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Published Bi-Weekly for the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska
Annual Lighting
Contest Details!
STORYTELLERS:
page: 2
page: 6
Volume 54, Number 24
Featured on our masthead for this twenty-fourth issue of 2025 is the icon representing
our Hawk/Warrior Clan / Kereju / Woonagire
Waksik Hikikarac. The Hawk / Warrior Clan
holds many important responsibilities for
the tribe, including those being connected to
war. They held the responsibility to decree a
life-or-death decision on captives taken in war.
The Hawk / Warrior Clan supplied soldiers for
warfare and possessed other important political
and social functions, including serving as judges
for the Tribe. The Hawk/ Warrior Clan is one of
the four Sky clans. Their dress signified their
clan using eagle feathers, headdress and painted
human hand. These symbols represented deeds
of honor and bravery. They also carried bandoliers with long sashes, which were used to carry
personal items. Families belonging to the Hawk
/ Warrior Clan include: Ewing and Littlegeorge.
Our gratitude to the HoChunk Renaissance
Department for their assistance in providing this
information.
Part 2
Cā he wakšų wīra
Deer Antler Shedding Moon
Saturday, December 6, 2025
LARGEST GIFT IN LPTC HISTORY
Nį̄ šoc Nįgešąną
By Bethani Redhorn
Photography by Tyler Snake
On December 3rd, the Winnebago Public
School held their annual Winter Concert.
Family and friends were able to watch their
student(s) grades K-HS perform Christmas
themed music. Thank you to the Band/Music Teacher: Jared Garthoff ,and the Vocal
Music Teacher: Brittany Garthoff.
[Winnebago, NE] In this year’s season of
giving, Little Priest Tribal College received a
momentous gift of $5 million from MacKenzie Scott’s Yield Giving Foundation, marking
the largest donation in LPTC history since its
founding in 1996.
Surrounding media outlets, including the
Winnebago Indian News, received an invitation from President Manoj Patil to attend a
press conference in the LPTC auditorium on
Thursday, November 20, 2025.
During the press conference, he shared
that a special meeting took place on October
30, 2025, where the LPTC Board of Trustees
unanimously approved the decision to dedicate
the entire $5 million donation to the development of their new 10-acre plan that will be
located east to the existing campus. The college
completed their master implementation plan in
November 2022, followed by completing phase
one in May 2025 with the grand opening of the
Louis LaRose Memorial building.
Phase two will include construction plans for
a significantly larger CTE building designed
to house trade programs such as plumbing,
electrical, and HVAC. One building is also in
discussion with the LPTC Board of Trustees,
planning to add it to phase two.
“We are deeply grateful to the MacKenzie
Scott Foundation for this transformative gift,
which will accelerate our plans to develop a
new 10-acre campus estimated at $60 million.
The LPTC Board of Trustees has committed
these funds entirely to the campus project,
expected to begin in mid-2026. This investment
will not only expand our physical footprint but
also empower us to better serve our students,
community, and generations to come.” Quoted
directly from President Manoj Patil’s press
release.
Con’t. on page 2...
WCHS Inpatient Unit Receives First Team DAISY Award
On November 20th, Keri LaPointe and
Greg Walker held the grand opening
for their new restaurant, Sweet Thangs.
Originally, Sweet Thangs started as a food
truck and is now a dine-in location located
at 201 HoChunk Plaza in Winnebago, NE.
Congratulations!
By: Erin McElroy Flores, Communications
Manager
Help support those in need this Holiday
by contributing to the Tribal Courts 1st
Annual Winnebago Seniors Angel Tree
and WCHS’s Children’s Angel Tree. To
support a senior: stop by the Tribal Court
to select a tag, register at the main office
window, and return unwrapped items by
December 19th. For more info/questions,
call (402) 878-2570. To support a child,
stop by WCHS to select from their list or
tree, register at the Dental window, and
return unwrapped by December 15th. For
more info call (402) 745-3950.
Winnebago, NE – Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System (WCHS) was
proud to honor our Inpatient Team with the
first-ever DAISY Team Award during a ceremony held on Monday, November 17th. This
inaugural team recognition was given to five
staff members from WCHS’s Twelve Clans
Unity Hospital’s Inpatient Unit for their
compassion, teamwork, and extraordinary
dedication to patient care.
The patient nominator wrote a heartfelt
description of the “great care” she experienced during her stay in the inpatient unit,
sharing that every staff member who was a
part of her visit was exceptional. She went
on to name and describe each member of
her care team, and the unique qualities and
actions they used to support her. She recognized RN Judy Spath’s communication
and compassion, RN Molly Stoos’s friendly
nature, CNAs Kristina Yellowbank & Brenda Parker’s helpfulness, and RN Matthew
Jurgensen’s sense of humor. Said the patient
nominator, “I’m a very hard person to please,
but your staff was excellent. I have no words
to describe how satisfied and great my stay
was. To Judy, who was excellent and the
most helpful, hats off.
Kudos! To the
rest of the third floor, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thanks for making me feel
better.”
The DAISY Team Award recognizes groups of nurses and support staff who
work collaboratively to deliver exceptional
patient-centered care. This first WCHS team
award celebrates a group of caregivers whose
combined efforts made a significant and
lasting impact on the patients and families
they served.
“We are honored to recognize these
five remarkable caregivers,” said Sara
McIntosh, Chief Nursing Officer. “Their
dedication reflects the heart of our mission
and the values that make WCHS a trusted
place of healing. Each of them contributes
to a culture of compassion that strengthens
our community.”
Winning a DAISY Award is one of the
highest honors in the nursing profession
because it comes from the voices of patients, families, and colleagues who have
witnessed the nominee’s extraordinary
care firsthand. WCHS extends heartfelt
congratulations and gratitude to all DAISY
Award recipients for their extraordinary
commitment to patient-centered care.
Visit us at winnebagotribe.com
Page 2 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, December 6, 2025
ANNOUNCEMENTS
...Cont. from front page: LARGEST GIFT IN LPTC
HISTORY....
In March 2025, he shared that the Department of Interior notified LPTC of an 83%
budget cut which would have been detrimental
to the institution’s existence. However, this
unrestricted, one-time gift represents a significant investment in the future of tribal higher
education, and this historic benefaction will
support the continued growth of the Winnebago
community.
Initially opening the email from the foundation and assuming it was spam, the President
shared that he deleted the message at first, but
LPTC IT department verified it to be true. He
also shared background information about the
Yield Giving Foundation, saying, “MacKenzie
Scott has contributed up to $19 billion so far, to
many colleges, universities, and non-profit organizations across the world. I personally want
to say bless her heart for this donation. She is a
godsend for us.”
Chair of the LPTC Board of Trustees, Amy
LaPointe-Houghton, also shared her enthusiasm, “On behalf of the Little Priest Tribal
College Board of Trustees, we are extremely
grateful for this most generous gift from the
MacKenzie Scott Foundation. We are excited
for LPTC and what this gift will provide to
the students and community of Winnebago.
This funding will help LPTC move forward
with the 10-acre plan and expansion of the
programs and services provided at the college. We are extremely grateful for the leadership at the college and with President Patil
putting Little Priest Tribal College on the map
to receive such a generous unexpected gift.
Pinagigi! (Thank you).”
*Editor’s Note: On behalf of the Winnebago Indian News, we want to include a
heartfelt thank you to MacKenzie Scott and
the Yield Giving Foundation for this notable
donation. Pinagigi! This such a remarkably
historic moment for our tribal college and for
our community; upholding the mission of its
namesake, Chief Little Priest, “BE STRONG
AND EDUCATE MY CHILDREN.”
