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Hųc wiconį na
Volume 55, Number 1
Our masthead for this first issue of 2026
features the icon representing the Deer Clan
/ Ca Hikikarac. The Deer Clan holds many
functions within our tribe. Of those they hold
responsibility for issues related to the environment and weather. Members of the Deer Clan
would be taught to recognize weather indicators that would signal harvest time, and they
would be consulted about the best timing for
it. They also possess other important political
and social functions. Deer clansmen might have
painted plants, white flowers, and leaves on
their clothes. The Deer Clan is one of the eight
Earth Clans. Families belonging to the Deer
Clan include: Blackdeer, Henry, and Sampson.
Our gratitude to the HoChunk Renaissance
Department for their assistance in providing this
information.
First Bear Moon
Echoes of 2025: Recap the Year
By Bethani Redhorn & Brian Chamberlain
Photography from WIN Archive
Nį̄ šoc Nįgešąną
Congratulations to Isaac Smith on 20
years of dedicated service to the Winnebago Volunteer Fire Department and the
community.
Saturday, January 17, 2026
[Winnebago, NE] The Winnebago Indian News
covered numerous stories in the past year and
as we begin our 2026 publication schedule, let
us take a moment to reflect on the stories featured in each month throughout 2025. Starting
us off
JAN25: (Vol. 54, #1) WTN Internet Outreach
Begins for Jājąp Telecommunications – The
Winnebago Tribe seeks collaboration with
reservation landowners to construct high speed
internet network and is reaching out to landowners whose property is managed by the U.S.
Department of Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). The Tribe received federal funding
through the U.S. Department of Commerce’s
National Telecommunications and Information
Administration (NTIA) office Tribal Broadband Program to serve the rural reservation
and adjacent communities.
FEB25: (Vol. 54, #2) WTN Hires New CEO –
The Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska announced
the hiring of new Chief Executive Officer,
Ms. Darla LaPointe. The WTN CEO oversees
the daily operations of the organization and is
directly responsible for leading the hundreds of
staff members who work for our people. The
overall direction of the tribe is partly determined by the CEO.
MAR25: (Vol. 54, #6) Winnebago Residents
Vote to Transfer Water and Sewer System to the
Winnebago Tribe – In a Special Election held
on March 11th, 2025, seventy percent (70%) of
the Village residents who participated voted
in favor of the Initiative Measure to transfer
ownership of the water treatment plant, lagoon
system and water tower, as well as the responsibility for the operation of the Village Water and
Sewer System to the WTN.
APR25: (Vol. 54, #7) Hocak Fighter in Dubai –
On Friday, April 4, 2025, the local Winnebago
crowd was treated to a mid-afternoon bout featuring one of our own, Carlos Trinidad-Snake.
The young tribal member traveled to the other
side of the globe landing in the grand desert
city of Dubai for the Bare Knuckle Fighting
Championship.
MAY25: (Vol. 54, #10) Blackhawk Center Renovation Complete – After more than a calendar
year, renovations being made to the Blackhawk
Community Center (BHCC) in downtown Winnebago have been completed. The BHCC functions as the administrative office location for
the Winnebago Tribal organization. It houses
the Tribal Council, WTN Administration, WTN
Finance department, WTN IT department, as
well as the headquarters for the Whirling Thunder Wellness, the Tribal Credit Program, and
WTN Human Resources, as well as others.
JUN25: (Vol. 54, #12) Culture Camp Fires It
Up – The Boys & Girls Club of Winnebago in
cooperation with the Winnebago Tribe’s HoChunk Renaissance department hosted its 2025
Culture Camp over the week of June 9, 2025.
With a full curriculum of activities and events,
the children who participated in the Culture
Camp are exposed to all kinds of traditional
teachings.
JUL25: (Vol. 54, #13) Hocak Youth Visit
Winnebago – On June 17th, 2025, members of
the Hocak Youth Services programs operated
through the HoChunk Nation (HCN) from various locations all throughout Wisconsin came to
Winnebago. The travelling group included 28
youths ranging in age from kindergarten to high
school, visiting historical locations throughout
the Winnebago reservation.
AUG25: (Vol. 54, #15) Chief Little Priest Honored – At the 159th Homecoming Celebration
that was held from July 24th through July 27th,
2025, Chief Little Priest was honored for his
service and bravery. He was awarded the Order
of Saint George by the United States Calvary &
Armor Association.
(Vol. 54, #16) For Artists, By Artists – On the
ANNUAL UNICAMERAL LUNCHEON HELD
Congratulations to the Winnebago
Public Schools, Varsity Boys’ and Girls’
Basketball Teams! WPS hosted their first
post-Holiday tournament on January 9th
and 10th. WPS’ Lady Indians played the
Isanti Lady Warriors, winning 79-47. WPS’
Varsity Boys played the St. Francis Warriors, winning 63-37.
In January 1972, the Winnebago Indian
News was founded. We are now 54 years in
printing! Thank you to our WIN Contributors, advertisers, and readers who have
been with us over the years. Our goal is
to keep our tribal membership informed
on relevant topics and provide a positive
platform.
By Brian Chamberlain
Photos by Danelle Smith
[Lincoln, NE] For 36 years the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska has been a host to the
Senators of the Nebraska Unicameral. Each
year during the opening days of the new legislative session, leadership for our Winnebago
people travel to Lincoln to meet with the State
representatives. Over the years, the Winnebago
Tribe has built a reputation that attracts not
only our local representation but also those
Senators from across our State and from all
political backgrounds.
The time allocated to each annual luncheon
is sparce considering the hectic schedule of
the Unicameral members. Our seasoned tribal
leadership understands the timelines we must
work with so only the most priority issues
are discussed at these well-attended meetings. “The focus of this year’s luncheon was
advocating for increased funding for Tribal
Colleges.”, Danelle Smith, General Counsel
for the Winnebago Tribe told the WIN.
