition dinner was
held in celebration of Autumn Nieman
being awarded as the Winnebago Tribe of
Nebraska’s 2025 Employee of the Year!
Autumn has been with the Winnebago
Tribe of Nebraska for 26 years and has
previously been awarded the Employee of
the Month in June of 2025. Congratulations
on this accomplishment and recognition of
all your work over the years!
The Little Priest Tribal College received
the Leader College of Distinction Award
at the ATD DREAM 2026 Conference in
Portland, Oregon. President Minoj Patil,
VP of Academic Affairs Channing Stellato, Director of Student Support Services
Trisha Wegner, and Director of Institutional
Effectiveness Kayva Mariboyina accepted
the award on behalf of LPTC for the second
consecutive year.
Recently, WarHorse Lincoln stated their
phase 3 of construction began February 9th.
This step includes new amenities such as a
sports bar named Nebraska Ale Haus, and a
premium steakhouse named Big Fire Chop
House. Additionally, the casino expanded
their gaming floor with over 1,100 slots
and 18 table games. With these upgrades,
WarHorse Lincoln is to be Nebraska’s
second-largest casino.
[Sloan, IA] From the beats of the
drum to the vibrant swirls of regalia, the
WinnaVegas Casino Resort transformed
the Event Center into an arena to host
the world’s best one-day powwow! This
year’s Last Bear Moon Powwow and
Winter Celebration made history as the
largest gathering to date, drawing over
400+ dancers to the area and reaching
a global audience of more than 100,000
viewers via livestream!
A ground blessing was rendered that
morning by Winnebago Veteran, Bear
Clan member and former Chairman of the
Winnebago Tribe, Frank White. Hosted
by the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska,
planned and coordinated by the Last Bear
Moon Powwow Committee, the event
served as a powerful cultural bridge
honoring the sacred “Last Bear Moon” of
the Ho-Chunk calendar through traditional
song, dance, and shared commitment to
preserving Indigenous traditions for future
generations to come.
At the start of the evening session,
Winnebago Tribe’s Communications
Officer Garan Coons shared an exclusive
interview on the livestream with Arena
Director, John Yellowsmoke Snowball,
where he shared insight into how Last
Bear Moon came to be in 2019. Crediting
Winnebago Communications Office
Manager Gayla Whitewater, who created
a public service announcement video
sharing why the Ho-Chunk celebrate the
Last Bear Moon. “The Last Bear Moon
marks the end of winter’s deep cold, with
a promise of renewal; it reminds us of
patience, transformation, and respect for
the natural cycles around us.”
Expanding the digital footprint this
year, the celebration featured a new
global simulcast via Powwows.com. This
partnership brought the event to 265,300
people across 88 countries via Facebook,
YouTube, and TikTok. Locally, KWTN
The Big Voice maintained a strong
connection with the community, garnering
Con’t. on page 2...
Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System Announces
New Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)
By WCHS Marketing (Erin McElroy &
Halle Murray)
Winnebago, NE – Winnebago
Comprehensive Healthcare System
(WCHS) is proud to announce the
appointment of Melanie Tuamoheloa,
BSN, RN, as its new Chief Nursing
Officer (CNO). Melanie brings more
than a decade of progressive nursing
leadership experience, a deep commitment
to patient-centered care, and a strong
dedication to serving our patients and
relatives.
Prior to this role, Melanie served as
the Director of Nursing Care Services
at WCHS, where she successfully led
recruitment initiatives, mentored and
developed nursing staff, and strengthened
interdisciplinary collaboration. Her focus
on operational excellence, workforce
development, and patient satisfaction has
made a lasting impact on the organization.
She has also been instrumental in
developing the forensic nursing program,
expanding services within the Emergency
Department to provide Sexual Assault
Nurse Examinations (SANE) and intimate
partner violence examinations, ensuring
patients have access to compassionate,
specialized care.
Melanie earned her Bachelor of Science
in Nursing from Creighton University
School of Nursing and is currently
pursuing her Master of Science in
Nursing with a focus on Nurse Executive
Leadership at Walden University. She
maintains active RN licensure and
holds specialized training in TNCC,
Adult/Adolescent Forensic Nursing
Examinations, and as a CAPPA Lactation
Educator. Her professional excellence
has been recognized through numerous
honors, including the IHS Nurse of the
Month Award, the NNA Positive Image
of Nursing Award, the Area Director’s
Award for Outstanding Employees, and
the DAISY Award.
“I am an enrolled member of the Omaha
Tribe of Nebraska; I come from the Wind
Clan. My parents are Jeff and Colleen
Gilpin, prayer leaders in the Native
American Church. The prayer instruments
that my parents have come from John Rave
from the Winnebago Tribe in 1906. They
were given to my Great Grandparents
Ed and Grace (Walker) Cline. They were
passed down to my grandparents Alfred
(Buddy) and Naomi (Cline) Gilpin. My
paternal great grandparents were Sam
and Louisa (Cayou) Gilpin. My maternal
grandparents were Byron and Ruby (Irvin)
Scotton, and great grandparents were
Walter and Cora (Vawter) Haynie and Bert
and Alta (Tuttle) Scotton,” said Melanie.
“My upbringing and cultural teachings
have shaped my servant leadership style. I
feel truly blessed to serve our relatives and
am excited about the care we continue to
provide to our community.”
Melanie will continue to strive to create
a positive, supportive work environment
for her team and a welcoming space
that fosters strong relationships and
healing for relatives. As CNO, she will
champion clinical excellence, workforce
development, cultural humility, and
patient- and family-centered care. As
part of the executive team, she will play
a key role in shaping the health systems
future direction, helping drive sustainable
growth, and operational excellence.
WCHS remains committed to serving the
community with the highest standards of
care.
“Hōcąk hižą hitoik’į wiāje – Be Proud to be a HoChunk”
Page 2 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, March 14, 2026
ANNOUNCEMENTS
...Cont. from front page: THE WORLD’S BEST ONEDAY POWWOW: LAST BEAR MOON 2026
2,500 views for both the afternoon and
evening sessions.
A highlight of the event is the Saturday
Night Spotlight Special, and this year’s
spotlight was for the Invited Drum
Groups, which included Ho-Chunk Station
(Wisconsin), Iron Boy (Minnesota),
Meskwaki Nation (Iowa), Little Soldier
(Kansas), Iron Bow (Oklahoma), and
Leading Arrow (Oklahoma). Three
categories were featured in the Spotlight
Special: Best Sound (Leading Arrow), Best
Dressed (Meskwaki Nation), and People’s
Choice (Ho-Chunk Station). Winnebago
Host drums included HayLushKa, Grey
Wolf, and New Breed. Another new
element this year was People’s Choice,
using a QR code, viewers and spectators
were able to cast their vote which decided
the winner for that category!
The Last Bear Moon Powwow
Committee members are Les Painter,
Winnebago Public Health Department;
Cassie Kitcheyan, Kikijire Community
Crisis Response Team; Anna Berridge,
Winnebago Tribe Environmental
Protection Department; Melanie Parker,
Ho-Chunk, Inc.; Garan Coons, Winnebago
Tribe Communications Department;
Tom Teesdale, WinnaVegas Casino; and
Summer Snow, Winnebago Tribe Youth
Council Member. Thank you to the LBM
Powwow Committee, the Winnebago
Tribal Council, all the sponsors, and
everyone who helped make this year’s
celebration a success. Looking forward to
Year 7 in 2027!