2025 Annual Neola “Old Lady” Walker Holiday Lighting Contest
By Bethani Redhorn
[Winnebago, NE] Each year in December, the Winnebago Indian News is honored to carry on the legacy of our founder, Neola “Old Lady” Walker, in hosting the Annual Holiday
Lighting Contest. It is officially that time of the year for our little village in Winnebago,
Nebraska, and planning for this year’s contest is currently underway.
The contest has significantly grown throughout the years from the participation by tribal
members to the creativity in their holiday decorations, including the winning prize amounts.
In last year’s contest, a total of $5,300 was awarded to the winners including consolation
prizes. However, it is our hope to continue sharing the history of this annual contest and
spotlight the meaning behind it all and why we continue to host it each year.
Neola enjoyed taking part in events during the holidays and was a member of the Dutch
Reformed Church where she held pageants and a reenactment performance of Baby Jesus.
Christmas was very special to Neola and with a good thought and feeling to bring the
holiday cheer to our Winnebago community, she began hosting the annual holiday lighting
contest which first began with “bragging rights” for the 1st through 3rd place winners. A
couple of years later, Neola began to offer prize money, and, at that time, the prize money
was paid from her own pocket.
The late Jerome LaPointe Sr., who was our longtime retired Editor, attempted to do research on when Neola started hosting the annual contest but was unable to pinpoint an exact
start date. He shared this history with our past Editor, Jordana Bass, and was also featured
on an episode of Winnebago Talks in 2022, where he shared more history about how the
WIN came to be the official newspaper for the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska. We would not
be here today if it wasn’t for the passion and dedication of “Old Lady Walker”.
Upon her passing, the WIN began sponsoring the contest and Tribal Council helped by
sponsoring the prize money in memory of Neola Walker. A few years later, the WIN began
solicitating sponsorship donations from local vendors and companies, collaborating with
a variety of programs and businesses. It is with gratitude and honor for Neola “Old Lady”
Walker that the WIN continues hosting the Annual Holiday Lighting Contest.
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 3
Wāgax hųk ra wāgax hokik’ųna
Letter to the Editor
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
TO: KILEAH HANCOCK, MOTHER
DONOVAN BLACKBIRD, FATHER
You are hereby notified that a petition has
been filed for Guardianship and a hearing
concerning the above referred Individual(s) in
Case No. CV26-027 has been scheduled and
will be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court
of Winnebago, Nebraska on the 5TH day of
JANUARY, 2026 at the hour of 11:30 A.M.
TO:
LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV26-031
In the Matter of the
Guardianship Petition of:
Evangeline Bird
In Re:
T.B.D
J.B.D
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV26-027
In the Matter of the
Guardianship Petition of:
Tiana Hancock
In Re:
C.B.
S.B.
JOSEF DRUM, FATHER
You are hereby notified that a petition has
been filed for Guardianship and a hearing
concerning the above referred Individual(s) in
Case No. CV26-031 has been scheduled and
will be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court of
Winnebago, Nebraska on the 12TH day of JANUARY, 2026 at the hour of 11:30 A.M.
Notice of Hearing
Case No. JFJ26-008
The People of the Winnebago Tribe
In the Interest of:
B.H. (Born 11/2025)
Notice of Hearing
Case No. JFJ26-006ABCD
The People of the Winnebago Tribe
In the Interest of:
J.M.
J.M.
J.M.P
J.M.P
To:TAYLOR MORRIS, FATHER
You are hereby notified that a hearing for
an Initial Appearance concerning the above
referred minor individual(s) in case no.
JFJ26-006ABCD has been scheduled and will
be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court of
Winnebago, Nebraska on the 7th day of January,
2026 at the hour of 1:00 P.M.
To:Shanelle Horn, Mother
Vicente Valencia, Father
All Possible Fathers
You are hereby notified that a hearing for
an Adjudication concerning the above referred
minor individual(s) in case no. JFJ26-008 has
been scheduled and will be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court of Winnebago, Nebraska
on the 7th day of January, 2026 at the hour of
1:30 P.M.
LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
To:ROBERT MCCLELLAND JR:
Gregory Smith Sr., Petitioner.
You are hereby notified that a petition has
been filed for Adult Guardianship and a hearing
concerning the above referred Individual(s) in
Case No. CV25-162 has been scheduled and
will be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court of
Winnebago, Nebraska on the 12th day of JANUARY, 2026 at the hour of 10:30 A.M.
To:ALL POTENTIAL CREDITORS,
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV25-091, CV25-092, CV25-093
In the Matter of the
Estate of:
WAUKON SMITH, Deceased,
EMILY SMITH, Deceased,
DAVID LEE SMITH, Deceased
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV25-162
In the Matter of the
Adult Guardianship Petition of:
JERE FREE
In Re:
OWEN MCCLELLAND
You are hereby notified that a petition
has been filed and a hearing concerning the
above referred Individual(s) estate in case no.
CV25-091,092,093 has been scheduled and
will be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court of
Winnebago, Nebraska on the 7TH day of April,
2026 at the hour of 10:00 A.M.
"Scan the QR code for a direct link to the
Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska Sex Offender
Registration website. The purpose of the
website is to provide information to the
public concerning location and status of
sex offenders within the Winnebago Indian
Reservation. For more information, contact
the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska Law
Enforcement at: (402)878-2245"
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV26-008
In the Matter of the
Guardianship Petition of:
James & Chasstady Price
In Re:
A.W. (Born 02/2021)
TO: VIENNA WALKER, MOTHER
ALL POSSIBLE FATHERS
You are hereby notified that a petition has
been filed for Guardianship and a hearing
concerning the above referred Individual(s) in
Case No. CV26-008 has been scheduled and
will be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court
of Winnebago, Nebraska on the 11TH day of DECEMBER, 2025 at the hour of 10:00 A.M.
The next issue of the WINNEBAGO INDIAN NEWS will be published on December 20, 2025.
——————————————————
The Mission of the WIN is to inform and to educate
the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska of issues that
affect them, and to be a vehicle in which stresses
positive and beneficial concerns and points of view.
LETTER POLICY: Signed editorials, letters and
articles appearing in the WIN are the responsibility
of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the
opinion or attitude of the Winnebago Indian News
or the Winnebage Tribal Council.
The WIN encourages the submission of Letters to
the Editor; however, letters must be signed and
addressed. Letters may be edited for language
and length.
Postmaster Send Address Changes To
Winnebago Indian News
P.O. Box 687
Winnebago, Nebraska 68071
——————————————————
The Winnebago Indian News (WIN), founded ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. The reproduction of
in January 1972, is published bi-weekly for the editorial or photography content without permission
is prohibited.
Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska.
DEADLINE for this issue will be December 16, 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
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Nebraska Residents....................................$25.00 WTN Communications
Eugene DeCora..........................Member
Winnebago Indian News
P.O. Box 687
Winnebago, NE 68071
or contact us at our e-mail address:
Out-Of-State................................................$35.00
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Per Column Inch............................................$7.00
Garan Coons.............................Comm. Officer
Gayla Whitewater..........Comm. Office Manger
Christina Parker.............................Web Master
Kevin Ebert..................Multimedia Coordinator
Page 4 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, December 6, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL MINUTES
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
REGULAR TRIBAL COUNCIL MEETING
November 3, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Coly Brown
Teresa Littlegeorge
Rona Stealer
Eugene DeCora
Trey Blackhawk
Victoria Kitcheyan
Ireta Frazier
Lorelei DeCora
OTHERS PRESENT:
Kiana Lewis
Anna Bess Preston
Joy Johnson
Darla LaPointe
Tyresha Romero
Terri Lee Medina
Brandon Stout
Anthony Earth
Cassie Kitcheyan
Tiffany Armell-Buchanan
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Isaac Smith
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Brown
called to order at 9:04 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Councilman Trey
Blackhawk offered the opening prayer.