On hand to present details to the Senators
was Little Priest Tribal College President,
Manoj Patel. Under Patel’s leadership LPTC
has experienced record attendance and has
become recipient of the largest financial donation in the history of our college. Patel told the
Senators, “[w]e are very proud to be an integral
part of the Winnebago community as we offer
greater educational opportunities to all tribal
people and non-tribal persons alike.”
The 36-year history of this Senators’ luncheon has seen many changes and met many
challenges over the years. Winnebago Tribal
leadership attending the luncheon included our
General Counsel, Tribal Council members, and
other tribal dignitaries. As each session is truly
a hurried event, the focus to remain on task is
paramount. Yet this does not mean our efforts
are miniscule or thwarted. To the contrary, “[a]
nother initiative the Tribe has been supporting is State recognition of tribal customary
adoptions...” General Counsel Smith continued
telling the WIN.
Because of State mandated term limits,
the Senators’ luncheon is also a chance to
reintroduce our people to the new members
of the Unicameral. Local district representatives attended our luncheon helping
to bridge the gap between those members
who know who we are and what we hope
to achieve together, and those who are
new to the State legislature who may have
never had any contact with our people. It
is because of our storied history as being
perennially involved in our State’s politics
that we are able to gain such support and
attendance. As one Tribal Council member
said, when the Winnebago tribe speaks,
people listen.
The Winnebago Tribe would like to extend its sincerest gratitude to all who helped
coordinate the event this year, and thanks all
Senators and staff for making time to attend.
The Winnebago people will return in 2027.
Visit us at winnebagotribe.com
Page 2 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, January 17, 2026
ANNOUNCEMENTS
...Cont. from front page: ECHOES OF 2025: RECAP
THE YEAR...
evening of Monday, August 11th, 2025, in
the Fine Arts Theatre within the Winnebago Public School, a premiere event
was held for the 2nd Annual Youth Films
Showcase. The first of their kind projects
this year consisted of a music video, a
short animation, and a narrative short
film.
SEPT25: (Vol. 54, #19) WATER: Our
Most Important Resource – The Winnebago Tribe’s Environmental Protection
Department hosted a tribal community
forum on Tuesday, September 16, 2025.
The purpose of the forum was to host
a space for the Water Quality Team to
provide information and hear input from
the community as they are creating a
Watershed Base Plan aimed to protect
and preserve tribal rivers, streams, lakes,
and ponds from nonpoint source pollution
such as urban stormwater, ineffective
septic systems, and agricultural runoff.
OCT25: (Vol. 54, #20) Winnebago Tribe
assumes operations from Bureau of
Indian Affairs – A historical enterprise is
underway for the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska as the organization assumed management of the Winnebago Tribal Law
Enforcement Department on Wednesday,
October 1, 2025, at 12:01 AM.
(Vol. 54, #21) Winnebago Public Health
Department Earns National Tribal Health
Accreditation – The Winnebago Com-
prehensive Healthcare System hosted
a community celebration on Thursday,
October 9, 2025, at the Blackhawk
Community Center Gym. The event was
organized to celebrate the Winnebago
Public Health Department’s achievement in becoming the 8th Tribal Health
Department in Indian County to earn
national accreditation.
NOV25: (Vol. 54, #23) History in the
Making, Cǭnį Wagijire Hoci – The new
facility that will serve as the central hub
for Winnebago Emergency Services held
an open house on Tuesday, November
18, 2025, in North Winnebago. The
new building will house all Winnebago
Emergency Services.
DEC25: (Vol. 54, #24) Largest Gift
in LPTC History – 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.
(Vol. 54, #25) Baby Wam Shakes the
Earth in NYC! – A young Winnebago
son, Wambli “Baby Wam” Dolezal Jr.
(Maa Wak Suc, Shakes the Earth), had
the opportunity to dance with Native
Pride Productions on one of the largest
stages in America, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, in New York City,
New York.
Saturday, January 17, 2026 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 3
Wāgax hųk ra wāgax hokik’ųna
Letter to the Editor
ATTENTION WTN GARBAGE CUSTOMERS:
All garbage collection patrons of the Winnebago Tribe will have their service
provider reassigned from Gill Hauling (WMS) to Kings Disposal Co. beginning
March 1st, 2026.
Kings Disposal will be delivering replacement dumpsters to your residence prior
to their collection start date. Gill will be collecting their dumpsters on or before
February 28th, 2026.
All billing and payment information remains unchanged. Collection days will
also be communicated once the new disposal route is completed by Kings Disposal. Also, recycling options may be available following the onset of services
with Kings Disposal. Details for additional service options, including fees, will
be provided at a later date.
Please contact Kristin Neff with any questions at (402) 878-2203 ext. 2105, or
by email at: kristin.neff@winnebagotribe.com
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
LEGAL NOTICE
JESUS OUR SAVIOR
LUTHERAN OUTREACH
‘Finding favor with God’
Luke records the following encounter
between an angel of God named Gabriel
and a Jewish virgin engaged to be married.
Angel Gabriel says to Mary: “[Rejoice], O
favored one, the Lord is with you!” But she
was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried
to discern what sort of greeting this might
be. And the angel said to her, “Do not be
afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with
God” [Luke 1:28-30 ESV].
My question for you today is how does
one ‘find’ favor with God? I am reminded
of Marie in the Sound of Music singing
“Something Good.” Marie reasons that she
must have done something good in order
to be blessed with a husband. This is not,
I repeat, this is not how one ‘finds’ favor
with God.
The virgin Mary did not ‘do something
good’ in order to hear that God has found
favor with her. Why do I say this? I say this
because Mary, like each and every person
since Adam and Eve, is a born sinner. Born
sinners are all in need of a Savior.
