Published Bi-Weekly for the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska • Volume 54, Number 18 • Saturday, September 2, 2023
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Published Bi-Weekly for the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska • Volume 54, Number 18 • Saturday, September 2, 2023
Winnebago Tribal Court Engages Nebraska Supreme Court
on Discussion of State-Tribal Relations
A huge shoutout to Winnebago Tribe’s
Human Resources Department and all
its contributors for giving us employees
a week full of activities! Starting August
14th the week started with a scavenger
hunt, teams were created to hunt down
the farthest license plate, the WIN newspaper, group pictures in front of buildings around the community and more. A
cornhole tourney and Ho-Chunk bingo
started Tuesday. Wednesday a volleyball
and kickball tourney were held, Robles
and LaPalapa were feeding the crowd.
Other events like an escape room, inflatable golf/basketball were stationed. The
week ended with a prize pick-up! Safe
to say the employees are appreciated!
Thanks, WTN! (Pictured above is some
of the WTN employees, and the firstplace winners of the cornhole tournament Colee Brown and Brandi Brown)
The GS Sports team were the Men’s
Upper Division Champions at the 2023
Native American Fastpitch World Series
in South Dakota! Winnebago Tribal Members Dubbz Berridge, Jeremiah Nieman
and Cory Cleveland are pictured above,
Congratulations and nice work guys!!
(This picture was shared on ndnsports.
com and their Facebook page, check
them out)
Pictured Winnebago Tribal Court room with the Supreme Court and Chief Justice along with Tribal Court staff.
By Jennifer Berridge
The Winnebago Tribal Court, under the
leadership of Court Administrator Jennifer
Berridge and Chief Judge Patrick Runge,
opened its doors on August 16, 2023, to
the Nebraska Supreme Court Summer
Tour group for a dialogue centered on the
dynamics between state and tribal courts.
Chief Judge Runge discussed the
complexities of overlapping jurisdiction
with state courts, particularly those
within Thurston County. With insight and
expertise, he and Berridge guided the
visiting group through the court building,
while discussing the influence of native
culture on the court proceedings, offering
a unique perspective on justice.
Carmelita Parker, overseeing Adult
Probation, and Matthew Cleveland III,
responsible for Juvenile Probation, took
the floor to present a comprehensive
overview of the intersections, challenges,
and future interactions of tribal probation
programming. The event also welcomed
area state probation officers, fostering
an environment for mutual learning and
brainstorming for potential collaborations.
As the morning advanced, the justices and their travel group visited the
Winnebago Youth Crisis Intervention
Center (YCIC), led by Daryl LaPointe.
This state-licensed 24-hour emergency
and temporary housing facility caters to
youths up to 19 years old. Distinguished
by its commitment to stability, and cultural
respect, the facility offers a safe place for
children who are temporarily separated
from their homes.
The location shifted midday as Winnebago Tribal Council members and
Vice-chairman Brian Chamberlain extended a warm invitation to all participants for
lunch at the Ho-Chunk Center. The tribal
members greeted the guests with a traditional song, accompanied by drummers,
several of whom had also been involved in
earlier presentations. The lunch featured a
main dish crafted from ancient corn grown
through the youth facility’s agricultural
program.
Attorney Andrea Snowball initiated
the afternoon discussion with a review of
the recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling on
the Indian Child Welfare Act. Her presentation prompted an exchange of ideas
and insights, contributing to a deeper
understanding of the intersection of state
and tribal courts.
The Winnebago Tribal Court’s engagement with the Nebraska Supreme
Court Summer Tour group marks another
milestone in fostering collaboration, understanding, and shared progress between
state and tribal judiciaries.
Purpose of Nebraska Supreme Court
Summer Tours:
According to Chief Justice Mike Heavican, summer visits are not only an opportunity to express the Court’s appreciation
to community leaders for their support
but also to gain valuable insights into the
implementation of policies throughout
the state. The Supreme Court and Chief
Justice pay particular attention to the
effectiveness of various court processes
and use the visits to identify areas where
assistance is requested, especially in
terms of technology and services.
All state courts operate under the
administrative direction of the Supreme
Court.
Shortly after Heavican was named
Chief Justice in 2006, he established the
goal of visiting every one of the 93 courthouses and communities in Nebraska.
Having accomplished that goal, he has
continued to visit courthouses across the
state, often accompanied by his fellow
justices.
WCHS X-Ray Room Installs State-of-the-Art Equipment Upgrades
By: Erin McElroy
August 10th Otoe-Missouria youth toured
the Angel De Cora Museum and the
Winnebago community. 15 high school
students were able to experience the
museum, Little Priest Tribal College, Winnebago Statue Garden, and Meet with
HoChunk Inc., Community Impact & Engagement Manager, Willy Bass, to share
what HCI has to offer. On short notice
the community was able to share great
places within the community, Thanks to
the staff and departments for showing
our young guests’ hospitality!
Winnebago, NE – The Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System (WCHS)
recently upgraded its x-ray equipment to
improve patient diagnostic capabilities. In
May of 2023, the Radiology Department
installed GE Healthcare Definium 646 HD
Digital X-ray room. The Definium 646 HD
powered by Helix 2.0 provides enhanced
capabilities while positioning WCHS for
future upgrades.