APPROVE AGENDA:
Ireta Frazier motioned to approve the agenda
with addition. Eugene DeCora seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
READING OF THE MINUTES:
October 21, 2025 – Mid-Monthly TC mtg.
mins.
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the
October 21, 2025, Mid-Monthly Tribal Council
meeting minutes. Trey Blackhawk seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
October 27, 2025 – Law Enforcement/Fire
Department Report mtg. mins.
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the
October 27, 2025, Law Enforcement/Fire
Department Report meeting minutes. Rona
Stealer seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
October 28, 2025 – Treasurer’s Report mtg.
mins.
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve the
October 28, 2025, Treasurer’s Report meeting
minutes. Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
RATIFY FIVE-SIGNATURES:
Approval for $500.00 for food allowance
for the funeral of D.P. due to being a non-tribal
member.
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to ratify the
five-signature approving $500.00 for food
allowance for the funeral of D. P., due to being
a non-tribal member. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Adoption of resolution #25-269: Authorization and approval of Title IV Self-Governance
Compact, Funding agreement, Tribal Transportation Program Addendum and Related
Agreements with the Secretary of Interior.
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to ratify the
five-signature adopting resolution #25-269: Authorization and approval of Title IV Self-Governance Compact, Funding agreement, Tribal
Transportation Program Addendum and Related
Agreements with the Secretary of Interior.
Rona Stealer seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
OLD BUSINESS:
Fiber Project Contract and Resolution
Lorelei DeCora motioned to adopt resolution
#26-16: Approval of the Construction Contract
Between the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska and
Bauer Underground, Inc. Related to the Winnebago Tribe Broadband Connectivity Project.
Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7)yes
(0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
WTPD Contract Mod NNJI
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the
Winnebago Tribal Police Department Contract
Mod with National Native Justice Institute as
submitted. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Enrollment Committee – Enrollment Survey
approval
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve the
Enrollment Survey as presented. Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
TRIBAL COUNCIL ITEMS:
(T.B.) Regional Tribal Conservation Advisory Council
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to appoint Trey
Blackhawk to the Regional Tribal Conservation
Advisory Council. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
ABSTAIN: Trey Blackhawk
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(1) abstain, TB
Motion carried.
(JPjr) Work Proposal to Tribal Council
Lorelei DeCora motioned to forward the request to Physical Resources and to HCCDC for
the Small Business Loan process. Ireta Frazier
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
(C.K.) Donation Request
Ireta Frazier motioned to approve $1,000
donation for Wambli Dolezal to represent the
Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska at the 2025
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York
City. Lorelei DeCora seconded the motion.
ABSTAIN: Victoria Kitcheyan
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(1) abstain, VK
Motion carried.
ADJOURN:
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to adjourn the
meeting at 9:45 a.m. Rona Stealer seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting at
9:45 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
PHYSICAL RESOURCES REPORT
MEETING
November 10, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Coly Brown
Teresa Littlegeorge
Trey Blackhawk
Eugene DeCora
Victoria Kitcheyan
Lorelei DeCora
Ireta Frazier
Isaac Smith (in at 9:18 a.m.)
OTHERS PRESENT:
Kyle McLaughlin
Vivian Fung
Darla LaPointe
Kiana Lewis
Anna Berridge
Anna Bess Preston
Cecelia Earth
Elizabeth Johnson
Brian Chamberlain
Autumn Nieman
Tiffany Armell-Buchanan
Tyresha Romero
Charli Earth
Cecelia Earth
Willy Bass
Joi Long
Lynelle Blackhawk
Anthony Earth
Elizabeth Johnson
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Rona Stealer (PTO)
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Brown
called to order at 9:04 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Trey Blackhawk
offered the opening prayer.
APPROVE AGENDA:
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve the
agenda with additions. Teresa Littlegeorge
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
LAND MANAGEMENT:
Agricultural Resolution
Monona County
Eugene DeCora motioned to adopt resolution #26-17: REF: Monona County Agricultural Lease. Victoria Kitcheyan seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Nieman Property
Ireta Frazier motioned to adopt resolution
#26-18: REF: Nieman Property Agricultural Lease. Victoria Kitcheyan seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
T-360 1 & 2 Agricultural Lease
Eugene DeCora motioned to adopt resolution
#26-19: REF: T-360 1 & 2 Agricultural Lease.
Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
T-2083 Agricultural Lease
Ireta Frazier motioned to adopt resolution
#26-20: REF T-2083 Agricultural Lease. Trey
Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
T-186L Agricultural Lease
Eugene DeCora motioned to adopt resolution
#26-21: REF: T-186L Agricultural Lease. Ireta
Frazier seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Resolution Cancellation Ho-Chunk Inc.
Eugene DeCora motioned to adopt resolution #26-22: REF: Cancellation Business
Lease – Ho-Chunk, Inc. – All Native. Victoria
Kitcheyan seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Land Use Plan Approval
Eugene DeCora motioned to table the Land
Use Plan approval until the Tribal Council has
the final document in hand. Trey Blackhawk
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
PHYSICAL RESOURCES REPORT:
Presented by Brian Chamberlain and Autumn
Nieman.
[Isaac in at 9:18 a.m.]
Monthly Report
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the October 2026 Physical Resources Report. Isaac
Smith seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Parks Project – Financial Information
Motion to transfer equipment located in 2.0
to HCI
Isaac Smith motioned to transfer the
playground equipment located in 2.0 to HCII.
Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
WLP Information
Legal funding for JD modifications
Reimbursement for transport costs associated
with PD on call
Job Description modifications
TRIBAL COUNCIL ITEMS:
Store discussion
Councilman DeCora has been researching
the possibility of reopening a store at the old location. There is an individual that is interested
in opening a location here.
Discussion on the condition of the building.
BREAK: 10:30 a.m., reconvene at 10:39
a.m.
E.J. – Discussion
Range for CDL truck driving classes. No
action taken. Some follow up questions and
discussion will happen later.
ADJOURN:
Eugene DeCora motioned to adjourn the
meeting at 11:10 a.m. Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting at
11:10 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
SPECIAL MEETING – JUSTICE CENTER
November 13, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Coly Brown
Teresa Littlegeorge
Ireta Frazier
Trey Blackhawk
Lorelei DeCora
Rona Stealer
Victoria Kitcheyan
Isaac Smith (in at 9:32 a.m.)
OTHERS PRESENT:
Ron Nohr
Jennifer Berridge
Lisa DeCora
Miskoo Petite
Fannie LaTray
Daryl LaPointe, Jr.
Brittany Thomas
Tyresha Romero
Darla LaPointe
Karl Baker
Jeremiah Lonewolf
Kellen Kelsey
Tiffany Armell-Buchanan
Cecelia Earth
Native Nations Studio:
Alan Dostert
Nickolas Naujokas
Scott Moore y Medina
Tylan Bear
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Eugene DeCora (PTO)
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Brown
called to order at 9:14 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Tribal Member Karl
Baker offered the opening prayer.
