The Southern Ute Drum, a biweekly community newspaper owned by the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, won 13 press awards last weekend at the Colorado Press Association competition held in Denver.

The newspaper won five first-place awards and eight second-place awards. Specifically, the paper won awards for best environmental story, feature story, education story and business/feature news story. It also won eight photo awards.

“I’m really proud of what we accomplish as a small newsroom,” said Jeremy Wade Shockley, editor and media manager at the Drum, in an email to The Durango Herald. “It helps that we have such a supportive community that truly appreciates our paper.”

He added: “We have a really unique opportunity here at The Southern Ute Drum, we get to report on the tribal community day in and day out with a strong emphasis on language, culture, and tradition. It sets us apart from other publications as we tackle a lot of the same topics – natural resources, sports, health, education, etc.”

Shockley commended his staff members, saying they understand and value the importance for cultural sensitivity.

“I’m always pleased to receive recognition from our peers at SPJ, CPA and the Native American Journalism Association ... because it is a direct reflection of the work that we put in – year after year.”

The Drum is available for free online at www.sudrum.com and can be picked up at locations throughout La Plata County, including Fort Lewis College, Durango post office, Magpies Newsstand & Café, Durango-La Plata County Airport and elsewhere.