When a patient goes to receive an X-ray,
a tablet-like cassette is placed behind the
area of concern. This cassette holds the
digital film negative that will be exposed to
the X-rays. When the X-ray enters the body,
it passes through air and lung tissue, which
don’t absorb the energy of the X-ray. This
non-absorbed energy reaches the digital
film, creating the darker portions of the film.
Soft tissues, like muscle, organs, and fat
allow some of the X-ray through, resulting
in shades of gray on the film. The dense
portions of the body, like bones and teeth,
or metal, will absorb all or most of the X-ray
energy preventing it from reaching the film
making the white components of the image.
To begin understanding the complexities
of breaks, fractures, and calcifications,
contrast and clarity are critical to creating
accurate X-ray images for providers to read
when diagnosing and recommending treatments to patients. At WCHS, the Radiology
Team of Registered Technologists specializes in understanding both the equipment
and the human body to know what positions
and techniques are used to create the best
X-rays and CTs for our provider team around
the clock.
“In its simplest form, a Medical X-ray is a
high-powered camera that uses x-rays - instead of light exposure - to create an image,”
says Radiology Interim Manager, Elmasue
Zylberberg. Zylberberg and her team have
been using the new system for a couple of
months now and were quick to share positive comments. This new equipment has
more flexibility allowing standing x-rays. The
cassette is 17 by 17 inches allowing larger
and better-quality images. The table can
support nearly twice the amount of weight.
The machine includes tracks, accessibility
bars, and auto-adjusting tubes that allow
medical professionals the flexibility to easily
move both the machine and patients around
to capture the angles. “We all agree - this
machine is built smarter.”
“This investment is on the cutting edge
of X-ray technology” explained Austin
Schanzenbach, Chief Transformation Officer. “At WCHS, we value staying ahead of
the curve technology-wise, with the most
innovative diagnostic medical equipment.
This equipment aids in recruiting and retaining highly experienced medical staff while
providing the highest quality of diagnostic
care available on the market today.”
Additionally, WCHS is exploring investing
in upgrading our mobile x-ray unit that will be
compatible with the system. This investment
would allow us to do X-rays in the ER for
immobile or critical patients when needed.
WCHS continues to invest in producing the
best possible outcomes for the community
we serve.
Visit us at winnebagotribe.com
Page 2 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, September 2, 2023
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Saturday, September 2, 2023 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 3
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
SUICIDE IN INDIAN COUNTRY PART 33
Taking the first steps:
Making big changes right now might be out of the question for you. You may not
even know where to begin. That’s okay. Recovery is a process, and it’s important
that you move at your own pace. There are a few things you might want to do to
ease your transition back to everyday life. Some important steps that others have
found helpful are:
First, it might be less stressful to decide in advance how to deal with others’ questions about your suicide attempt. The people around you may be surprised by your
suicide attempt and have questions or comments about what happened. Thinking
about what you might say in advance can help you prepare for their reactions.
Secondly, re-establishing connections may help you feel better. Often, the stress
or depression that leads to a suicide attempt can cause people to disconnect from
others who care about them or the things they used to enjoy doing. Reconnecting
with the people and things you love or loved can help instill hope.
Third, because suicidal thoughts might return, you’ll want to be prepared with
a plan to stay safe. A safety plan is a tool that can help you identify triggers (like
events or experiences) that lead to suicidal thoughts and can help you cope if the
pain that led to your suicide attempt returns.
Fourth, finding and working with a counselor can help you start to recover. Unlike
friends or family, a counselor is an unbiased listener who won’t be personally affected
by your suicide attempt. The counselor’s role is to help you sort through your feelings
and find ways to feel better. You may find it helpful to begin discussing with your
counselor your experiences and feelings about your suicide attempt. A counselor
can be a peer supporter, psychiatrist, social worker, psychologist, or other skilled
person. If counseling isn’t possible, there are also ways you can help yourself, but
please remember that you don’t have to go through this alone.
“After my attempt I needed to be able to talk and be heard – not counseled, not
encouraged – to really be listened to, like what I had to say was the most important
thing in the world at that moment, for someone to connect to my pain without losing
control of themselves.”
(After my attempt) “I felt exhausted. I felt empty; What now? I soon felt angry. As
I told a therapist, staying alive means that now I have to rationalize being a loser, a
failure. That is the way you can think sometimes.”
“There are a lot of things that happen in your life that you have no choice over.
But the one thing that can never be taken away from you is your ability to choose
how to respond.”
“The hospital was the first place where I felt like I could acknowledge my illness,
to myself and to others. Even knowing I had depression, they still saw me as a
human with great potential. That led me to understand that seeking help would not
lead to me becoming defined by my depression, as I had feared. It inspired me
with the most basic conviction that I was inherently worthy of health and happiness,
regardless of what others thought of me.”
“When I woke up in the hospital, I didn’t feel positive about life. But I watched TV
a lot and saw stories about people who went through worse than I had. It inspired
me to stop focusing on what I couldn’t do and start focusing on what I could do.”