I also base this on the very words of
Mary who later in this chapter, during her
visit with Elizabeth says “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God
my Savior” [Luke 1:46-47 ESV]. Now why
would Mary rejoice in God my Savior if
she was sinless? Mary was a sinner. Mary
is blessed by God because Mary . . . . is
blessed by God’s grace!
Gabriel continues saying to the virgin
Mary: “And behold, you will conceive in
your womb and bear a son, and you shall
call his name Jesus. He will be great and will
be called the Son of the Most High.” [Luke
1:31-32a ESV].
And Mary said to the angel, “How will
this be, since I am a virgin?” And the angel
answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come
upon you, and the power of the Most High
will overshadow you; therefore the child to
be born will be called holy—the Son of God.
And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her
old age has also conceived a son, and this
is the sixth month with her who was called
barren. For nothing will be impossible with
God.”
And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant
of the Lord; let it be to me according to your
word.”
Mary’s response underlines the reason
that she ‘finds’ favor with God. She, unlike
Zechariah, believes the words of angel
Gabriel - which are truly the words of God!
All those who place their faith in the words
of God ‘find’ favor with God. Without faith
in God it is impossible to please God, or for
Him to find favor with a sinner like Mary or
like me or you.
My prayer this Christmas season is that
Creator God has found favor with you too!
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV26-023
In the Matter of the
Guardianship Petition of:
Elaine Earth
In Re:
A.B.W. (Born 10/2011)
Notice of Abandonment/Consent Hearing
Case No. CV25-141
In the Matter of the
Adoption of:
J.A. (BORN 05/2013)
TO:
SIMONE ALDRICH, Mother
TO: ANTOINETTE BLACKFISH, MOTHER
JEREMY WALKER, 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. CV26-023 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 11:00 A.M.
You are hereby notified that an Adoption
Petition has been filed and an Abandonment/
Consent Hearing concerning the above referred
Individual(s) in case no. CV25-141 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 10:30
A.M.
LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Abandonment/Consent Hearing
Case No. CV25-141
In the Matter of the
Adoption of:
J.A. (BORN 05/2013)
TO: SIMONE ALDRICH, Mother
You are hereby notified that an Adoption
Petition has been filed and an Abandonment/
Consent Hearing concerning the above referred
Individual(s) in case no. CV25-141 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 10:30
A.M.
Notice of Hearing
Case No. JFJ26-009DEFG
The People of the Winnebago Tribe
In the Interest of:
A.B. (Born 12/2019)
A.W. (Born 07/2021)
N.S. (Born 12/2024)
N.S. (Born 12/2025)
To: JONAS WALKER, FATHER
NICHOLAS SMITH, FATHER
You are hereby notified that a hearing for
an Initial Appearance concerning the above
referred minor individual(s) in case no. JFJ26009DEFG has been scheduled and will be
heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court of Winnebago, Nebraska on the 21st day of January,
2026 at the hour of 1:00 P.M.
The next issue of the WINNEBAGO INDIAN NEWS will be published on January 31, 2026.
——————————————————
By: Pastor Ricky Jacob
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 January 27, 2026.
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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
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winnebagoindiannews@winnebagotribe.com
Phone: 402-878-2272
Bethani Redhorn.....................................Editor Victoria Kitcheyan...................... Member
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the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska”
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Page 4 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, January 17, 2026
TRIBAL COUNCIL MINUTES
...Con’t. from last issue...
tified law enforcement officers. Ireta Frazier
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to direct inhouse legal to work on a tribal code regarding
the Ban of all firearms from all educational
facilities within the boundaries of the Winnebago Reservation, to exclude certified law
enforcement officers. Isaac Smith seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
ADJOURN:
Rona Stealer motioned to adjourn at 1:33
p.m. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting at
1:33 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
MID-MONTHLY TRIBAL COUNCIL
MEETING
December 15, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Coly Brown
Isaac Smith
Teresa Littlegeorge
Rona Stealer
Ireta Frazier
Lorelei DeCora
Victoria Kitcheyan
Trey Blackhawk
Eugene DeCora
OTHERS PRESENT:
Christina Parker
Anna Bess Preston
Tiffany Buchanan
Darla LaPointe
Kamau Turner
Katie Danielski
Brittany Thomas
Willy Bass
Garan Coons
Kellie Snow
Kiana Lewis
Linda Santi
Charli Earth
Tyresha Romero
Sarah Snake
Lance Morgan
Joi Long
Marshall Bass
Bethani Redhorn
Marc Blackhawk
Anna Berridge
Billie Kitcheyan
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Brown
called to order at 9:09 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Councilman Isaac
Smith offered the opening prayer.
APPROVE AGENDA:
Rona Stealer motioned to approve the agenda with additions. Isaac Smith seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
READING OF THE MINUTES:
Revision of minutes: October 15, 2025,
(reflecting corrected resolution number)
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the
revision of October 15, 2025, General Counsel
Meeting minutes reflecting corrected resolution
number. Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
December 1, 2025 – Regular Tribal Council
Meeting minutes
Eugene DeCora motioned to approve the
December 1, 2025 – Regular Tribal Council
Meeting minutes. Trey Blackhawk seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
December 2, 2025 – WCHS Quarterly Tribal
Council Meeting minutes
Ireta Frazier motioned to approve the
December 2, 2025, WCHS Quarterly Tribal
Council Meeting minutes. Victoria Kitcheyan
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
December 4, 2025 – Orientation and Board/
Committee/Workgroup Assignment meeting
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve
the December 4, 2025, Orientation and Board/
Committee/Workgroup Assignment meeting.
