SRPMIC Elections Information

My administrative background; 3 terms as councilman 2014 to present.
Over 20 years of past employment for the community, in law enforcement
and our court system. During that time, I earned leadership roles in law
enforcement, court advocacy and had successive council enterprise board
appointments with chairmanships. I have a formal education in Business
management and Administration of justice.

During my terms I have practiced transparency in government. Advocated
for individual rights in employment, the ability of community members to
express their concerns in private and public forums. I strive to maintain
good relationships with our enterprises, our sibling tribes and outsides
businesses for creating revenue streams. With continued productive
relationships with the state and federal governments.

My concerns are the practices our government has taken in matters of our
rights and well-being regarding tribal services. My need, your need for
communication, transparency and accountability from our administration
and those employees who are responsible for your services is my agenda.
Further there has always been the goal of having community members in
management positions in every department, that is has not been fulfilled.

We lack true self-governance wherein our government allows
implementation of foreign or personal standards and practices in
departmental function or employee relations. There is no administrative
oversite or accountability to determine whether those functions or relations
serve a useful purpose in our government. In the end it benefits the person
s) that implemented it or a select few. There must be accountability from
administration to stop these practices through leadership, management
oversite and adherence through policy and procedure.

I would like to transition proactively into a government that functions in an
effective and efficient manner with structured accountability from executive
administration.

We as O’odham and Piipaash can govern ourselves to make the best
decisions relying on our wisdom, experience, education and our own history. My past employment, education and council experience prepare me for this candidacy. I ask you to make a change in leadership and give me an opportunity to serve this community as President. I ask for your vote in the 2026 primary and general election for the Office of President.

Ṣa:mai cu’ig,

My name is Jacob Butler, and I have accepted the nomination to run for the office of President of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.

I have worked for our community for 24 years. As the Cultural Resources Specialist, I served as a government-to-government consultant for the Tribe. Throughout my career and personal life, I have worked with Tribal, state, and federal governments and built relationships that I continue to
maintain today. I believe those relationships are important as we work to protect our sovereignty, our culture, and our future.

I have always believed we can protect what is important to us while also creating opportunities for our people. Protecting our ancestral lands and cultural resources must remain a priority, but we also need to be thoughtful about responsible development and the opportunities it can bring to our community.

My service has also included working with organizations and boards outside of the Tribe, including Native Seed Search. These experiences have given me a broader understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Native communities.

As your District One A Council Representative, I have worked to listen to different perspectives and make decisions based on what I believe is best for the community. I know that not everyone will always agree with every decision, but I believe leadership means listening, being willing to have difficult conversations, and standing by what you believe is right.

Our community is facing important decisions about our future. We need leadership that understands where we came from, recognizes where we are today, and is willing to prepare for where we are going.

I want to help create more opportunities for our people while making sure our elders are respected, our youth are prepared for the future, and our culture remains at the center of who we are.

This decision is not one I made lightly. I understand the responsibility that comes with serving as President, and I am prepared to put in the work.

I am asking for your support and your trust. Together, we can continue building a stronger future for our community.

The decision lies with you.

Dova ep em nei.

Hi my fellow Community members, my name is Raymond Jimenez and I am 57 years young. I have been married for the past 35 years and have two beautiful daughters. I have lived out here in the Community for the past 26 years.
The reason I want to be president of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian
Community is because we need a strong leader. A leader who will help his or her Community and the people when they actually need help.
Why do I have to drive by and see our people and children living in these storage sheds in our Community, because our own leaders see and do nothing? I care and want to change the way our leaders see things, and I will make these changes and help the poor in our Community.

I want to work with our Human Resources Department to hire more Community members, and Senior Services and the Public Works Department need some improvement. It’s time to move forward with change and not with the same people again in office. They have been there too long, and they tell the same old story time after time.
If you really want a leader who cares with the love in his heart, compassion and a strong mind, and is not afraid to stand up for you, the people, then your vote is with Raymond Jimenez for president. Thank you.

“Influenced by Elders, Inspired by Youth, Led by Tradition.”
Ricardo Juan Leonard (aka Brusha) is a respected community leader, Army veteran, traditional singer, and current member of the Office of Vice President. As a candidate for Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community President for the 2027-2030 term, Ricardo brings a strong foundation of service, cultural knowledge, and dedication to the families of the Community.

Ricardo is the son of the late Louella B. Leonard and brother to Vickie (Leonard) Andrews, the late Anthony Leonard, and the late Terrance Leonard. He is married to Annette (Manuel) Leonard and is the proud father of five children: Bowie, the late Jason, Alyssa, Mavi, and Ariana. Ricardo is also a proud grandfather of eight grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.

His education includes earning his GED, graduating from Motorcycle Mechanics Institute, and completing two years at Scottsdale Community College, where he studied American Indian Policy and Law.
His leadership is rooted in tradition, responsibility, and respect. As a traditional singer who speaks the O’odham Niok and carries knowledge of the Community’s cultural past and present, he understands the importance of preserving song, dance, ceremony, language, and teachings for future generations. He has been honored to learn the songs of the Onk Akimel O’odham from Elders in the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community and the Gila River Indian Community. His service to many families through traditional ceremonies reflects a deep commitment to honoring the values, practices, and responsibilities that continue to strengthen the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.