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 (TALK), Winnebago Behavioral Health 1-402-878-2911, After Hours Crisis # 1-712-259-3263.
JESUS OUR SAVIOR
LUTHERAN OUTREACH
“Why y’all blaming God for your problems?”
Recently I saw a meme with the above ^ question. How would you answer that
question?
Is your God at fault? Is He the reason for the choices that you made? Does your
God make mistakes? Does your God lead you astray? Does your God force you to do
what you do, or prohibit you from doing what you promised to do?
If you answer ‘yes’ to any of these questions then I suggest that you trust in another
God.
May I make a suggestion? If you respond with a ‘yes’ or an ‘okay’ then read on.
I suggest that you place your trust, your faith, your direction in life in the one true
God. The God who has revealed Himself through His Sacred Word. This one true God
is the triune God - three persons in one God, i.e. God the Father, God the Son - Jesus
Christ, and God the Holy Spirit!
The complete meme read: “Why y’all blaming God for your problems? Most of y’all’s
problems came from not listening to Him to begin with!”
God offers more food for thought found in ready His Sacred Word. He speaks each
and every Sunday - please take time to hear what He has to say. Bible study at 10
followed by a Divine Service at 11 at Jesus Our Savior Lutheran Church, directly at the
back of the Blackhawk Community Center.
The Big Voice would like to welcome and
introduce our HCI apprentice! Stay on
the lookout for Tylie in upcoming Radio
shows!
Hello, my name is Tylie Chilson. My Hochunk name is “Walking in The Snow”. I am a
member of the Elk Clan. My mother is Alvina Chilson and my father is Ricky Chilson. My
grandparents are Lillian Smith and Carl Blackfish.
I am a junior at the Winnebago Public School. I am a new apprentice and I’m looking
forward to the experience of meeting new people, as well as being able to self-express
and educate myself. The HCI apprenticeship program has been doing me so well. I’ve
learned so much about formality and professionalism. Which will most definitely help me
in the long run with opportunities, including work.
The worksite with The Big Voice Radio was the main option that caught my attention. As
somebody whose hobby is public speaking and acting it fell into my interest immediately
and seemed most like my calling. I am looking forward to continuing with this process
and learning more as I go!
Killers of the Flower Moon Book Review
By Eben Crawford
Ho-Chunk, Inc. would like to
congratulate
Cynthia LaMere on her Retirement!
Those of you who tuned into KWTN 100.9 on the 22nd heard my review
of David Grann’s “Killers of the Flower Moon”, the book that inspired the upcoming Martin Scorsese movie of the same name set to go to wide release
October 20th. The film has already had many glowing reviews by indigenous
movie go-ers, and although its not specifically Hōcąk history I strongly recommend reading the book. The book itself is not too difficult a read and has
a compelling if not deeply distressing plot detailing the true story behind
the mysterious murders of Osage tribal members in the 1920’s after oil is
discovered on the reservation. But be warned, the content is upsetting and
disturbing and you should be prepared before delving in. If reading is not
your thing, try listening to it as an audio book while you drive, walk, or work.
Employees, family and friends recently honored her with a luncheon
in Winnebago. Many shared heartfelt stories how she’s been a personal
inspiration, and acknowledged her significant contributions to Ho-Chunk,
Inc., the Winnebago community and beyond.
For the past 15 years, she’s been a fixture across the company, retiring
as Director of Benefits Administration at the end of July. Cynthia looks
forward to traveling and spending time with family. We’ll miss her dearly
and wish her all the best!
The next issue of the WINNEBAGO INDIAN NEWS will be published on September 16, 2023. DEADLINE for this issue will be September 12, 2023.
——————————————————
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.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please send change of Advertising/News Deadline
address with old mailing label to:
12:00 Noon Monday Printing Week
Winnebago Tribal Council
Victoria Kitcheyan................Chairwoman
Winnebago Indian News
Periodicals Postage Paid
Brian Chamberlain........... Vice Chairman
P.O. Box 687
(Issn 1060-3026) At Winnebago, NE
Winnebago, NE 68071
Lorelei DeCora........................ Secretary
or contact us at our e-mail address:
Rona Stealer........................... Treasurer
Winnebago
Indian
News
Staff
winnebagoindiannews@winnebagotribe.com
Phone: 402-878-2272
................................................................Editor Coly Brown................................ Member
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“Official Newspaper of
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the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska”
WTN
Communications
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Bethani Redhorn...........Comm. Office Manger
Christina Parker.............................Web Master
Page 4 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, September 2, 2023
TRIBAL COUNCIL MINUTES
pleted for the new Fiscal Year. Kenneth
Mallory seconded.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no ( 0 )
abstain Motion carried.
TRIBAL CFO REPORT: Presented by
Jasmin Lammers.
Aric Armell motioned to approve the
Tribal CFO Report. Louis LaRose seconded.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no ( 0 )
abstain Motion carried.
ACTION ITEMS:
ARPA Budget Mod 19
Lorelei DeCora motioned to approve
the ARPA Budget Mod 19. Louis LaRose
seconded.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no ( 0 )
abstain Motion carried.
