Press Releases – Page 10 – Southern Ute Indian Tribe

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For Immediate Release: Measles Case Identified in Archuleta County: Staying Informed and Protected

April 9, 2025 / April 9, 2025 by sbegay

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 9, 2025 Measles Case Identified in Archuleta County: Staying Informed and Protected Southern Ute Indian Reservation – The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), Archuleta County Public Health Department (ACPHD), and the Silver Thread Public Health District have confirmed a case of measles in an adult resident of Archuleta County. We are sharing this information to ensure the Tribal Membership is informed and can take proactive steps to protect themselves. While measles is highly contagious, it is also highly preventable. The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) offers excellent protection. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective in preventing measles. Vaccination is the most effective way to safeguard yourself, your family, and our community.Measles Case Identified in Archuleta County Staying Informed and Protected Press Release To make vaccination easily accessible, the Southern Ute Health Center is offering the MMR vaccine through Tribal Health. If you were born before 1957, you may already have immunity and not require the vaccine. If you are unsure about your immunity status or have any questions, please contact Tribal Health at […]

General Meeting Attendance Options

March 18, 2025 / March 19, 2025 by sbegay

The General Meeting will be held on Thursday, April 17, 2025 starting at 9:00 AM at Sky Ute Casino Resort in the Event Center. This is a closed meeting for the Southern Ute Tribal Membership only. There are 3 ways to join the General Meeting: 1. In-Person: Registration is not required, and we look forward to seeing you there! 2. Live Stream: Registration is required. Please use the following link or QR code to register with your information and census number. To expedite the process please use your “so-ute” email address. Please do not share your registration information with anyone. Link: https://bit.ly/2025gm *This link is case-sensitive 3. Recording: If you are not able to attend, the live stream recording will be available on the Tribal Member Portal. The agenda is forthcoming and will be made available on the Tribal Member Portal in advance of the General Meeting. For more information, please contact Tribal Council Affairs at 970-563-2319. For technical assistance with your “so-ute” account, please contact SUDEP at 970-563-5555.

Ute Day at the Capitol 2025

March 17, 2025 by sbegay

Tribal and State leadership will celebrate the rich heritage, culture, and contributions of the Nuuchiu to the State of Colorado during Ute Day at the Capitol on Thursday, April 3, 2025 in Denver, Colorado at the State Capitol (200 E. Colfax Ave). The Speaking Program will begin at 8:30 a.m. and conclude at 9:45 a.m. The agenda is detailed below: – Invocation – Drum Group: Yellow Jacket – Color Guard: Ute Mountain Ute Veterans – Remarks: Governor Polis, Lt. Governor Primavera, & Ute Tribal Chairmen Manuel Heart and Melvin J. Baker – Ute Youth Council & Royalty Introductions A lunch will be held at History Colorado (1200 Broadway, Denver, CO) starting at 12:30 p.m., followed by presentations until 3:30 p.m. This event is open to Tribal Members and the public. Attendees are responsible for arranging their transportation and accommodations. Specialty Tours will be available and led by Capitol staff. Sign-up sheets will be available at the event on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, please contact the Colorado Commission of Indian Affairs at 720-402-4206, SUIT Tribal Council Affairs at 970-563-2313, or the UMUT Administration Office at 970-564-5600.

Indigenous Rights in 2025: A Symposium on Current Legal Issues in Indigenous Communities

March 17, 2025 / March 17, 2025 by sbegay

We are excited to announce our sponsorship of “Indigenous Rights in 2025: A Symposium on Current Legal Issues in Indigenous Communities”, hosted by the Texas Journal on Civil Liberties & Civil Rights! Join us on Friday, March 28th, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM MT online via Zoom ⚖️ Attendees opting for in-person participation will be responsible for their personal travel and lodging arrangements. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn from leading Indigenous scholars, activists, and organizers from across the country. Topics will include Federal Indian Law, Tribal sovereignty, and environmental justice. Registration is FREE! 👉 bit.ly/TJCLCR25 There will be a free screening of the Oscar-nominated documentary “SUGARCANE,” with a special introduction by the Director, following the symposium.

Agriculture Producers Gathering 03222025

March 13, 2025 / March 13, 2025 by sbegay

Tribal Members involved in agriculture, whether currently assigned, interested in future assignments, or designated as beneficiaries, are invited to a gathering hosted by Treasurer James “Mike” Olguin and Tribal Council. This will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Multi-Purpose Facility in the Large Room. A lunch will be provided and prepared by Treasurer Olguin. Discussion topics will include: Formation of an Experienced Farmer Work Group: Gauge interest in establishing a collaborative work group of experienced farmers to guide and support new Tribal farmers. Comprehensive Agricultural Land Management Plan: Discussion on the Agricultural Land Management Plan, its goals and objectives. Producer Needs and System Improvement: Openly addressing the needs of agricultural producers, exploring new ideas, and providing a platform for constructive feedback on current systems. For more information or questions, please contact Treasurer James “Mike” Olguin at 970.563.2404 or miolguin@southernute-nsn.gov.

