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Portales hosts orientation for Cannon families

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Maynelinne De La Cruz
  • 27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  With little public awareness,a local community church rallied a group of Portales residents for its  first Orientation Day for Cannon families March 13 at the Memorial Building.

"It's important that military newcomers know about the cultural and athletic activities in the area and that they feel welcome to the community," said Sharon King, the executive director of the Roosevelt County Chamber of Commerce and Portales mayor.

Free lunch in the form of hamburgers and hotdogs was provided by volunteers from the United Methodist Church for everyone who attended.

Chris Harrell, a 4th grade teacher,  led an entertainment team that consisted of a group of children, instruments and on-the-spot improvisation.

Representatives from several city agencies spoke to newcomers about Portales and what it has to offer. Speakers included Patrice Caldwell, who represented Eastern New Mexico University, Dr. Larry Leaming of the  the Roosevelt County General Hospital, Mike Terry from  the Portales Municipal Schools, and Denise Burnett, who spoke about the Portales Public Library.

At the end of the program, attendees were encouraged to take home a bag full of brochures and flyers regarding all there is to do in Portales. Events and activities range from the High Plains Prairie Chicken Festival, to Cinco De Mayo celebration and the Roosevelt County Fair.

"I would recommend others to attend, especially Cannon's Portales residents," said 2nd Lt. Eric Washington, 27th Special Operations Comptroller Squadron. "It's good that Airmen and their families are aware of what they can do to get involved in the community."

The orientation program will continue as the base grows and the Portales Chamber of Commerce will notify Cannon leadership at least six weeks before the next event.

For more information about the Portales Chamber of Commerce, call (575) 356-8541.

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