October 15, 2025 1:31 pm
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ
October 15, 2025 1:31 pm
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ
Article written By CRIT Media Reporter Ariana Romero
Photography by Naythen T. Lowe
Parker’s best kept secret, nestled over the hill is the Colorado River Indian Tribes(CRIT), Avi Suquilla Airport. From his office, Airport Manager Joshua Philipps enjoys a clear view of the airport runway stretching across the desert floor and the iconic view of “P” Mountain in the distance. At the helm of this unique facility, Philipps has transformed his years of military service and leadership into a role that blends aviation expertise with a deep commitment to the Colorado River Indian Tribes and the Parker community.
Josh grew up far from the desert, on a small dairy farm in Indiana owned by his family for generations. From daily farm duties and taking care of animals, he learned early on the value of hard work and responsibility. In 2001, Josh enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and soon after transferred to the U.S. Army. His military career took him to Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations around the world, where he developed a deep commitment to leadership, safety, and service.
After traveling all over the U.S., Josh sought out the quiet and peaceful desert of CRIT and the refreshing Colorado River, making Parker his home. He first worked as a Senior Training Advisor with Metris Global, hosting active shooter and trainings for CRIT departments including CRIT PD. His experience in military aviation and security training eventually led him to a natural fit for Avi Suquilla Airport.
For Josh, what truly makes CRIT Air special is the employees behind it. “ The staff are the backbone of the airport” he says, proudly recognizing he’s dedicated team. Assistant Manager Cindy Homer, who has served nearly 20 years, leads alongside Administrative Assistant Christina Johnson, Lead Technician Everett Babcock, Fuel Technicians Michael Carter and Jack Fisher, and ED&T youth Tamia Fisher and Candace James. Together this hard working crew keeps daily operations running smoothly, while continuously pursing professional development and certifications to ensure the airport continues to grow and operate efficiently.
The airport itself is unique, Avi Suquilla is one of the few tribal airports in the nation that supports a commercial side of operations. It hosts a variety of aircraft, from military A400s and T-6 trainers to private planes and Hawkers, and also serves as a base for free-fall training, parachuting, and full mission exercises for the military. (more…)
The CRIT Library was buzzing with excitement August 7th, as children and families gathered for a special Story Time and Cookies event with CRIT Police Officer Andrea Eddy.
Officer Eddy’s lively reading of If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff had the children so excited they could hardly sit still. After the story, CRIT Library Technician, Blanca Quintero handed out colorful craft supplies so the children could design their very own “cookies,” with each cookie uniquely decorated to match its young artist’s style.
Officer Eddy shared some fun facts about herself. Her favorite childhood book? The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle, a timeless story she now enjoys reading to her own daughter. If she could be any children’s book character, she said she’d be Captain Underpants, because her nephews love the character’s silly adventures. She also shared that becoming a police officer was her dream since childhood.
When asked what advice she’d give to kids who want to follow in her footsteps, Officer Eddy encouraged them to “stay out of trouble, find the right people you want to hang out with, and enjoy being a kid as long as possible.”
The CRIT Library thanks Officer Andrea Eddy for sharing her time and we wish her continued safety in her service to the community.
On August 8th three and four year old CRIT Head Start students took their first steps into a brand-new school year. From excited smiles to a few brave tears, these little learners were ready to take on their first day.
Students were welcomed through a colorful tunnel, stopped to wash their hands and then headed to class for breakfast, crafts and learning.
We loved seeing so many helping hands, passing out napkins, spoons, and milk to friends. Here’s to a year of learning, laughter and new adventures. Good Luck Kiddos.
Tribal Elders gathered for an unforgettable day of games, delicious food, and incredible entertainment. Elders enjoyed a hearty lunch, a beautiful fruit display, and variety of desserts in a festive Hawaiian atmosphere.
Guests at the recent Elders Luncheon had the chance to win raffle prizes and participate in games such as Simon Says, Hula Hoop, and Ball Toss. The highlight of the event was the Makai Show, which brought the spirit of the islands to life.