As an honorably discharged Army veteran, Ricardo carries the values of discipline, sacrifice, and service. He served four years in the United States Army, with duty stations in Garlstedt, Germany, and Fort Hood, Texas. He is a life member of American Legion Post #114, the Bushmasters, where he previously served as post commander and continues to stay actively involved. Ricardo was also inducted into the Arizona Veterans Hall of Fame. His experience gives him a strong appreciation for veterans, military families, and the importance of supporting those who have served.

Ricardo currently serves on the Saddleback/Relnvent Communications Board, the 12% Committee, the Tempe Desert Conservation Commission, and the SRPMIC Audit Committee. He also serves as a Council Representative for the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), and the Facilities Appropriations Advisory Committee for the Phoenix Area Indian Health Service through ITCA.
Ricardo is running to continue addressing important issues that affect Community families, including education for youth and young adults, improved housing availability for all Community members, and open communication with fellow Community members and others. He also supports facilitating an additional wing for youth at the new Journey to Recovery-Detox facility. His campaign is centered on listening to concerns, preserving culture through song and dance, strengthening support for veterans, and continuing respectful, community-centered leadership. His vision is to honor the past, serve the present, and help protect the Community’s cultural identity for generations to come.

During his past 26 years on Council, Ricardo has made decisions with the youth of the Community in mind, and he will continue to do so. He is committed to showing respect to all, upholding the Constitution to the best of his ability, and serving morally and ethically. Above all, the traditional teachings shared by his Elders will continue to guide his thoughts and actions so that, as a community, we never lose sight of the O’odham and Piipaash ways of life.

Key Priorities

• Preserve and strengthen culture through song, dance, ceremony, and traditional knowledge and prayer, which is very strong.
• Support veterans, military families, elders, youth, young adults, and Community families and create civic pride.
• Strengthen educational opportunities for youth and young adults. and create Civic Price
• Improve housing availability for all Community members.
• Continue listening to concerns and communicating openly with Community members and others.
• Encourage respectful leadership grounded in service, accountability, and tradition.

Michael W. Dallas, Sr. is a lifelong member of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community and currently serves as the Council Representative for District II, a position he has held since December 2014.

Raised in the Lehi District by his grandmother, former Vice President Merna Lewis, Michael grew up with strong core values centered on faith, prayer, service, respect, and accountability. Those values continue to shape the way he lives, leads, and serves the Community. Michael is a man of faith, and prayer remains a strong foundation in both his personal life and his approach to leadership.

Before being elected to Council, Michael worked for the Community’s Senior Services Department, where he advanced through several positions before becoming Assistant Director. His experience gave him firsthand knowledge of Tribal government operations and the importance of providing dependable, respectful service to Community members.

Michael is a first-generation college graduate who earned a Bachelor of Science in Applied Management and a Master of Science in Leadership from Grand Canyon University. He has also pursued a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis in Organizational Development. Throughout his time on Council, he has represented the Community through local, regional, and national boards and committees involving economic development, education, health and human services, federal budgeting, and Tribal policy.

Michael has been married to his wife, Berlene Dallas, for 28 years. Together, they have six children and two grandchildren. His family remains one of the strongest influences in his life and reinforces his commitment to creating opportunities and a strong future for the next generation.

Michael believes every Community member has a stake in Salt River’s development and progress. He is seeking the office of Vice President because he believes leadership should be grounded in respect, transparency, accountability, fiscal responsibility, and service to the people.

As Vice President, Michael is committed to strengthening the voice of Community members in major decisions, improving the efficiencyof Tribal government, protecting Community resources, supporting fairness and accountability, and strengthening Salt River’s advocacy at the state and federal levels.

His guiding principle is simple: “Honor the seat, serve the People.” For Michael, those words reflect both the responsibility of leadership and the standard he intends to uphold as Vice President.

Isaiah 6:8

Hello my name is Cheryl Doka and I am a proud member of Salt River and a candidate for Vice President. I was born and raised here in the community my mother is Rebecca Collins and my father is Fredrick Doka Jr. I have four children and eight grandchildren. I must mention my wonderful, great grandparents Ben and Cecelia Collins who had instilled in me the traits, values, and morals that I have valued throughout my life.

It has truly been a pleasure serving you, the people of Salt River as your Council Representative for District C for the past 8 years. I am so grateful for the support, encouragement, and the trust that was provided to me to be your voice.

My education consists of and A.A.S in Business, B.S. in Business with a Minor in Human Resource Management, and an MBA with an emphasis in Management. In my professional career I had the privilege of being employed within the community at On-Auk-Mor, the Tribal Government, Salt River Fields Project, and Talking Stick Resort. These wonderful opportunities allowed me to work with many Community Members pertaining to employment.

Currently, I am the Council Representative on the Salt River Gaming Enterprise board, 12% Gaming Grant Committee, Salt River Materials Group, and the Salt River Financial Services Institute. I was previously the Western Region Representative for the Indian Gaming Association and on the Land Management board prior to being elected to Council. Possessing years of experience and knowledge in management, gaming, gaming regulatory, accounting, human resource, and land management, it has helped tremendously in decision making both on the boards and Council. I always focused on solutions that are positive, fair, and consistent on various issues.