Isaac Smith seconded the motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
December 8, 2025 – Physical Resources
Report meeting minutes
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve the
December 8, 2025, Physical Resources Report
meeting minutes. Ireta Frazier seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
December 12, 2025 – CEO Report meeting
minutes
Isaac Smith motioned to approve the December 12, 2025, CEO Report meeting minutes
with corrections. Eugene DeCora seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
NEW BUSINESS:
Planning Department: Resolution
EPA – Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling (SWIFR) Grants for Tribes and Intertribal
Consortia, Grant 2026
Eugene DeCora motioned to adopt resolution #26-56: EPA-Solid Waste Infrastructure
for Recycling (SWIFR) Grants for Tribes and
Intertribal Consortia, Grant 2026. Rona Stealer
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
WPS – Title I
Presented by Katie Danielski and Kamau
Turner.
Long discussion regarding the gun incident
at the Public School.
[Isaac out at 9:43 a.m., in at 9:47 a.m.]
[Victoria out at 9:56 a.m.]
[Eugene out at 10:02 a.m., in at 10:05 a.m.]
[Rona out at 10:21 a.m.]
[Isaac out at 10:27 a.m.]
[Rona, Isaac in at 10:29 a.m.]
[Victoria in at 10:45 a.m.]
BREAK: 10:29 a.m., reconvene at 10:45
a.m.
Further discussion on Title I at WPS.
[Isaac out at 10:50 a.m., in at 11:04 a.m.]
[Trey out at 11:24 a.m., in at 11:27 a.m.]
[Rona out at 11:29 a.m., in at 11:32 a.m.]
[Isaac out at 11:46 a.m.]
Communications: Request to use Tribal Seal
on Historical Signage – Turkey River Reserve
Sites
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to authorize the
use of the seal for the German American Museum, Library and Family History Center, St.
Lucas Historical Society. Isaac Smith seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
MRRIC – Missouri River Recovery Implementation Committee
Isaac Smith motion to appoint Roland Warner to replace Sunshine Bear at the (MRRIC)
Missouri River Recovery Implementation Committee. Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to appoint Trey
Blackhawk as alternate for the Missouri River
Recovery Implementation Committee. Eugene
DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(1) abstain, TB
Motion carried.
Credit Committee
Ireta Frazier motioned to accept resignation
and advertise one vacancy for 30 days. Isaac
Smith seconded the motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Suspend the rules to add Resolution for
WCHS
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to suspend
the rules to hear a resolution to be presented
by Linda Santi. Rona Stealer seconded the
motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Ireta out 12:21 p.m.]
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to adopt resolution #26-57: Participation in Cycle IX of the
National Resource Center on Native American
Aging Needs Assessment “Identifying Our
Needs: A Survey of Elders” (WCHS). Teresa
Littlegeorge seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
TRIBAL COUNCIL ITEMS:
Travel:
Legislative Luncheon – January 13, 2026
[Ireta in at 12:23 p.m.]
Isaac Smith motioned to approve Tribal
Council travel for the Legislative Luncheon on
January 13, 2026, in Lincoln, NE. Rona Stealer
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
2026 Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention – March 30-April 2, 2026, San Diego, CA
Isaac Smith motioned to approve Travel for
Tribal Council interested in attending the 2026
Indian Gaming Tradeshow and Convention,
March 30-April 2, 2026, in San Diego, CA.
Ireta Frazier seconded the motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
ADJOURN
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to adjourn at
12:26 p.m. Rona Stealer seconded the motion.
VOTE: (8) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting at
12:26 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
GENERAL COUNSEL MEETING
December 17, 2025
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Coly Brown
Teresa Littlegeorge
Rona Stealer
Ireta Frazier
Victoria Kitcheyan
Trey Blackhawk
Eugene DeCora
Lorelei DeCora
Isaac Smith (in at 9:25 a.m.)
OTHERS PRESENT:
Danelle Smith
Joy Johnson
Brandon Stout
Christina Parker
Garan Coons
Sarah Herring
Tyresha Romero
Darla LaPointe
Kiana Lewis
Anna Berridge
Cecelia Earth
Kristin Lowry
Chad Smith
James Price, Sr.
Joey Adler Ruane
Burke Harr
Davin French
Jay Payer
Todd Morman
Josh Pitre
Tiffany Buchanan
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Brown
called to order at 9:10 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Councilwoman
Frazier offered the opening prayer.
[Trey out at 9:14 a.m.]
APPROVE AGENDA:
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve the
agenda with additions. Rona Stealer seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Trey in at 9:16 a.m.]
ACTION ITEMS:
Broadband Fiber Project
Discussion regarding Digging permissions
on property owners.
[Isaac out at 9:35 a.m., in at 9:41 a.m.]
[Trey out at 9:54 a.m.]
[Eugene out at 9:54 a.m.]
South Sioux City Right of Way
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to adopt
resolution #26-58: Approval of Right of Way
Agreement with South Sioux City for the Winnebago Tribe Broadband Connectivity Project
and Approval of the Tribe’s Limited Waiver of
Sovereign Immunity Within the Agreement.
Rona Stealer seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Dakota City Right of Way
Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to adopt
resolution #26-59: Approval of Right of Way
Agreement with Dakota City for the Winnebago Tribe Broadband Connectivity Project and
Approval of the Tribe’s Limited Waiver of
Sovereign Immunity Within the Agreement.
Ireta Frazier seconded the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Victoria out at 10:01 a.m., in at 10:02 a.m.]
*Moving to scheduled time with Thurston
County Board of Supervisors.
THURSTON COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS (10:00 a.m.)
Presented by David French and James Price,
Sr.
[Isaac out at 10:04 a.m.]
[Eugene in at 10:06 a.m.]
[Trey in at 10:07 a.m.]
Highway 94 Bypass
D. Avenue
Discussion:
Request a transition letter
Develop scenarios on who applies and what
it would look like for the County vs. WTN to
apply.
Discussions started during the Tribal Transportation meeting regarding D. Avenue.
Add to the NITC meeting for further discussions. (January 23, 2026 in Norfolk, NE at the
Ponca Tribal Council Office)
[Teresa out at 10:23 a.m., in at 10:31 a.m.]