Elder women joined in learning to Hula dance, and the men at the event performed the Haka, a New Zealand ceremonial dance of warriors, proudly showcasing their moves!
To cap off the day, Elders lined up to take photos with the Makai dancers, capturing the perfect “Aloha” moment to remember this special celebration.
Frank Martinez Jr. was recently recognized for his dedicated years of service to Colorado River Indian Tribes.
Frank began his career with CRIT on July 7, 1980 as a Mechanic I in the Auto Shop Dept. Over the past 45+ years, he has earned numerous certifications, each one reflecting his dedication to keeping CRIT’s vehicles safe and reliable for our employees and community.
Frank has devoted his entire career — four and a half decades — to the Tribal Auto Shop, and his commitment has never wavered.
The Tribal Council and Human Resources Department extends its deepest gratitude to Mr. Martinez for his remarkable service, loyalty, and expertise.
Please give a warm welcome to CRIT Fish & Game’s new wardens to its team, Madison Schmeling and tribal member Brandy Eddy. Both women bring unique experience, a love for the outdoors, and an exciting step forward for diversity in the department as the only two female wardens on the team.
Brandy Eddy previously worked as a Security Officer at BlueWater Casino. She shared her excitement about the upcoming hunting seasons and the opportunity to explore more of the reservation. Looking ahead, Brandy hopes to continue her training, complete the academy, and eventually move into a supervisory role within Fish and Game.
Madison Schmeling comes to the department with a degree in biology and chemistry, as well as hands-on experience in Animal Control. She has always wanted to become a Game Warden, calling it her “dream job.” Her passion for fishing, hunting, and spending time outdoors makes this a natural career path for her. Both Brandy and Madison will begin their first step of training at the academy on August 17th in Yuma, Arizona.
The CRIT community looks forward to seeing their contributions to the protection and management of local wildlife and wishes them the very best in this new chapter of their careers.
Article Written by CRIT Reporter Ariana Romero
On August 25, 2025, Senior DOI officials including, Acting Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Water and Science, Scott Cameron, and Acting Commissioner of Reclamation David Palumbo, made a significant visit the Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT) Reservation. He was welcomed by Chairwoman Amelia Flores, Tribal Secretary Josephine Tahbo, Treasurer Anisa Patch, and Council members Bill Beeson, Tommy Drennan, Raeanne Patch, and Tracey Quillen.
Cameron and Palumbo were guided through the reservation by Realty Director Herman Laffoon and Water Resource Director Dillon Esquerra. The tour highlighted the importance of CRIT’s lands and waters, beginning at Headgate Rock Dam and extending across the valley’s farmlands and irrigation canals. Along the way, they were shown the green, thriving fields sustained by the Colorado River, offering a firsthand look at the deep connection between the river and the Tribe’s lifeways.
The visit reinforces the critical role CRIT plays in the stewardship of the Colorado River. By showcasing the Tribe’s sustainable use of the river, CRIT emphasized the importance of protecting this vital resource, building trust, and strengthening government-to-government relationships. The tour also provided a space to discuss CRIT’s rights, responsibilities, and ongoing efforts to conserve, restore, and manage the river system for future generations.
Councilman Tommy Drennan shared that CRIT’s presence in conversations about water is vital and that highlighting these efforts ensures the Tribe remains a central part of shaping the river’s future. “I hope the presence of CRIT is always a part of the solution,” said Drennan. (more…)
The Ten Tribes Partnership (TTP) is seeking a lead contractor. This contractor position is supported by the Colorado River Sustainability Campaign, a fiscally sponsored project of the New Venture Fund.
The TTP was formed in 1992 and is a coalition of ten federally recognized Upper and Lower Basin Tribes that hold water rights in the Colorado River Basin. The member Tribes are: Chemehuevi Indian Tribe, Cocopah Indian Tribe, Colorado River Indian Tribes, Fort Mojave Indian Tribe, Jicarilla Apache Nation, Navajo Nation, Quechan Indian Tribe, Southern Ute Indian Tribe, Ute Indian Tribe, and Ute Mountain Ute Tribe.