For Immediate Release: Preserving Ute Culture: Committee passes Free State Park Access Bill 02252025

February 25, 2025 / February 25, 2025 by sbegay

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Marvin Pinnecoose, Vice Chairman – 970.563.2402 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 25, 2025 Preserving Ute Culture: Committee passes Free State Park Access Bill Southern Ute Indian Reservation – The Southern Ute Indian Tribe is pleased to announce the unanimous passage of Colorado House Bill 25-1163, granting enrolled Tribal Members free access to all 43 Colorado State Parks, out of the House Agricultural, Water & Natural Resources committee. This landmark state legislation acknowledges our enduring connection to our ancestral homelands and ensures our cultural heritage is preserved for future generations. This bill, sponsored by Representatives Katie Stewart and Rick Taggert, recognizes the Ute Tribes as the original stewards of these lands, honoring our deep historical and cultural ties to the natural resources within Colorado’s state parks. For countless generations, the Nuuchiu have utilized and respected these lands, waters, and wildlife. The ability to freely access these parks is crucial for Tribal Members to continue our responsibility to care for these lands, as our ancestors have done for centuries. While we recognize the advocacy from other Tribes for expanded access, this legislation reflects the distinct sovereign-to-sovereign relationship between the State of Colorado and the […]

For Immediate Release: Statement on Sky Ute Casino Resort

February 20, 2025 by sbegay

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Marvin Pinnecoose, Vice Chairman – 970.563.2402 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 20, 2025 Statement on Sky Ute Casino Resort Southern Ute Indian Reservation – Tribal Council remains steadfast in our commitment to the safety and well-being of our Tribal Members, guests, staff, and community. We are working closely with Tribal and local law enforcement, who are actively collaborating to address the situation. We will continue to provide appropriate and timely updates while remaining committed to protecting the integrity of the investigation. The Southern Ute Indian Tribe and Sky Ute Casino Resort are taking every necessary precaution to maintain a safe, secure, and welcoming environment. We deeply appreciate the patience, trust, and support of our community and staff as we work diligently toward a positive resolution. Your safety is our top priority, and we are fully committed to ensuring peace of mind for all. At our After Action Report Meeting this afternoon, there were several positive takeaways that can serve as comfort to the community. The response time from the initial call to evacuation and relocation was mere minutes. This is evidence of the committed and knowledgeable staff within the Tribal organization, as […]

All Clear: Sky Ute Casino Resort

February 19, 2025 / February 20, 2025 by sbegay

Sky Ute Casino Resort Update | February 20, 2025 1:05 AM The situation at Sky Ute Casino Resort has been safely resolved. Law enforcement remains present as a precaution. A thorough sweep of the premises has been conducted, and NO items of concern were located. All clear has been granted, however, access to Sky Ute Casino Resort remains restricted. Normal operations will resume on Thursday, February 20, 2025 at 7:00 AM. Hotel guests may visit the Front Desk to gain access to their rooms. We extend our sincere appreciation to the Southern Ute Police Department, Tribal Rangers, Ignacio Police Department, La Plata County Sheriff’s Office, Los Pinos Fire Protection District, and the SunUte Community Center for their response and assistance.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement Update

February 19, 2025 by sbegay

Immigration and Customs Enforcement Update | February 19, 2025 Vice Chairman Marvin Pinnecoose and Tribal Council participated in a productive virtual meeting this afternoon with a local representative from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Also present were Executive Officer Lindsay J. Box, Justice and Regulatory Director Elliott Salazar, and Chief of Police Michael Barrow. This meeting established a foundation for ongoing collaboration and information sharing between the Tribe and ICE. Discussions focused on mutual areas of interest and priorities, with both parties expressing a commitment to open communication. Tribal Council welcomed ICE’s recognition of Tribal sovereignty and its willingness to work cooperatively with the Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s law enforcement. This initial dialogue is a positive step towards building a stronger working relationship and underscores the Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s proactive approach to community safety and well-being. There is no indication of any immediate threat to the Tribal Membership.

Finance Department – Check Pick Up 02/14/2025

February 14, 2025 / February 14, 2025 by sbegay

Need to pick up a check? The Finance Department will have a staff member available until 12:00 PM today, February 14, 2025, at the Cashier’s Window in the Leonard C. Burch building.

Category: Press Releases