GRTI Celebrates 100% Fiber to Home Success at District 4 Service Center

Novwmber 21, 2025

Jeston Morris

Community Newsperson

SACATON, Ariz - On Nov. 14, Community members packed the Santan Service Center's gymnasium to commemorate 100% fiber-to- home. The celebration's main focus was on the 100% fiber network and preparedness. Gila River Indian Community leads the way for fiber network in Indian Country.

There were booths set up in the halls near the front door. Numerous individuals registered for the event and completed the customer experience survey. Digital Connect Initiative, Alluvion Communications, Native Tech Solutions, and GRBC are among the booths.

The event was hosted by Victoria Quintero, the executive assistant at Alluvion Communications. Two prayers were offered by Harry Antone, a U.S. Army veteran and community elder, one in O'otham and the other in English. He also performed the O'otham blessing song. As he sang, he shook his red and yellow gourd and held an eagle feather.

A warm welcome was extended by Clarice Chiago-Jones, the CEO of GRTI. She has 28 years of dedicated service with GRTI. She started out as an intern and worked her way up to become CEO almost 30 years later.

“GRTI is 37 years old. The tribal leadership established GRTI in 1988. As of today, GRTI has successfully implemented a 100% fiber network along the Gila River. This is a noteworthy milestone. Furthermore, we are developing a backup battery called Power Defender in 2026. After a power outage, your internet and dial tone will continue to function for six hours. I would like to thank everyone who works at GRTI for their hard work and dedication. Chiago-Jones said, "Enjoy your evening and celebrate." 

GRTI board member Lalena Jackson, who represents the District 4 community council, gave a special statement. "I want to sincerely thank all of the board members for their hard work and dedication in making 100% fiber to home a reality," Jackson, said.

Rachael Wierson, the chief operating officer and chief technology officer, gave a brief statement. “I have been with GRTI for five and a half years. I like to introduce Enez Jackson for employee award and recognition,” said Wierson.

Before recognizing the worker, GRTI record specialist Enez Jackson made a brief statement. Jackson said, "I want to thank the special team and departments that worked on the fiber installation project." Nine people received recognition and acknowledgement. They were rewarded with a necklace made of O'otham seashells and posed for a picture.

After the recognition ceremony, live entertainment was provided by Gertie and the T.O. Boyz. Gertrude “Gertie” Lopez was inducted into the Tucson Musicians Museum in 2021. Old Waila music is the band's specialty. People in the community danced to Gertie's Waila music to celebrate.