My priorities since 2018 have been Mental Health, Youth Drug Prevention, and Higher Education. I am grateful to the strategy teams who have worked hard to provide so many new resources, activities and opportunities. I am a true believer in investing in our people.

Some areas I would like to review are the hiring preference, termination process, timeline for community projects, education and communication. From the youth to the elders and everyone in between who live in the community and the ones who do not you all are important and your voice matters.

Lets aim for a healthy, strong community together!

Dear Community Members:

• I am the son of Aaron and Hazel Rivers
• My Maternal Grandparents are Jessie Miguel, Osif, Waters and Joseph Osif
• My Paternal Grandparents are Jenny Roberts Rivers and William Cleaver Rivers

First of all, I am aware of many of the issues that our Community is confronted with on a daily basis. I served on Council for 10 years, and I was Vice-President for 4 years. I’ve worked in various positions in the Community. I grew up in the Community, and I raised my children here too. In whatever role I fulfilled, whether as a father in my own household or as a tribal leader, I’ve gained valuable insight into how our government responds to and sometimes reacts to the needs of our people and to outsiders too. That is why I believe our government should be more responsive, respectful and reliable in meeting the needs of our people, and I can help create this kind of change.

I believe that learning is a life-long process and begins when a child first learns to speak and ends only when you take your last breath. That is why I will advocate for greater funding for our education programs and make it a priority to build a new Elementary School. Also, I believe that incarcerated youth and adults should have the opportunity to participate in educational and rehabilitative services while in jail. Once they are released, we need programs to help transition them back into their families and into the greater community.

I will hold Social Services accountable for taking better care of our families. I will work to revamp the entire Social Services Department if necessary. Also, when a mother, father or other family member is struggling with a substance abuse problem, the entire family is affected. That is why we need to build a substance abuse treatment facility that includes housing for the entire family. We have to think about treating and healing the

whole family and not just the individual. Additionally, our elders need our continued care, and they deserve facilities that are built to meet their unique needs. I propose that the Community build a new Senior Day Center and Senior Residential Home that is equipped to handle the elderly residents’ medical issues 24 hours a day.

I believe that as a tribal community government, it is the government’s responsibility to take care of our most vulnerable populations. Tribal funds should be spent on a walk-in clinic that can handle non-life-threatening emergencies and is open 24 hours, every day of the week. Also, tribal funds should be spent to buy insurance for our youth and elderly.

We also need reliability in our Government. This means the government must be accountable at all levels and it begins with a transparent Council. I would encourage my fellow Council members to conduct as much of its business as possible in open session and move away from executive sessions unless absolutely necessary. For example, Community Court judge appointments should be made in open session and not determined behind closed doors where no community member is permitted to raise a concern. There should be transparency in the government’s financial information. As a gaming tribe, outsiders already know how much revenue our casinos generate; tribal members are entitled to this information too. Also, members should know about business investments before millions of dollars are spent: The investment into Salt River Fields far exceeded what the membership was initially told. Council calls this kind of information “proprietary” and gives this as the reason why Council cannot share it with the membership. Proprietary refers to ownership. As Community members, we are the owners, thus the membership is entitled to this information.

Finally, I believe the government needs to refocus and turn away from corporate thinking. Investments should be in our people for; Education, Housing, Social Services, and promoting healthy lifestyles, including sports and recreational activities. I will promote programs, services and efforts that maintain our culture; sustain our community in an environmentally sound manner; and nurture our minds and bodies. Our people; Our values.

I believe in this Community; and I believe in you.

MAKE YOUR VOTE BE THE VOICE OF CHANGE, VOTE LEONARD RIVERS!

Hello, my name is Jenelle Howard. I am the daughter of Rechanda Howard and the late Ryle Howard. I am the oldest of six siblings—four brothers and one sister. I am also the proud mother of four daughters, grandmother to one grandson, and aunt to several nieces and nephews.

My late paternal grandparents are Nannie and Eugene Howard, and my late maternal grandparents are Rawlinson Manuel and Gussie Ray Williams.

I have accepted the nomination to be a candidate for the Salt River District I Council seat. It would be an honor and privilege to serve you with commitment, dedication, and integrity as your representative.

I believe it is the duty and responsibility of a Council Member to listen to the people, understand the concerns of our community, and work toward fair, impartial, and meaningful solutions. I am committed to being a voice for the community and ensuring that the needs and concerns of our residents are heard and respected.

My SRPMIC Experience

My professional experience within the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community includes:

Social Services – Life Enhancement and Resource Network (LEARN) Program/Tribal TANF: 10 years of service, beginning as a Social Worker I and advancing to Senior Social Worker.

Salt River District I Council: Former Council Member, serving 4 years.

Human Resources – Employment & Training/WIOA Program: 2 years as a WIOA Specialist.

Public Works – Memorial Services & Cemeteries: 4 years as a Family Relations Associate, where I currently serve.