AGENDA:
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve the
agenda. Rona Stealer seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
PRESENTATION ON JUSTICE CENTER:
Presented by Brittany Thomas.
Discussion on site location.
Native Nations Studio: Introductions and
presentation of examples of facilities.
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to accept and
approve the proposal that was presented from
EAPC and Sole Source Procurement. Ireta
Frazier seconded the motion.
Discussion: regarding funding.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
BREAK: 11:10 a.m., reconvened at 11:51
a.m.
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve the
Tribal Revenue Expense Budget FY 26. Ireta
Frazier seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
ADJOURN:
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to adjourn at
11:57 a.m. Rona Stealer seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting at
11:57 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
CEO REPORT MEETING
November 14, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Coly Brown
Teresa Littlegeorge
Lorelei DeCora
Ireta Frazier
Victoria Kitcheyan
Rona Stealer
Isaac Smith (in at 9:29 a.m.)
OTHERS PRESENT:
Darla LaPointe
Tiffany Armell-Buchanan
Christina Parker
Cecelia Earth
Kiana Lewis
Tyresha Romero
Terri Lee Medina
Charli Earth
Anna Bess Preston
Billie Kitcheyan
Miskoo Petite
Ramona Sheridan
Kellie Snow
Karl Baker
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Eugene DeCora (PTO)
Trey Blackhawk (PTO)
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Brown
called to order at 9:08 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: CEO, Darla
LaPointe offered the opening prayer.
APPROVE AGENDA:
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to approve the
agenda with additions. Ireta Frazier seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
ADMINISTRATION:
CEO October Report – Presented by Darla
LaPointe.
[Isaac in at 9:29 a.m.]
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to accept the
CEO October Report. Rona Stealer seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
CAO October Report – Presented by Tiffany
Armell-Buchanan.
Rona Stealer motioned to accept the CAO
October Report. Victoria Kitcheyan seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
BOARDS AND COMMITTEES:
ICWA Committee
Victoria Kitchyean motioned to appoint
Dulcie Paiva for the ICWA Committee. Ireta
Frazier seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Lorelei DeCora motioned to appoint Audreianna Levering-Galvin for the ICWA Committee. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to appoint
Nona Buffalocalf for the ICWA Committee.
Victoria Kitcheyan seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Enrollment Committee
Ireta Frazier nominated Crystal Ross. Rona
Stealer seconded.
Lorelei DeCora nominated Deidre Redhorn.
Victoria Kitcheyan seconded.
Victoria Kitcheyan nominated Lilly Rainbow
Kearnes. Rona Stealer seconded.
VOTE:
Crystal Ross
3 votes
Lilly Kearnes
2 votes
Deidre Redhorn 1 vote
Chairman Brown declares Crystal Ross
appointed to the Enrollment Committee.
ENROLLMENT:
Tribal Enrollment Applicants
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to adopt resolution #26-23: Tribal Enrollment Applicants [
A4565, A 4566, A4615, A4654, A4664, A4674,
A4675, A4744, A4753, A4754, A4762, A4763,
A4768, A4773, A4779, A4783, A4784, A4785,
A4788, A4789, A4790, A4792]. Ireta Frazier
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Blood Quantum Correction [2102]
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to adopt resolution #26-24: Blood Quantum Correction [383U02102]. Rona Stealer seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Blood Quantum Correction [5775]
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to adopt
resolution #26-25: Blood Quantum Correction
[383-U05775]. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Blood Quantum Correction [5776]
Rona Stealer motioned to adopt resolution
#26-26: Blood Quantum Correction [383U05776]. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Blood Quantum Correction [8467]
Ireta Frazier motioned to adopt resolution
#26-27: Blood Quantum Correction [383U08467]. Victoria Kitcheyan seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 5
TRIBAL COUNCIL MINUTES
Blood Quantum Correction [8686]
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to adopt
resolution #26-28: Blood Quantum Correction
[383-U08686]. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
HUMAN SERVICES:
New Positions and Org Chart
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve
the positions of Head Cook, Assistant Cook,
Facilities Manager, Lead Teacher, Assistant and
approve the Organization Chart.
Ireta Frazier seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Isaac out at 10:03 a.m.]
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to strike the
Driver License requirement for the Head Cook
and Assistant Cook for the Ni]\kja\k Waka\ca\k
ana\ga Wigijire Hoci Position. Lorelei DeCora
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
BREAK: 10:06 a.m., reconvene at 10:22
a.m. [Isaac in]
Naming of New Building – Presented by
Miskoo Petite.
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve the
name “ Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska Sacred
Children Care Center & Social Services”, “Ni]\
kja\k Waka\ca\k ana\ga Wigijire Hoci”
Ireta Frazier seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Emergency Assistance for SNAP
Discussion on when to end the assistance.
Isaac Smith motioned to have the Deadline as: November 20th at 5:00 p.m. for the
Emergency Assistance for SNAP. Teresa
Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
EDUCARE: Update on the Budget.
Planning to set aside funding to keep the
Program open. Will have more information on
Monday.
HUMAN SERVICES:
Approve updated changes of the WTN Policy Manual changes for FY26.
Rona Stealer motioned to approve the updated changes of the WTN Policy Manual changes
for FY26. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Employee Appreciation Special Rate
Lorelei DeCora motioned to approve the
Special Room Rate of $75.00 for the Employee
Appreciation at WinnaVegas. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
PHYSICAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT:
Activity Tribal Transit Vehicle Uses Policy
and Form
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve the
Community Activity Tribal Transit Vehicle Use
Policy and Form. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Lorelei DeCora motioned to approve the
High School Football Salute for $350.00 out of
the advertising line item. Teresa Littlegeorge
seconded the motion.
Discussion on a gift from Tribal Council.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Isaac Smith motioned to go into Executive
Session at 11:15 a.m. Teresa Littlegeorge
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Ireta Frazier motioned to come out of Executive Session at 11:52 a.m. Teresa Littlegeorge
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
ADJOURN:
Ireta Frazier motioned to adjourn the meeting
at 11:53 a.m. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting at
11:53 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
MID-MONTHLY TRIBAL COUNCIL
MEETING
November 25, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Coly Brown
Teresa Littlegeorge
Rona Stealer
Ireta Frazier
Lorelei DeCora
Trey Blackhawk
Eugene DeCora
Isaac Smith
OTHERS PRESENT:
Garan Coons
Darla LaPointe
Lynelle Blackhawk
Anna Bess Preston
Christina Parker
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Victoria Kitcheyan (PTO)
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Brown
called to order at 9:01 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Councilman DeCora
offered the opening prayer.
APPROVE AGENDA:
Rona Stealer motioned to approve the agenda
with additions. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
READING OF THE MINUTES:
November 3, 2025 – Regular Tribal Council
Meeting minutes
Rona Stealer motioned to approve the
November 3, 2025, Regular Tribal Council
Meeting minutes. Eugene DeCora seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
November 10, 2025 – Physical Resources
Report Meeting minutes
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the
November 10, 2025, Physical Resources Report
Meeting minutes. Trey Blackhawk seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
November 13, 2025 – Special Meeting –
Justice Center meeting minutes
Ireta Frazier motioned to approve the
November 13, 2025, Special Meeting - Justice
Center meeting minutes. Rona Stealer seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
November 14, 2025 – CEO Report meeting
minutes
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the
November 14, 2025, CEO Report meeting minutes. Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
RATIFY FIVE SIGNATURES:
Directing Human Services to assist ALL
Tribal members on and off the Winnebago Reservation that are on SNAP one time for $300.00
Lorelei DeCora motioned to ratify the
five-signature Directing Human Services to
assist ALL Tribal members on and off the Winnebago Reservation that are on SNAP one time
for $300.00. Ireta Frazier seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
NEW BUSINESS:
Committees:
HCI Board (1) Vacancy; (5) Applicants
Lorelei DeCora nominated Lilly Kearnes.
