Author: sbegay

Growth Fund General Meeting 09122024

The Growth Fund General Meeting is coming up next month. We hope you will join us in person for this informational forum intended to update the Tribal Membership on the Growth Fund’s annual performance, forecast, and answer any questions that attendees may have.

Details below on attendance options:
1. Attend in person – 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Thursday, September 12 at the Sky Ute Casino Resort Event Center,
2. Join us online via Webex – The event will be streamed via Webex for the Tribal Membership only. To ensure this information is only shared with the appropriate individuals, Tribal Members must register for the Webex event separately. Scan the barcode via your smart device to take you directly to the registration page. You can also register by following the link: https://bit.ly/2024sugfGm

If you are not able to attend, the meeting recording will be available on Tribal Member Experience (TMX). As a friendly reminder, this is a closed meeting for the Southern Ute Tribal Membership only. If you have any questions, please get in touch with Jymmy Haddon, Executive Assistant, at (970) 563.5025 or jhaddon@sugf.com.

 

For Immediate Release: Southern Ute Indian Tribe Mourns Loss of Former Council Member and Vice Chairman Alex S. Cloud 08132024

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320
Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 13, 2024

Southern Ute Indian Tribe Mourns Loss of Former Council Member and Vice Chairman Alex S. Cloud

Southern Ute Indian Reservation – The Southern Ute Indian Tribe is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Council Member, Vice Chairman, and beloved community member, Alex S. Cloud.

Cloud was a dedicated Tribal and community leader who made significant contributions to the Southern Ute Indian Tribe throughout his life. As a three-term Tribal Council Member, Cloud also served the community for over 15 years as the head of the Recreation Department. Known for his passion for youth development, Cloud was a mentor and coach to countless young people. He instilled in them the importance of education and hard work, encouraging them to excel in both academics and athletics.

Cloud’s legacy of service and dedication to the Southern Ute Indian Tribe will be remembered and cherished by the community. Our hearts and prayers are with the Cloud and Kent family and the community during this time.

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Southern Ute Indian Tribe Mourns Loss of Former Council Member Alex S. Cloud Press Release 08132024 PDF

BIA Fire Management: Indian Creek Fire Contained 08122024

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
BIA Fire Management – 970.563.4571
Summer Begay, PIO – 970.553.0052
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 12, 2024
Indian Creek Fire – Contained
 
Southern Ute Indian Reservation – The BIA Southern Ute Agency Branch of Fire Management has announced that the Indian Creek Fire is contained. Thank you to the fire crews and personnel from Durango Fire Protection District and the Durango Interagency partners.
To report fires contact:
DURANGO ZONE DISPATCH (970) 385-1324
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Southern Ute Broadband Deployment Project Update

Southern Ute Shared Services would like to share a 2024/2025 Work Plan Update for the Southern Ute Broadband Deployment project. This flyer outlines construction and project areas, timelines, and how to get connected!
– Take advantage of this one-time opportunity for homeowners living within the Reservation’s exterior boundary to obtain fiber internet connections to their residences at no up-front installation/construction cost if you live in the fiber construction project areas.
– Please note the funding does not cover the cost of internet service, but competitive rates will be offered by the Tribe’s approved Internet Services Provider:
        -Xmission: https://xmission.com/southern-ute
-Keep informed of construction progress and fiber-to-the-home availability by signing up at https://bonfirefiber.net.
-This is a multi-year project to complete the Reservation-wide improvement of Broadband, which involves installing nearly 500 miles of fiber. We look forward to serving you soon.
If you have any questions regarding construction timing, how to sign up, or general feedback, please call the Bonfire Fiber Support Line at 888-909-0665 or email support@bonfirefiber.com. You may also contact the Southern Ute Digital Equity Program at 970-563-5555.

BIA Fire Management For Immediate Release: Indian Creek Fire 08082024

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
BIA Fire Management – 970.563.4571
Summer Begay, PIO – 970.553.0052
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 8, 2024
 
Indian Creek Fire
 
Southern Ute Indian Reservation – The BIA Southern Ute Agency Branch of Fire Management has multiple engines and a helicopter near Indian Creek, about 5 miles west of the Animas River. The fire is currently at three acres. There are currently no anticipated impacts to any structures or businesses. Updates will be provided shortly.
Smoke may be visible to the local communities. For information related to air quality, please go to: https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe/wood-smoke-and-health or https://www.southernute-nsn.gov/justice-and-regulatory/epd/air-quality/ambient-monitoring/.
To report fires contact:
DURANGO ZONE DISPATCH (970) 385-1324
 
Photo Credit | Howard Richards Jr. 

Southern Ute Indian Tribe 2024 General Election Dates

The Election Board would like to share key dates for the 2024 General Election for 2 Council Member seats. The Election will be held on Friday, November 1, 2024, from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM at 285 Lakin St., Ignacio, CO 81137.
Please note, the Residency deadline is this Saturday, August 3, 2024.
This information has been mailed to Southern Ute Tribal Members ages 18 and older. If you have any questions, you may contact the Election Board at 970-563-0100 x. 2303/2305/2728/2729/2730. Off-Reservation Tribal Members may call 1-800-772-1236 x. 2303. You may also email election@southernute-nsn.gov.