I have also had the opportunity to serve our community through various boards and committees, including:

Gaming Board
Election Board
Miss Salt River Committee

Education:

I hold the following degrees:

Associate Degree in Human Services
Associate Degree in Office Administration
Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Counseling

My years of professional experience, previous service as a Council Member, education, and involvement within our Community have given me the knowledge and understanding necessary to serve effectively.

I want you to know that I have the confidence, perseverance, compassion, and dedication to represent our community and advocate for the people of District I. I am committed to listening, working together, and doing my part to help build a stronger future for our Community.

It would be an honor to earn your support and serve you once again.

Thank you for your support, your trust, and your consideration.

Jenelle Howard

Candidate for Salt River District I Council

The decisions we make should reflect the voice and reason of all.  Balancing culture, economic development and the needs of the community all need attention and equal weight.

Education is not one of the costliest investments made by the community, however, it is the most powerful investment of the community for the present and future well-being of our members.  To ensure success and fulfillment of our future, we need cultural education, summer school(K-12), skilled tutoring (K-Adult), college and scholastic summer camps and scholarship programs that defray the cost of school materials and distribute them appropriately, ensuring that education facilities and initiatives are operating effectively and meeting the needs of the people.

Sustainability economically and environmentally is the work for today and for our future.  Finding economic opportunities that have minimal impact on our land and its resources.  Exploring opportunities in “true renewable energy,” that are healthy for our land and people and doesn’t negatively impact elsewhere.  Our economic development should present opportunities and create funding that directly affects our people for housing, education, physical and mental health services, and other programs and services that need drastic improvement.
Council members have the amazing power of producing positive effects and changes for their people whether they realize it or not.  It is our time as members to secure our future and the future of our people, we must approach every decision we make with awareness, strategy, objectivity, optimism, and knowledge. The world around us is undergoing rapid change.  How can we protect our people’s future without becoming absorbed into some of the nearby cities and jurisdictions?  We need to return to strategic planning, reviewing and updating our policies and programs and talking about the implications that the surrounding growth will have for our community and its members, establishing strategies and directives that can guarantee our personal safety, well-being and future.

Council Term 2002-2006

• Vision, dedication of land and set aside funding for the WOLF Center
• Station #294 Fire/Police Station-Indian School/Center Street
• Approval and start of SHARP for Seniors/Disabled
• Pedestrian Sidewalks
• Housing Division Fencing
• Neighborhood cleanups
• Approval of new administration construction of Two Waters
• NY Eve Community Block Party

Working together to create permanent and positive solutions that are sound and just.  Getting elected to office isn’t the reward or achievement, the reward and achievement is when you see health, growth, safety, opportunities, and a future for your people.

Ske:g tas. Añi an ap ce: gig Mikah Carlos. Añi ap viak o gami go:k aidagĭ. Añi an oḍ Onk Akimel O’Odham, Tohono O’Odham, Piipaash. Eñ je’e oḍ Amelia Carlos. Eñ o’g oḍ Michael Carlos baḍ. Eñ gaga’a oḍ Angelita Carlos baḍ. Eñ vosk oḍ Frederick Carlos baḍ.

My name is Mikah Carlos, and I am honored to have the opportunity to be considered for re-election for a seat on the SRPMIC Tribal Council for District I.

I graduated from Arizona State University with my Bachelors degree in American Indian Studies with a concentration in tribal legal policy, community and economic development. My minor was in psychology. After graduation, I was fortunate to work for the Community on substance abuse prevention for youth and to serve as Assistant Director for Youth Services, where it was my goal to incorporate as many cultural activities as possible with the youth to implement protective factors and build strong, healthy youth who will continue to help this Community grow. During my first term serving on the Council, I have learned a great deal and I am grateful for the experience and growth. I have had the opportunity to serve on boards for the Community, including Education, Gaming and the 12% Committee.

Additionally, I have pursued opportunities to represent the Community on a national level by serving on the National Indian Health Board, the Health and Human Services Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee, and the National Indian Child Welfare Association. As a result of my demonstrated leadership and advocacy, I have had the opportunity to testify before Congress on two separate occasions on behalf of the Community.

The ability to represent the Community on a tribal, city, state and federal level is not a responsibility that I take lightly. My Community and people have given so much to build me into the person I am today and it would be an honor to continue serving on their behalf in this capacity.

If re-elected to Council, I look forward to building on what I have learned and will continue to serve with dedication and a commitment to our community. I will continue to do the work to provide resources for substance abuse prevention and harm reduction, education and career opportunities for our people, and I will continue to advocate for the best interest of our people.

Dai hegai.

Skeg Tas!

My name is Wi-Bwa Grey, and I am asking for your vote to serve as your
Tribal Council Representative.

I am married to my childhood friend, Antonio Cachora, and I am a proud
mother of two children who keep me busy, grounded, and inspired every day.
I am currently employed with Student Transportation at Salt River Schools.
Before taking on this role, I served for 15 years as the Security Manager at
Salt River Schools. My career journey began at age 14, working for different
departments throughout our Tribal Government. I am no stranger to serving
our people, and I am no stranger to hard work.

I currently represent our Community as a sitting member of Governor Katie
Hobbs’ Arizona Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Task Force.
Through this important work, we have focused on policy and legislative
changes in Arizona while collaborating with Tribes throughout the state.
I have also served our Community as a member of the Landfill Board,
Education Board, and Donation Committee. These experiences have
strengthened my understanding of our Community’s needs and deepened my
commitment to our people.

