STATE News:

SANTA FE — Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has ordered all flags in the state of New Mexico to half-staff through sundown May 16, in mourning for President Edward Velarde of the Jicarilla Apache Nation.

“President Velarde was a committed and effective leader who sought to strengthen state-tribal relations. He will be remembered for his tireless advocacy, leadership, and commitment to his tribal community and the state of New Mexico. President Velarde’s legacy will endure, and the effects of his life’s work felt by many generations to come. It is appropriate and proper to acknowledge President Velarde’s life and service through a public period of mourning across New Mexico,” Gov. Lujan Grisham said.

President Velarde passed away May 12 at the age of 76. He served as the Jicarilla Apache Nation president since 2019.