Southern Ute Royalty representatives, Miss Southern Ute Alternate, Rhianna Carel and sister, Junior Miss Southern Ute Alternate, Maleina Carel bundle up against the morning chill with Pendleton blankets ahead of the sunrise blessing at the Bear Dance campground, Thursday, May 25.

Moments before the sun crossed over the eastern horizon, Alex Cloud, accompanied by Sarafina Chackee and Neida Chackee (not pictured) got ready to lead a small group of participants in prayer, Thursday, May 25 — honoring the traditional Ute ways ahead of the Bear Dance. Cloud spoke to the importance of our connection to the land, and the connection of mind, body, and spirit — especially as it relates to the Bear Dance ceremony.

Tribal Council Members, Vanessa Torres and Lorelei Cloud stand for a photo with Miss Southern Ute Alternate, Rhianna Carel and Junior Miss Southern Ute Alternate, Maleina Carel following the sunrise blessing.

Photo Credit: Jeremy Wade Shockley | The Southern Ute Drum