Rona Stealer nominated Anna Berridge
Eugene DeCora nominated John Snowball
Voting by ballot.
Chairman Brown reads the votes:
Lilly Kearnes 1 vote, Anna Berridge 4 votes,
John Snowball 1 vote.
Eugene DeCora motioned to appoint Anna
Berridge to the HCI Board. Teresa Littlegeorge
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Winnebago Housing & Development Commission: (1) Vacancy; (3) Applicants
Lorelei DeCora nominated Lilly Kearnes
Eugene DeCora nominated Qui Qui St. Cyr
Voting by ballot.
Chairman Brown reads the votes:
Lilly Kearnes 2 votes, Qui Qui St. Cyr 4
votes
Eugene DeCora motioned to appoint Qui
Qui St. Cyr to the Winnebago Housing &
Development Commission. Teresa Littlegeorge
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
OLD BUSINESS: (none)
Lorelei DeCora brought up discussion on
NCAI travel.
Chairman Brown brought up discussion on
the final paperwork for the Iowa Lands that
were returned.
TRIBAL COUNCIL ITEMS:
Travel:
Native Land Conference – March 24-25,
2025, Prior Lake, MN
Rona Stealer motioned to approve travel
for any Tribal Council members to attend the
Native Land Conference – March 24-25, 2025,
Prior Lake, MN. Eugene DeCora seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Renewable Energy & Sustainability 8th Annual Conference, January 26-28, 2025
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve travel
for any Tribal Council to attend Renewable
Energy & Sustainability 8th Annual Conference, January 26-28, 2025. Teresa Littlegeorge
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Executive Session
Eugene DeCora motioned to go into Executive Session at 9:23 a.m. Teresa Littlegeorge
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Eugene DeCora motioned to come out of
Executive Session at 10:07 a.m. Rona Stealer
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
ADJOURN:
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to adjourn the
meeting at 10:08 a.m. Rona Stealer seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting at
10:08 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
GENERAL COUNSEL MEETING
MINUTES
November 26, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Coly Brown
Isaac Smith
Teresa Littlegeorge
Rona Stealer
Trey Blackhawk
Eugene DeCora
Ireta Frazier
Lorelei DeCora
OTHERS PRESENT:
Danelle Smith
Sarah Herring
Josh Pitre
Christina Parker
Anna Bess Preston
Tyresha Romero
Darla LaPointe
Cecelia Earth
Tiffany Armell-Buchanan
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Victoria Kitcheyan (PTO)
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Brown
called to order at 9:16 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Councilman Blackhawk offered the opening prayer.
APPROVE AGENDA:
Isaac Smith motioned to approve the agenda
with addition. Eugene DeCora seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
ACTION ITEM:
RESOLUTION: LINE OF CREDIT
Eugene DeCora motioned to adopt resolution
#26-31: Approving and Authorizing Liberty
National Bank Line of Credit to Fund Start-up
Costs for Law Enforcement Services PFSA’s
and Potential Expenses Related to the Justice
Center for up to an Amount not to exceed Two
Million Dollars ($2,000,000). Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
UPDATES/DISCUSSION ITEMS:
CONGRESSIONAL UPDATES:
a.Government Funding – Longest Government Shutdown ended November 12, 2025.
b.Senator Fischer Introduces Nutrition Billnow pending with Senate Ag Committee.
Boarding School Legislation- Truth and
Healing Commission on Indian Boarding
School Policies Act, which clarifies that human
remains on federal land associated with an Indian Boarding School are considered collections
or holdings under the NAGPRA Act.
ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATES:
a.EPA Comments – Amendments to the
National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air
Pollutants for Secondary Lead Smelting source
category. Kurt Lyons and Anna Berridge assisted with submitting comments.
Discussion: Air pollution from the Crop
Dusting. Tribal Council and EPD need to
implement something into Tribal Code.
[Eugene out at 9:51 a.m., in at 9:55 a.m.]
b. FEMA Comments:
[Rona out at 10:14 a.m.]
[Eugene out at 10:14 a.m.]
[Rona and Eugene in at 10:20 a.m.]
[Teresa out at 10:22 a.m., in at 10:28 a.m.]
STATE ADVOCACY:
a.LR 176 – Recognition of Tribal Customary
Adoption
b. Tribal College Funding
[Isaac out at 10.32 a.m., in at 10:37 a.m.]
c. Planning for 2026 session
Priorities
[Ireta out at 10:37 a.m.]
[Coly out at 10:39 a.m., Isaac assumes the
Chair]
Meeting w-Lobbyists (Dec) – Discussion on
presentation
[Ireta in at 10:40 a.m.]
Legislative Luncheon – Tuesday, Jan. 13,
2025 12pm-1pm
Tribal College Funding
[Coly in at 10:46 a.m., reassumes the Chair]
OPIOID CASE SETTLEMENT: request to
have Mona Z. to prepare information regarding
the settlement funding.
BROADBAND FIBER PROJECT UPDATE: updates
TRIBAL CONSTITUTION AMENDMENTS – SECRETARIAL ELECTION:
updates; Enrollment is conducting a survey,
will continue with a Forum once the survey is
completed.
[Trey out at 11:12 a.m., in at 11:15 a.m.]
[Isaac out at 11:15 a.m.]
WINNEBAGO HOUSING & DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION: updates only.
[Isaac in at 11:17 a.m.]
BOYS & GIRLS CLUB CONSTRUCTION
NMTC PROJECT: Update on funding of
NMTC.
GAO REQUEST - National Register of
Historic Places: Meeting on December 3rd with
THPO.
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Eugene DeCora motioned to go into Executive Session at 11:26 a.m. Trey Blackhawk
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Rona out at 11:39 a.m., in at 11:40 a.m.]
[Isaac out at 11:53 a.m.]
[Eugene out at 12:06 p.m.]
[Lorelei out at 12:35 p.m.]
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to come out of
Executive Session at 1:18 p.m. Ireta Frazier
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (4) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to accept the
special investigative committee recommendations that there is insufficient evidence to warrant a hearing on the allegations and dismiss the
ethical complaint against Lorelei DeCora. Trey
Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE: (4) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Ireta Frazier motioned to do an in-depth
review and discussion the Principles of Ethical
and Moral Conduct and Special Procedures for
the Winnebago Tribal Council during the orientation. Rona Stealer seconded the motion.
VOTE: (4) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Rona Stealer motioned to approve travel or
any council traveling on December 11, 2025, to
Washington, DC to attend the hearing on 638
implementations. Trey Blackhawk seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (4) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
ADJOURN:
Rona Stealer motioned to adjourn the
meeting at 1:32 p.m. Ireta Frazier seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (4) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
Page 6 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, December 6, 2025
Question of the Issue:
Winter weather is in full effect!
What’s your favorite snow day memory?
Tell us all about it.
