October 15, 2025 12:54 pm
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ
October 15, 2025 12:54 pm
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ
CRIT is proud to share exciting developments with ‘Amat Kuhwely, LLC which is expanding CRIT’s farming operations. With majority CRIT ownership, CRIT is entering a powerful new chapter: creating jobs, strengthening our economic sovereignty, and making full use of our water and land for the benefit of future generations.
Through an investment with Indigena Capital, this new venture will:
✅ Invest over $23.7 million in the first two years
✅ Create skilled trade and professional jobs
✅ Expand CRIT’s water use rights on Reservation
✅ Honor our heritage while building long-term prosperity
Learn more about the vision, impact, and opportunities of ‘Amat Kuhwely in our latest FAQ release.
Any comments, questions, or concerns you have about this new venture, please reach out to amatkuhwely@crit-nsn.gov and you can view the PDF online by clicking on this link: https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:va6c2:23d1fe0e-abd8-44e3-9d1a-07dbb8aa1160
The CRIT SDP-Recreation Program brought together families, athletes, and community members for a day of friendly competition and patriotic celebration—on July first.
The day began with a high-energy Youth 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament inside Irataba Hall. Athletes from ages 10–17 laced up and hit the hardwood, competing for medals, bragging rights, and the roar of the crowd.
CRIT’s July 4th celebration and BBQ took place at Manataba Park. The day was organized by Jaymee Li Moore with help from CRIT Maintenance.
Speakers included CRIT Chairwoman Amelia Flores along with Tribal Councilmembers Anisa Patch, and Tommy Drennan. They provided information about proposed Personhood Status for the Colorado River and they received input and opinions from tribal members.
Pastor Jackson Short served as emcee delivering an opening prayer and announcing raffles and giveaways.
Ndnjoe Parker Moore served beverages, Carrie Burns ran the popcorn stand, and Debbie Pettigrew with the EDNT & 4-H members served the delicious food cooked by the CRIT Fire Department.
Elders were assisted by CRIT Royalty and CRIT Wildland Fire.
Power has been restored to most if not all impacted residents. If you are still without power call BIA electric at 928-669-7119. If you need assistance call CRIT dispatch at 928-669-1277 or 911 if it’s an emergency.
These lessons can save lives. On June 24, 2025, a CPR certification class was hosted by the CRIT Education Development & Training (ED&T) Department.
The training took place at the CRIT Fire Department and was led by Assistant Fire Chief Robert Esquerra and Captain David Corona.
The students—participants in the ED&T Summer Youth Program—started off watching and instructional CPR video, then practiced hands-on chest compressions and rescue techniques using CPR manikins.
Students such as Leo Scott Jr. and Renzo Tahbo gave it their all, practicing compressions with focus and determination. Meanwhile, Kayle Drennan carefully listened for signs of life, showing just how seriously these students took the training.
The CRIT Education Department honored students who achieved Honor Roll and Principals Honor Roll throughout the 2024-2025 academic year at its 42nd annual Education Awards Banquet at the Blue Water Resort & Casino Showroom.
The event recognized academic excellence among CRIT students from Kindergarten through 12th grade, as well as college students and adult learners completing certificates courses.
The Showroom was decorated with balloon arches, fresh floral centerpieces, and twinkling lights.
Guests were treated to a dinner catered by Emerson’s Frybread. Students competed for raffle prizes. Each honored student received a personalized plaque and a Walmart gift card in recognition of their hard work and dedication.
(more…)
Follow the link for information on qualifications and to download related forms.Board Managers Opening ‘Amat Kuhwely, LLC
CRIT recently welcomed KUNC News Reporter Alex Hager, who was interested in covering CRIT’s Personhood Status and why it is so important to the Colorado River Indian Tribes. Upon his visit, he interviewed Water Resource Director Dillon Esquerra, Councilwoman Anisa Patch, and Chairwoman Amelia Flores, each offering insight into why this initiative is vital for the tribe and future generations.
The day began with a visit to the Ahakhav Preserve, where Acting Director Marisol Chavira highlighted how the plants, trees, and natural environment are deeply connected to cultural traditions, from crafting gourds to the sacred use of wood in burials. Alex showed a great interest in learning about the cultural and historic roots of CRIT, and both Dillon and Marisol provided an in-depth explanation of the tribe’s connection to the land and river. Hager then toured Willow Beach, a scenic area of the Preserve, before continuing on to CRIT Chambers for interviews.
Councilwoman Anisa Patch shared her perspective on the river’s personhood status, reflecting on her upbringing along the river and its role as a lifeline for tribal members. Chairwoman Amelia Flores further emphasized the importance, stating: “It is essential for us to take care of the river, to protect and defend it. We need to protect the river for future generations.”
The Personhood status is currently being considered as CRIT tribal law, a groundbreaking step that would formally recognize the Colorado River as a living entity under the tribe’s governance. For CRIT, this is not only a legal step but it builds on the foundation of our beliefs, reflecting the longstanding cultural and spiritual commitment to the river, which has sustained the people, land and traditions for countless generations. Establishing Personhood Status will ensure CRIT beliefs are always held by all future council members and chair persons. This will be the foundation CRIT stands by and relies on when future tough decisions will need to be made about the river. Raising awareness about the personhood initiative is key. It allows both tribal members and the broader public to understand the importance of protecting the Colorado River, not just as a resource, but as a relative, a lifeblood, and a sacred responsibility.
“We are the people along the river, Hamakhav. It’s within us, that’s who we are” says Chairwoman Flores.
Councilman Raeanne Patch provided additional details and context in a follow up interview with Alex detailing the importance of the Personhood Status.
To learn more, you can read Alex Hager’s full article or listen to his podcast at KUNC follow this link.