My most valuable education has come from meeting and speaking with you, my fellow Community members. You have shared your experiences, struggles, ideas, visions, and possible solutions. I value what you have taught me, and I will carry your voices with me.

It is clear that we still have much to accomplish. We need greater
accountability from our leaders, enterprises, and departments. We must preserve our culture, history, and sacred lands. We need to hire qualified people, improve Community services, and provide stronger support for our veterans, especially those living with the unseen scars of battle.

We must believe in our people—not judge them by who they once were, but recognize their potential and who they can become. We need honesty, fairness, and truth instead of changing the rules as we go. Most importantly, our leaders must listen to and understand our people.

No bio submitted.

No bio submitted.

I am Jeremy R. Phillips; the son of Bessie Phillips and the late David S. Phillips. My grandparents were Stanley and Greta Phillips. Both of my parents worked and retired from the Community. I have four children and ten grandchildren.

I am seeking to be a part of the 2026 SRPMIC Council. I grew up at Victory Acres II, attended school in Mesa. My fondest memories were spending holidays with my family; watching my grandmother and aunts making cemait and my uncles setting up the tables and chairs for our feast of red chile and lima beans (my favorite).

This was special because of the love, warmth and happiness. My grandmother shared with me the importance of family, she told me that all the money or materialistic items didn’t matter only family because as long as you had your family and their support that is all you needed to move forward. Thereby, I honestly care about our people, our children, our elders, our culture, our land and our future. Each of these are vitally important and depend on one another.

I have worked for the Community for over 25 years, beginning at the landfill and eventually to environmental where I had a great mentor, Berkeley Chough. He taught me about the need to protect the environment, to respect our elders and to never give up the need to help our Community. I obtained my US Environmental Protection Agency Federal credentials and I did my best to protect our Community. I know how to work with state and federal governments. My experience and knowledge are assets to our Community. I know how to ask
questions, look for answers, work with departments, understand regulations, protect resources, and solve problems with common sense.

I strongly believe our people deserve leadership that listens and takes action. I have chosen this responsibility to serve on Council to assist and listen to the young Community members to offer them opportunity and guidance. We need accountability in departments, fair hiring practices, more opportunities for Community members, better treatment of employees, stronger support for seniors and children, protection of our environmental resources, and preservation of our tribal culture.

We have a lot to fix, and it will take time, but I will do my absolute best to work for the people.

From day one, I will be ready and willing to work!!!!

I am Henry Osif, candidate for Tribal Council, my Mother is Elizabeth “Lip” Osif-Abel (Ba:t) and my Father is Anthony “Tony” French (Ba:t), my immediate family consist of Lori Stevens, my nephews Adrian, Christian and Curtis Lopez, and Aristina the mother of my great-great nephew Noah. I am excited to be taking this step into Tribal Government where I have lived and served for over 20 years. I feel that I fit the role as a candidate to be your next Councilman and here is why.

My educational background in Business and Public Administration, combined with extensive professional experience in tribal government, has provided me with the knowledge, leadership skills, and practical expertise necessary to serve effectively on Tribal Council. My Business Administration studies established a foundation in organizational management, budgeting, strategic planning, and operational oversight, while my Bachelor of Science in Public Administration strengthened my understanding of public service, governance, policy implementation, ethical leadership, and community development. NAU’s Public Administration program has specifically provided me with the skill set to effectively and ethically serve in the public service fields.

Throughout my career with tribal government, I have gained broad experience across multiple departments and levels of responsibility. My position in the Recreation Department as Assistant Director, I developed experience in community engagement, program administration, youth and family services, and staff leadership. As Customer Service Section Manager within Public Works, I strengthened my abilities in constituent relations, problem-solving, service delivery, and departmental operations. As the Project Manager for the Department of Transportation, I am responsible for coordinating projects, managing resources, ensuring compliance, and working collaboratively with stakeholders to achieve organizational objectives.

In addition to my professional experience, I served as an Education Board Member and in the Board Chair position which has provided valuable governance experience, including policy development, strategic decision-making, fiduciary responsibility, meeting deadlines, and advocacy for educational advancement. These leadership roles have reinforced my commitment to accountability, transparency, and making decisions that reflect the best interests of the community.

Collectively, my education, professional experience, and public service leadership have prepared me to contribute effectively as a Tribal Council member. I possess a comprehensive understanding of tribal government operations, community needs, infrastructure development, public services, and educational initiatives. Most importantly, I am committed to serving with integrity, promoting responsible governance, and supporting policies and programs that strengthen the Tribe and enhance opportunities for current and future generations.

My name is Denelle Lynn Manuel-Prieto, known to many as Girssy. I am honored to be nominated as a candidate for tribal council. I come from the Manuel, Wellington, Andrews and Phillips lineages.

I am happily married to Rudy R. Prieto, together we have three sons—Rudy, Ryan, and Ricky Prieto—our cherished daughter-in-law, the late Laurice Carlos-Prieto.