***Editor’s Note: You can always watch
the afternoon and evening sessions from
the 2026 Last Bear Moon Powwow and
Winter Celebration on demand by visiting
the KWTN Big Voice YouTube channel: @
kwtnthebigvoice1009
Saturday, March 14, 2026 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 3
Wāgax hųk ra wāgax hokik’ųna
Letter to the Editor
JESUS OUR SAVIOR
LUTHERAN OUTREACH
God’s Righteousness’
Does our unrighteousness demonstrate
God’s unrighteousness? Let me put the
question in a different way: does the sin
of the child have a reflection on his father
or her mother? Questions like these Paul
proposed to the believers in Jesus in
Rome. [See Romans chapter 3, verses 1
through 8].
You have probably heard the expression:
‘the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.’
What does this mean? It is usually used
in a negative way. The meaning - that the
child often reveals what he or she learned
from one’s parents. Or one might say:
‘Like father - like son; or like mother - like
daughter.’
Some of God’s chosen people of the
tribe of Israel were unfaithful. Did their
unfaithfulness reflect on YAHWEH?
Now let me put this in the perspective
of the lives of Christians. People who are
not Christians often observe us - Christians
- those who identify as being ‘one with
Christ.’ Yes, you who call yourself a
Christian - how often do you fail to actual
follow the ways of Jesus Christ? Are you
following Christ in all of his ways - all the
time - not only when others are watching.
Now, does the unrighteousness of a
‘Christian’ make Jesus Christ unrighteous?
No, May it never come to be!
Let me ask you another question:
Does one’s unrighteousness demonstrate
God’ unrighteousness? Or does one’s
unrighteousness undermine God’s
righteousness? Since one has been given
life by one’s Creator - and one is obviously
not righteous - can one blame God?
Can you say: ‘God you made me this
way!’ Paul uses this type of reasoning
to explain how some attempt to shift the
blame from the culprit - the sinner - to
the one who gave the sinner his life. Once
again Paul gives us the answer: ‘May it
never come to be!’
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV26-068
Winnebago
In the Matter of the Custody Petition of:
Kateri Payer
vs.
Christopher Morris Sr.
Indian News
To:
CHRISTOPHER MORRIS SR,
You are hereby notified that a Custody petition has been filed and a hearing concerning the
above referred Individual(s) in case no. CV26068 has been scheduled and will be heard in
the Winnebago Tribal Court of Winnebago,
Nebraska on the 6TH day of APRIL, 2026 at the
hour of 11:30 A.M.
LEGAL NOTICE
By: Pastor Ricky Jacob
While mankind became unfaithful - God
was true to Himself. God remained faithful
to His Word. God does not go back or
fudge on His rules. When God sent His
Son, Jesus, into this world. Jesus came not
to judge or condemn the world but rather
to save the world, that is all people as well
as all of creation.
Further, Jesus came not to abolish the
Law but to fulfill the Law - every last
Word of it. At the same time Jesus came
to suffer the consequences, the FULL
WRATH of God, for each and every
sinner.
The FULL WRATH of God came down
on Jesus when he suffered and died.
The FULL WRATH of God included
Jesus being abandoned by his heavenly
Father while he hung on the cross. ‘And
about the ninth hour Jesus cried out
with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lema
sabachthani?” that is, “My God, my God,
why have you forsaken me” [Matthew
27:46 (ESV)]? That word ‘forsaken’
can also be translated as ‘abandoned’ or
‘banished’.
We, due to our sinful nature, would
rather accuse God as being unfaithful
and unrighteous than to see the truth. We,
due to our sinful nature, would rather do
evil things - thinking that the more evil
that one does - the more God’s grace can
abound. How foolish is that!? And at what
cost is such thinking? The cost of suffering
for one’s sins rather than believing that our
sin has been paid in FULL by Jesus!
God is faithful, He is true, and His truth
resounds to His glory. God’s righteousness
is established and vindicated in His words.
Thus God’s certain truth and reliable
faithfulness, and His righteousness justly
have negative consequences upon all those
who are sinners. At the same time, God’s
faithfulness and righteousness provides
great assurance to those who are in Christ
through faith - His faith-full people.
is owned and
published by the
Winnebago Tribe of
Nebraska”.
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV26-076
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV26-075
In the Matter of the
Guardianship Petition of:
LAURA BUCHANAN
In Re:
A.B. (Born 3/2022)
SHAI WEBSTER, Mother
LAWRENCE BUCHANAN, Father
In the Matter of the
Guardianship Petition of:
Rheanna & Lamuel Freemont
In Re:
C.R. (Born 05/2016)
C.R. (Born 12/2017)
A.R. (Born 11/2019)
DANICIA FREEMONT, Mother
SHAI WEBSTER, Mother
XAVIER RAVE, Father
LAWRENCE BUCHANAN, Father
TO:
DANICIA FREEMONT, Mother
You are hereby notified that a petition has
XAVIER RAVE, Father
been filed for Guardianship and a hearing
concerning the above referred Individual(s) in
You are hereby notified that a petition has been
Case No. CV26-076 has been scheduled and
filed for Guardianship and a hearing concernwill be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court
ing the above referred Individual(s) in Case
of Winnebago, Nebraska on the 26th day of
No. CV26-075 has been scheduled and will be
March, 2026 at the hour of 10:30 A.M.
heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court of Winnebago, Nebraska on the 26th day of March,
2026 at the hour of 11:00 A.M.
TO:
The next issue of the WINNEBAGO INDIAN NEWS will be published on March 28, 2026.
——————————————————
The Mission of the WIN is to inform and to educate
the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska of issues that
affect them, and to be a vehicle in which stresses
positive and beneficial concerns and points of view.
LETTER POLICY: Signed editorials, letters and
articles appearing in the WIN are the responsibility
of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the
opinion or attitude of the Winnebago Indian News
or the Winnebage Tribal Council.
The WIN encourages the submission of Letters to
the Editor; however, letters must be signed and
addressed. Letters may be edited for language
and length.
Postmaster Send Address Changes To
Winnebago Indian News
P.O. Box 687
Winnebago, Nebraska 68071
——————————————————
The Winnebago Indian News (WIN), founded ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. The reproduction of
in January 1972, is published bi-weekly for the editorial or photography content without permission
is prohibited.
Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska.
DEADLINE for this issue will be March 24, 2026.
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, March 14, 2026
TRIBAL COUNCIL MINUTES
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
PHYSICAL RESOURCES REPORT
MEETING
February 9, 2026
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Coly Brown
Isaac Smith
Victoria Kitcheyan
Lorelei DeCora (virtual)
Ireta Frazier
Trey Blackhawk
OTHERS PRESENT:
Brian Chamberlain
Christina Parker
Autumn Nieman
Kevin Ebert
Anna Berridge
Trisha Rivers
Aseanna Overfelt
Kellie Snow
Natalie Davis
Kiana Lewis
Tiffany Buchanan
Darla LaPointe
Willy Bass
Lynelle Blackhawk
Tanya Baker
Kiana Lewis
Tyresha Romero
Cecelia Earth
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Teresa Littlegeorge (NCAI-Travel)
Rona Stealer (NCAI-Travel)
Eugene DeCora (NCAI-Travel)
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Brown
called to order at 9:10 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Councilman
Blackhawk offered the opening prayer.
AGENDA:
Additions: Senior Center Air Vent System & Executive Session.