[Rona out at 10:35 a.m.]
BREAK: 10:50 a.m. , reconvene at 11:03
a.m.
[Isaac and Rona in at 11:04 a.m.]
[Victoria out at 11:04 a.m.]
EXECUTIVE SESSION: (moved to meet
with out-of-town attendees)
Rona Stealer motioned to enter Executive
Session at 11:04 a.m. Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Isaac out at 11:08 a.m.]
[Victoria in at 11:10 a.m.]
[Trey out at 11:18 a.m. to offer prayer for an
event]
[Victoria out at 11:25 a.m., in at 11:28 a.m.]
[Eugene out at 11:36 a.m.]
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to exit of
Executive Session at 11:51 a.m. Rona Stealer
seconded the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
STATE ADVOCACY: Presented by
Danelle Smith, Joey Adler Ruane, and Burke
Harr.
Tribal College Funding Initiative
[Eugene in at 12:02 p.m.]
LR 176 – Recognition of Tribal Customary
Adoption - to allow Adoptive parents eligibility
for financial assistance.
Legislative Luncheon – Tuesday, Jan. 12, 12
pm-1 pm.
Medicaid work requirements discussion.
2026 Legislative Session
Anti-Foreign Nation Bill was also worked
on.
[VK out at 12:24 p.m., in at 12:26 p.m.]
[Teresa out at 12:27 p.m.]
[Isaac in at 12:27 p.m.]
[Teresa in at 12:32 p.m.]
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to authorize
Chairman Brown to take all action necessary to
work with the Lobbyist and General Counsel to
carry out 2026 Nebraska Legislative priorities.
Rona Stealer seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Trey in at 12:53 p.m.]
BREAK: (lunch) 12:53 p.m.,
[Teresa out at 1:22 p.m., Ireta Frazier assumes recording for the Secretary]
ACTION ITEMS CONTINUED:
WINNEBAGO PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE BYLAWS:
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve the
Winnebago Public Safety Committee ByLaws.
Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
WINNEBAGO TRIBAL POLICE DEPARTMENT ACCESS TO RECORDS POLICY
Lorelei DeCora motioned to approve the
Winnebago Tribal Police Department Access to
Records Policy. Victoria Kitcheyan seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (7) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Note: 9 pending policies for Winnebago
Tribal Police Department.
[Isaac out at 1:51 p.m.]
Eugene DeCora motioned to direct BigFire
Law to work with IT Department to update
surveillance policy. Trey Blackhawk seconded
the motion.
VOTE: (6) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
FEDERAL ADVOCACY”
Congressional Updates:
House Hearing on 638 Compacting
Recap of Winnebago Tribe’s Hill meetings
Update only. Discuss draft letter of response
from IHS and Invoice sent to OTN.
[Isaac in at 1:54 p.m.]
[Isaac out at 2:15 p.m.]
Tribal Self-governance Advisory Committee:
1 vacancy
Administrative Updates:
FEMA Review Council Report
[Trey out at 3:02 p.m.]
IHS Tribal Consultation on Agency Realignment
Update only. Will send proposed realignment to Tribal Council for Consultation.
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned for Winnebago
Tribe of Nebraska to submit comments to HHS
Tribal Consultation on Agency Realignment.
Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
BREAK: 3:03 p.m., reconvene at 3:17 p.m.
TRIBAL CONSTITUTION AMEMNDMENTS – SECRETARIAL ELECTION:
Updates only.
WINNEBAGO HOUSING & DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION:
Updates only.
BOYS & GIRLS CLUB CONSTRUCTION NMTC PROJECT:
Updates only.
GAO REQUEST – NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES:
Updates only.
WINNEBAGO LAND TRANSFER ACT
IMPLEMEMTATION:
Update only, re-engage workgroup for
celebration.
TRIBAL ACTION PLAN:
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to direct General Counsel to draft the Tribal Action Plan and
Resolution for Tribal Council consideration.
Lorelei DeCora seconded the motion.
VOTE: (4) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
[Trey in at 3:36 p.m.]
JOB DESCRIPTIONS:
Eugene DeCora motioned to table the Job
Descriptions for facilities until the next meeting. Victoria Kitcheyan seconded the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
ADJOURN:
Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to adjourn the
meeting at 3:39 p.m. Trey Blackhawk seconded the motion.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no
(0) abstain
Motion carried.
Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting at
3:39 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
CONCUR:
Ireta Frazier, Council member
Winnebago Tribal Council
Saturday, January 17, 2026 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 5
SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES
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, November 10, 2025 at 5:46 p.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,Greg Bass III, Kiana Lewis
Absent: Kristine Earth (excused)
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: Human Trafficking Presentation (Lisa Molina) via Zoom
4:45p.m.-5:46p.m.
2. Call to Order
Meeting was called to order at 5:46 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 addition of 4. Volleyball Coach 5. Playground incident added to
#8
Motion: Solomon
Second: Lewis
Discussion: None
Voting for: Lewis, Ross, Solomon, Littlegeorge, Bass III
Voting Against:
Absent: Kristine Earth
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
4. Business Affairs
4-1. Approve minutes of October 6, 2025 Regular Meeting
Motion: Lewis
Second: Solomon
Discussion: None
Voting for: Ross, Solomon, Bass III, Littlegeorge, Lewis
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Kristine Earth
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
1.
November 10, 2025 School Board Meeting
4-2. Approve accounts payable in the amount of $239,795.44, petty cash account/ treasurer’s
report.
