COMMUNITY
250 Flags ceremony honors New Mexico heroes
Former Gov. Martinez delivers keynote address; UNM basketball Coach Olen expresses his appreciation
Former Gov. Susana Martinez and University of New Mexico men鈥檚 basketball coach Eric Olen joined community leaders Tuesday in honoring 250 New Mexicans whose service, leadership and volunteerism have strengthened communities across the state.
The honorees were recognized during a ceremony at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science as part of the 250 Flags initiative, a yearlong recognition program created by 近距离内射合集 Radio KKOB, the 近距离内射合集 and KOAT-TV ahead of the nation鈥檚 semiquincentennial in 2026.
The initiative recognizes New Mexicans nominated by family members, friends and colleagues for exceptional service to their communities, the state or the nation.
Martinez, who served as governor from 2011 through 2018, told honorees their commitment to others serves as an example for all New Mexicans.
"We are inspired to serve a little more, listen a little better, lend a helping hand and do our own part to make our communities stronger," Martinez said.
"As America approaches 250 years, we are reminded that the strength of this country has never come only from its institutions. It has come from its people 鈥 people willing to serve, sacrifice, lead, help, teach and care."
Olen, whose Lobos energized fans with a 26-11 record last season, said coaching allows him to be part of something bigger than himself.
"I encourage everyone to find some way to pour into other people," Olen said. "It's amazing how much you get from that. College basketball is a competitive environment. You win with teamwork."
Olen said he tries to surround himself with "the right people in the room."
"We're looking for servant leaders," he said. "I like working with people who understand it's not about their own success. They're working to make everyone else better. It's how we accomplish more."
Jeff Berry, market manager for Cumulus Media Albuquerque, said the 250 Flags initiative was created to recognize New Mexicans whose contributions often go unnoticed.
"If you meet someone wearing one of these tags, please introduce yourself," Berry told the crowd of more than 300. "Say hello. Say thank you. Ask them about their story. I promise you'll be amazed by the people in this room."
Berry said the partnership among KKOB, the Journal and KOAT has long focused on issues affecting New Mexico, but the 250 Flags initiative provided an opportunity to celebrate the people making a positive difference in their communities.
"When we first shared the idea in January of recognizing 250 remarkable New Mexicans leading up to our nation's 250th anniversary, both KOAT and the 近距离内射合集 immediately said, 'We're in,'" Berry said. "Their enthusiasm reminded me once again of what we can accomplish when we work together for the good of our state."
Berry thanked the initiative's sponsors and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science for hosting the ceremony. He also recognized KKOB Operations Manager Buck Burnett, a Navy veteran, for conceiving the 250 Flags program.
Burnett reviewed every nomination, Berry said, helped write recipients' stories, coordinated radio coverage and worked with Journal, KOAT and KKOB staff to organize the recognition program and Tuesday's ceremony.
"Buck, thank you for your service, your leadership and for a truly great idea," Berry said.
A commemorative insert in Sunday鈥檚 Journal will list the honorees鈥 names and salute their contributions, the newspaper鈥檚 owner, publisher and president, Bill Lang, said.
James Bennett is managing editor of the Journal. Reach him at jbennett@abqjournal.com.