GARAN: Now days we got text messages, social media alerts, and phone apps that let
us know if we get a snow day. Back in my days my favorite thing to do was to watch
old school TV with the antenna ears and see if “Winnebago Public Schools Closed”
scrolled by the on bottom of the screen. We had to work for our snow day notice…kids
these days will never understand haha.
BRIAN: Gen X and older we went to school during all kinds of weather. It was pretty
rare that it was ever called off. But when it was cancelled, sledding on the hills and
streets was always part of the fun. Plastic and wood toboggans for the unpaved areas
and those insane circular ones caused kids to flyyyyy!! Sleds with metal rails for the
steep slopes on the streets were the other kind. And the wickedest streets were the one
by the Village office and the one that was above our block which goes down toward
the school. Both empty onto the highway, so that made it even more fun because you
never knew what was coming! ... good times, good times.
KEVIN: When we were kids, winter meant sledding on St. Augustine’s Hill. One year,
on the last big sledding day of the season, Lance’s mom brought a brand new wooden
toboggan. It had a small chain across the front and looked nicer than anything we had.
About ten of us climbed on. Lance sat in front and hooked his knees under the chain so
he wouldn’t fall off. Someone gave us a big push, and we flew down the hill. Then we
saw it—we were heading straight for a tree. Everyone jumped off except Lance, who
was stuck.
The toboggan hit the tree and cracked right down the middle. Lance was shaken but
okay. That was the first and last ride for that brand new sled.
TYLER: The best snow day memories were watching the news and hoping your
school was on the list. I still get the same feeling when I receive Julie Smithart’s
“WTN closing” texts lol. I’d immediately go back to bed (thankful)
BETHANI: My favorite snow day memory is from my childhood, spending time
at my Caca & Choka’s. They lived in the country, and we would venture out to the
woods behind their house to go iceskating. In all honesty though, any snow day is my
favorite!
CHRISTINA: Growing up, my brother Gabe and I enjoyed playing out in the rain in the
summer and the snow in the winter. I don't have a particular snow day memory. I enjoyed snow
days in general. Days of playing king of the mountain and sledding on the big hill next to Sunrise Drive.
GAYLA: I was about 8 years old. We had a really bad winter that year, but lots of
snow days! I remember the snow was piled up, so my sisters and I built a shelter/igloo-type structure in one of the snow piles. It took us all day! We played in it for about
2 days before it caved in.
PREVENTATIVE REMINDER FOR
WINTER SEASON PSA:
As the weather gets colder, make sure your home is safe,
warm, and ready for winter. This Winter HVAC Safety & Prep
Checklist can help you prevent breakdowns, reduce energy costs,
and keep your family protected all season long.
Change air filters
Clear vents & registers
Test CO & smoke detectors
Check furnace flame
Seal drafts
Keep outdoor units clear
Schedule a winter tune-up
And don’t forget to check your propane tank levels — keep
them at 30% or higher to avoid shutdowns in freezing temps.
Please take a moment to look over the checklist and prepare your
home before severe weather hits. Stay warm, stay safe!
STORYTELLERS RETURNS
Winnebago Volunteer Fire Department (Part 2)
With elements originally introduced by
BKC, the Winnebago Indian News is grateful
to continue with our Storyteller’s column. In
the last edition, we began with part 1 of Storytellers featuring the Winnebago Volunteer Fire
Department. It is history in the making with a
new facility to house all of Winnebago’s Emergency Services which includes the Winnebago
Volunteer Fire Department, the Winnebago
Comprehensive Healthcare System’s Emergency Medical Services, Community Health
Representatives, and Motor Vehicle Operators,
alongside the Winnebago Tribe’s Emergency
Manager. As we shared in part 1, this storyteller’s series will feature each of the emergency
services departments mentioned above.
Our hope is to share and highlight the history
of the Winnebago Volunteer Fire Department;
sharing insights into the realities of firefighting
and the significant impact that the department
has towards community safety. The WIN interviewed (3) Winnebago tribal members who are
currently involved in the department or have
been involved in the past, including current Fire
Chief Isaac Smith, Assistant Fire Chief Clint
Free, and retired Volunteer Firefighter Joshua
Chamberlain. Each of these gentlemen provided a different perspective into their firefighting
experiences but shared the same mission, to
serve, protect, and make a difference in the
safety of our community.
As previously included, the WIN will employ a standard verbatim dialogue throughout
the printed interview to preserve the original intent and context from each discussion as much
as possible. However, there will be editing
included for clarity. The original transcripts will
remain in possession of the WIN. We greatly
appreciate Isaac, Clint, and Josh for their time
and for sharing their experiences within the
WVFD. Please allow us to continue into part
2 of the return of Storytellers in the Winnebago Indian News: Winnebago Volunteer Fire
Department with Clint Free, Josh Chamberlain,
and Isaac Smith.
Winnebago Indian News (W): (Sharing about
the earlier days in WVFD – Clint and Josh both
served in the department at the same time as
their late Jaji’s Delmar & Keith)
“With your dad being a part of the fire
department, is that what inspired and motivated
you to join?”
Clint Free (C) – Yeah, actually it did. I even
wrote an essay in college about it. It’s floating
around somewhere. But when he (Delmar) was
in the department, he was always telling stories
about what happened. You know, obviously,
you couldn’t name names because they handled
the ambulance services back then too. But, I
guess, excitement, the adrenaline rush, and the
antics that happened were kind of “oh crap”
moments, they were all laughable moments
afterwards, that kinda intrigued me also.
Josh Chamberlain (J) – Yes, in the early
1990’s. I remember them holding many fundraisers through car washes, fish fry, plus more
to help with their gas and other needs. It was a
good experience, to help people and also being
able to work with my dad. I enjoyed being able
to become a storm spotter.
Winnebago Indian News (W): (Reflecting
back to WVFD history and comparing the earlier days to current days in the Volunteer Fire
Department)
“What would you say is a lot different nowadays than how it used to be previously?”
Clint Free (C) – It is, in a sense, as far as
volunteerism goes. We had a lot of people that
signed up and joined the department to help
out, you know, and respond to calls as needed.
From what I remember, when I first joined, all
the old school type of people then would just
show up and we did repairs on our old trucks,
installed our own radios, and installed our own
light bars – when we were able to get them.
Clint Free (C) – As far as firefighting itself, I
mean, it is changed from then because the fires
burn hotter and faster nowadays than they did
back then. Even though it’s probably only about
a thirty-year difference. As far as vehicles, we
didn’t have the extrication equipment back then
like we do now. You know, to help get patients
out of auto vehicles and cut vehicles away from
them to help them.
Winnebago Indian News (W): How about
procedures and paperwork, is that different now
compared to how it was in the earlier days?
Clint Free (C) – (Referencing both) There is
nowadays, because of litigation, lawsuits, and
stuff like that. We have to keep records of all
our calls and actions. Training is a big part of
that, and we need to give training to do the stuff
we do. That has to be documented also, and
for insurances purposes, our own insurance,
our personnel and trucks – basically for the
insurance report of the whole community. Our
department reflects that also; it’s called an ISO
rating. The department equipment we have,
what training we have both affects that rating.
Winnebago Indian News (W): How about
trainings? Is it provided through the tribe,
through your own department, or is it a collaboration with the state?