Roads Department Semi Purchases
2018 Kenworth T680
Stock number MPR1454 $79,900
Stock number MRP1421 $69,900
Lorelei DeCora motioned to approve
the request from the Roads Department
Semi’s Purchase for the amount of $79,900
and $69,900 for 2018 Kenworth T680 to
come out of the BIA ARPA funds. Louis
LaRose seconded.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no ( 0 )
abstain Motion carried.
TRIBAL COUNCIL ITEMS:
AA/LD
Executive session
Emergency Grant revisions
Aric Armell motioned to approve the
Emergency Grant revisions as presented
by the Tribal Council Secretary. Kenneth
Mallory seconded.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no ( 0 )
abstain Motion carried.
Revised Qualifications for Emergency
Grant are as follows:
QUALIFICATIONS OF APPLICATION
FOR EMERGENCY GRANT:
Only one (1) may be paid to any immediate family member*, per 12-month period. *family member defined as: Spouse,
child, parent, sibling, grandparent, grandchild, aunt, uncle, first cousin, or adoptive
child. With priority given to same house
hold family members.
Grants are awarded only if the applicant is an ENROLLED MEMBER OF THE
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA. The
individual for whom the emergency grant
is requested can only be used once per
12-month period. The enrolled Winnebago Tribal Member can request the Tribal
Council consider their circumstance outside this Policy.
Grants may be awarded only in documented cases of death or serious/critical
illness, who is an immediate family member of the applicant.
Grants may be awarded to assist
with transportation costs associated with
situations as mentioned above, but only
once per immediate family, per 12-month
period, per individual for which they are
being requested, per 12-month period.
One grant may be awarded up to and
shall not exceed $250.00 (two-hundred
fifty dollars).
Grants that may not require the full
$250.00, shall be paid according to direct
costs needed only. (Mileage calculated at
current travel allowance GSA rate).
Executive Session
Aric Armell motioned to go into Executive Session at 11:01 a.m. Kenneth Mallory
seconded.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no ( 0 )
abstain Motion carried.
BREAK:
Aric Armell motioned to come out of
Executive Session at 12:06 p.m. Kenneth
Mallory seconded.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no ( 0 )
abstain Motion carried.
Aric Armell motioned to suspend the
Rules to add Child & Family Chafee funds
resolution. Isaac Smith seconded.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no ( 0 )
abstain Motion carried.
Isaac Smith motioned to adopt resolution #23-173: FY2024 Winnebago Child
and Family Services Chafee funds. Louis
LaRose seconded.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no ( 0 )
abstain Motion carried.
Lorelei DeCora motioned to direct
WinnaVegas Casino Human Resources to
remove the 1-day suspension, and 60 day
PIP on KHF personnel file for incorrectly
interpreting the non-disclosure agreement
against her. Aric Armell seconded.
VOTE:
(5) yes (0) no ( 0 )
abstain Motion carried.
Lorelei DeCora motioned to direct the
WinnaVegas Human Resources Administration to add language to the Associate
Handbook Progressive Discipline that
the note-to-file written warning and performance improvement plan, suspension
with or without pay be removed from the
Associates Human Resource file after 1
year. Isaac Smith seconded.
OBJECT: Louis LaRose and Kenneth
Mallory
VOTE:
(3) yes, LD, AA, IS (3)
no, KM, LLR, RS (0) abstain
T i e
vote.
Motion will be brought back at a later
date due to a tie vote.
ADJOURN:
Aric Armell motioned to adjourn at
12:30 p.m. Isaac Smith seconded.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
Treasurer Stealer adjourned the meeting at 12:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Lorelei DeCora, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
FIRE DEPARTMENT & LAW ENFORCEMENT REPORT
July 24, 2023
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Victoria Kitcheyan
Brian Chamberlain
Lorelei DeCora
Rona Stealer
Coly Brown
Louis LaRose
Kenneth Mallory
Aric Armell
OTHERS PRESENT:
Cecelia Earth
Lynelle Blackhawk
Kellie Snow
Esther Mercer
Jillian Kelsey
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Isaac Smith (deconstruction project)
CALL TO ORDER: Chairwoman
Kitcheyan called to order at 9:30 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Coly Brown offered the opening prayer.
APPROVE AGENDA:
Rona Stealer motioned to approve the
agenda. Coly Brown seconded.
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no ( 0 )
abstain Motion carried.
Fire Department: Unavailable, assisting with deconstruction of abandoned
home.
Law Enforcement: Captain Jason Lawrence presents a report on the Winnebago/
Omaha Nation MET Operation.
Lorelei DeCora motioned to direct
Legal Counsel to draft a resolution to
BIA Law Enforcement to have more than
one contract for housing our prisoners to
include Thurston County, Dakota County,
Woodbury County and Juvenile services in
Woodbury County to be done immediately
for the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska.
Louis LaRose seconded.
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no ( 0 )
abstain Motion carried.
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Coly Brown motioned to go into Executive Session at 10:18 a.m. Louis LaRose
seconded.
VOTE:
(6) yes (0) no ( 0 )
abstain Motion carried.
[Kenneth Mallory out due to close personal relationship.]
[Lorelei DeCora abstain from comments due to relationship.]