My purpose is to advocate for the voices of our people and champion a dedicated seat centered on the well-being and health of our community. I am committed to ensuring our community, those living within urban areas, including our California relatives, have representation that protect, strengthens services and honors our Himdak.

I bring many years of volunteerism, and extensive years of professional experience both within and outside Salt River. Through these years I have worked alongside youth, families, leaders and elders in understanding the needs of our community. Most importantly, our culture and traditions. These experiences strengthened my commitment to listen and address your concerns connected to health, mental wellness and the well-being of our people, most important land.

EDUCATION:

• Arizona State University -Bachelor of Science – American Indian Studies-Policy
• University of Oklahoma -College of Law – Master’s in Legal Studies – Indian Law
• Scottsdale Community College – Associate in Art- Gener al Studies
  • Certification in Tribal Court Advocacy

COMMITTEE BOARDS/VOLUNTEERISM:

• Judicial Conduct Disciplinary Commissions Salt River Representative
• Law Enforcement Commissions – Community-At-Large
• Election Board –District I Clerk
• Reentry Services (Program Development)
• Domestic Violence Committee
• Self-Governance
• Pipaash Veterans Committee

WORK EXPERIENCE:

• Executive Office Intern
• Youth Case Manager
• Higher Education Program Advisor
• Career Service Coordinator

I encourage every Community member to exercise their right to vote. Your voice matters for the future of our people. When we vote, we strengthen our Himdak to grow in unity and resilience.

Should I be honored to serve, I will represent our community with respect, accountability and integrity. ” Our future, starts with your voice.”

Dear O’odham and Piipaash Community, There is something heavy in the air , and if we listen closely, the earth is telling us something wrong. We see fancy new buildings going up, our lands get smaller. Our roads, flooded with outside traffic that has zero respect. Outside interests exploit our members for profit, diluting our bloodlines, and pushing us off our lands. Greed and ego divide us, while broken systems produce the same poor results. Our Council forgets that we are a Sovereign Nation. They forget that we, the people, are in charge, yet our leaders ignore our workers, like our relatives in Education and gaming fighting unfair policies. I know this because I have stood before Council demanding change, only to face no action. While comfortably paid administrators take home large salaries, while members drown in the revolving doors of addiction hardships job loss and housing waitlists. But I am not here to mourn our hardships. I am here to awaken our power. At 34 years old, my leadership was forged in fire. After my mother passed from leukemia in 2000, I spent my youth locked inside group homes hidden behind locks, I had no family to protect me, no birthdays, and no school activities. They tried to break my spirit, labeling my protective nature as hostile. But they did not understand that they were dealing with the unyielding blood of the River People. I was a child forced to be brave. I ran away many times to find my way back to this sacred land and the culture I lost. I fought through poverty and immense hardships to raise my four sons in pure love.

I am not perfect, but I am a natural-born leader. I am running for Tribal Council to stop the bleeding and hold these systems accountable. I’m inspired by Dr. Alexander’s vision we need barrier-free shelter. where people are treated with dignity first. I stand for total fairness, and transparency. I will lead with community approval, compassion, and with wisdom from our past. I am a fierce resilient warrior, a friend to my people, and a shield against anyone who tries to corrupt, trespass, or disrupt our nation. 100% of my loyalty and 100% of my time will be poured directly inward until our homes are settled. Our elders will rest knowing their land and their work is safe. And our children will step into their rightful place as the rulers of our destiny. I humbly ask for your nomination, your support, and your vote. Let’s go all the way, rise together, and reclaim our home. Respectfully yours,
Melissa Priscilla Thomas

My name is Lisa Ann Trevino. I’m married to David Trevino; I’m have four children and four grandchildren. My birth parents are Rima Morgan Baptisto and the late Herman Strouse. I was raised from the age of 1½ by wonderful parents the late Jacqueline Lewis Torres and Max Torres, who taught me independence, accountability, honesty, and a strong work ethic.

I started my professional journey at the Oneida Nation WIC Program, assisting families with nutrition, health, and family resources. I continued my medical education, becoming an RMA, Phlebotomist, LPN, and LMT. I hold two degrees, one in General Arts and one in Communications.

For the past nine years, I have served as a Pathways Development Specialist for Casino Arizona and Talking Stick Resort. In this role, I support enrolled Community Member employees in earning their GED, managing the mentorship program, teaching Skills for Success classes, and participating in community outreach. Helping others grow, gain confidence, and reach their goals has become one of the most meaningful parts of my work.

I have served on the DEVCO Board and the Education Board, and I currently serve on the Salt River Golf Enterprise Board, where I continue my dedication to responsibility, service, and supporting the future of our community.

Hello,

My name is Ryan Andrews, a candidate for the Community Council for Salt River. My parents are LaVar Andrews and Esther Moyah, and I am the grandson of the late Merritt and Selma Andrews and the late Sammy and Nellie Hernandez.

I am married to Joanne, my wife of 6 years. Together, we have 4 children and 6 grandchildren whom we love to spend time with.

Having been raised here in Salt River, I have watched our Community celebrate successes, overcome challenges, and continue moving forward. Because of that, my decision to run for Council is deeply personal. This Community has given me so much throughout my life, and I believe it is my responsibility to serve you, the Community Members, through service and leadership.