Motion: Ross
Second: Solomon
Discussion: accounts payable
Voting For: Solomon, Littlegeorge, Bass III, Lewis, Ross
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Kristine Earth
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
Not Voting: None
Absent: Kristine Earth
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
5-3. Discuss/Approve Strategic Planning Facilitator
Motion: Lewis
Second: Ross
Discussion: price/dates
Voting For: Bass III, Littlegeorge, Lewis, Ross, Solomon
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Kristine Earth
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
5-4. Discussion/Superintendent Evaluation Process
5-5. Discuss/Approve Assistance for Football Rings in the amount of $10,000.00
Motion: Solomon
Second: Ross
Discussion: prices
Voting For: Littlegeorge, Lewis, Ross, Solomon, Bass III
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Kristine Earth
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
6. Reports
1.Superintendent:
a. State Education Conference November 19th-21st
b. NIISA Conference December 7th-9th Las Vegas, NV
c. Hearing for LR 204-5th grade teacher Nick Kleve attended
d. AQI Light System for Air Quality
e. Veteran’s Day Program
f. SERC Building Update
2. Administration Reports
a. Special Education
b. Dean of Students
c. Athletic Director
d. Elementary
e. High School
f. School Staff Slideshow
3.
November 10, 2025 Board Meeting
7. Public Comment (No Board Discussion)
8. Closed Session 84-1410 Enter Motion 8:03 p.m.
Exit Session at 8:53 p. m.
To discuss: 1. Atlas Program 2. Students in Crisis 3. Employee Policy Concern 4. Volleyball
Coaching concerns 5. Playground Incident
Motion:
Solomon Motion: Littlegeorge
Second: Ross
Second: Ross
Voting For: Lewis, Ross,
Voting For: Ross, Solomon,
Solomon, Bass III, Littlegeorge
Bass III, Littlegeorge, Lewis
Voting Against: None
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Kristina Earth
Absent: Kristina Earth
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-0)
Motion Carried (5-0-0-1)
9. Discussion:
10. Adjourned at 8:53 p.m.
4-3. Approve Facilities WEFLC: $333,443.70
Motion: Solomon
Second: Bass III
Discussion: update on building completion date
Voting For: Littlegeorge, Bass III, Lewis, Ross, Solomon
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Kristine Earth
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
4-4. WPS Operations and Government Shut Down
4-5. 2025 (24-25) AFR has been submitted to NDE and the State Auditor
4-6. Approve Bus purchase by Mid-West Bus Repair in the amount of $473,402.50
Motion: Lewis
Second: Ross
Discussion: quotes
Voting For: Lewis, Ross, Solomon, Bass III, Littlegeorge
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Kristine Earth
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
5. New Business
5-1. Discussion/Approval for Lighting and Sound Board for the Theater by Munkey Industries
in the amount of $62,415.69
Motion: Ross
Second: Lewis
Discussion: prices/recommendations
Voting For: Ross, Solomon, Bass III, Littlegeorge, Lewis
Voting Against: None
Not Voting: None
Absent: Kristine Earth
Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)
2.
November 10, 2025 School Board Meeting
5-2. Discussion/Approval for Main and Practice Gym (full quotes are digital) by KCAV in the
amount
$40,719.07
Motion: Solomon
Second: Bass III
Discussion: quotes
Voting For: Solomon, Bass III, Littlegeorge, Lewis, Ross
Voting Against: None
Respectfully submitted by:
Crystal Ross, Secretary
Winnebago Board of Education
Page 6 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, January 17, 2026
Question of the Issue:
What is 1 lesson & 1 blessing from 2025?
GARAN: The 1 lesson that I took away is that life is like a slot machine, keep spinning until you hit something but don't bet beyond your means. The 1 blessing is I have
the best co-workers ever!
BRIAN: Either we win, or we learn. Lessons from 2025 include remembering what’s
truly important in life – family, loved ones, peace of mind. Making a conscious decision to choose peace and happiness is always a lesson to learn and exercise. Blessings
are having people in our lives that help us to create peace and happiness and moving
away from anyone or anything that takes away from those things. I am grateful for and
thankful to Mauna for helping me see who’s genuinely concerned for my well-being
and helping remove those who were not. And I fell blessed for those new opportunities
that have been cultivated. 2026 will be the best year ever! Claim it!!
KEVIN: In 2025, one big lesson I learned was to trust my gut. It’s like a sixth sense—
sometimes it’s already telling you what’s really going on before you can explain it. L
I didn’t always listen to that feeling, and I realized later… I should’ve trusted it more.
The biggest blessing I got from 2025 was this: keep your faith. God will answer your
prayers. It might not happen on your timeline, and it might not show up the way you
expected, but it will happen. 2025 reminded me that faith isn’t about control—it’s
about trust.
TYLER: A lesson i have learned from 2025 is to plan for the future, with that in mind,
also be aware of the blessings you have. So many things happen out of our control and
it’s easy to get ahead of yourself.
BETHANI: The greatest lesson for me in the last year was to practice better selfcare. I struggled throughout 2025 but realize now the growth that came from these
challenges. I'm always trying to focus on the positives in life & I am grateful for
my blessings. I'm beyond thankful for my supportive, loving family & my amazing
co-workers! <3
CHRISTINA: Let's see...a lesson from this past year would be that its a good thing to
be boring. I enjoy learning and creating new things and may be boring to some but it's
my favorite past time and that would also be my blessing to be able to do those things.
GAYLA: A blessing from 2025 was the new friendships that entered my life. A lesson
I learned was the power of reciprocity in every area. "Pour into what pours into you."
Saturday, January 17, 2026 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 7
WPHD Wazoki Hosts Roots of Home Christmas Event
for Community Families
WCHS New Domestic Violence Shelter
On December 18th, WPHD Wazoki hosted
the Roots of Home, A Christmas Event, welcoming families from across the community to
celebrate the holiday season together. The event
brought joy to more than 200 children and their
families, offering a warm and welcoming space
filled with food, laughter, and connection.
Children had the opportunity to meet Santa
and the Grinch, take family photos, decorate
cookies, and enjoy a hearty meal. The gathering focused on creating positive memories and
supporting togetherness for families during the
holidays. “This event is about creating a safe
and joyful space for our children and families,” said Charisse Bass, Wazoki Coordinator.