Coly Brown motioned to come out of
Executive Session at 10:55 a.m. Louis
LaRose seconded.
VOTE:
(4) yes (0) no ( 0 )
abstain Motion carried.
ADJOURN:
Coly Brown motioned to adjourn at
10:57 a.m. Louis LaRose seconded.
VOTE:
(4) yes (0) no ( 0 )
abstain Motion carried.
Chairwoman Kitcheyan adjourned the
meeting at 10:57 a.m.
WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA
SPECIAL MEETING – WINNEBAGO
HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
COMMISSION
August 3, 2023
TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:
Victoria Kitcheyan
Brian Chamberlain
Lorelei DeCora
Coly Brown
Kenneth Mallory
Aric Armell
Louis LaRose
OTHERS PRESENT:
Tina Lewis
Billie Kitcheyan
Lynelle Blackhawk
Esther Mercer
Leta Gorrin
Ireta Frazier
Maggie Miller
Sarah Snake
Dana Zargurski
Tyresha Wolfe
Jasmine Lammers
Danelle Smith
Teresa Littlegeorge
Garan Coons
Angela Bigbear
Laun Doung
Silvia Wirba, Attorney
Pam Mahkuk
Duran Blackfish
Danelle Smith
TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:
Rona Stealer (leave)
Isaac Smith (leave)
CALL TO ORDER: Victoria Kitcheyan
called to order at 9:07 a.m.
OPENING PRAYER: Kenneth Mallory
offered the opening prayer.
APPROVE AGENDA:
Kenneth Mallory motioned to approve
the agenda. Coly Brown seconded.
VOTE: (5) yes (0) no (0) abstain
Motion carried.
WHDC: NIFA Tax credit homes discussion.
TRIBAL MEMBER EMERGENCY:
Aric Armell motioned to honor the Tribal
member request (R.W.). Brian Chamberlain seconded.
OBJECT: Lorelei DeCora
VOTE:
(5) yes, BC, CB, AA, KM,
LLR (1) no, LD (0) abstain Motion
carried.
RECESS: at 11:06 a.m.
RECONVENE: 11:15 a.m.
Lorelei out at 2:30 p.m. (leave)
Lost quorum at 2:35 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Lorelei DeCora, Secretary
Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska
Respectfully submitted,
Lorelei DeCora, Secretary
Winnebago Tribal Council
Primary Elections will be held on
September 5th!
Candidate: Eugene DeCora
Hanac Hinikaragiwi, I greet you all with good
thoughts and feelings. My name is Eugene
DeCora and I am a candidate for the upcoming
Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska Tribal Council
elections.
My grandparents Gaga Virginia Priest, and
Gaga Juanita Maney Neff are direct descendants of our last great war chief, Chief Little
Priest. I am also the grandson of my Choka
Eugene N. DeCora, who served the Winnebago
people as a youth coach and previous member of this tribal council and my Gaga Isabel
Kelsey DeCora.
I am the son of Randy DeCora and Martina
(Neff) DeCora. And I am the proudest father of
6 children with my wife Brooke DeCora.
My family and I have strived to impact our
community in a positive manner and a forward
approach. As a community, we all want the
best for the membership and families. As a
contributing member of this community, I wish
to bring strategic thinking, problem solving and
implementation to the table. The needs for our
membership and families are extensive and daily, which comes with creating relationships
with families to better suit their needs.
In my work experience with the youth, parents, guardians and community members I will
continue to affect various age groups with positivity and forward thinking. I have always tried
my best to meet the needs and excel in anything I have done within the capacity that I have
been given to do so in our community.
Previous activities that I have served my community in are:
Youth coach - basketball, football, softball, baseball, multiple sports for ages 3-18
Multiple levels of juvenile justice - Prevention, intervention, and case management
Collaboration with several community programs both in Winnebago and surrounding
communities
Cultural activities involving preservation
Our community is moving forward, and this has been a very supportive and positive space
for our youth and families thus far. I will help continue the growth within our community and
keep shining a positive light on what our community is capable of and how we can enhance
our sense of culture belonging.
I encourage you all to get out and vote to use your voice in this year’s elections. As you
consider this year’s candidates, I ask for your vote in this year’s primary and regular elections.
With your vote and support, we can work together to create an impactful course of leadership
for our people. Please allow me to bring my experience of working alongside our veterans,
seniors, guardians and youth to help make decisions that impact our community in the best way.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. I am always willing to listen and
share ideas.
Saturday, September 2, 2023 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 5
ELECTION CAMPAIGN LETTERS
Candidate: Victoria Kitcheyan
cDear Friends and Relatives,
I hope this message finds you in good health
and spirits. My name is Victoria Kitcheyan and
I am a candidate in the 2023 Winnebago Tribal Council Primary Election. With gratitude, I
humbly ask for your continued support. I was
first elected in 2015. Since then I’ve served as
the Secretary, Treasurer, Member, and in the
most recent term, I served as Chairwoman.
It has been an honor and privilege to serve
the Winnebago people. I do not take that for
granted. As many of you know I was removed
in 2020. That experience has come full circle
for me and I’m thankful for the challenges I’ve
faced. It made me a stronger leader and forced
me to build understanding and respect even in
adversarial climates.