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve
the amended agenda. Trey Blackhawk
seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
LAND MANAGEMENT:
[Victoria out at 9:16 a.m.]
Homesite Cancellation – RH
Ireta Frazier motioned to adopt resolution #26-75: REF. Cancellation of Home
Site Lease- Rick Huffman. Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(4) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Ag Resolution – 775–A Mrs. John
Brown & 776 William Brown
Isaac Smith motioned to adopt resolution #26-76: Agricultural lease REF:
Allotment 775-A Mrs. John Brown & 776
Willam Brown. Trey Blackhawk seconded
the motion.
VOTE:
(4) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
PHYSICAL RESOURCES REPORT:
MONTHLY REPORT
Isaac Smith motioned to accept the
Physical Resources January 2026 Monthly
Report. Ireta Frazier seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(4) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
FACILITIES
Waste Disposal vendor update – Information only.
TRIBAL HOUSING
Big Winnebago Lane Long Home – No
action taken.
EPD INFORMATION
Pow-wow Mapping Project – Information only.
Authority and enforcement/crop dusting
– Information only.
[Isaac out 9:57 a.m., in 10:00 am.]
Iowa Bill 2237 – Discussion only.
[Victoria in at 10:03 a.m.]
Weather Station
Ireta Frazier motioned to table action on
the Weather Station until it is ready to go.
Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
REGIONAL ADMINISTRATOR
VISIT MAY 2026 – Information only.
Will schedule a meeting with the Tribal
Council during the visit.
Section 401 cwa 2026 proposed changes
Lorelei DeCora motioned to authorize
comment regarding Section 401 cwa 2026
proposed changes. Isaac Smith seconded
the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Trey Blackhawk motioned to enter
executive session at 10:08 a.m. Victoria
Kitcheyan seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Trey Blackhawk motioned to exit
executive session at 11:07 a.m. Victoria
Kitcheyan seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Lorelei DeCora motioned to request
Winnebago Gaming Commission and Winnebago Gaming Development Corporation
to send their findings to the CEO, CAO
and H.R. for review. Victoria Kitcheyan
seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
ADJOURN:
Trey Blackhawk motioned to adjourn
the meeting at 11:09 a.m. Victoria
Kitcheyan seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting
at 11:09 a.m.
Recording Secretary, Submitted,
Ireta Frazier, Council member
Winnebago Tribal Council
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
REGULAR TRIBAL COUNCIL
MEETING
February 9, 2026
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Coly Brown
Isaac Smith
Victoria Kitcheyan
Lorelei DeCora
Trey Blackhawk
Ireta Frazier
OTHERS PRESENT:
Kellie Snow
Terri Lee Medina
Tyresha Romero
Kiana Lewis
Aseanna Overfelt
Terry Medina
Danelle Smith
Garan Coons
Bethani Redhorn
Keely Purscell
Lynelle Blackhawk
Tressa Smith
Anna Berridge
Willy Bass
Frankie Smith
Brian Chamberlain
Jorge Saurez
Sunshine Bear
Elaine Earth
LaDonna Holstein
James Price, Jr.
Tiffany Buchanan
Relisha Ware
Christina Parker
Ernie Sanchez
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Rona Stealer (NCAI-Travel)
Eugene DeCora (NCAI-Travel)
Teresa Littlegeorge (NCAI-Travel)
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Brown
called to order at 12:10 p.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Using the
Opening prayer offered by Councilman
Blackhawk at an earlier meeting.
AGENDA:
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve
the agenda. Trey Blackhawk seconded the
motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
READING OF THE MINUTES:
January 19, 2026, Mid-Monthly Tribal
Council meeting minutes
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve
the January 19, 2026, Mid-Monthly Tribal
Council meeting minutes. Ireta Frazier
seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
January 21, 2026, General Counsel
meeting minutes
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve
the January 21, 2026, General Counsel
meeting minutes. Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
RATIFY FIVE SIGNATURES:
Approval to present Billy Dean in concert at WinnaVegas on 3/14/26, Joe Nichols in concert on 4/11/26. Both Shows to
begin at 8:00 p.m. at WinnaVegas Event
Center.
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to ratify
the five-signature approval to present Billy
Dean in concert at WinnaVegas Event
Center. Ireta Frazier seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Approval to utilize the remaining clothing distribution gift cards to cover the cost
of the Last Bear Moon Pow-wow Meal.
(the use of balance is yet to be determined)
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to ratify
the five-signature approval to utilize the
remaining distribution gift cards to cover
the cost of the Last Bear Moon Pow-wow
Meal. (the use of balance is yet to be
determined). Trey Blackhawk seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
Approval of Resolution #26-74 BIA/
USGS Funding Stream Gauge Project
FY26
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to ratify
the five-signature approval of Resolution #26-74: BIA/USGS Funding Stream
Gauge Project FY26. Lorelei DeCora
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
Approval of donation of a star quilt from
the Winnebago Tribal Council inventory
to the Last Bear Moon Celebration for
fundraising purposes.
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to ratify
the five-signature approval of donation
of a star quilt from the Winnebago Tribal
Council inventory to the Last Bear Moon
Celebration for fundraising purposes. Trey
Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
NEW BUSINESS:
Construction Management: Construction
Tax Agreement with State of Nebraska
Department of Transportation.
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to table the
Construction Tax Agreement to the CEO
Report. Trey Blackhawk seconded the
motion.
Discussion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Isaac out at 12:24 p.m.]
NITC: Statement approval
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve
the Chairman’s signature to the NITC
Statement. Ireta Frazier seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (4) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
TRIBAL COUNCIL ITEMS:
ATLAS program – discussion
Isaac Smith motioned to direct the CEO
to draft a lease between ATLAS and the
Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska for the Boys
and Girls Club building when it becomes
available and to revisit it later. Ireta Frazier seconded the motion.
OBJECT: Lorelei DeCora
VOTE: (4) yes, VK, IS, TB, IF
(1)
no, LD (0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Isaac in at 12:26 p.m.]
Mesa Public School, Mesa, AZ – letter
of request for donation
Ireta Frazier motioned to table the
request for further information. Victoria
Kitcheyan seconded the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
Winnebago Senior Citizen Center
request
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve
the request as submitted for the Senior Citizen Center, Senior Advisory Committee
Loan Signatures for Liberty Bank. (Signers: Jeanette Rice, Velma Alaniz, Bobbie
Wolfe, Coly Brown, Isaac Smith, Teresa
Littlegeorge, Rona Stealer, Trey Blackhawk, Lorelei DeCora, Victoria Kitcheyan,
Eugene DeCora, and Ireta Frazier).
Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
EPD – Nebraska Environmental Trust
(NET) Grant Status update
Lorelei DeCora motioned to submit a
letter on behalf of the tribe regarding issues of the NET Grant. Victoria Kitcheyan
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
A.Y. Referral request
Isaac Smith motioned to direct Human
Services to fulfill request by A.Y. for repairs to vehicle window that was smashed
by vandals in the amount of $307.14. Trey
Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
Radio Station – Update only
[Ireta out at 1:15 p.m., in at 1:17 p.m.]
Boys and Girls Club
[Isaac out at 1:22 p.m., in at 1:24 p.m.]
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve
the recommendation on option #2 with
estimating closing date of August 1, 2026.
Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no(0 ) abstain
Motion carried.
Vice Chair Resignation letter – Discussion, no action taken.