“Seeing our community come together in this
way reminds us why we do this work and how
important it is to nurture our youth.”
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the
community members who attended and shared
in the celebration, and to all staff members and
local programs who came together to support
the youth and make this event possible.
“Events like the Roots of Home reflect the
strength of our community partnerships and our
shared responsibility to care for our children
today and for generations to come,” said Mona
Zuffante, Chief Public Health Officer.
Pinagigi!
By:Erin McElroy, Communications Manager
Winnebago, NE – The Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System (WCHS) is
proud to announce the completion of its newly
constructed domestic violence shelter, a modern shelter designed to provide survivors of
domestic violence, sexual assault, and human
trafficking with a safe and supportive environment to begin their healing journey.
The new modular shelter, measuring
approximately 2,500 square feet, includes
three client living quarters, office space
for advocates, and a therapy/crafting room
dedicated to group and cultural therapy
sessions. Survivors will also benefit from a
new outdoor living area and a state-of-the-art
security system that ensures only authorized
individuals can access the premises, with
immediate alerts to WCHS security and law
enforcement if needed.
Funding for this vital project was made possible through the Winnebago Comprehensive
Healthcare System and the U.S. Department of
Justice Office for Victims of Crime Tribal SetAside Funding. The total cost of construction
is estimated at $650,000 to $700,000.
“The previous shelter was built in the 1930s,
and while it has served us for decades, it had
become increasingly difficult to maintain,”
said Matthew Benson, Director of the WCHS
Domestic Violence Program. “Our new
shelter not only addresses the community’s
need for more space but also creates an
environment where survivors feel safe and
supported. As a father of a young woman, I
want to ensure this shelter is a place of safety
and emotional healing that I would trust for my
own daughter.”
The design of the new shelter reflects
direct input from advocates and survivors.
Past residents noted that the old facility often
felt cramped, especially when at capacity.
The new space allows for greater privacy,
comfort, and freedom of movement, as well
as enhanced programming opportunities such
as hosting Aunties Night, a cultural therapy
session aimed at fostering connection and
healing.
While construction faced challenges, particularly in navigating federal requirements,
WCHS remained committed to bringing
this vision to life. The shelter’s completion
marks an important milestone not only for
survivors but also for the entire Winnebago
community.
“Not many tribes in the Great Plains have the
ability to provide safe, emergency shelter for
survivors,” Matthew Benson added. “We want
our community to know that we are here to help,
to spread awareness of these crimes, and to teach
future generations the importance of respect and
care for one another.”
Community members are encouraged to
support the shelter by donating essential items
such as clean clothing, food, and personal care
products. Monetary donations can be made directly through the Winnebago Health Foundation
(WHF) to further sustain and enhance shelter
services.
For more information, please contact WCHS
at (402) 745-3959 or to support the Domestic
Violence Program, please contact WHF at (402)
745-3950.
BIG VOICE RADIO
KWTN100.9 FM
Official Radio Station of the
Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska
Page 8 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, January 17, 2026
COMMUNITY
3-736 Dangerous weapon, firearm, school zone, other terms; defined.
“Dangerous weapon” shall mean any firearm, knife, or other instrument, device, or
object which, under the circumstances in which it is used, attempted to be used, or threatened to be used, is readily capable of causing death or serious bodily injury, including
any object used to simulate such an instrument, firearms (loaded or unloaded), knives,
dirks, daggers, blades, explosive or incendiary devices.
“Firearm” is defined as provided by federal law, including 18 U.S.C. § 921(a)(3), as
amended.
“Knife” shall mean any dagger, dirk, knife, or stiletto with a blade over three- and onehalf inches in length, or any other dangerous instrument capable of inflicting cutting,
stabbing, or tearing wounds.
“Knuckles and brass or iron knuckles” shall mean any instrument that consists of finger
rings or guards made of a hard substance and that is designed, made, or adapted for
the purpose of inflicting serious bodily injury or death by striking a person with a fist
enclosed in the knuckles.
“School zone” shall mean:
A.
The grounds of, or any building, structure, or facility used for educational
purposes; and
B.
The area within one thousand (1,000) feet from the grounds of a school,
excluding residences, private business facilities, and federal, state and tribal highways
and streets.
“School” shall mean any public, private, tribal, charter, parochial, or community-based
educational institution, whether permanent, temporary, mobile, or satellite, including but
not limited to:
Early childhood education programs, including Head Start, Early Head Start, and
preschool programs;
Elementary and secondary schools;
Alternative and continuation schools;
Tribal schools and Bureau of Indian Education schools;
Vocational, technical, and career training programs;
Colleges, universities, and community colleges;
Daycare facilities, childcare centers, and youth activity centers providing regular instructional or educational programming; and
Any facility or location used for organized instructional, cultural, language, or youth
programming.
A firearm or other weapon shall be deemed “loaded” when there is an unexpended cartridge, shell or projectile in the firing position except in the case of pistols and revolvers,
in which case they shall be deemed loaded when the unexpended cartridge, shell or
projectile to be fired is in the cylinder. [TCR 86-79]
3-737 Unlawful carrying or possession of dangerous weapons; penalty.
No person shall knowingly carry, possess, or have under the person’s custody or control
any dangerous weapon within the exterior boundaries of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska Reservation in a manner prohibited by this Code or by lawful order or regulation
of the Tribe.
Possession by prohibited persons. No person shall knowingly possess, carry, or control
any dangerous weapon if that person:
Has been convicted of a felony offense under tribal, federal, or state law;
Has been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence;
Is subject to a valid domestic violence protection order or restraining order issued by a
court of competent jurisdiction;
Is under indictment or information for a felony offense; or is otherwise prohibited from
possessing dangerous weapons under applicable tribal or federal law.
