KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- Culture shocks are commonplace in the Air Force, as Airmen and their families change duty stations every few years, but add in a duty assignment into a city with a rich diversity of Hispanic and First Nations populations can be a bit overwhelming.
The Airman and Family Readiness Center is helping newcomers to Kirtland Air Force Base adjust to the area with a class called Taste of New Mexico. Starting at 11 a.m. Sep. 9 at the A&FRC Training Room, attendees get a brief look at the bright aspects of the culture.
“The idea was to teach people about things to do, not only in Albuquerque but around the state,” said Community Readiness Consultant, Ellen Fields. The activities presented range from Carlsbad Caverns to Cliff’s Amusement Park. The class also features a presentation from the Information, Tickets and Travel Office on base, detailing how Airmen and their families can get discounted tickets to local events and attractions.
“It’s getting close to fall and it’s the best time of year to explore New Mexico,” Fields said. She said with the state fair approaching this month and then rolling into the Balloon Fiesta, people can do a lot in the areas surrounding the base. With the holidays drawing near, the cultural aspect and traditions are also presented covering topics like Diá de los Muertos and luminarias for La Posadas.
Several videos by New Mexico True are presented to attendees showcasing the state’s natural beauty and the diversity of its geographical areas.
“We also teach people about the language during the class,” Fields said. A video by Black Out Digital’s Lynette is played to facilitate the language presentation, which is filled with the saying of “umbers,” “a la vé” and “y no,” the local language can be confusing.
“This class also gives people a chance to sample local foods,” Fields said. Food from local restaurants includes biscochitos, green chile stew, and salsa. Also included in the food portion of the class is a lesson on how to eat a tamale: Do not eat the corn husk.
This class also includes a New Mexico trivia game.
To enroll in the Taste of New Mexico class call the A&FRC at 846-0741, as this class requires an extended lunchtime, Airmen will need permission to attend from their units.
Email Fields with any suggestions for the class at ellen.fields@us.af.mil.
“We want to alleviate fears and for people to have a positive experience here, and when they leave New Mexico, to think of Kirtland as the best assignment they had in the Air Force,” Fields said.