SGAC meeting
Lorelei DeCora motioned to authorize
travel for Victoria Kitcheyan and a delegation to attend the SGAC meeting. Victoria
Kitcheyan seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Appropriations Hearing
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to request
Eugene DeCora to testify for Appropriation hearing. Trey Blackhawk seconded
the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
WCHS Special meeting
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to schedule
a special meeting with the WCHS Board
and the Executive Team. Trey Blackhawk
seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Brian Chamberlain – No Action taken.
[Coly out at 3:30 p.m.]
[Victoria out at 3:35 p.m.]
Loss of quorum. BREAK: 5 minutes,
resume meeting at 3:42 p.m.
ADJOURN:
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to adjourn
the meeting at 3:52 p.m. Trey Blackhawk
seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Chairman adjourned the meeting at 3:52
p.m.
Recording Secretary, Submitted,
Ireta Frazier, Council member
Winnebago Tribal Council
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NERBASKA
CEO REPORT
February 11, 2026
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Coly Brown
Isaac Smith
Ireta Frazier
Trey Blackhawk
Lorelei DeCora
Victoria Kitcheyan
OTHERS PRESENT:
Tyresha Romero
Kellie Snow
Terri Lee Medina
Ramona Sheridan
Kevin Ebert
Garan Coons
Christina Parker
Cecelia Earth
Char Richardson
Tyler Snake
Darla LaPointe
Tiffany Buchanan
Bethani Redhorn
Anna Bess Preston
Janelle DeCora
Sarah Snake
Anna Berridge
Jaralyn Bear
Keri LaPointe
Greg Walker
Gayla Whitewater
Kellen Kelsey
Willy Bass
Chad Smith
Brittany Thomas
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Rona Stealer (NCAI-travel)
Eugene DeCora (NCAI-travel)
Teresa Littlegeorge (NCAI-travel)
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Brown
called the meeting to order at 9:06 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Councilman
Smith offered the opening prayer.
AGENDA:
Addition: TC-26-71A Tribal Action Plan
Trey Blackhawk motioned to approve
the agenda with addition. Victoria
Kitcheyan seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
ADMINISTRATION:
CEO January Report
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve
the January 2026 CEO Report. Trey
Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
CAO January Report
Trey Blackhawk motioned to approve
the January 2026 CAO Report. Victoria
Kitcheyan seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
In-house Legal January Action Items/
Report
Lorelei DeCora motioned to approve
the In-house Legal January Action Items/
Saturday, March 14, 2026 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 5
TRIBAL COUNCIL MINUTES
Report. Victoria Kitcheyan seconded the
motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
BOARDS AND COMMITTEES:
Wildlife & Parks; Advertise five vacancies
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to advertise five (5) vacant positions for the
Wildlife & Parks Commission for 30 days.
Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
[Victoria out at 10:06 a.m.]
Winnebago Housing Development Commission; Advertise one vacancy
Ireta Frazier motioned to advertise for
one (1) vacancy for the Winnebago Housing Development Commission until filled.
Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(4) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Winnebago Gaming Development
Corporation; Advertise three vacancies,
staggered terms
Trey Blackhawk motioned to advertise
for three (3) vacancies at staggered terms
for the Winnebago Gaming Development
Corporation for 30 days. Ireta Frazier
seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(4) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
*amended motion: from Commission
to Corporation, staggered terms (3-2-26
Regular TC mtg.)
[Victoria in at 10:10 a.m.]
HNH Youth Council; Advertise one
vacancy
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to advertise for one (1) vacancy for the Hocak
Nisoc Haci Youth Council. Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Credit Committee; One vacancy, two
applicants
Lorelei DeCora motioned to appoint
Serenity Drew to the Credit Committee for
a two-year term. Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Winnebago Community Development
Fund; One vacancy, two applicants
Ireta Frazier motioned to appoint Felicia
Brownrigg to the Winnebago Community
Development Fund for a three-year term.
Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Pow-Wow Committee; One vacancy,
two applicants
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to appoint
Trina Solomon to the Pow-wow Committee for a three-year term. Ireta Frazier
seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Hemp Commission; Two vacancies, one
applicant
Vacancy
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to appoint
Levi Blackhawk to the Hemp Commission
for a three-year term. Ireta Frazier seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(4) yes (0) no (1)
abstain, TB
Motion carried.
Hemp Commission Resignation
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to accept
A.B. resignation from the Hemp Commission and re-advertise for two (2) vacancies.
Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
ENROLLMENT:
Resolution – Tribal Enrollment Applicants
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to adopt
resolution #26-77: Tribal Enrollment Applicants [A4761, A4774, A4797, A4798,
A4813, A4816, 4836, A4837, A4840].
Ireta Frazier seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Blood Quantum Correction
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to adopt
resolution #26-78: Blood Quantum
Correction (383-U07472). Ireta Frazier
seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
PLANNING DEPARTMENT:
Resolution – Ho-chunk Way Project –
Wake and Burial
Trey Blackhawk motioned to adopt
resolution #26-79: Winnebago Tribe of
Nebraska 2026 Ho-Chunk Way Project –
Wake and Burial Program. Isaac Smith
seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
[Isaac out at 9:46 a.m.]
Resolution – Ho-chunk Way Project
– Angel DeCora Museum Artifact Preservation
Ireta Frazier motioned to adopt resolution #26-80: Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska
2026 Ho-Chunk Way Project – The Angel
DeCora Museum Artifact Preservation
Project. Trey Blackhawk seconded the
motion.
VOTE:
(3) yes (1) no, LD
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Victoria out at 10:59 a.m., lost quorum]
[Isaac in at 11:04 a.m., resumed meeting]
Nonprofit Project Development Officer
Position Request
Approve Organizational Chart
Ireta Frazier motioned to approve the
new position (Nonprofit Project Development Officer) and the New Org Chart.
Victoria Kitcheyan seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
COMMUNICATIONS:
88.9 FM Radio Station License
Department Spotlight
[Victoria in]
[Trey out at 11:50 a.m., in at 11:56 a.m.]
[Isaac out at 12:05 p.m., in at 12:08
p.m.]
TRIBAL COUNCIL ITEMS:
Resolution – Construction Tax Agreement with State of Nebraska Department
of Transportation
Lorelei DeCora motioned to adopt resolution #26-81: Construction Tax Agreement with the State of Nebraska Department of Transportation. Trey Blackhawk
seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Resolution- Tribal Coordinating Committee
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to adopt
resolution #26-71A: (Amendment)
Authorizing the Establishment of a Tribal
Coordinating Committee to Develop and
Implement a Tribal Action Plan for a Comprehensive Prevention and Treatment Program for Alcoholism and other Substance
Abuse. Isaac Smith seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
ADJOURN:
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to adjourn
the meeting at 12:35 p.m. Trey Blackhawk
seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting
at 12:35 p.m.
ing minutes
Trey Blackhawk motioned to approve
the Physical Resources Report meeting
minutes. Ireta Frazier seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
2-9-26 Regular Tribal Council meeting
minutes
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to approve
the 2-9-26 Regular Tribal Council meeting
minutes. Eugene DeCora seconded the
motion.
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
2-11-26 CEO Report meeting minutes
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to approve
the 2-11-26 CEO Report meeting minutes.
Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
RATIFY 5 SIGNATURES:
Approval for the Enrollment Committee
members and any interested Tribal Council
to attend the Annual Enrollment Conference in Waikiki, HI, 3/16/26 to 3/20/26.
