Category: Elections

Administration Community Culture Elections Health Press Releases Tribal Members Uncategorized Veterans

Missing Indigenous Person Alert Activation: 04/02/2024

by sbegay

Missing Indigenous Person Alert Activation: 04/02/2024 Audrina Bartley was last seen on Sunday, March 24, 2024 at 11:30 AM in Albuquerque, NM possibly headed to Durango, CO. Audrina was wearing a white hoodie with “faith over fear”, black skinny jeans, pink shirt, and a white puma backpack. She was not wearing glasses when she was last seen. If seen, please call 911 or the Southern Ute Police Department at970-563-4401.

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Administration Community Culture Elections Health Press Releases Tribal Members Uncategorized Veterans

PSA: Bear Dance Fire Burn Area Trail Closure and Temporary Ute Road Closure

by sbegay

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – (970) 563.0100 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist – (970) 563.2313 FOR RELEASE: April 01, 2024 Bear Dance Fire Burn Area Trail Closure and Temporary Ute Road Closure Southern Ute Indian Reservation: On June 3, 2022, the Bear Dance Fire ignited on tribal trust land and burned eighty-nineacres north of the Bear Dance grounds and along the Los Pinos River. In the aftermath, the Environmental Programs Division (EPD) had observed hazardous materials mixed in with the burn area debris on the ground surface in areas paralleling Ute Road. The fire exposed these areas and the presence of hazardous materials, which created a concern for public health. Out of an abundance of caution, Tribal Council closed the Bear Dance Fire burn area. EPD and various environmental professionals have assessed air, soil, water, and vegetation samplings and determined that there is currently minimal risk to human health and the environment. With a commitment to environmental stewardship, Tribal Council has directed EPD to remove these surface materials and remediate the area. Remediation will commence on April 1, 2024, and the project will consist of debris pile removal and the capping of any remaining material in place. While the […]

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Administration Community Culture Elections Health Press Releases Tribal Members Uncategorized Veterans

For Immediate Release: Southern Ute Indian Tribe welcomes new Sky Ute Casino Resort General Manager

by sbegay

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 27, 2024 Southern Ute Indian Tribe welcomes new Sky Ute Casino Resort General Manager Southern Ute Indian Reservation – The Southern Ute Indian Tribe warmly welcomes Mr. Thomas Frank as the new General Manager of the Sky Ute Casino Resort. Mr. Frank will be starting on April 3, 2024, following an impressive career of more than thirty years of experience in business development and casino operations spanning four states and three countries: Brazil, Peru, and Ecuador. Throughout his career, Mr. Frank has played a key role in the development and implementation of over ten gaming start-up projects. This impressive track record includes work with the Blue Lake Rancheria Tribe of California, Tolowa Dee-Ni’ Nation, and at the Dakota Sioux Casino. As General Manager, Frank will oversee the daily operations of the Sky Ute Casino Resort and all its amenities, including gaming and entertainment, hotel, restaurants, conference center, and bowling. “We believe his extensive experience and proven leadership will be instrumental in driving positive change and will continue Sky Ute Casino Resort’s legacy as the premier entertainment destination in Southwestern Colorado,” […]

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Administration Community Culture Elections Health Tribal Members Uncategorized Veterans

Save the Date: QueerMunity Pride Conference

by sbegay

Save the Date: The Ignacio Out and Equal Alliance (IOEA) is hosting the first QueerMunity Pride Conference on June 29th, 2024 in Ignacio, CO. IOEA is accepting workshop proposals until April 25th, 2024. Please scan the QR code or visit the link. Additional details are forthcoming! For more information, please contact IOEA at ignaciooutandequal@gmail.com. -Summer Begay, Communication Specialist.

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Administration Community Culture Elections Health Press Releases Tribal Members Uncategorized Veterans

For Immediate Release: Tribal Council Advocates for Tribal Interests at the State Capitol

/ by sbegay

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 20, 2024 Tribal Council Advocates for Tribal Interests at the State Capitol Ute Day at the Capitol was officially designated by Governor Jared Polis in 2019 to publicly celebrate and honor the contributions and sovereignty of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, and the Ute Indian Tribe. In addition, this designation encourages Coloradans to actively seek knowledge about the history and heritage of the Ute people in Colorado’s past, present, and future. That history has long been one of broken promises and the infringement of Tribal lands and sovereignty. Agreements with the Ute bands have been dishonored for the economic gains of others. This disrespect is not a relic of a distant past but far too often continues today. To address ongoing violations and historical injustice, Tribal Council traveled to Denver last week to meet with state legislators and the Governor to emphasize the importance of the State to uphold its commitment to Tribal agreements, particularly those concerning Tribal land. On Friday, March 15, 2024, Chairman Baker gave a powerful address to the General Assembly. He […]