I’ve learned so much serving on the Tribal
Council. Your people will show you yourself and
teach you something if you listen. What I have learned is our people are struggling. Our
people have unmet needs whether it be financially, spiritually, mentally or physically. We
are a community that finds ourselves in constant crisis yet we suffer in silence. We make
prayers everyday with those struggles in our hearts and minds. We start our day with hope
and belief that it will get better. I’ve found myself asking every person or entity, “What are
your intentions?” I’ve found myself in a defensive mode; always questioning whether this program or entity is answering the unmet needs of the Winnebago tribal members. I carry these
burdens with dignity and strength so there are tangible outcomes for all tribal members.
Land Back – I support the tribe buying back as much land within the reservation that
becomes available for sale. I support and testified for H.R. 1240, the Winnebago Land
Transfer Act of 2023 to return land illegally condemned by the Army Corp of Engineers in
the 1970s.
Culture - I support the community working together in culture and language revitalization
and preservation.
Enrollment – I support the evolving tribal enrollment discussion and ways to meet the
needs of the kids.
Housing – I support creating pathways to housing stability. We need quality housing that
suits the need of the family and not profit margins. There are alternative things we could
do like tiny home, double wide trailers, etc. Housing stability looks different for all of us.
There’s no right way to build a home.
Healthcare – I support the growth and transition of the Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System. The tribe took over a broken hospital and continues to dig out. Proof of that
hard work is evident by the recent CMS accreditation achieved for 12 Clans Unity Hospital.
Education – I support creating further mechanisms to financially support students.
Job Opportunities – I support creating a day labor force to offer work to those that want
to work.
Behavioral Health – I support expanding behavioral health services throughout the
community and tribal organization. I support destigmatizing services and breaking generational cycles of trauma.
Economic Development – I support challenging profit generating entities to reduce
spending and stream lining additional financial resources to the tribe.
Per Cap – Per cap is no different than profit sharing. We need to reframe our thinking
on what it means and looks like to share the wealth and prosperity among the tribal membership. We need to be responsible and intentional in the feasibility and sustainability of
per cap. There are other ways to do this like utilizing the Tribal General Welfare Exclusion
Act of 2014. In summary, I support it if we have the money.
Thank you for taking the time to read this article. If re-elected, I will continue to work
hard and do my best to contribute and meet the needs of the Winnebago Tribe. I’ve done
my best to be transparent and straight forward in my interactions. I commit to use my
strengths at the table and work on my weaknesses. Please consider supporting me in the
upcoming primary and general election. Best wishes to all the Tribal Council candidates!
Respectfully,
Victoria “Tori” Kitcheyan
Candidate: Elizabeth Bayer
Hinikaragi, caxs`ep yakikarac s`ana, hocak
ni]s`oc haci na, hinu wa’uaje
I greet you, my Hocak name is Golden
Yellow Feather, I am a member of the Eagle
Clan. I was born and raised on the Winnebago
Reservation. I am the hinu, first born daughter,
Elizabeth Bayer is my english name. My mother is Cecelia Earth, and my father is the late
Timothy (Little Walker) adopted name: Bayer.
My maternal X’o]ke s`’ak (grandparents) were
Lillian DeCora Earth and Herman Brown Sr.,
my mother was claimed by Charles Earth. My
paternal X’o]ke s`’ak (grandparents) were Lois
Cleveland and Steven (Little) Walker.
I have 5 sons, Gregory Bass III, Aspen,
D’Von, Timothy, and Ashton LaPointe. While
growing up I always stressed education is the
key. Today my children have been successful,
learned to reach their full potential and goals.
Two of my sons have graduated with their
bachelor’s degree, one is pending and 2 are in high school. Myself I have attend Nebraska Indian Community College, Little Priest Tribal College, Wayne State College, and
Bellevue University. I have worked for the Winnebago Tribe for 15 plus years, in several
different positions. I have gained knowledge and experience that would prepare me to
be a successful Tribal Council leader.
In the 80’s as a young girl after school I would walk to the Blackhawk Community Center
and spend most of my younger years there. During that time Reuben Snake Jr. was the
Chairman, my mother was Reuben’s secretary. Back then we lived simple nothing fancy,
one conference table, with chairs around it and chairs for the Tribal members located in
the Tribal Chambers. Wall hangings of a buffalo and a deer head. I remember the past
Tribal Council worked for the people, toward goals and trying to make life better for our
Hochunk people.
I recognize we have a lot of successful past Tribal Council members, they set the
foundation for our people. If elected I would like to move forward in that same positive
direction. My voice is for the people, our community, our elders, and our future generations to come.
My platform will be focused on these topics:
Boys and Girls Clubs
Casinos
Childcare
Culture
Elders
Food Sovereignty
Hemp
Housing
Language
New/old venues
Sports
Tribal/Small Business
Water
Youth Programs
I humbly ask for your 2023 vote and support this election. Please feel free to contact
me, you’re welcome to attend my campaign luncheon, on September 5th at noon, located
at 209 Mathewson. Pinagigi to all that are supporting me and that have encouraged me
along the way, greatly appreciate it.
Candidate: Thelma Whitewater
Greetings to Everyone!