Eugene DeCora motioned to ratify the
five-signature approving the Enrollment
Committee members and any interested
Tribal Council to attend the Annual Enrollment Conference in Waikiki, HI, 3/16/26
to 3/20/26. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded
the motion.
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Approval of Resolution #26-82: WTN
2026 Ho-Chunk Way – Native Pony Mart
Revitalization Project the Tribe will apply
on behalf of the Physical Resources Dept.:
Construction Mgt. Program from HoChunk Way in the amount of $466,500.00.
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to ratify
the five-signature Approval of Resolution
#26-82: WTN 2026 Ho-Chunk Way – Native Pony Mart Revitalization Project the
Tribe will apply on behalf of the Physical
Resources Dept.: Construction Mgt. Program from Ho-Chunk Way in the amount
of $466,500.00. Ireta Fazier seconded the
motion.
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
NEW BUSINESS:
MOA with Hospital for Random Drug
Testing with WCHS for our WTN employees
Eugene DeCora motioned to table to
request a price match from WCHS to UNITY Point to include pre-employment drug
testing and Tribal Council testing. Trey
Blackhawk seconded the motion.
Recording Secretary, Submitted,
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no (0)
Ireta Frazier, Recording Secretary
abstain Motion carried.
Winnebago Tribal Council
Angel DeCora Museum item: NRC
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Ireta Frazier motioned to table the MOU
Winnebago Tribal Council
with NRCS until March 2, 2026. Teresa
Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
OLD BUSINESS:
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
State and Federal-level policy with
MID-MONTHLY TRIBAL COUNCIL
implications to EPD funding, water quality
MEETING
protections, and the Tribe’s Section 401
February 16, 2026
TAS authority
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
the written statements as amended for
OTHERS PRESENT:
the State and Federal-level policy with
Coly Brown
implications to EPD funding, water quality
Trisha Rivers
Kevin Ebert
protections, and the Tribe’s Section 401
Teresa Littlegeorge
TAS Authority. Trey Blackhawk seconded
Ray Thomas
Roland Warner
the motion.
Eugene DeCora Anna
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no (0)
Berridge Kiana Lewis
abstain Motion carried.
Lorelei DeCora
TRIBAL COUNCIL ITEMS
Terri Lee Medina
Donation match request: Winnebago
Daryl LaPointe
Warpath Basketball
Ireta Frazier
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve a
Barbara Pretends Eagle
$1,000.00 fundraising match for the WinBrian Chamberlain
nebago Warpath Basketball team. Trey
Trey Blackhawk
Blackhawk seconded the motion.
Les Painter
VOTE:
(4) yes (0) no (2) abDanelle Smith
stain, IF, TL
Motion carried.
Isaac Smith [In at 5:08 p.m.]
Quilt Purchase – V.M.
Ireta Frazier motioned to approve the
Daryl LaPointe, Jr.
purchase of quilts from V.M. for $1050.00
Lewis St. Cyr
from the Tribal Council donations. Teresa
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
Rona Stealer (PTO)
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no (0)
Victoria Kitcheyan (PTO)
abstain Motion carried.
LAST BEAR MOON PERMISSION
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Brown
TO SLICIT FUNDS
called to order at 5:02 p.m.
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to approve
OPENING PRAYER: Councilman
the LBM pow-wow committee to solicTrey Blackhawk offered the opening
it funds. Eugene DeCora seconded the
prayer.
motion.
APPROVE AGENDA:
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no (0)
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the
abstain Motion carried.
amended agenda
YCIC
Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
the New Position request, Floater Youth
abstain Motion carried.
Worker/Shift Lead and the updated organiREADING OF THE MINUTES:
zational chart. Trey Blackhawk seconded
2-9-26 Physical Resources Report meetthe motion.
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
LAND BACK Celebration – Discussion
only
Executive session: WinnaVegas
Trey Blackhawk motioned to enter
executive session at 5:56 p.m. Teresa
Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to exit the
executive session at 6:47 p.m. Eugene
DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
ADJOURN:
Eugene DeCora motioned to adjourn the
meeting at 6:48 p.m. Isaac Smith seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting
at 6:48 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
SPECIAL MEETING –
ENROLLMENT
February 16, 2026
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Coly Brown
Teresa Littlegeorge
Trey Blackhawk
Eugene DeCora
Ireta Frazier
Lorelei DeCora
Isaac Smith
OTHERS PRESENT:
Crystal Ross
Leah Hunter
Anthony Earth
Tyler Smth
Kevin Ebert
Natalie Earth
Danelle Smith
Terri Lee Medina
Ramona Sheridan
John Blackhawk
Tyresha Romero
Jennifer Berridge
Tiffany Buchanan
Cherie Tebo
Sarah Snake
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Rona Stealer (PTO)
Victoria Kitcheyan (PTO)
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Brown
called to order at 9:14 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Eugene DeCora
offered the opening prayer.
APPROVE AGENDA:
SURVEY
DISENROLLMENT
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the
agenda. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the
motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
SURVEY RESULTS:
Presented by Terri Lee Medina, Enrollment Committee member
BREAK: (reboot meeting, lost mic’s)
10:10 a.m., reconvene at 10:21 a.m.
Next steps:
Survey is still open to receiving opinions.
Post results on the website, the WIN,
and with Communications, etc.
Recommend post card mailer with a
scan code to enrolled members.
FORUM to reveal the results.
Enrollment committee to move forward
with the Secretarial Election for the age
limit of 25 years old.
Winnebago Talks: to speak about the
survey results and that it is still open.
DISENROLLMENT:
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Eugene DeCora motioned to enter executive session at 10:49 a.m. Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Eugene DeCora motioned to exit executive session at 11:06 a.m. Trey Blackhawk
seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Lorelei DeCora motioned to approve the
disenrollment of tribal members #383U03937, #383-U02141, #383-U03742,
#383-U04052, #383-U04073, #383U04074, #383-U04076, #383-U04075,
#383-U03741, #383-U07086 notice of a
hearing will be scheduled in 30 days and
sent by the Winnebago Enrollment De-
Page 6 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, March 14, 2026
Question of the Issue:
Winnebago Health Foundation Board of Directors
In honor of Women’s History Month, we want to know: Outside
of your own family, which historical woman has inspired you the
most, and why?
GARAN: Former first lady Michelle Obama really inspired me with a few quotes.
“When they go low, we go high”. At times I have to remind myself of this. The other is
"Success isn't about how much money you make; it's about the difference you make in
people's lives."
KEVIN: “Honestly, I can’t name just one. As a single dad, the women who inspire
me most are the single moms out there doing the job every day. If you can raise kids,
work, and keep everyone alive… you’re basically a superhero.” I’m proud to say I was
raised by a single, almost died a few times, at no fault of hers, well maybe buying a kid
a mini bike wasn’t a great idea."
CHRISTINA: Thinking about historical women in general, Mother Teresa and Harriet
Tubman come to mind. Mother Teresa is inspiring because she was an extremely
humble missionary from India that only wanted to help the poorest of the poor and was
awarded the noble peace prize for her work with the suffering. Harriet Tubman is inspiring because of her immense bravery and courage to free groups of people chained
in slavery with Harriet as their only hope for a better life.