For Immediate Release: Southern Ute Indian Tribe Outlines Priorities with State Committee 07302024

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320

Summer Begay, Communication Specialist – 970.563.2313

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 30, 2024

Southern Ute Indian Tribe Outlines Priorities with State Committee

Southern Ute Indian Reservation – Chairman Melvin J. Baker and Tribal Council extended a warm welcome to the Colorado American Indian Affairs Interim Study Committee and staff as they visited the Reservation this morning. The committee held an off-site meeting at the Growth Fund building, followed by informative tours of the Tribal Court, Southern Ute Indian Montessori Academy, SunUte Community Center, and the Pine River Indian Irrigation Project.

Tribal Council expressed appreciation for the Committee’s dedication to addressing critical issues impacting the two Ute Tribes. Tribal Council highlighted the importance of legislative support in several key areas, including:

  • Reservation-wide exclusions: Each legislative session, the Tribe must work with legislators on exclusions from proposed bills that apply to the entire State.
  • Federal trust responsibility
  • Recognition of Tribal court orders and warrants
  • Amendments to the state Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA): Strengthening protections for Native American children and families by requiring timely notification to Tribes when Tribal Member youth are in the state system.

“The Colorado American Indian Affairs Interim Study Committee’s visit to our Reservation is a testament to their commitment to understanding the challenges faced by our Tribe,” said Chairman Baker. “We are hopeful that their findings will lead to meaningful policy changes.”

House Majority Leader Representative Monica Duran, Representative Junie Joseph, and Representative Barbara McLachlan were in attendance. Additional committee members: Senator Cleave Simpson, Senator Jessie Danielson, Senator Dylan Roberts, and Representative Ron Weinberg joined virtually.

The Southern Ute Indian Tribe looks forward to continued collaboration with the Colorado American Indian Affairs Interim Study Committee and is optimistic about the potential for positive change.

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For Immediate Release: Southern Ute Economic Development Launches New Event & Business Workshop Series to Support Local Entrepreneurs 07232024

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320
Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JULY 23, 2024
Southern Ute Economic Development Launches New Event & Business Workshop Series to Support Local Entrepreneurs
Southern Ute Indian Reservation – The Southern Ute Indian Tribe is pleased to announce the launch of the new Píinu Núuchi Farmers Market & Outdoor Biz Lab, starting July 26, 2024, at the parking lot in front of KSUT Radio Station. The Farmers Market will be every Friday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm through October 11, 2024.  Vendors are required to be present during the market core hours of 11:00 am to 2:00 pm.
The 12-week event and business workshop series, led by the Tribe’s Economic Development Department will serve as a small business incubator, providing local agriculture producers, artisans, and other entrepreneurs with an accessible marketplace and support through various workshops hosted during the market. There will be weekly door prizes, live entertainment, plus a grand prize drawing at the season finale on October 11, 2024.
“This initiative is a testament to our commitment to fostering a thriving local economy. By providing a platform for entrepreneurs and businesses to connect, grow, and succeed, we aim to empower our community and strengthen our region. Our goal is to equip local businesses with the tools, support, and network necessary to reach their full potential,” said Chairman Melvin J. Baker.
Vendor booth spaces are assigned on a first-come-first-served basis, with priority given to Southern Ute Tribal Members. All spaces are uncovered, measuring approx. 12’X10’ with a limited number of booths with access to power. If power is required, vendors are encouraged to sign up for the entire season by August 1, 2024 at 10:00 pm to guarantee their spot and receive a 10% discount. Vendors may sign up for individual dates and pay incrementally as well. The deadline to sign up for individual markets will be 9:00 am on the Tuesday prior to the next market.  Please see the table for fee rates by clicking the link or images below.
The Píinu Núuchi Farmers Market and Outdoor Biz Lab is a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs living on the Southern Ute Indian Reservation and the surrounding community to sell their products and enhance their business. Together with vendors and partners, the Business Workshop series seeks to foster economic growth and sustainability. The series is taught by subject matter experts from (Colorado State University Extension, Pueblo Community College, Fort Lewis College, and more). Vendors can sign up and learn more at or using the below QR code. Additional information can be found at southernute-nsn.gov/eco-dev. You may contact the Economic Development Department at 970-563-2281.
Píinu Núuchi Farmers Market & Outdoor Biz Lab 2024 Vendor Sign-Up Form
Southern Ute Economic Development works to enhance the economic environment of the Southern Ute Indian Reservation by supporting development that elevates the standard of living and economic resiliency of the Reservation. They provide comprehensive support and training for entrepreneurs looking to start, run, or expand their business.
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BIA Fire Management: Six Shooter Fire Contained 07122024

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

BIA Fire Management – 970.563.4571
Summer Begay, PIO – 970.553.0052
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 12, 2024
Six Shooter Fire Contained
 
Southern Ute Indian Reservation – The Six Shooter Fire is 100% contained. The BIA Southern Ute Agency Branch of Fire Management is working to demobilize resources. Thank you to the fire crews and personnel from the San Juan Hotshots, Los Pinos Fire Protection District, Durango Fire Protection District, and the Ute Mountain Ute helicopter team.
Smoke may be visible to the local communities. For information related to air quality, please go to: https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe/wood-smoke-and-health or https://www.southernute-nsn.gov/justice-and-regulatory/epd/air-quality/ambient-monitoring/.
To report fires contact:
DURANGO ZONE DISPATCH (970) 385-1324
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– Summer Begay, Communication Specialist