No person shall have a dangerous weapon in one’s actual possession while being
addicted to any narcotic drug; or after having been declared mentally incompetent; or
while being intoxicated or otherwise under the influence of alcoholic beverages or other
intoxicating substance, drug, or medicine; or while possessing the intent to unlawfully
assault another; or while under the age of sixteen years and without the consent of one’s
parent or guardian.
No person shall carry a loaded firearm in a vehicle on a public road without lawful authority to do so; or to discharge any kind of firearm from a motor vehicle without lawful
authority to do so, or to discharge a firearm from upon or across any public highway
without lawful authority to do so.
Possession of dangerous weapons in restricted or sensitive locations prohibited. No
person shall knowingly possess, carry, or control any dangerous weapon in a restricted or
sensitive location designated by tribal law or regulation, including but not limited to:
Tribal government buildings and offices;
Tribal courts and court facilities;
Detention, correctional, or law enforcement facilities;
Facilities where Tribal Council meetings, hearings, or official proceedings are conducted;
Cultural buildings, facilities, and places, including pow grounds, veterans’ memorials,
cemeteries;
Places of worship;
Any other location designated by the Tribal Council or appropriate tribal authority as
necessary to protect public safety.
Possession of a dangerous weapon in a school zone prohibited. No person shall
knowingly possess, carry, or have under the person’s custody or control any dangerous
weapon while in a school zone located within the exterior boundaries of the Winnebago
Tribe of Nebraska Reservation, including all trust land, restricted fee land, and other
lands subject to the Tribe’s criminal jurisdiction.
Exceptions. This section does not apply to:
Law enforcement or peace officers acting within the scope of official duties and authorized by the Tribe, the United States, or another government with lawful jurisdiction;
Persons lawfully transporting an unloaded firearm in a locked container or locked
firearms rack in a motor vehicle;
Persons authorized in writing by the Tribe or by the governing authority of a restricted
facility or school for lawful purposes, including safety, instruction, or ceremonial use; or
Any other exception expressly recognized by tribal or federal law.
Criminal Penalties. A violation of this section constitutes a criminal offense under tribal
law and shall be punished pursuant to Title 1B, Article 7, § 1B-706, as a Class I Offense,
including fines, imprisonment, probation, exclusion, forfeiture, or any combination
thereof as authorized by tribal law.
Civil Forfeiture.
Any dangerous weapon possessed in violation of this section is declared contraband and
subject to civil forfeiture to the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska.
Civil forfeiture proceedings are in rem, remedial in nature, and independent of any
criminal prosecution or conviction.
The Tribe may initiate forfeiture by filing a petition in Tribal Court describing the seized
property and the basis for forfeiture.
Any person claiming an ownership or possessory interest in the subject dangerous
weapon shall be provided notice and an opportunity to be heard consistent with tribal
due process.
Upon forfeiture, the Tribal Court may order the property destroyed, retained for official
use, or otherwise disposed of consistent with tribal law and public safety.
No dangerous weapon shall be returned if possession would be unlawful under tribal or
federal law.
Exclusion.
In addition to criminal or civil penalties, the Tribal Court may order temporary or permanent exclusion of any person who violates this section.
An exclusion order may apply to the Reservation as a whole or to specific facilities or
zones, including school zones.
In determining exclusion, the Court may consider the seriousness of the offense, risk to
public safety, prior violations, and protection of children and other vulnerable persons.
Violation of a valid exclusion order constitutes a separate offense.
Detention, Disarmament, and Transfer of Non-Indians.
When a person not subject to Tribal criminal jurisdiction is reasonably believed to have
violated this section, tribal law enforcement officers may temporarily detain and disarm
the individual and secure any firearm.
Detention shall be limited in scope and duration and exercised solely to protect public
safety, investigate the violation, determine jurisdiction, and transfer custody.
Tribal law enforcement shall notify and transfer custody of the individual and any seized
dangerous weapons or evidence to appropriate federal, state, or local authorities as soon
as practicable.
Nothing in this subsection expands tribal criminal jurisdiction beyond that authorized by
federal law.
“Person not subject to Tribal criminal jurisdiction” means a person who is not recognized
as an Indian, citizen, or member by a federally recognized tribe or the federal government. [TCR 86-79, 89-87, 26-___]
3-738 Aggravated weapons offense; penalty.
1.
Except as provided in subsection (2) of this Section, any person who
carries a weapon or weapons concealed on or about his/her person such as a revolver,
pistol, bowie knife, dirk or knife with a dirk blade attachment, brass or iron knuckles,
or any other dangerous weapon, or threatens to use or exhibit the dangerous weapon in
a dangerous and threatening manner, or use a dangerous weapon in a fight or quarrel
commits the offense of carrying concealed weapons.
2.
It shall be an affirmative defense that the defendant was engaged in any
lawful business, calling or employment at the time he/she was carrying any weapon or
weapons, and the circumstances in which such person was placed at the time were such
as to justify a prudent person in carrying the weapon or weapons, for the defense of his/
her person, property or family.
3.
Aggravated weapon offense is a Class I offense. [TCR 86-79, 26-___]
3-739 Using firearms to commit a crime; penalty.
1.
Any person who uses a firearm, knife, brass or iron knuckles, or any other
dangerous weapon to commit any crime which may be prosecuted in a Tribal Court, or
any person who unlawfully possesses a firearm, knife, brass or iron knuckles, or any
other dangerous weapon during the commission of a crime which may be prosecuted in
a Tribal Court commits the offense of using firearms to commit a crime.
2.
Using firearms to commit a crime is a Class I offense. [TCR 86-79, 26___]
Saturday, January 17, 2026 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 9
COMMUNITY
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Page 10 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, January 17, 2026
COMMUNITY
...Con’t. from previous pg....
Saturday, January 17, 2026 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 11
SUMMER INTERNSHIP
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