The goal of the TTP is to increase the influence of Tribes in Colorado River management and provide support for the protection and use of Tribal water resources. The Colorado River Basin is suffering from extended drought, and the impact of climate change is palpable. TTP is committed to developing a new management framework that uplifts tribal priorities ahead of the 2026 expiration of the 2007 Interim Guidelines. TTP has determined this to be a critical time to hire a Lead Contractor to coordinate its efforts.
Since May 2024, Bryan Enas has been managing the CRIT Food Distribution Program. With nearly 20 years of experience working in warehouses and grocery stores, Bryan has learned the
ins and outs of produce and supervision. Those skills now help him run a program that makes a big difference for families in our community.
The Food Distribution Program is here to support individuals and families who may be lowincome, on social security, students, or just going through a tough time. This program is
available for both tribal and non-tribal members who live on the CRIT Reservation (this also extends to those who live off reservation within a 25 mile radius but you must have at least 1
person in your household who is a CRIT Tribal Member). Everything is confidential, and the goal is to make healthy food more accessible for everyone.
The program offers a variety of items each month such as, fresh fruits and vegetables, pantry staples, meats, dairy, grains, and more. Families can come by and pick up a pre-packed box, or
if transportation is an issue, deliveries can be arranged. For Bryan, this work is personal. “My home is here, my family is here and it’s a blessing to come back and be able to help the community,” he said. Looking ahead, he hopes to add a greenhouse to keep fresh produce growing year-round. If you think you or someone you know might qualify, the program is worth checking out. Applications are simple, and staff are always happy to help walk you through the process.
The CRIT Food Distribution Program is more than just food—it’s about making sure our families are supported, cared for, and never left behind. We highly encourage you to take advantage of this program – follow the link below to download the application to see if you qualify.
CRIT FDP APPLICATION & REQUIREMENTS PDF FY.24-25 (1)
CRIT Food Distribution Program is located at:
13951 2nd Avenue & Mohave Road, Parker, AZ
Phone: (928) 575-1191
Article written by CRIT Media Reporter Ariana Romero
Photography by CRIT Media Tech Naythen T. Lowe
ATTENTION CRIT TRIBAL MEMBERS
Tribal Board/Committee/Commission Vacancies
Applications may be picked up at the Tribal Executive Offices or online at www.critmanatabamessenger.com for the following:
IRRIGATION COMMITTEE
1—Term VACANT Chairman
3—Term VACANT Member
EDUCATION BOARD
1 – Term Expiring 12/31/2025
LIQUOR CONTROL BOARD
1 – Term Alternate Expiring 12/31/2026
ENVIRONMENTAL AGRICULTURAL COMMITTEE
1 – Term Expiring 12/31/2026
ETHICS REVIEW BOARD
2 – Full Term Expiring 12/31/2025
3 -Full Terms-Expiring 12/31/2026
CHILDREN’S RESIDENTIAL CENTER ADVISORY BOARD
1—Term Medical Professional
1—Term VACANT Nurse
1—Term VACANT Parent
1—Term VACANT Parent
1—Term VACANT Behavioral Professional
1—Term VACANT Grandparent
1—Term VACANT Grandparent
ADHOC CEMETERY ADVISORY COMMITTEE
1– Undetermined Term VACANT
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE
2 – Two Year Terms Expiring 12/31/2026
2 – Two Year Terms Expiring 12/31/2027
1 – Two Year Alternate Term Expiring 12/31/2026
Deadline: Until Filled
COLORADO RIVER INDIAN TRIBES
26600 Mohave Road, Parker, Arizona 85344 Telephone (928)669-1280
Email applications to b.c@crit-nsn.gov or drop off at the Executive Offices.
Follow the link to download an application