Candidate: Teresa Littlegeorge
Hello, Winnebago community,
I’m Teresa (Thomas) Littlegeorge,
and I’m reaching out to earn your vote for
the Tribal Council. As a proud member
of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, I’m
deeply connected to our heritage and
dedicated to our people.
Born in Winnebago, Nebraska, on the
Reservation, my roots run deep. My clan
is Wolf, and my name, nac]ge pi]\ ru’a\
wi\ga means “Good Heart lifts us up.”
My family’s ties to our community are
strong. My parents, Theodore “Mickey”
Thomas, Jr. and Carole (Wilcox) Thomas, were lifelong Winnebago residents.
Married to Joseph Littlegeorge, we’re
blessed with five children and five
grandchildren. With four siblings, nieces, and nephews, our family is woven into our Tribe’s fabric.
Throughout life, my commitment to our Tribe has been unwavering. Today, I ask for
your vote to continue serving on the Tribal Council, dedicating myself to the Winnebago
people’s betterment.
Our family’s legacy is harvesting Indian Corn, cherished for our heritage. Despite losing
my father in 2014 and brother in 2019, I’ve upheld this tradition, nurturing Native Indian
Corn, and passing its significance to my family.
My journey began in high school when the Winnebago Tribe chose me for summer
youth employment. This marked my start with roles like WIN news assistant editor and
Tribal Enrollment program support. After graduating in 1991, I was Chairman’s Secretary
for two years before performing diverse roles across Tribal departments. From cashier to
Head Start Education Coordinator, I’ve gathered experiences that shape my commitment
to our community.
In 2014, I earned a Liberal Arts Degree from Little Priest Tribal College. I serve on the
Winnebago Public School Board, now as President. I’ve also supported the Native American community as Secretary of the Nebraska Inter Tribal Coalition. Recently appointed
to the HCI Board of Directors, I’m excited to contribute once more.
Why run for Tribal Council? Because I’m prepared to work. It’s not just a job; it’s a
commitment to our people. No task is too small; I pledge dedication to every challenge.
I believe in the potential of the Winnebago people. With open communication and
careful consideration, we can build a brighter future.
Respectfully, please vote for me, Teresa Littlegeorge, to continue uplifting our community.
Thank you,
Teresa Littlegeorge
My English name is Thelma Jane Whitewater,
this name was given to me by my sister Adelma
Whitewater, Her best friend was Thelma Jane Earth,
and when Thelma passed, she gave me that name.
I’m also known to many as “Chickie” a name that
was given to me by my father. My hocak name
is Machupewinga, meaning Good Feather, I am an
Eagle Clan Member. I was blessed to be born to Dr.
Stanford Whitewater Sr. and Marie Wolf
Whitewater, I am also the youngest of 11 children. I have 5 Daughters and 2 sons, with 17
grand-children and 1 great-grandson. My Paternal Grandparents are Leonard Whitewater Sr. and
Edith Prophet, Maternal Grandparents are Daniel Wolf
and Alice Ricehill.
Growing up here in Winnebago, my family
lived a modest, humble life. This life shaped me to how I am today, we learned to improvise,
and survive out in the timbers most all my life, and to this day I still remain on our homestead
from back when the land was allotted to my great grandfather Charles Prophet Jr. I have a rich
family history. All my Grandparents were full blood Hocak. Which makes me full blood Hocak, I’m
glad I chose to come to be born in this creation to Stanford and Marie Whitewater. We are a
traditional family. I know a lot of our family history and ancestry. I know our tribes history and
the struggles our tribe went through to be here today. I feel I carry my ancestors within me.
That guides me to make the right decisions for our tribe.
From the time the white man came to our lands and they took over and colonized the
Indigenous Peoples of America, it caused many of the indigenous to lose their real identity,
we didn’t value money or power, we had our own values that guided us, and things ran smoothly, we
had our clan system that had their responsibilities. This is how our people operated. It was good
and it was working. Nowadays money and power, like the white man is growing strong in our
community, we need to get back to our old ways of thinking and living. How do we do that?
Well it takes education and the wiliness to learn.
When I talk to individuals, I talk of what I know how things used to be, I was raised around
old people and listened. I remember the old ones names, of long ago, I know their stories. I
enjoy so much in speaking of them. This is what I am always willing to share with anyone who
wishes to listen.
We claim we are sovereign. But are we really? I have to say not. We rely on the government
for many things. We need to be self-sufficient and do for our WHOLE tribal membership. We
need to direct any monies we get, to that self-sufficiency and not WASTE the money we get on
nonsense. I see the community of Winnebago doing well, better than other reservations. So many
thanks to those who made good decisions for our tribe. We need to collaborate on issues and
tackle it together in order to make a change. That’s leads me to mention, that back in the 1700-1800s
our tribe was huge and we had around 13 villages scattered, and each had a chief and I think
if at that time, all the 13 villages stuck together and collaborated and fought as ONE, things
would been a lot better for us, at that them villages made different decisions, now here we are
today, but my point is that we work together and we will be that much stronger and Things will
be better for our tribe as a whole. I want the best for our tribe and I think a lot about our tribal
members who live off the reservation, they need to be included in these decisions also. I also
think of those who have addictions, we need to lift them up and support them in their recovery,
they are part of us, I don’t want them over looked and forgotten about.