GAYLA: Chief Hąboguwįga (Glory of the Morning) inspires me the most because she
demonstrated that Ho-Chunk women are powerful diplomats and decision-makers. She
was the first recorded woman in Wisconsin’s history and the first documented woman
chief of the Ho-Chunk in the 18th century. She was from the Thunder Clan and rose
to leadership at just 18 years old, guiding the Ho-Chunk during a time of growing
colonial pressure and regional conflict. She helped navigate relationships between
nations, worked toward peace, and left a lasting legacy through her descendants and
the leadership traditions she embodied. Hąboguwįga remains a powerful reminder that
Ho-Chunk women have always belonged in positions of leadership. There is actually a
really cool statue of her in downtown Neenah, Wisconsin, so if you’re ever in the area,
def check it out!
BETHANI: The first woman in Nebraska history to play high school football for
the Winnebago Public School, my best friend Ione Irene's mom, the late Saralee Ione
"Cupcake" Suarez (Huffman). She was truly amazing; I thank her for a lot. Growing
up, I admired her for the way she carried herself, and it just added to my amazement
when I found out about her name being in the Nebraska history books. She is deeply
missed by so many.
Winnebago, NE – Winnebago
Comprehensive Healthcare System
(WCHS) is proud to announce William Bass
and Dr. David Hoelting as new members of
the Winnebago Health Foundation (WHF)
Board of Directors. Their leadership and
professional experience will help support
WHF’s strategic goals. Their involvement
brings valuable ideas, perspectives, and
support to further strengthen communityfocused initiatives.
William Bass is deeply committed to
community service and the health and
wellness of the Winnebago community.
He actively supports the physical, mental,
emotional, and spiritual well-being of Tribal
members and contributes to initiatives that
strengthen community health and leadership.
Bass has participated in community health
assessments and strategic planning and
serves on multiple boards, including the
Hemp Commission, Little Priest Tribal
College Board of Trustees, Leadership
Siouxland, Boys & Girls Club of Siouxland,
Winnebago Tax Commission, Winnebago
Community Development Fund Board of
Directors, and WCHS Board of Directors.
“I am honored to serve and give back to a
community that has given so much to me,”
said Bass. His dedication reflects a lasting
commitment to programs and decisions that
benefit the community.
Dr. David Hoelting brings decades of
medical expertise and community service
to the organization. A retired physician with
an active license, he continues volunteering
and sharing his healthcare insights. He has
held leadership roles on the Pender City
Board, Nebraska Governor’s Nuclear Waste
Advisory Board, and Nebraska Academy of
Family Physicians Board. “I look forward to
contributing my experience and supporting
WHF’s mission,” said Dr. Hoelting. His
appointment reflects WHF’s dedication to
experienced, community-focused leadership.
We are also honored to announce that
Amy Encinger was recently reappointed
for another three years to the WHF’s Board
of Directors. Together, the WHF board
continues to bring a dynamic blend of
healthcare philanthropy expertise to the
501c3 non-profit arm of the Winnebago
Comprehensive Healthcare System. The
Winnebago Health Foundation would
like to extend its gratitude to these new
and reappointed board members for their
willingness to provide invaluable services
in guiding our continued efforts to make a
positive impact on our community for years
to come.
Winnebago Tribe Employee of the Month!
Julya Starr is the February 2026 Winnebago Tribe Employee of the month. She was
nominated because of her exceptional dedication to protecting the safety and well-being of the
community.
Saturday, March 14, 2026 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 7
ANGEL DECORA MUSEUM ARCHIVE FEATURE
Henry Roe Cloud (1884-1950), a
Ho-Chunk Native American from
the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska,
was a pioneering educator, reformer,
and Presbyterian minister.
Born on the Winnebago
Reservation and was from the bird
clan, he became the first full-blood
Native American to graduate from
Yale University in 1910, later earning
advanced degrees in theology and
anthropology.
Roe Cloud was a founding
member of the Society of
American Indians and established
the Roe Indian Institute, the first
college preparatory school for
Native students.
He served in the Office of Indian
Affairs and as superintendent
of the Haskell Institute, where
he worked to integrate Native
traditions into education.
A key contributor to the 1928
Meriam Report, he helped expose
the failures of federal Indian policy
and supported
reforms such as the Indian
Reorganization Act of 1934.
Honored with the Indian
Achievement Award in 1935,
Roe Cloud left a lasting legacy in
Native advocacy and education. A
building at Haskell Indian Nations
University bears his name today.
Sources: Encyclopedia of the
Great Plains, “Roe Cloud, Henry.”
Provided historical background
on his education, advocacy, and
leadership roles.
Yale University, “Henry Roe
Cloud.” Offered additional context
on his academic achievements
and influence on Native higher
education.
Another close view of just how packed the floor was with dancers, as well as spectators.
The closest visual representation of the record-breaking attendance this year!
Some more photos from 2026 Last Bear Moon Powwow!
Growing each year, 400+ dancers registered for LBM 2026.
Under the spotlight during the Grand Entry for the evening session.
LBM 2026 Saturday Night Spotlight Special – Best Dressed Champions:
Meskwaki Nation
LBM 2026 Grand Entry for the evening session looked beautiful and sounded amazing!
LBM 2026 Saturday Night Spotlight Special – Best Sound Champions:
Leading Arrow
A closer look at some HoChunk Applique, Fancy Feather, and Traditional.
LBM 2026 Saturday Night Spotlight Special – Peoples Choice Champions:
HoChunk Station
Page 8 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, March 14, 2026
TRIBAL COUNCIL MINUTES
partment (tentatively March 16, 2026).
Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
ADJOURN:
Trey Blackhawk motioned to adjourn
the meeting at 11:09 a.m. Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting at 11:09 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
GENERAL COUNSEL MEETING
February 18, 2026
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Coly Brown
Teresa Littlegeorge
Rona Stealer
Ireta Frazier
Trey Blackhawk
Lorelei DeCora
Victoria Kitcheyan
Eugene DeCora [in at 9:12 a.m.]
OTHERS PRESENT:
Danelle Smith
Sarah Herring
Brittany Thomas
Christina Parker
Terri Lee Medina
Joseph Adler Ruane
Kiana Lewis
Anna Berridge
Chad Smith
Darla LaPointe
Cecelia Earth
Josh Pitre
Tyler Smith
Kirstin Lowry
Tom Teesdale
Tanya Baker
Lisa Livingston
Nakia Mallory
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Isaac Smith
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman
Brown called to order at 9:07 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Councilman
Blackhawk offered the opening prayer.
APPROVE AGENDA:
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to
approve the amended agenda. Rona
Stealer seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
[Eugene in at 9:12 a.m.]
ACTION ITEMS:
BIA/USGS Funding-Stream Gauge
Project FY25
Ireta Frazier motioned to adopt
amended resolution #24-187A: BIA/
USGS Funding-Stream Gauge Project
FY25. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Victoria out 9:13 a.m.]
WPSC Disciplinary Hearing Policy &
Procedures
[Victoria in at 9:16 a.m.]
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve
the WPSC Disciplinary Hearing Policy
& Procedures as presented. Victoria
Kitcheyan seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
STATE ADVOCACY – LHM – Joseph Alder Ruane
Truth in Healing hearing. LB 1016 Medicaid reimbursement for traditional
healing services will have its hearing this
week Thursday, February 19th.
(Attendees: Coly, Victoria, Eugene,
Ireta)
[Rona out at 9:45 a.m.]
Lorelei DeCora motioned to approve
travel for any Tribal Council member to
attend the hearing regarding the Truth
in Healing in Lincoln, NE, February 19,
2026. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the
motion
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Rona in at 9:49 a.m.]
LB 1250 – Authorization of selling or
transferring water and sewer systems to
a tribe
The hearing will be held on February
24, 2026.