Clint Free (C) – All our trainings are
available, it’s free through the Nebraska Fire
Marshalls office. We can get training as far as
driving, to dealing with hazardous materials, to
Firefighter 1 (introductory, entry-level training
certification), interior attacks, to extrication
and rappelling (a technique where firefighters
are lowered from a helicopter into remote or
inaccessible areas to combat fires, primarily
wildland fires). I mean, all that training is
free to the state of Nebraska. They have a fire
school once a year in May, which is a weekend
session in Grand Island, NE. I mean, the only
thing that restricts us from getting a certification and training is showing up. We provide
vehicle transportation, we provide the hotel
room, there’s nothing holding anybody back
from getting that training.
Winnebago Indian News (W): It’s just taking
that initiative and showing up.
Clint Free (C) – All our trainings are
available, it’s free through the Nebraska Fire
Marshalls office. We can get training as far as
driving, to dealing with hazardous materials, to
Firefighter 1 (introductory, entry-level training
certification), interior attacks, to extrication
and rappelling (a technique where firefighters
are lowered from a helicopter into remote or
inaccessible areas to combat fires, primarily
wildland fires). I mean, all that training is
free to the state of Nebraska. They have a fire
school once a year in May, which is a weekend
session in Grand Island, NE. I mean, the only
thing that restricts us from getting a certification and training is showing up. We provide
vehicle transportation, we provide the hotel
room, there’s nothing holding anybody back
from getting that training.
This will conclude PART 2 of the Storyteller’s
for the Winnebago Volunteer Fire Department.
Stay tuned in the next edition for the PART 3
Finale.
BIG VOICE RADIO
KWTN100.9 FM
Official Radio Station of the
Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 7
During the time of Ca he waksu wira – The Moon of Shedding Deer
Antlers (December), Our Hochungra enters a sacred time of storytelling, when the snakes sleep beneath the earth and the land grows quiet.
It is also the season of winter feasts. While our men journey through
t h e w o o d s h u n t i n g d e e r, t u r k e y, a n d s q u i r r e l s , t h e w o m e n g a t h e r
a r o u n d t h e f i r e , b e a d i n g , s e w i n g , a n d p r e p a r i n g m a t e r i a l s . Wo o d i s
collected to warm the homes, to cook, feast, and fuel the stories that
carry tradition through the cold.
A fun fact: Henry Roe Cloud
recalled that the happiest moments of his childhood came
during the winters when his
grandmother stayed with the
f a m i l y. S h e r e f u s e d t o s h a r e
s t o r i e s i n t h e s u m m e r, e x p l a i n ing that “the snakes will be in
their holes when snow falls.”
Among the unwritten customs
of the people was the rule that
when young boys carried in a
dry log for the evening fire, the
elders were obliged to tell stories. On many snowy nights,
Cloud dragged in such logs and,
as the wind howled and the trees
creaked outside, he listened to
his grandmother recount tales of
heroes, battles, animals, nature,
spirits, and her own youth. Her
h u m o r o u s s t o r i e s o f Wa k - C h u n Koga, the jester of Indian lore,
filled those winters with laught e r. T h e r e w a s a l s o a t r a d i t i o n o f “ t e s t n i g h t s , ” w h e n t h e b o y s h a d
to retell the stories they had heard. Each tale carried a lesson—for
i n s t a n c e , t h o s e a b o u t Tu r t l e , t h e f i r s t s o n o f M a - u - n a ( E a r t h - M a k e r ) ,
w e r e m e a n t t o i n s p i r e c o u r a g e . To e m b o d y t h a t b r a v e r y, t h e c h i l d r e n
would even swallow turtle hearts.
These winter nights were not only times of family warmth, but also
of myth and teaching. One such tale, preserved by Oliver Lamere of
the Bear Clan, tells of Rabbit and the grasshoppers…
The Rabbit and the Grasshoppers
b y O l i v e r L a m e re , B e a r C l a n
There was once a village of grasshoppers who stole tobacco from man.
Grandmother Earth said, “My grands o n , l e t u s g o t o t h e g r a s s h o p p e r ’s
village. Ma-ona gave tobacco to man,
and the grasshoppers have taken it all
a w a y. T h e r e f o r e , l e t u s g o . ”
“ Ye s ! ” s a i d R a b b i t .
So, Rabbit and his Grandmother
went together and soon were close to
t h e g r a s s h o p p e r ’s v i l l a g e . W h e n t h e y
were on the outskirts of the village,
the old woman said, “My grandson,
do what you think best.” Rabbit
yelled, and when he yelled the whole
earth shook.
T h e g r a s s h o p p e r s s a i d , “ Wa ! A
v e r y b a d g o d i s c o m i n g . We s h a l l
be destroyed.” So, the grasshopper
chief took some tobacco and gave it
to Rabbit. He, in turn, gave it to his
G r a n d m o t h e r, a n d t h e o l d w o m a n p u t
it in her sack.
And Rabbit yelled a second time. He shook the earth with his mouth
more than before. And the grasshoppers said, “Hau! It will be bad.
Give him tobacco again as before.” So, the chief of the grasshoppers,
h a v i n g t a k e n s o m e t o b a c c o , g a v e i t a g a i n t o R a b b i t . “ We l l , G r a n d m o t h e r, h e r e i t i s . Ta k e i t . I t w i l l b e e a s y t o g e t t h e r e s t . ”
So, Rabbit yelled again. And when he yelled, he shook the earth
w i t h h i s m o u t h m o r e t h a n e v e r. A n d t h e g r a s s h o p p e r s s a i d , “ H a u ! I t i s
very bad. He is coming very close. Hau! Give him tobacco as before.”
Again, the grasshopper chief took some tobacco and gave it to Rabbit.
R a b b i t s a i d , “ H e r e i s s o m e m o r e t o b a c c o . We l l , G r a n d m o t h e r, i t w i l l
be very easy to get the rest of the tobacco.”
We l l , G r a n d m o t h e r, t h a t w i l l d o . ” A n d s h e t o o k t h e t o b a c c o .
When Rabbit yelled again, the whole world shook worse than before.
Then all the grasshoppers flew upward. The grasshoppers took some
t o b a c c o i n t h e i r m o u t h s a n d f l e w a w a y. T h e r e f o r e , t h e y a r e j u s t a s i f
they chewed tobacco, scattered it over the earth. And the seed came
up, and it grew on the earth. So, man, again had tobacco.
S o u rc e s : H e n r y R o e C l o u d ( 1 9 1 5 ) ; O l i v e r L a m e re , ( B e a r C l a n 1 9 9 7 )
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Page 8 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, December 6, 2025
COMMUNITY
Winnebago Celebrates Opening of New Emergency Response Building
Winnebago, NE – The Winnebago Tribe of
Nebraska proudly celebrated the official opening of
the new Cǭnį Wagijire Hoci (Winnebago Emergency
Services) Building during a community open house
on November 18, 2025. More than a year in the
making, this long-anticipated facility represents
a majoar investment in community safety,
coordinated response, and the well-being of first
responders.
The project broke ground on June 18, 2024, and
reached completion in just 17 months—an impressive milestone for a facility of its scale and complexity. Designed by LEO A DALY and constructed
by MCL Construction, the building incorporates
thoughtful elements of Ho-Chunk culture, language,
and values throughout its architecture. This cultural
integration ensures the facility not only serves
the community but also reflects the identity and
strength of the Winnebago people.
The new Winnebago Emergency Services Building brings together key emergency and medical
response units under one roof, including:
Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System’s
Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Community
Health Representatives (CHR), and Motor Vehicle
Operator (MVO) Services
Volunteer Fire Department
The Tribe’s Emergency Manager
The facility includes a large gym, kitchen, ready
room, workstations, overnight accommodations,
and seven oversized vehicle bays built to house
ambulances, fire trucks, and GSA vehicles. This
centralized location significantly enhances communication, coordination, and response time for all first
responders serving the Winnebago community.