Another thing is to know your relatives. If you need assistance I can help. We are all related.
It’s your right to vote, make your vote count for our Tribe. Not just because it’s your relative
or friend, but what is needed at the table. A lot is common sense but also requires life experience and
knowledge.
Someone who will do their best to make the right decisions for our people and who be your
voice and advocate for the best interest for Tribal Membership. I am that advocate.
I carry these thoughts in my heart for my people. Machupewinga Niska
Page 6 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, September 2, 2023
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The Thurston County
Attorney’s office is accepting
applications for a part-time
Diversion Coordinator.
Compensation will be based on experience
and qualifications. Please send an application
to the Thurston County Attorney, PO Box 490,
Pender, NE 68047. For more information you
may contact the Thurston County Attorney’s office
at (402) 385-3416. Thurston County is an equal
opportunity employer. This position is subject to
veterans’ preference. Position to remain open
until filled.
WINNEBAGO HOMECOMING
CELEBRATION GOLF
TOURNAMENT 2023’
PINAGIGI TO OUR SPONSORS:
ROCKING L SPREADERS
WINNAVEGAS CASINO
HOCHUNK FARMS
HCI.
WGDC.
LPTC
HELPING HANDS NURSING SOLUTIONS
MORNINGSTAR COUNSELING
CHAMPIONSHIP FLIGHT
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Hearing
Case No. JFJ23-018AB
The People of the Winnebago Tribe
In the Interest of:
K.M. (Born 01/2023)
K.M. (Born 10/2022)
To: KIANDRA MERRICK, MOTHER
GARRETT WHITE LIGHT
You are hereby notified that a hearing
for an Adjudication concerning the above
referred minor individual(s) in case no.
JFJ23-018AB has been scheduled and will
be heard in the Winnebago Tribal Court of
Winnebago, Nebraska on the 19TH day of
SEPTEMBER, 2023 at the hour of 2:30 P.M.
1ST PLACE - TEAM IRLBECK
2ND PLACE - HOCHUNK FARMS
3RD PLACE - TEAM MONIZ
4TH PLACE - TEAM PRICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV23-119B
In the Matter of the
Custody Application of:
Clint Free Jr
In Re:
C.S.
TO:
Jake Maxwell, Father
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. CV23-119B has
been scheduled and will be heard in the
Winnebago Tribal Court of Winnebago,
Nebraska on the 18th day of September,
2023 at the hour of 10:30 A.M.
1ST FLIGHT
1ST PLACE - TEAM ROMERO
2ND PLACE - HELPING HANDS
3RD PLACE - WO-WONK CHOKAS + 1
4TH PLACE - WINNAVEGAS CASINO
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV23-092
In the Matter of the
Guardianship Petition of:
Lloyd Hamilton
In Re:
K.L.
M.L.
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV23-118
In the Matter of the
Guardianship Petition of:
Fred Arrow Sr.
In Re:
M.A. (Born 03/2007)
TO:
TAMARA EWING, MOTHER
TO:
ANGELA ARROW, MOTHER
KARLOS JOHNSON, FATHER
ALL POSSIBLE FATHERS,
HECTOR DIAZ, FATHER
ALL POSSIBLE FATHERS,
You are hereby notified that a petition
has been filed for Guardianship and a
You are hereby notified that a petition hearing concerning the above referred
has been filed for Guardianship and a Individual(s) in Case No. CV23-118 has
hearing concerning the above referred been scheduled and will be heard in the
Individual(s) in Case No. CV23-092 has Winnebago Tribal Court of Winnebago,
been scheduled and will be heard in the Nebraska on the 28TH day of AUGUST,
Winnebago Tribal Court of Winnebago, 2023 at the hour of 10:00 A.M.
Nebraska on the 12TH day of September,
2023 at the hour of 9:30 A.M.
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV23-120AB
In the Matter of the
Guardianship Petition of:
Diana Decora
In Re:
J.P. (Born 07/2010)
J.P. (Born 03/2009)
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Hearing
Case No. CV23-119A
In the Matter of the
Guardianship Petition of:
Clint Free Jr
In Re:
M.S. (Born 01/2008)
TO:
Amanda Decora, Mother
TO:
ROGER LOVE, FATHER
Greg Pearson, Father
ALL POSSIBLE FATHERS,
ALL POSSIBLE FATHERS
You are hereby notified that a petition
You are hereby notified that a petition
has been filed for Guardianship and a has been filed for Guardianship and a
hearing concerning the above referred hearing concerning the above referred
Individual(s) in Case No. CV23-120AB has Individual(s) in Case No. CV23-119A has
been scheduled and will be heard in the been scheduled and will be heard in the
Winnebago Tribal Court of Winnebago, Winnebago Tribal Court of Winnebago,
Nebraska on the 22nd day of August, 2023 Nebraska on the 28th day of August, 2023
at the hour of 3:00 P.M.
at the hour of 10:30 A.M.
Saturday, September 2, 2023 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 7
METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE
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.