(Attendees: Trey, Coly, Eugene)
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to approve travel for Tribal Council to attend
the hearing regarding authorization of
selling or transferring water and sewer
systems to a tribe in Lincoln, NE on
February 24, 2026. Ireta Frazier seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(7) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
LB 1037 – Cigarette tax bill hearing –
Update only, no action
LB 1184 – Tribal College Invest Act –
Update only, no action
LB 1032 – Customary Adoptions Bill
– Update only, no action
Budget – Update
New Position Request – Region 7
Pesticides Circuit Rider (EPD)
Eugene DeCora made a motion to
approve the New Position request; Tribal
Pesticide Circuit Rider and Organizational Chart. Trey Blackhawk seconded
the motion.
VOTE:
(7) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
DOI BIA Deputation Agreement
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to
adopt resolution #26-83: To Approve
the Deputation Agreement Between the
Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska and the
Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services. Lorelei DeCora seconded
the motion.
VOTE:
(7) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Winnebago Tribe Surveillance Policy
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to
approve the Winnebago Tribe Surveillance Policy. Rona Stealer seconded the
motion.
VOTE:
(7) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Lorelei DeCora motioned to request
General Counsel to work with IT and
Communications on the development
and protection of a policy on the use
of AI. Eugene DeCora seconded the
motion.
VOTE:
(7) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
BREAK: 10:37 a.m., reconvene at
10:54 a.m.
6.b. Tribal Energy Leadership Fellows (TELF) Program
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to
authorize Councilman Trey Blackhawk
to participate in Tribal Energy Leadership Fellows (TELF) Program. Eugene
DeCora seconded the motion.
ABSTAIN: Trey Blackhawk
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no (1)
abstain Motion carried.
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve travel for Tribal Council to attend
the Indigenous Energy & Environment
Leadership Capstone Presentation at
Tribal Energy Equity Summit the week
of May 11-14, 2026. Teresa Littlegeorge
seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(7) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
FEDERAL ADVOCACY:
Congressional Update:
Overview of Hill Meetings
Senate Hearing on Native 8(a) Program
[Trey out at 11:20 a.m.]
Lorelei DeCora motioned to direct
Ho-Chunk, Inc CEO Lance Morgan to
make comments to the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs regarding the Native 8(a) Program Contracts and Funding
for submission by February 27, 2026.
Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Boarding School Bill Introduced in the
House – H.R. 7325
Lorelei DeCora motioned to approve
the letter that General Counsel will be
preparing for the Boarding School Bill.
Victoria Kitcheyan seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
[Trey in at 11:34 a.m.]
Upcoming Hearing on Fiscal Year
2027 Tribal Priorities
Administrative Updates
Department of Education Consultation
Comments
[Teresa out at 11:40 a.m., in at 11:46
a.m.]
Prediction Markets – discussion
Lorelei DeCora motioned to direct
General Counsel to work with Lance
Morgan of War Horse and Tom Teesdale
of WinnaVegas to collect comments to
prepare a letter from the Tribal Council
to the States of Iowa, Nebraska delegations.
[Trey, Eugene, Victoria out at 11:56
a.m.]
[Trey in at 11:57 a.m.]
Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
[Victoria, Eugene in at 11:59 a.m.]
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
RECESS: 12:02 p.m., reconvene at
1:04 p.m.
WTN RADIO STATION UPDATE:
Construction was extended to July 13,
2026 for a completion date.
Ernie Sanchez’s contract is due to be
renewed.
GAO STUDY – NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES,
FOLLOW UP:
Worked with THPO to provide responses and was completed
There will be an additional follow up
meeting tomorrow at 1:00 p.m.
Hensley Springs
Snow Spring
BOYS & GIRLS CLUB NMTC
PROJECT:
Letter to clearing house has been
signed and sent. There has been no
response from Clearing House.
Travois is working to identify a new
CDE
QUILICB is being worked on for tax
purposes. This will be brought back to
the Tribe at a later date.
WINNEBAGO LAND TRANSFER
ACT IMPLEMENTATION:
Continuing to assist the Wildlife &
Parks Department with code revisions.
Planning for the celebration to take
place in August 2026.
[Eugene out at 1:20 p.m., in at 1:25
p.m.]
BROADBAND FIBER PROJECT:
Construction is beginning in Winnebago
Working through approvals with the
village of Thurston
Working on approvals from South
Sioux City.
Chat over Coffee event Feb. 20th starting at 10:00 a.m. at Sweet Water Café.
THURSTON COUNTY BOARD
OF SUPERVISORS: update only for D
Ave. paving project.
TRIBAL CONSTITUTION
AMENDMENTS – SECRETARIAL
ELECTION:
Discussion.
[Rona out at 1:50 p.m.]
WINNEBAGO HOUSING & DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION:
Thunderway project – start with one
homebuyer to start with.
HAVW Deeds – update
TACT workgroup sessions
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to suspend the rules to add the travel for Tribal
Council to attend the Educare National
Summit. Eugene DeCora seconded the
motion.
VOTE:
(7) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve
the Tribal Council to travel to Tulsa,
Oklahoma for the 2026 Educare National Summit May 12-14, 2026. Trey
Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(7) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Eugene DeCora motioned to enter executive session at 2:12 p.m. Ireta Frazier
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to exit
executive session at 3:38 p.m. Ireta
Frazier seconded the motion.
VOTE:
(7) yes (0) no (0)
abstain Motion carried.
Rona Stealer motioned to move forward with recommendations from Big
Fire Law as presented to approve the
Centralized Tribal Employment Internal
Assignment and Administrative Support Memorandum for Class II Gaming
Regulatory and Strategic Support and
the Winnebago tribe of Nebraska personnel assignment letter class II gaming
regulatory and strategic support pending
approval of regulatory considerations.
Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
Ireta Frazier motioned to have Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska Human Resources to advertise all vacant positions
for Winnebago Gaming Development
Corporation. Trey Blackhawk seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
ADJOURN:
Rona Stealer motioned to adjourn the
meeting at 3:48 p.m. Eugene DeCora
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting at 3:48 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
TREASURER’S REPORT MEETING
February 25, 2026
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Coly Brown
Rona Stealer
Teresa Littlegeorge
Lorelei DeCora
Trey Blackhawk
Eugene DeCora
Isaac Smith
OTHERS PRESENT:
Terri Lee Medina
Cheryl Painter
Petra Nielsen, WCR
Tyresha Romero
Kiana Lewis
Kellie Snow
Char Richardson
Anna Bess Preston
Danelle Smith
Lynelle Blackhawk
Anna Berridge
Darla LaPointe
William Bass
Christian Rogers, WCR
Tom Teesdale, WCR
Anthony Earth
Ray Thomas, WCR
Mark Grant, WCR
Brittany Thomas
Aaron LaPointe
Angel Derochie, WHC
Lisa Walker
Nakia Mallory
Leon Rozeboom, LNB
Jordan Rozeboom, LNB
Brian Coyle, LNB
Beth Wewel
David Edwards, WCHS
Christina Parker
Cecelia Earth
Lance Morgan, WHC
Clarrissa Rave
Janelle DeCora
John Jensen
Joi Long
Dorine Payer
Manoj Patil, LPTC
Tiffany Buchanan
Sharon Frenchman
Yatti Mohamad, LPTC
Rebecca Walker
Keely Purscell
Angie Kent, LPTC
Jaralyn Kelsey
Mark Vasia, LPTC
Jessica Mercer
Felicia Brownrigg
Linda Horse-Free
Sarah Snake
Dulcie Paiva
Janelle DeCora
Brenda Conway, LPTC
Cherie Tebo
Mitchell DeCora, Jr.
