Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren's Weekly Radio Address (in Diné Bizaad)

Thursday, October 16, 2025

1. Introduction

2. Upcoming Holidays and Appreciation Day

• Colder weather safety reminder: Check heating systems, insulate water lines, and prepare for winter
• Keep extra supplies in vehicles and ensure animals have proper shelter
• Check on loved ones who may need help staying warm

3. Local Announcements

• Missing person: Mattisa Ann Harrison, 51, last contact 2010-2011 in Tuba, AZ
• Missing person: Sasha Mikala Keams, 29, last contact 2010-2011 in Tuba, AZ
• Missing person: Tyrell Kendall Yazzie, 26, last seen September 26 in Fort Defiance, AZ
• Missing person: Elayah Canay Jimenez, 15, last seen October 12 in Pinon, AZ
• Located: Colton Wade Bedonie has been found and is safe
• Located: Tasha Lynn Harvey has been found and is safe

4. Frequently Asked Question of the Week

• Flash flooding safety: Never drive or walk through flooded roads, move to higher ground
• Contact Emergency Management at 928-871-6892 or NTUA at 1-800-528-5011 for assistance
• Warning about Artificial Intelligence scams including fake videos, images, and voice cloning
• FBI public service announcement about AI-generated scams
• Response to social media posts about text messages with Mr. McCabe
• Update on Speaker's request for Temporary Restraining Order and Permanent Injunction against President's office

5. Life Lesson

• Perseverance through difficult times: Storms don't last forever
• Courage strengthens spirit and unites the Nation
• Keep heart steady, mind focused, and faith strong for better days ahead

6. Accomplishments

• 1,000 Home Initiative: 130 of 150 homes ready under Work Order 3
• Keys delivered to families in Red Mesa, Sweet Water, and Teec Nos Pos
• Billy Kirkland confirmed as Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs
• Tohatchi Senior Center reopens after 5-year closure with $350,000 from New Mexico
• Jeddito Senior Center recently reopened; Coyote Canyon and Mexican Springs next in line
• Tobacco Tax and E-cigarette/Nicotine taxes launched, signed into law November 8, 2024
• Revenue supports NNDOH advocacy groups, traditional healers (20%), and cultural healing office (80%)

7. Major Projects

• Flood and road update in Dennehotso and Birdsprings, AZ with BIA Route 367 closure
• Laguna Creek wash exceeded capacity impacting homes and roadways
• Advocacy for Navajo Nation energy projects at Tribal Energy & Economic Future Summit
• Painted Desert Solar Project, Carrizo Pump Storage Hydropower Project in development
• Red Mesa Trading obtains 25-year business site lease for Pueblo Pintado Store operations
• Department of Corrections implements 10-week GED courses for inmates starting October 13

8. Meet and Greets

• 43rd Annual Alamo Indian Day Parade on October 11 with theme "Understanding Need for Harmonious Relationships"
• 22nd Annual Construction in Indian Country National Conference on October 8
• Panel discussions on community ownership, creative financing, and tribal sovereignty

9. Upcoming Events

• NAPI Food Distribution: Friday, October 17 at Round Rock Chapter (10 AM) and Tuesday, October 21 at Rock Point Chapter (9 AM)
• Items available: 50-lb potatoes, 20-lb pinto beans, 10-lb blue and yellow corn meal
• Western Navajo Fair October 16-19 honoring Medal of Honor Recipient Lt. George Silversmith
• Parade at 9 AM on Saturday, October 18 with rodeo, carnival, and musical performances

10. Closing: Thank you and tune in next week!

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