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Administration Community Culture Elections Tribal Members Uncategorized

Southern Ute Election Board: Vacancy

/ by sbegay

The Southern Ute Election Board is seeking two Regular Board Members and two Alternate Board Members 🗳️ The Election Board is a paid committee that follows IRS guidelines, and eligibility for Southern Ute Employee benefits are based on hours. A criminal background check is required and as an appointed official of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, you are subject to the Code of Ethics. Qualifications; 11-2-102, (1) & (3): Must be a Southern Ute Tribal Registered Voter Must reside within the exterior boundaries of the Southern Ute Indian Reservation Shall not have been convicted of a felony Shall not have been convicted of a misdemeanor involving dishonesty or fraud within five years immediately preceding the appointment To apply, please submit a Letter of Intent to Human Resources, PO Box 737 Ignacio, CO 81137. Please see the graphic for a full list of requested information to be included in the letter: Full Name Contact Information (i.e. address, phone number, email address) Date It is suggested and helpful to include one or more of the following details: Description of why you are a good fit for the position Explanation of your motivation to join the Committee List relevant experience Outline ideas of […]

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Administration Community Culture Elections Health Press Releases Tribal Members Veterans

Tribal Broadband Modernization Project: Phase II Construction Update & Traffic Impacts

by sbegay

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970-563-2320 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist – 970-563-2313 FOR RELEASE: February 05, 2024 Tribal Broadband Modernization Project: Phase II Construction Update & Traffic Impacts Project News: Phase II is underway and construction has begun to connect fiber to homes! Where: Crews will be working within the Ignacio town limits, CR-517 near the Sky Ute Casino and Ute Rd. Construction will take place along the edge of the roadways/alleyways. Please see the maps with construction zones indicated in red. What: The broadband project will include trenching, boring, and plowing to lay fiber, as well as reclamation and seeding. Construction vehicles and fiber spools will be visible on the shoulder. When: Construction is ongoing. Hours of operation will be from 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Travel Impact: Parking lanes, sidewalks, and alleyways may be temporarily closed during operations. Motorists will be required to reduce speeds and travel safely around the construction taking place on the side of the road. Please remember to slow down in construction zones, eliminate distractions, and drive with extra caution. Motorists are also urged to watch for workers and equipment along the roadway. In the event of an emergency or […]

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Administration Community Culture Elections Tribal Members Uncategorized Veterans

Chairman Baker Welcomes Box as Executive Officer

by abarry

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 03, 2024 Chairman Baker Welcomes Box as Executive Officer Southern Ute Indian Reservation – In a strategic move to enhance leadership and organizational stewardship, Chairman Melvin J. Baker proudly announces the appointment of Ms. Lindsay J. Box as the Executive Officer of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s Permanent Fund. Ms. Box, with a proven track record of leadership brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Having traversed key positions within the Tribe, she possesses invaluable insights and a versatile skill set crucial for the strategic management and growth of the Permanent Fund. Box’s journey includes roles such as Tribal Council Communication Specialist, where she fostered crucial relationships and established robust communication channels to advance the Tribe’s vision. Her expertise as an HR Compliance Specialist contributed to operational excellence at the Southern Ute Growth Fund, showcasing her adeptness in policy formulation and human resources management. Box’s connection to her Nuuchiu heritage fuels her dedication to ensuring traditions thrive alongside modern advancements. Serving on the Board of Directors for the National Tribal Energy Association and CommonSpirit’s Mercy Hospital, she has demonstrated […]

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Administration Community Culture Elections Health Press Releases Tribal Members Uncategorized Veterans

For Immediate Release: Stability and Renewal Baker Leads the Tribe into Second Term with New Council 12/18/2023

by abarry

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 18, 2023 Stability and Renewal: Baker Leads the Tribe into Second Term with New Council Southern Ute Indian Reservation – The Southern Ute Indian Tribe welcomed Chairman, Melvin J. Baker and Council Member, Marty Pinnecoose during the Inauguration Ceremony this morning at Sky Ute Casino Resort. Surrounded by family, tribal members, and visiting dignitaries, the ceremony marked a momentous occasion for the Tribe as it embraced Council Member Pinnecoose for his first term and Chairman Baker for his second term as Chairman. Chairman Melvin J. Baker, a dedicated advocate for tribal sovereignty, brings a wealth of experience to his new term. Baker previously served four terms on Tribal Council. With a commitment to preserving and enhancing the resources, tradition, and identity of the Pino Nuuchiu, Chairman Baker is poised to lead the Tribe with vision and resilience. “Your faith in my leadership is truly inspiring. I am deeply grateful for your unwavering support and the privilege of serving as Chairman for another term”, stated Chairman Baker. Council Member Marty Pinnecoose looks forward to beginning to his first term on Tribal […]

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