For more than twenty years, I have served our Community in roles which include Tribal Court Advocate, Chief Judge, School Security, Gaming Agent, and Realty. These experiences allowed me to see firsthand both the strengths we can be proud of and the challenges we must address. Throughout every position, I learned that the most important responsibility of any leader is to serve the people with honesty, fairness, and respect.

Additionally, I had the privilege of returning to school to earn a Bachelor’s in Government and a Master’s in Legal Studies with an emphasis in Federal Indian Law. I believe this will allow me to be a better advocate for our people and help protect our future.

My Priorities:

Accountability

Our departments and enterprises should undergo independent assessments to ensure they serve the Community’s best interests and operate responsibly.

Transparency

The Community has a right to know the business of its Council. I will work to improve transparency and strengthen communication with Community members.

Community Advancement

We must ensure hiring policies are being properly implemented and that qualified Community members have opportunities for employment, growth, and advancement.

Education

Our children deserve the highest quality education possible. Investing in education today means preparing the next generation of leaders for tomorrow.

A Vision for Our Future

I remember how things were; I understand where we are today, and I believe we can continue moving forward together. As a progressive Community, we deserve leadership that values accountability, transparency, opportunity, and education.

I Humbly Ask for Your Vote

RYAN ANDREWS

Community Experience

• Education • Commitment

Old School… New Ways…

My name is Jonathan Upshaw Sr. (Jon Upshaw Sr.), and I am running to serve our community on the Tribal Council. I am a deeply family-oriented man—blessed with my wife, 8 children, and 3 grandchildren. My roots run deep in our community through the Waters and Schurz families; my grandparents are the late Betrice Waters and the late Leo Schurz.

I believe fiercely in our community and want to see us strive for even greater heights. If elected, my platform will focus on two vital priorities:

• Our Youth and Education: While I appreciate what the Mesa and Scottsdale school districts do for our children, I believe it is time to establish our own community school. Our youth deserve a place of learning they can call their own—an environment where our language and culture are woven into their daily education.

• Our Elders and Healthcare: As a dialysis patient, I experience our health services firsthand. This is where our elders go for critical care. We frequently discuss the Health and Human Services “5 in 5” initiative—aiming to raise our average life expectancy by five years within five years. However, we cannot achieve this goal if our dialysis center is held back by malfunctioning equipment. To truly progress, we must back our HHS programs with working, reliable infrastructure.

Life has tested me, but I have never allowed difficult situations to pull me down. I will bring that exact resilience, strength, and moving-forward mindset to the Council seat.

I kindly ask for your vote. May God bless you and your families!

My name is Stephanie D. Wilson, and I am honored to be nominated to run for Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community Council. I am a mother of five, grandmother of 17, and great-grandmother of four. My family, culture, and community have shaped who I am and strengthened my commitment to serving our people.

I understand firsthand the challenges many families face. When two of my children experienced incarceration and substance-use challenges, I stepped in to help raise their children for over 7 years. I am proud that they have overcome barriers, found their strength, and are achieving their goals. Their experiences have reinforced my belief that families need support, compassion, accountability, and opportunities to succeed.

I come from a family deeply rooted in service. My uncle Gene Juan, one of SRPMIC’s last Piipaash language speakers, proudly served as a Master Sergeant in the United States Air Force and for the State of Arizona. My mother, the late Nerissa Juan, was the daughter of the late Elizabeth (Cumahyia) Juan of Gila River Indian Community District 7 and the late Henry Juan, brother of Sadie Shaw. My father, Johnny Wilson, is Creek and Seminole from Oklahoma. He proudly served 21 years in the United States Navy before retiring and later served as a Baptist pastor in South Dakota.

My professional experience has allowed me to serve our community in health care, legal services, family advocacy, and government. I worked at PIMC for 15 years cross trained in numerous divisions. I later worked at Salt River in TPO, DAO, and LSO. As a legal secretary and Guardian ad Litem, I advocated for SRPMIC children and later worked in Family Court. In 2014, I became Conflict Counsel with Legal Services and DAO, representing parents whose children had been removed by CPS.

My priorities are transparency, youth and families, cultural preservation, justice reform, and workforce development. I want to protect our Piipaash and O’odham languages, traditions, ceremonies, and cultural knowledge while strengthening opportunities for future generations.

I will advocate for justice-impacted people and families, supporting rehabilitation, accountability, reentry, and meaningful reform. I also want to expand workforce opportunities through education, training, mentorship, career development, and pathways to stable employment.

I believe meaningful change requires communication, collaboration, transparency, and accountability. I am committed to listening to our community, honoring our culture, advocating for our families, and working together to build a stronger future.

I would be honored to earn your support and your vote.

Hello,

I am Carla J. Banuelos and I am a candidate for Council Representative for the Lehi District.

I have lived almost all of my life in Lehi and I come from a large Piipaash family. My mother is the late Lauretta Gates, and I am the proud granddaughter of the late Ike & Sienna Frances Gates.

I’ve held many positions within the Community as well as outside our boundaries. I have been in my current position for approximately 20 plus years. I have also served as a Tribal Court Associate Judge, as well as a Tribal Court Advocate representing Adult Community Members charged with a crime and Juvenile’s when charged with an offense.