“Having a space like this means everything
to us,” said Isaac Smith, Chief of the Winnebago Volunteer Fire Department and Winnebago
Vice-Chairman. “We respond because we love our
community, and now we have a home base that
helps us work more efficiently with EMS and the
medical services teams and recruit more volunteers. This building gives us the tools we need to
continue protecting our relatives when they need
us most.”
Located just north of Winnebago, the
building is owned by the Winnebago Tribe
of Nebraska. It was funded jointly by the
Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska and the Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System,
representing a unified investment in longterm public safety infrastructure. On Tuesday,
community members and guests toured the
new facility, met first responders, and learned
about the building’s features and future role
in emergency operations.“Today is more than
an open house, it’s a celebration of gratitude,”
said David Edwards. “Our EMS teams, CHRs,
MVO staff, and volunteer firefighters give so much
of themselves. They deserve a space that supports
their work, protects their health, and honors
their service.”
Fischer, Smith Introduce Bill to Ensure Tribal Voices are
Prioritized in Federal Nutrition Decisions
Bill strengthens USDA response to low-income, elderly food assistance programs if
disruptions occur
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators
Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Tina Smith (DMN) introduced the Increasing Tribal Input
on Nutrition Act. This bipartisan legislation
will ensure the federal government does not
make decisions about the nutrition assistance
programs Tribes rely on without their input.
In 2024, a contracting decision made by
the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
left many Tribes — including the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska — with delayed,
incomplete, and expired food deliveries.
This resulted in significant food shortages
for several months.
The Increasing Tribal Input on Nutrition
Act would prevent future food shortages by
requiring the USDA to incorporate Tribal
input in contracting decisions. It would also
strengthen the USDA’s emergency response
during disruptions and encourage meaningful Tribal consultation on nutrition programs
at the state level.
“I’m pleased to introduce this bill to ensure that those who rely on food assistance
programs in Tribal communities — including the elderly and low-income — are not
impacted by federal government missteps.
The Increasing Tribal Input on Nutrition
Act ensures that Tribal voices are at the
table from the start and strengthens USDA’s
response if disruptions occur,” Fischer said.
“Tribal governments understand what
works best for their communities, and they
should have control over how they feed their
members. Our bill makes an important fix
that allows Tribes to get food assistance to
those who need it most and provides the
tools to prevent any future disruptions in the
food supply chain,” Smith said.
“Last year’s FDPIR supply chain disruptions had a profound impact on something
most of us take for granted — the ability to
put food on the dinner table. The Increasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act of 2025
would help ensure food security for FDPIR
participants during supply chain disruptions.
The Winnebago Tribe appreciates Senator
Fischer’s leadership in addressing this issue
and we look forward to working together to
advance the legislation,” said Winnebago
Chairman Coly Brown.
“The Native Farm Bill Coalition com-
WinnaVegas Casino Resort and The Winnebago Tribe
Make Major Donation
By: Shayla Moore, Executive Director
Sioux City, IA – 12/4/2025 – The
Warming Shelter recently announced
that WinnaVegas Casino Resort and
the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska
have donated $5,000 to support the
Siouxland non-profit. The contribution will help fund the organization’s
programs, daily operations, and other
essential needs.
Founded in 2013, The Warming
Shelter, Inc. is Sioux City’s only
low-barrier emergency shelter, providing trauma-informed, life-saving
refuge to individuals and families
experiencing homelessness across
Siouxland. Its mission is to create a
safe and welcoming environment for
those with nowhere else to turn—a
temporary home where every guest
is supported, accepted, and cared
for. The organization is committed
to treating every individual with
dignity and compassion, meeting
people exactly where they are on
their journey.
“I’m deeply grateful for the
support and for the blessing of our
connection with the Winnebago Tribe
and the team at WinnaVegas Casino
Resort,” said Shayla Moore, Warming Shelter Executive Director. “I
can’t thank them enough for choosing the Warming Shelter for this
donation. Their support will make a
profound difference in our mission.”
The Warming Shelter addresses immediate needs—safe shelter, meals,
hygiene resources, and security—
while fostering dignity, accountability, and pathways toward long-term
stability. The organization walks
alongside each guest as they rebuild
their lives with hope and a strengthened network of community support.
“The Winnebago Tribe understands
the importance of the positive work
and impact the Shelter has on the
Siouxland community,” said Tom
Tessdale, WinnaVegas Casino Resort
General Manager. “We’re honored to
help make a difference in the lives
of those the Shelter supports and to
help foster the future success of this
crucial community organization.”
mends Senator Fisher and Senator Smith
for introducing the Increasing Tribal Input
on Nutrition Act. As we have witnessed in
recent years, FDPIR warehouse disruptions
have devastating and lasting impacts in Indian Country, where one in four Tribal citizens
experience food insecurity, but this bill is
an important step to ensure USDA has the
authority it needs to utilize federal resources
to resolve disruptions to the Food Disruption
Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
and provide immediate relief, including
payments to Tribes to purchase food when
USDA cannot due to government shutdowns, warehouse vendors, or other supply
chain disruptions,” said Native Farm Bill
Coalition co-chairs Shakopee Mdewakanton
Sioux Community Chairman Cole Miller and CEO of the Intertribal Agriculture
Council Kari Jo Lawrence.
BACKGROUND:
The Increasing Tribal Input on Nutrition
Act would:
•
Require USDA to include Tribal
representatives in reviewing and awarding
contracts under the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR).
o
FDPIR provides income-eligible
households with food on Indian reservations.
Many households participate in FDPIR as an
alternative to SNAP.
•
Direct USDA to designate an
emergency contractor within 45 days of any
supply chain disruption under FDPIR or
Commodity Supplemental Food Program
(CSFP).
o
CSFP is targeted at low-income
elderly persons 60 years or older and distributes both food and administrative funds to
participating states and Tribes.
•
Allow USDA to provide direct
payments to Tribes to purchase food themselves during an FDPIR disruption.
•
Encourage states to conduct Tribal
consultation before amending CSFP State
Plans.
o
Direct USDA to support this work
through cooperative agreements or technical
assistance.
*Editor’s Note: You can read the text of
the bill by visiting: https://www.fischer.
senate.gov/public/_cache/files/1b57b13fc08d-42ea-9b0c-e087ca1c0258/fischer-increasing-tribal-input-on-nutrition-act.pdf
Media Contact:
Craig Wheeler
Emma Hoffschneider
Notice from the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska –
Child Support Enforcement Program
The Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska Child Support Enforcement
Program would like to announce that, effective January 1,
2026, the Winnebago Tribal Police Department will begin
executing civil warrants, including child support warrants.
Previously, our law enforcement officers operated under
the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and were restricted from
executing civil warrants due to BIA policy and existing Code
of Federal Regulations (CFR) provisions applicable to federal
officers. However, since the Winnebago Tribe has entered
into a Self-Governance compact for law enforcement, these
restrictions no longer apply. As a result, tribal law enforcement
officers are now authorized to serve civil warrants issued
through the Winnebago Tribal Court.
If you have questions regarding an existing warrant or wish to
resolve your warrant before the new policy takes effect, please
contact our office.
Pinagigi,
Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska – Child Support Enforcement
Program
Saturday, December 6, 2025 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 9
COMMUNITY
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.