Press Releases – Page 6 – Southern Ute Indian Tribe

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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.

Winter Weather Reminder

February 14, 2025 by sbegay

We know the winter weather has caused some power outages, and we want to let you know our staff is working diligently to clear the snow as quickly and safely as possible. For your safety, we urge you to avoid travel unless it is essential. For updates and information, please call the Tribal hotline at 970-563-4800. If you have any concerns, please contact Executive Officer Lindsay J. Box at 970-563-2314. Thank you for your patience and understanding! Stay safe and warm!

Inclement Weather: Closure

February 14, 2025 / February 18, 2025 by sbegay

Tribal Office Closure Due to inclement weather, Chairman Baker has granted administrative leave for employees today, February 14, 2025. Tribal Offices will be closed. Normal business hours will resume at 8:00 AM on February 18, 2025. Tribal Members and the general public are encouraged to reschedule any business to be conducted during this closure. Please continue to monitor weather-related updates via Tribal social media platforms, Tribal website, and the Tribal Hotline at 970-563-4800. Safe Travels and Stay Warm!

For Immediate Release: Tribal Leaders Meet to Discuss Shared Interests and Opportunities

February 13, 2025 by sbegay

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 13, 2025 Tribal Leaders Meet to Discuss Shared Interests and Opportunities Southern Ute Indian Reservation – Chairman Melvin J. Baker and Tribal Council welcomed Jicarilla Apache Nation President Adrian Notsinneh and the Jicarilla Apache Legislative Council to the Growth Fund yesterday afternoon for a productive meeting. The meeting included a presentation by Growth Fund Executive Director Shane Seibel, and Operating Director Kourtney Hadrick. The meeting focused on fostering collaboration and strengthening the relationship between the two Tribes. Discussions included sharing ideas and experiences, recognizing that mutual cooperation is crucial for identifying solutions and advancing shared goals. “True progress comes from collaboration. We gained valuable insights from the Jicarilla Apache Nation’s experiences, and we were able to share our own. These exchanges are essential for building a solid foundation of understanding and cooperation, enabling us to tackle complex issues and achieve meaningful results for our Tribes. President Notsinneh and I look forward to future meetings and opportunities,” shared Chairman Baker. The Southern Ute Indian Tribe looks forward to continuing this important dialogue and working together with the Jicarilla Apache Nation. ###

Ignacio School District Resource Guide

February 12, 2025 by sbegay

Making a difference, together 🐾 Ignacio School District‘s new Resource Center guide is here to support our students and families. For more information, please visit https://www.ignacioschools.org/ . Designed by Lea Leggitt, ISD ISDResourceCenterFlyer

Category: Press Releases