I am the mother three children, Crystal, Renee, and Grant, and I have one beautiful and amazing granddaughter, Isabelle.

I am seeking the position of Council Representative to serve our Community. As our Community continues to grow in enrollment, there must be a commitment as a Council to being financially forward-looking, strategically planning, reviewing our objective values and missions, and setting clear and achievable goals in order for our Community to continue to provide necessary services to our members.

If elected, I commit to being an active contributor, without bias, personal opinion, or gain; to weigh each decision with fairness and what is in the best interest of the Community. I assure you I will represent all of our Community and not just those of select few, as I believe a good leader makes decisions that benefit the common good.

Thank you, and I hope I earn your vote as Lehi District Council Representative.

Sap en tat hem en nei ( It’s Good to see you) in O’odham language. EN Chegig Benny colorow Johnson but everyone else knows me here in the community as Benny Johnson. I’m currently running and campaigning for the Lehi Council seat this year, as an enrolled Community member, I would like to formally introduce myself to the Lehi community. I was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, but I grew up here within the Lehi community back when we had the small Rec. building with the arcade games. I went to the Lehi elementary school with all the kids from Lehi.

The growing stages of our community have been a learning curve for myself as I navigated my personal life. I used to go to the Spiritual Gathering of the Gourds on the corner of Stapley Dr. and Oak st. to listen to the Maricopa Bird singers. I Have 5 children that are all from the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, 4 daughters and 1 son. I have taken up the challenge to ask to be voted in by the people of the Lehi area because I have witnessed the decline of community activities within the last decade.

Where there is a family gathering there was always laughter and joyful memories being made spending time with each other. The Lehi area is mostly family and whether you’re from Salt River area east of Mesa Dr. or in the LEHI area, your vote matters.

What I envision for our area in Lehi is building community amongst our people, whether you are Piipaash or O’odham, we are all related somehow through marriage or friendship. We have so many opportunities to improve on what is already here and still keep the people involved with the decision making process that directly impacts the lives of Lehi.

Tribal sovereignty is an inherent right that is recognized by the United States of America as an inalienable right that Native Americans have the right to govern themselves. We as a community have several rights that have been challenged by a historic past that we know too well that include the criminalization of our Religious Rights to practice our traditional dances and songs. Which, brings me to one of the many reasons that I chose to run for the Lehi council seat is to protect and actively promote out Native ways that have given us strength to build community. The traditional songs of the O’odham and Piipaash are a source of identity that our children and people use in this modern day to honor all of our ancestors.

Our land base in Lehi is a very important part to us that we have signage to any visitor that is traveling through our area that they are on O’odham and Piipaash lands.

Some of my goals if I’m elected to the Lehi Council Seat is to continue to assert on our sovereignty, our language, our traditional ways to strengthen our identity as O’odham and Piipaash. I would advocate for community members to be able to have mobility in our Tribal Government through promoting our people into manager position. We would provide training that will give our people the necessary tools to not only thrive in our community but to be able to teach other community members to become empowered people.

In conclusion, I will say that if you choose to vote for me that if I’m seating at the “TABLE” then you are sitting with there too. Representation matters in this modern day and we are still here. Thank you and have a blessed day.

No bio provided.

Hello, my name is Francia “Cissy” Kaukahi Neisen and I am a current resident of the Lehi community. My parents are Lorinda Rhoades Kauakahi and Francis Kauakahi. (bot) My grandparents were Florence Enos (bot) who was from Salt River and Franklin Rhoades (bot) who was from Lehi.

I came to Salt River during my teenage years and was selected to be a Youth Counselor in the first year of Youth Services serving the community. During this time I attended Powell Jr high and Westwood high graduating in 1978 with a full ride scholarship to a college of my choice.

I married in Mesa, Az to John Neisen in 1985 and have been married for 40 years. I have 1 daughter, 2 sons, and 3 grandchildren.

In 1985 I found my calling helping people with housing. I was a property manager for 30 years in several states with properties housing up to 408 units. My responsibilities were hiring and training staff to include maintenance, assistant managers and all other staff required to run a successful property. I also handled any accounting, writing a budget, maintaining a budget and making the property as profitable as possible.

I have enjoyed serving people and in 2016 I joined the CDD team as an Enrollment Specialist meeting with community members to gather information to start the enrollment process and collect documentation to update current enrollment information. My 2nd position was Residential Resource Supervisor at SRPMIC until 2022 being responsible for 262 family units working with staff to include recertification, housing inspections, meeting with residents and solving issues.

I retired in 2025 after working with our Salt River Court entering traffic citations and front desk for 2 years helping answer questions and assisting and directing to appropriate help.

I’m currently on the Landfill Board and hold the position of secretary and I’m on the SADAC committee serving seniors and adults with disabilities and hold the position of Chairmen.

I truly believe that every voice and generation deserves and needs to be heard. My goal is to use my past knowledge and experience acquired to help find the best solution for every situation. I would be honored to be of service for the Lehi community and will do my best for us.

Thank you for taking your time to read this and hope that I earn your vote for the Lehi Council and am looking forward to helping the Lehi community thrive!