Category: Press Releases

Administration Community Culture Health Press Releases Tribal Members Uncategorized Veterans

Growth Fund Announces Arrowhead Propane as Strategic Supplier

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FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 16, 2023 Growth Fund Announces Arrowhead Propane as Strategic Supplier Southern Ute Indian Reservation – In early 2023, the Southern Ute Tribal Council became aware of instances where propane fuel suppliers had failed to make timely deliveries, leaving Tribal Members without reliable and consistent heat during the winter months, in some cases for extended periods of time. Tribal Council requested the Growth Fund’s assistance to evaluate and propose options for improved reliability of propane delivery to Tribal Members. To assess Tribal Members’ experiences, the Growth Fund partnered with Tribal Information Services to conduct a survey, which was released in July 2023 on the Tribal Member Portal and paper surveys were mailed to Tribal elders for inclusion of all voices. The results of the survey indicated a significant difference between the suppliers in the area. The overall conclusion is that four of the six suppliers were the most prominent. Two national suppliers, which provide service to many survey respondents, were given an average customer satisfaction rating, while two of regional suppliers scored very high in customer satisfaction. After further consultation, one highly […]

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Administration Community Culture Health Press Releases Tribal Members

History Colorado Publicly Releases Federal Indian Boarding School Research Final Report

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 3, 2023 History Colorado Publicly Releases Federal Indian Boarding School Research Final Report Southern Ute Indian Reservation – History Colorado has fulfilled its legislative mandate under House Bill 22-1327 by releasing a comprehensive final report that promotes a greater understanding of the impacts of the Boarding School era in Colorado and investigates the lived experiences of students during this period. The report was prepared in consultation with the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, Fort Lewis College, and other entities. The final report has been made publicly available on the History Colorado website. Tribal members may also access the report through the Tribal Member Experience. The report sheds light on the egregious history of Federal Indian Boarding Schools across the United States. This era, unfortunately, saw education being used as a tool to eliminate traditional Indigenous language, culture, knowledge, and identity, primarily targeting children for assimilation. “This report is a vital step toward acknowledging and understanding the painful legacy of Federal Indian Boarding Schools”, said Chairman Melvin J. Baker. The report provides an overview of HB 22-1327, a […]

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Administration Community Culture Health Press Releases Tribal Members

Governor Polis and Lt. Governor Primavera visit Southern Ute Indian Tribe

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 2, 2023   Governor Polis and Lt. Governor Primavera visit Southern Ute Indian Tribe Southern Ute Indian Reservation – Chairman Baker and Tribal Council, extended a warm welcome to Colorado Governor Jared Polis, Lieutenant Governor Dianne Primavera, and the Colorado Commission of Indian Affairs Director Kathryn Redhorse during a visit to the Southern Ute Indian Tribe. During a productive meeting, a wide range of critical issues were discussed that hold significant importance for the Tribal community and the State of Colorado. These topics included Broadband, Behavioral Health, Housing, Transit, and legislative concerns, showcasing a commitment to addressing the pressing needs of both parties for the benefit of Tribal and Non-Tribal residents. Informative presentations were provided by the Southern Ute Shared Services and the Tribal Health Department. Chairman Baker and Governor Polis highlighted the importance of maintaining and strengthening the sovereign-to-sovereign relationship. “This relationship is progressive and has been a model for State and Tribal relationships”, said Chairman Baker. Governor Polis expressed willingness to elevate and collaborate with the Tribe on issues. Both leaders expressed interest in identifying future opportunities for […]

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Administration Community Health Press Releases Tribal Members

For Immediate Release: Biden Administration Initiative Allocates Vital Resources to Address Legacy Pollution

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 22, 2023 Biden Administration Initiative Allocates Vital Resources to Address Legacy Pollution Southern Ute Indian Reservation – The Department of the Interior has announced an initial allocation of nearly $40 million as part of President Biden’s “Investing in America” initiative. This substantial funding represents the first phase of a comprehensive effort to support Tribal communities in addressing abandoned oil and gas wells across Indian Country. The primary goals of this investment include advocating for Tribal land rights, promoting economic opportunities, addressing legacy pollution, and mitigating environmental hazards. The Southern Ute Department of Energy (DOE), in collaboration with the Tribe’s Contracts and Grants Department, applied for a grant under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Section 40601 Orphaned Well Program from the Department of Interior. Their grant application was specifically tailored to secure funds for conducting technical and field investigations into legacy plugged and abandoned wells, ensuring their integrity and long-term environmental protection. Andy Wetherell, Energy Manager at the Southern Ute Department of Energy, said, “the team is appreciative of Tribal Council’s support and the collaboration with the Tribe’s Contracts and Grants Department […]

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