Justin Bearskin, Jr.
Iva Masquat
Zeriah George
Andrew Zagurski
Charli Earth
TRIBAL COUNSIL ABSENT:
Victoria Kitcheyan (Travel)
Ireta Frazier (Travel)
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman
Brown called to order at 9:05 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Treasurer
Stealer offered the opening prayer.
APPROVE AGENDA:
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve
the agenda. Trey Blackhawk seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
December 2025 financials are turned
into Tribal Council for review, Presenters will provide a verbal update on
January 2026 financials
WTN FINANCIAL REPORT: Presented by Cheryl Painter, Interim CFO
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to
approve the WTN December 2025 and
January 2026 Financial Reports. Trey
Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
Support Letter for EPA TAG Application – presented by Brittany Thomas
Isaac Smith motioned to approve
the Support Letter for CERCLA Section 128(a) Technical Assistance Grant
(TAG) Application. Eugene DeCora
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
Liberty National Bank Presentation –
Leon Rozeboom, Jordan Rozeboom, and
Saturday, March 14, 2026 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 9
WPS BOARD OF EDUCATION
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF
WINNEBAGO PUBLIC SCHOOLS
A Meeting of the Board of Winnebago Public Schools was convened in open and public session on Monday, January 12, 2026 at 4:45p.m. in the board room at the Winnebago Public Schools, Highways 77 & 75, Winnebago, Nebraska. The roll was called and
the following Board members were present or absent:
Present: Teresa Littlegeorge, Nilah Solomon, Crystal Ross, Kiana Lewis, Kristine
Earth
Absent: Greg Bass III (excused)
In Attendance: Annette Zimmerman, Jermiah Lonewolf, Daniela Gant, LaDonna
Holstein, Sandy Scott, Sonja Wyant, Dulce Pavia, Janelle DeCora, Isaac Smith, Tiffani
Warner, Ireta Frazier
Notice of the meeting was given in advance by posting in accordance with the Board
approved method for giving notice of meetings. Notice of the meeting was given in
advance to all members of the Board of Education. Availability of the agenda was communicated in the publicized notice. All proceedings of the Board of Education, except
as may be hereinafter noted, were taken while the convened meeting was open to the
attendance of the public.
1.Receiving of Delegations: E3 Emergency Response System 4:50-5:10 / LaDonna
Holstein, Motherhood is Sacred 5:15-5:30
2. Call to Order
Meeting was called to order at 5:31 p.m. by President Teresa Littlegeorge, also President Littlegeorge states, “MEMBERS OF THE BOARD RECEIVED NOTICE OF THE
MEETING SHOWING THE TIME AND PLACE OF THE MEETING INCLUDING
THE AGENDA TO BE CONSIDERED. NOTICE OF THE MEETING WAS PUBLISHED BY POSTING ON THE OFFICE DOOR AND THREE OTHER PLACES.”
A COMPLETE COPY OF THE OPEN MEETING ACT IS POSTED ON THE SOUTH
WALL.
3. Approval of Agenda with the following changes: delete Item 10, addition of 9-c.,
move 5-6 to 5-2
Motion: Ross
Second: Solomon
Discussion: None
Voting for: Lewis, Earth, Ross, Littlegeorge
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Bass III
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
4. Business Affairs
4-1. Approve minutes of December 15, 2025 Regular Meeting with the addition of the
exit time of 10:52
Motion: Lewis
Second: Solomon
Discussion: None
Voting for: Earth, Ross, Solomon, Littlegeorge, Lewis
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Bass III
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
1.
January 12, 2026 School Board Meeting
4-2. Approve accounts payable in the amount of $103,599.47, petty cash account/
treasurer’s report.
Motion: Earth
Second: Lewis
Discussion: accounts payable
Voting For: Earth, Ross, Solomon, Littlegeorge, Lewis
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Bass III
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
4-3. Approve Facilities WEFLC: $25,320.88
Motion: Ross
Second: Solomon
Discussion: discuss the change in dates
Voting For: Ross, Solomon, Littlegeorge, Lewis, Earth
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Bass III
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
5. New Business
5-1. Discuss/Approval J.A.G. Program for 2026-2027 (Annette Zimmerman presenting 5:40-6:02)
Motion: Solomon
Second: Lewis
Discussion: benefits of the program/questions & answers
Voting For: Solomon, Littlegeorge, Lewis, Earth, Ross
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Bass III
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
5-2. Discuss/Approve Academy Handbook Updates to begin 2026-2027 School
year(Digital Attachment)
Motion: Ross
Second: Lewis
Discussion: presented by the Academy teaching staff
Voting For: Littlegeorge, Lewis, Earth, Ross, Solomon
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Bass III
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
5-3. Discuss/Approve Honors American History 2 Summer Trip
Table until we can get more accurate information regarding the trip
Motion to table: Earth
Second: Solomon
Discussion: none
Voting For: Lewis, Earth, Ross, Solomon, Littlegeorge
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Bass III
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
5-4. Discussion-Athletic uniform rotation and donations. (Attached Rotation)
5-5. Approve Policy Updates for January 2026-718 & 802.07
Motion: Earth
Second: Lewis
Discussion: none
Voting For: Earth, Ross, Solomon, Littlegeorge, Lewis
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Bass III
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
5-6. Discussion on Entrance Construction- meeting Thursday, January 15th at 2:30
5-7. Discussion on Bullying Forum Date
6. Reports
1.Superintendent:
a. SERC Building Update-furniture arriving, Repaint, Opening and blessing
b. Legislative Issues Conference, Lincoln, January 25-26
c. NAFIS- March 14th -18th
2. Administrative Reports
a. Athletics Director
b. Elementary
c. High School
d. Special Education
e. Dean of Students
f. School Staff Slideshow
7. Public Comment (No board discussion)
3.
January 12, 2026 Board Meeting
7. Closed Session 84-1410 Enter Motion 8:22 p.m.
Exit Session at 10:37
p.m.
To discuss: 1. Academy Student Dismissal 2. Employee Grievance November 2025
continued
3. Employee Bullying Accusation continued 4. Safety Director Job Duties
Motion: Lewis Motion: Earth
Second: Earth
Second: Solomon
Voting For: Ross, Solomon
Voting For: Solomon, Littlegeorge
Littlegeorge, Lewis, Earth
Lewis, Earth, Ross
Voting Against: None
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Bass III
Absent: Bass III
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
Motion Carried (5-0-0-1)
9. Action on:
9-1. Academy Student Dismissal denied with provisional probation through 2nd semester of 26-27 school year
Motion: Solomon
Second: Earth
Discussion: none
Voting For: Littlegeorge, Lewis, Earth, Ross, Solomon
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Bass III
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
9-2. Approve Safety Director Job Duties
Table until the February meeting
Motion to table: Littlegeorge
Second: Ross
Discussion: none
Voting For: Lewis, Earth, Ross, Solomon
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Bass III
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
9-3. Approve Angel DeCora Museum Assembly
Motion: Ross
Second: Earth
Discussion: none
Voting For: Lewis, Earth, Ross, Solomon, Littlegeorge
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Bass III
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
10. Adjourned at 10:51 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by:
Crystal R. Ross, Secretary
Winnebago Board of Education
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.